Which thermal label format should you choose? Size guide

Short answer: the 100 × 150 mm (4×6 inches) format is the most common for shipping labels. Smaller formats are used for product references, prices, QR codes, internal addresses, or storage labels.

Table of common formats

Dimensions	Main use	Tip
100 × 150 mm	Shipping labels	Reference format for many parcels
76 × 51 mm	Addresses, cartons, inventory	Check barcode readability
76 × 76 mm	Square labels, product information	Suitable for short information
57 × 32 mm	References, prices, small packaging	Not well suited to a complete shipping label
50 × 50 mm	Logo, QR code, organization	Test the contrast and QR code size
40 × 104 mm	Long, narrow labels	Check the orientation before printing

Why is the 100 × 150 mm format used for parcels?

It provides enough space for the address, tracking number, barcodes, and shipping instructions. It also eliminates the need to cut an A4 sheet when the shipping label is provided directly in this format.

The Metashopper 100 × 150 mm thermal labels are available in packs of 100, 500, and 1,000 pieces.

Are 4×6-inch and 100 × 150 mm exactly the same?

Four inches by six inches correspond approximately to 101.6 × 152.4 mm. In retail, the term 4×6 is commonly used to refer to European 100 × 150 mm labels. To avoid errors, select the dimension actually indicated on your label package in the driver.

How can you check compatibility with your printer?

1. Check the minimum and maximum accepted width.
2. Check whether the device uses direct thermal paper.
3. Check the media type: roll, fanfold, or both.
4. Create the exact dimensions in the app or driver.
5. Recalibrate after each significant change in size.

The Metashopper thermal printer accepts a label width of 30 to 110 mm. The length depends on the settings and the media used.

Which format should you choose for Vinted?

The shipping label depends on the carrier selected in the transaction. When the PDF contains a complete shipping label, 100 × 150 mm is generally the most practical format with a 4×6 printer. Download the original file and check the preview before printing. See our Vinted guide.

Which format should you choose for Mondial Relay or Colissimo?

Use the format provided by the file generated by the carrier or platform. For common shipments, 100 × 150 mm is often suitable. Do not manually crop the barcode, and keep a clear area around it.

Our detailed guides also explain printing with Mondial Relay and Colissimo.

What format should you use for products and storage?

For an SKU, price, or simple QR code, a smaller format reduces paper consumption. Choose a size large enough to remain readable and test it with the scanner or smartphone actually being used.

Errors to avoid

• Confusing width and height in the driver.
• Printing a complete A4 shipping label on a small label.
• Using “Fit to page” without checking the scale.
• Changing the size without recalibrating the printer.
• Shrinking a barcode or QR code too much.

FAQ

Can you print multiple formats with the same printer?

Yes, if the dimensions fall within the range accepted by the device. You need to adjust the guides, select the new size, and recalibrate.

Which format is the most economical?

The smallest format that retains all the necessary information. For a complete shipping label, do not reduce the size at the expense of readability.

Should you choose roll or fanfold labels?

Both can work if the printer accepts them. The choice depends on your space, volume, and feed system.

Conclusion

Remember one simple rule: 100 × 150 mm for most shipping labels, smaller formats for products and organization. The right size is the one that matches the source file, remains compatible with the printer, and ensures a readable barcode.