> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://sendcloud.dev/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Creating test labels (API v2)

<Warning>
  This page applies to v2 of the Sendcloud API and is no longer maintained. Read the [updated version of this page for
  API v3](/docs/getting-started/creating-test-labels).
</Warning>

You can test Sendcloud APIs without running the risk of being charged for any shipping labels you create in the process.

There are two methods of creating test labels:

1. Create a test label using the Sendcloud shipping method **Unstamped letter**. You won't be charged for any parcels which are created using this method.
2. Create a label and cancel it within the deadline

<Tip>
  For testing purposes, we recommend you create parcels with the `request_label` property set to `false`. This will
  prevent labels from being created at the same time as the parcel and **avoid** potential charges.
</Tip>

## Method 1: create a test label using the Unstamped letter shipping method

The shipping method **Unstamped letter** is a Sendcloud method which allows you to create test labels without being charged.

It's not possible to use the **Unstamped letter** shipping method to create **return** parcels. To test return parcel creation, you should use a suitable return method and then [cancel the label before the cancellation deadline](/docs/shipping/cancel-a-label/).

<Tip>
  If you're creating a number of test parcels, you may find it helpful to set **Unstamped letter** as your [default
  shipping
  method](https://support.sendcloud.com/hc/en-us/articles/12213808740116-How-to-set-up-your-default-shipping-settings)
  in your Sendcloud account settings.
</Tip>

You can specify the shipping method **Unstamped letter** in your API requests within the `shipment` object. Note that the `id` for this method is `8` at the time of writing.

<Danger>
  Note: Shipping method IDs are **volatile**, and should not be saved for more than an hour. The list of available
  methods and their associated IDs **change frequently**, as we continually add new methods and update existing ones in
  our system.
</Danger>

```json Example request body theme={null}
{
  "shipment": {
    "id": 8,
    "name": "Unstamped letter"
  }
  // ... other parcel fields
}
```

## Method 2: create a label and cancel it within the deadline

When you want to test outgoing or return parcel creation, and the “Unstamped letter” method isn't applicable, it's possible to create shipping labels and then cancel them within the cancellation deadline.

<Card title="Cancel a label" icon="rocket" href="/docs/shipping/cancel-a-label" horizontal>
  Find out how to cancel a label before the cancellation deadline
</Card>

<Warning>
  **Not all carriers support cancellation requests**. Carefully consult the list of carriers [in our help
  center](https://support.sendcloud.com/hc/en-us/articles/360025143991-How-do-I-cancel-my-shipment-) before you request
  a label for a particular shipping method to be sure that cancellation is possible.
</Warning>