Auto-Print — Setup & Configuration
Enabling Auto-Print
Configuration Options
Label Source
Controls how the system finds the label to print after ShipStation generates it.
| Option | Behavior |
|---|---|
| Auto (default) | Looks for a ShipStation-named label first (ShipStation-Label*), then falls back to any recent PDF/PNG/ZPL attachment on the picking |
| Attachment Only | Only prints labels that match ShipStation's naming convention — no fallback |
| Disabled | Turns off auto-printing even if the toggle is on (useful for temporary pauses) |
Recommendation: Use Auto for most setups. It handles edge cases where labels might have non-standard names.
ShipStation Label Printer
An optional override printer specifically for ShipStation labels. If set, this printer is used instead of the Default Label Printer from PrintNode Core settings.
When to use this:
- You have a dedicated label printer for shipping (e.g., a Zebra thermal printer)
- Your Default Label Printer is a regular document printer and you want labels on a different one
When to leave blank:
- Your Default Label Printer is already your label printer
- You only have one printer
Printer Resolution Order
When a ShipStation label needs printing, the system checks for a printer in this order:
- ShipStation Label Printer (if set in ShipStation section)
- Default Label Printer (from PrintNode Core settings)
- No printer found → Warning logged, chatter message posted
Strict Mode Interaction
The Strict Mode setting from PrintNode Core affects auto-print behavior:
| Strict Mode | Missing Printer | No Label Found | Print Error |
|---|---|---|---|
| OFF (default) | Warning in chatter, shipping continues | Warning in chatter, shipping continues | Error in chatter, shipping continues |
| ON | Error blocks workflow | Error blocks workflow | Error blocks workflow |
Recommendation: Leave Strict Mode OFF. Shipping should never be blocked by a printer issue. Check the print job log if you suspect missed labels.