Abstract: An apparatus for labeling a package (1) including an advancing device (2) for transporting the package in a transport direction (X) and an application device (3) for applying a dispensed label (4) to the package. The application device includes an oscillating punch (7) having a punch stem (5) and a punch foot (6) connected thereto. The dispensed label is picked up by the punch foot from a pickup position, moved to a deposit position, and applied by the punch foot to the package. The punch stem is movably mounted on a guide element (8), held in a direction of gravitational force (Y) by a holder (9), and mounted pivotably about a horizontal pivot axis (X1) that runs orthogonal to the direction of gravitational force. The guide element carries at least one component of the holder and is pivotable about the pivot axis. Also a labeling method that utilizes the apparatus.