The Right Barcode Label Material
So, you just bought your first thermal transfer printer and now
you have to find the perfect label for your printing
application.
Thermal printers are great for printing shipping labels,
warehouse rack labels, barcode labels, asset labels
and product identification labels. Choosing the right label
material can be one of the most important decisions you make. If
you are printing shipping labels or barcode identification
labels for retail, the label does not have that long of a shelf
life. A simple thermal transfer label and wax ribbon combo will
work just fine or even a direct thermal. Keep in mind that
direct thermal labels are heat sensitive and can fade and
blacken over time. Direct thermal tends to be more expensive
than thermal transfer labels, but you don't have to change out a
ribbon or factor in that cost.
Perhaps you will need to print location or rack labels for your
warehouse or maybe a shipping label that will be on a product
outside. Now you are faced with a dilemna of finding a low cost
label material that will give you barcode smudge resistance and
resistance to water. Polyester labels can be very expensive and
overkill for this application. Consider using a poly blend
material like a polyetholene, polyolephin or a Kimdura label
stock. These materials are more expensive than paper but will
not break the bank for your application. Polyester labels are
ideal for exposure to chemicals and high temperatures. They are
also great for holding up to the elements. Many asset labels are
printed in polyester because you want them to be around for the
life of the product. If you still need more durability, consider
anodized aluminum labels or tags for your application. These
have the image preprinted on them and baked into the material.
You will pay a bundle for these, but if it's going to last
forever, it's worth the investment.