Labeling requirements
Summary
In order to provide efficient and accurate delivery services, Starling requires correct labeling for all shipped packages. This document outlines what information is required on shipping labels.
Required details for shipping labels
You must place a shipping label on all items shipped via Starling’s delivery service. While printed shipping labels are preferred, you may legibly write the shipping information on each item. Shipping labels must include the following details:
Recipient Business Name OR Contact Name (i.e., if not a business) indicated on the delivery request
Recipient Delivery Address
Piece # of [Total Number of Pieces]
Tip: As Starling’s Driver Partners are required to take photos of every package they transport, we strongly recommend placing the shipping label at the same location on each package. This speeds up the process for pickup and drop-off.
B2B Example
Fast Cafe
123 Westend St.
Toronto, ON M6T 4M5
Piece 1 of 5
B2C Example
David Cooperfeld
483 Hatter Rd.
Burlington, ON L6M 2R4
Piece 1 of 1
Important: Starling reserves the right to decline pickup of packages not labeled as outlined above.
Choosing courier-friendly packaging
Summary
Ensuring your shipped items are packaged appropriately is essential before using any delivery service, including Starling. This support article outlines how to choose the right packaging for courier delivery.
Packaging best practices
We want to ensure you and your customers have a stellar delivery experience. To help us achieve that, we need you to ensure packages shipped via Starling’s delivery service meet all of the following criteria:
Packaging must maintain food safety standards. For example, food items should not be shipped ‘naked’ or otherwise exposed; temperature-sensitive items should use appropriate packaging (request Cold Delivery service, when required).
Packaging must be sealed to prevent spills or leakage. For example, plastic wrap is insufficient to seal packaging; boxes must be sealed with packing tape, etc.
Small retail-ready items must be packed in a master case. This makes for efficient pickups and drop-offs, and prevents the loss of items.
Packaging must not be too big for the item(s) contained within. Shipping items within inadequately sized packaging will result in damage during transit due to shifting within the packaging. It will also result in higher shipping costs due to increased use of space.
Packaging must be robust for courier transport (i.e., stable/sturdy). Items packed in delicate packaging are at a higher risk for damage during transit and may be declined at pickup or require Special Handling services.
Starling reserves the right to decline pickup of any item not appropriately packaged for courier delivery.
Tip: To give your products the greatest flexibility for distribution, choose packaging that is intuitive to handle and is designed for transit (e.g., has handles, thicker walls, etc.).
Examples of courier-friendly packaging
Why is this packaging courier-friendly? Each cupcake is held in position within the box. The height of the box is sufficient to protect the tall decorative elements of the product without being too tall.
Why is this packaging courier-friendly? The product neatly fits within the package without room for shifting during transit or handling.
Examples of packaging that is not courier-friendly
Why is this packaging not courier-friendly? This cupcake is not held in place to prevent shifting. As a result, there is a greater risk of damage to its frosting decoration. Additionally, the unsecured product is being shipped in a small box on its own, not within a larger package or tray. Together these issues place the item at a greater risk for damage when stored in a delivery vehicle or when handled at pickup or drop-off.
Why is this packaging not courier-friendly? It is not food safe; the bread is not sealed inside the bag, leaving it exposed during transit. Additionally, the bread is being shipped on its own, not within a larger box or package. As a result, it may be damaged when stored in a delivery vehicle with other items during transit.
Why is this packaging not courier-friendly? The items are small and not packaged in a master case or larger box; they may be lost during shipment. The items are not packaged in robust packaging and are more susceptible to damage during handling or when in transit alongside other packages.