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Zebra printers are a popular choice for efficient thermal label printing. If you are using a Zebra printer with your Mac, there are a few steps to get it installed and printing properly.

The good news is that macOS comes with built-in Zebra printer drivers so in many cases you can be up and running quickly. However, some users find the default drivers print labels that are fuzzy or lower quality.

In this guide, we'll cover how to add your Zebra printer in Mac settings as well as solutions for getting crisper label prints.

Add the Zebra Printer in System Preferences

Go to System Preferences > Printers & Scanners
Click the + > Add Printer or Scanner
Select your connected Zebra printer
Click Select Software
Search for "zebra" and choose the driver matching your printer model

You can usually determine the right driver by looking for "ZPL" or "EPL" on the back of the printer. This can be changed later using Apple's CUPS printer configuration tool if needed.

Alternative Driver Solutions

If you find the default drivers still print fuzzy labels, there are a couple options for enhanced printer software:

Buy an optimized driver

Companies like Peninsula Software offer Zebra drivers for Mac that provide clearer printing results. These do come at an added cost but may be worthwhile if print quality is a priority.

Print from Windows using Parallels

If you have Parallels Desktop installed to run Windows on your Mac, you can download and install the official Zebra setup utilities for free on the Windows side. Then print labels through Windows for high quality output.

With some trial and error, you should be able to get your Zebra thermal printer set up and achieving great print results on macOS. Check for the latest driver versions online if issues persist.

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What is Priority Mail Cubic?

Priority Mail Cubic is a specialized service offered by the United States Postal Service (USPS) that prices packages based on their outer dimensions rather than weight. This unique pricing model can lead to significant savings, especially for small, dense packages weighing up to 20 pounds.

Key Features:

Dimension-based pricing: Rates determined by package size, not weight
Weight limit: Up to 20 pounds
Delivery timeframe: 1-3 business days
Insurance: $100 included for free
Tracking: Free package tracking included
Savings: Up to 90% off retail shipping rates

USPS Cubic Pricing Tiers

Priority Mail Cubic uses a tiered pricing system based on the package's volume. There are five tiers:

Tier 0.1: Up to 0.1 cubic feet
Tier 0.2: 0.101 to 0.2 cubic feet
Tier 0.3: 0.201 to 0.3 cubic feet
Tier 0.4: 0.301 to 0.4 cubic feet
Tier 0.5: 0.401 to 0.5 cubic feet

Calculating Your Package's Cubic Tier

For Boxes and Rigid Packages:

Measure the outer dimensions (length, width, height) in inches
Round each measurement down to the nearest quarter inch
Multiply length x width x height
Divide the result by 1728 (cubic inches in a cubic foot)
The result is your package's cubic feet measurement

Example: For a box measuring 12.3" x 9.5" x 3":

Round down to 12.25" x 9.5" x 3"
12.25 x 9.5 x 3 = 349.125
349.125 / 1728 = 0.202 cubic feet
This package falls into the 0.3 cubic feet pricing tier

Note: Maximum size for any single dimension is 18 inches

For Envelopes and Soft Packs:

Measure the length and width of the empty envelope
Round down to the nearest quarter inch
Add the length and width together
Use the total to determine the pricing tier:
- Tier 0.1: Up to 21"
- Tier 0.2: 21.01" to 27"
- Tier 0.3: 27.01" to 31"
- Tier 0.4: 31.01" to 34"
- Tier 0.5: 34.01" to 36"

Restrictions

Tubes and rolls are not eligible for Cubic pricing
Maximum combined length and girth is 84 inches

Benefits of Using Priority Mail Cubic

Cost savings: Cheaper than weight-based pricing for small, heavy items
Predictable pricing: Easy to calculate shipping costs based on box dimensions
Fast delivery: 1-3 business day delivery to any US address, including PO boxes
Free tracking: Monitor shipments at no extra cost
Included insurance: $100 of coverage with every shipment
No surcharges: Residential and fuel surcharges included in the price

Tips for Maximizing Savings

Optimize packaging: Use the smallest box possible that safely fits your items
Consider breaking up large orders: Sometimes shipping in multiple smaller boxes can be cheaper
Use cubic feet calculators: Online tools can help quickly determine your package's tier
Compare rates: Always compare Cubic rates with other shipping methods
Use Commercial Pricing: Accessing Commercial Pricing rates can lead to even more savings

2024 USPS Priority Mail Cubic Rates

[Insert current rate table here]

Accessing Priority Mail Cubic Rates

Priority Mail Cubic isn't available at regular Post Office counters. However, many online shipping platforms and 3PL providers offer access to these rates. By partnering with a fulfillment provider, you can easily access these discounted rates and streamline your shipping process. For small-scale sellers not yet ready for a 3PL, Pirate Ship offers free access to USPS Priority Mail Cubic rates with no monthly fees or minimums.

How to Set Up Your Zebra Thermal Label Printer on a Mac