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Synchronous Labeling (Recommended)

Synchronous labeling is the recommended integration pattern for DashLink parcels.
It is the most reliable option because the parcel is only labeled after DashLink confirms the shipment can be created.

Synchronous labeling reduces downstream issues such as:

  • Failed create-delivery calls due to invalid or unserviceable addresses
  • Parcels arriving at a facility before DashLink knows about them
  • Redelivery attempts or undeliverable workflows caused by missing data

How synchronous labeling works​

The merchant follows a real-time flow:

Step 1 — Get a delivery quote (optional)​

Call:

POST /drive/v2/quotes

This validates:

  • Serviceability
  • Customer address
  • Price (fee)
  • Estimated delivery timeline

Step 2 — Accept the quote (optional)​

Call:

POST /drive/v2/quotes/{external_delivery_id}/accept

This locks in:

  • Tracking code
  • Scheduled shipping window
  • Label (if DashLink-generated labels are enabled)

Step 3 — Create the delivery (alternative to quote)​

If you skip quotes, the merchant may directly call:

POST /drive/v2/deliveries

A successful create-delivery response includes:

  • Tracking identifiers (external_delivery_id, pickup_reference_tag)
  • Address validation corrections
  • Delivery estimate
  • Shipping label (PDF or ZPL)

Step 4 — Print label​

Merchant prints with the configured format:

  • PDF 4×6
  • ZPL 203 dpi
  • ZPL 300 dpi

The label includes the barcode representing the tracking code.

This option is preferred and less prone to downstream issues… you can be assured that DashLink will have information regarding your shipment when it arrives at our facilities.

Key benefits:

  • No mislabeled parcels
  • Avoids parcels arriving at DashLink with unknown tracking codes
  • Reduced cancellations
  • Improved first-attempt delivery success
  • Real-time validation avoids bad requests