Label Basics
A practical introduction to thermal labels, printing methods and the application details that influence material selection.
What is a thermal label?
Thermal labels are pressure-sensitive labels designed for printing in thermal printers. The two most common methods are direct thermal and thermal transfer. The correct choice depends on how long the label must remain readable and what it will encounter after printing.
Direct Thermal
The label material contains a heat-sensitive coating that darkens when it passes under the print head. No ribbon is required.
- Simple media loading
- No ribbon inventory
- Common for shipping and short-life identification
- Can be sensitive to heat, light and abrasion
Thermal Transfer
A heated print head transfers ink from a ribbon onto the label surface. The ribbon and label material must be compatible.
- Excellent image durability
- Supports paper and synthetic labels
- Better for long-life and harsh environments
- Requires the correct ribbon formulation
Five questions to answer before choosing a label
1. What printer are you using?Manufacturer, model, print width and print method matter.
2. What surface will the label stick to?Corrugated, glass, plastic, metal and textured surfaces behave differently.
3. What environment will it see?Heat, cold, moisture, chemicals, sunlight and abrasion affect material choice.
4. How long must it last?A shipping label may only need days; an asset label may need years.
5. Does it need to come off?Permanent, removable and specialty adhesives serve different needs.
6. Is preprinting required?Color, logos, compliance information and serialized data may affect construction.