I went back and forth between the Avery Template 8371 and 5366 for what felt like an embarrassing amount of time before my first major label order. On paper, they look almost identical—both are designed for shipping and mailing labels. But after a costly mistake (more on that later), I realized the differences matter far more than the spec sheets suggest.
Here's the thing: if you're staring at these two templates on the Avery website or in your label design software, you're probably doing what I did—trying to figure out if it really matters which one you pick. It does. And I learned the hard way.
My First Big Order Mistake (The $450 Lesson)
In my first year handling orders for our small team (2021), I placed a $3,200 order for custom shipping labels. I checked the design, approved the proof, and processed the order. Everything looked fine on my screen.
The result? Three hundred labels that were technically the right size, but absolutely unusable for our standard padded mailers. $450 worth of labels went straight to the trash. The issue wasn't the printer or the design—it was me picking the wrong template for the physical application.
That's when I started documenting my mistakes. I've personally made (and documented) 11 significant ordering errors, totaling roughly $2,300 in wasted budget. Now I maintain our team's checklist to prevent others from repeating my errors. This comparison of Avery 8371 and 5366 is part of that checklist.
Comparison Framework: What We're Actually Comparing
To avoid confusion, let's set the stage. Both templates are part of Avery's standard mailing label lineup. They share some core specifications but differ in critical ways that affect how they're printed, applied, and used.
We'll compare them across four dimensions:
- Physical dimensions and layout – The raw numbers
- Best use case – Where each template shines
- Compatibility with printers and software – Real-world performance
- Cost and availability – The practical numbers that matter
Let's get into it.
Dimension 1: Physical Dimensions & Layout
Template 8371
- Label size: 4" x 2"
- Labels per sheet: 10
- Layout: 2 columns x 5 rows
Template 5366
- Label size: 4" x 1.33"
- Labels per sheet: 20
- Layout: 4 columns x 5 rows
The immediate difference is the vertical height and number of labels per sheet. The 8371 gives you fewer, taller labels. The 5366 gives you twice as many, but they're shorter.
Here's what confused me initially: both templates are often listed under "shipping labels" on product pages. But a 4" x 2" label (8371) fits a standard address block and a small logo or return address perfectly. A 4" x 1.33" label (5366) is tighter—fine for a simple address, but not great if you need extra space.
Verdict: If you need more space for logos, tracking numbers, or barcodes, choose 8371. If you're just printing addresses and want more labels per sheet for lower cost per label, go with 5366.
Dimension 2: Best Use Case
This is where my $450 mistake happened. I assumed "shipping label" meant the same thing for any package. Not ideal, but workable... until it wasn't.
8371 is better for:
- Larger packages or boxes where a bigger label looks professional
- Projects requiring a logo or graphic (e.g., small business branding on mailers)
- Addresses with long lines (apartment numbers, suite numbers, etc.)
- Return address plus recipient address on the same label
5366 is better for:
- Standard #10 envelopes and small padded mailers
- High-volume mailing where label cost matters
- Simple address-only labels (like event invitations or invoices)
- Barcode labels where space isn't a premium
The anti-climax? For 60% of users, either template works. But for the remaining 40% (like me, trying to fit a logo on a tiny label), the wrong pick causes frustration and waste.
Verdict: If you're a small business printing 50-100 shipping labels a week for various package sizes, the 8371 is safer because it accommodates more. If you're an office manager doing high-volume standard mailings on #10 envelopes, the 5366 is more economical.
Dimension 3: Compatibility (Printers and Software)
Both templates use Avery's standard design templates (available in Word, Google Docs, and Canva). I've tested both on several printers—here's what I found.
Software compatibility:
- Both templates are supported in Avery Design & Print Online, Microsoft Word (with the Avery add-in), and Google Docs (via the Avery template for Google Docs).
- In Canva, both are listed, though the 5366 seems to have slightly more user-created templates available (circa 2024).
Printer quirks: (note to self: always test with scrap paper first)
I've printed both templates on an HP LaserJet Pro (M404) and a Brother QL series label printer. On the HP, the 8371 had slightly tighter margins, meaning if your printer's top feed is misaligned by even 2mm, the first label gets cut off. The 5366 was more forgiving.
I heard from a colleague using an older Canon Pixma that the 5366 sheets tended to jam more often because the labels are packed tighter on the sheet. That's anecdotal, but worth noting.
Verdict: Both are broadly compatible, but the 8371 may be slightly more printer-friendly due to wider margins between labels. If you have an older printer, test before ordering in bulk.
Dimension 4: Cost & Availability
Pricing as of January 2025 (verify current rates):
- Avery 8371 (box of 300 sheets, 3,000 labels): ~$45-55
- Avery 5366 (box of 300 sheets, 6,000 labels): ~$50-60
Per label, the 5366 is roughly 40-50% cheaper than the 8371. That difference adds up quickly if you're doing high-volume mailings. For a small business shipping 100 packages per month, switching from 8371 to 5366 could save $200-300 per year.
However, availability varies by vendor. According to USPS (usps.com), standard label size affects mailing costs if your labels exceed certain dimensions—but both templates fall within standard large envelope specifications (6.125" x 11.5" to 12" x 15"), so no extra postage issues.
Verdict: If cost per label is your primary driver, 5366 wins hands-down. But only if the smaller size works for your application.
Choosing the Right Template for Your Situation
I recommend the 8371 if:
- You need space for a logo or barcode
- You ship a mix of package sizes (the larger label scales better)
- You value readability and professional appearance over cost
I recommend the 5366 if:
- You're printing addresses only (no graphics)
- You ship standard #10 envelopes or small mailers
- You're on a tight budget per unit
And if you're still unsure? Start with a smaller pack of each. Avery sells both in smaller quantities (25-sheet packs). Test them with your actual projects. That's what I do now, after the $450 mistake.
Pricing is for general reference only. Actual prices vary by vendor, specifications, and time of order. Verify current rates at avery.com.
