How to Choose a Thermal Label Type

Thermal labels are part and parcel of many businesses and industries, playing significant roles in retail, shipping, inventory management and more.

There is an assortment of thermal labels in the market, and choosing the right one tailored to your needs can be a hassle! But fret not; consider this article your guide to making an informed decision.

Factors to Consider When Buying Thermal Labels

With all the varieties in the market, it is easy to choose the wrong thermal label type. However, with these factors in mind, you will make all the right decisions :

1. Label Material

The first and foremost step in shopping for thermal label type is to identify the suitable label material that suits your requirements. There are two types of thermal labels :

Direct Thermal Labels — these labels work in conjunction with direct thermal printers and do not need ink or ribbon to function. They are characterised by a heat-sensitive coating that darkens when subjected to the printer’s heat. Direct thermal labels are cost and user-friendly, but they have limited durability and fade over time when exposed to environmental factors such as heat, moisture and UV radiation. They are ideally suited for short-term applications such as low-volume receipts and shipping labels.

Thermal Transfer Labels — are the exact opposite of direct transfer labels. They are compatible with thermal transfer printers and require a ribbon to deliver ink onto the label surface. They are more durable, resistant to fading and can better withstand environmental conditions. Thermal transfer labels are perfect for long-term applications such as asset tracking, product labelling and outdoor use.

1. Size and Shape

Selecting the correct label size and shape is of utmost importance. The ideal label size should accommodate all vital information without clutter. Consider the volume of information you want to include on your label and the available space on the items or packages that need labelling. While standard rectangular labels are the norm, you can find custom shapes and sizes to suit your desired dimensions. Select stores like CDM Labels sell a wide selection of specifications, so you can easily find a specific size or shape.

1. Adhesive Strength

Poor adhesive strength translates to loosely attached labels that can come off at the slightest disturbance. Confirm that the label adheres firmly to designated surfaces before concluding transactions. Some common adhesive types include :

Permanent Adhesive: this adhesive offers a solid and long-lasting bond. It is suitable for long-term applications where the label needs to remain firmly attached for a prolonged period. Permanent adhesives are perfect for product labels and asset tagging.

Removable Adhesive: you can easily peel off this adhesive without littering. Removable adhesives are best for temporary usage, such as promotional stickers.

High-tack adhesives: are specially designed to adhere to challenging surfaces such as rough or textured materials. They are best suited for industrial purposes.

1. Printer Compatibility

Verify the compatibility of your chosen label type to your thermal printer to avoid issues. Some thermal printers are limited to either direct or thermal transfer labels, while others can support both label types.

1. Budget and quantity

Evaluate the number of labels you need along with your budget. Thermal transfer labels typically have a higher upfront cost than direct thermal labels. However, they are cost-effective in the long run. Explore bulk purchase options if you are buying a large quantity of labels.

Finally, consider the label’s resistance to environmental factors, especially if your business is located in a harsh environment.