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When you have to choose which type of label or sticker you need as a package label, freight label, shipping label, etc., you must always consider where the label should be used. For example, there is no point in using an ordinary paper label for frozen goods or a heat-sensitive DT label on goods that are exposed to sun and heat. Then there is a risk that the information will be lost. A paper label, on the other hand, can be quite perfect for marking a cardboard box, that has to be thrown out shortly after. You must also take the material that the label must adhere to into account. If, for example, a label is to be applied to an excavator that is exposed to a lot of dust and impurities, it may be more ideal to use a plastic label with extra strong glue. It could also be that there is a desire for the label to be able to be taken off and on several times, then there is a need for a removable label/label with removable adhesive - and then a different kind of glue to be used. Besides, the label size must fit the label printer.
To ensure that you find the perfect label type, you must first decide what needs and requirements you have for your label. You should consider the following questions before making your decision.
- How long should the label last? A few days, months or years?
- What environment will the label encounter? Chemicals, heat, cold, water or something completely different?
- What surface should your labels be applied to?
Once you have the answer to the above questions, we can help you find the right label.
As a starting point, two types of label technologies are used - DT (Direct Thermal) and TT (Thermal Transfer) labels.
WHAT IS DT (DIRECT THERMAL)?
One of the most used types of labels is DT (Direct Thermal) labels, which do not use any ink or ribbon. These labels are coated with a heat-sensitive layer, which changes color when the printer's printhead heats the label. The coating turns black in the areas where it is heated. However, these labels are not long-lasting in environments where the label is exposed to sunlight or heat. If you need labels for ordinary freight labels, DT labels are the cheapest and most effective type of label since the label is usually thrown out after a short period.
WHAT IS TT (THERMAL TRANSFER)?
Thermal transfer labels are another very common method that uses a heat-sensitive ribbon instead of heat-sensitive paper. If your labels are to have a longer shelf life and have a nice look over a longer period, then you should use TT (Thermal Transfer) labels. Especially if you need to use your labels in a place where there is a lot of sunlight, or heat over a long period. TT labels are not coated with a heat-sensitive layer and require the label printer to use ribbons to apply pressure to the label.
WANT TO USE BARCODES ON YOUR LABELS AS WELL?
Bar code labels are indispensable in the logistics chain. But what exactly is the difference between 1D and 2D barcodes? In short, it is about the layout and amount of data in the barcodes. See our barcode guide and learn much more about how a barcode scanner can scan your barcodes.
