Label printing - what technologies work well for different applications?

The choice of label printing technology should not be accidental – it may seem like just a small sticker, but it is responsible for so much in the production, shipping, and storage processes. The differences between thermal and thermal transfer printing affect, among other things, the durability of the print on the label, not to mention aesthetics and, of course, costs. Do you want to choose the right method for your applications? Find out which label printing solution will actually work for your industry.

Thermal printing – when speed and economy matter

Thermal labels dominate the logistics and e-commerce industries. Why? Because they are the fastest and cheapest solution to operate. Thermal printing technology uses heat-sensitive paper, which changes color when exposed to the heat from the printer head. This printing method requires neither ink nor ribbons.

At Dalpo, you'll find thermal labels on rolls in a wide range of sizes – from small 32/20mm labels, to large 100x150mm labels.

Where are thermal labels best suited?

This printing method is most commonly used for:

• courier labels,
• shipping manifests,
• warehouse markings,
• short-term product identification,
• receipts and tickets.

The biggest advantage of thermal printing is its simplicity. However, it is important to remember that thermal print on a label is not resistant to UV light, high temperatures, or friction. Therefore, it is used where the "lifespan" of the label does not need to exceed 12 months.

Read also: What should a product label contain?

Thermal transfer printing – label durability essential in warehouses

Where durability is critical, and a label needs to remain legible for years, we choose thermal transfer printing. In this technology, printing requires the transfer of ink from a ribbon onto the label surface, which is pressed onto the label surface by heat. The result is a print resistant to:

• moisture,
• abrasion,
• UV radiation,
• high temperatures.

Typical applications for thermal transfer labels

Thermal transfer printing is suitable wherever the label must remain legible for a long time: in production markings, component identification, product labels – especially those for long-term storage. At Dalpo, you will find thermal transfer labels in various sizes in white paper and semi-gloss versions, allowing you to match the stickers to your product and usage conditions.

Eco-friendly thermal transfer labels

Thermal transfer printing also allows for the use of labels made from ecological materials. How do standard labels differ from "ECO" labels?

Environmentally friendly solutions use natural raw materials for the production of label material while maintaining standard, durable adhesives and long-lasting printing methods. This means our labels support recycling, are easier to dispose of, and at the same time maintain resistance and will not peel off during transport.

Dalpo's offer includes:

• Brown kraft paper - labels with a natural, raw look.
• Labels with added beet fibers - a solution using plant-based raw materials as an alternative to classic materials.

Choosing the ECO option in labeling reduces the use of virgin raw materials and aligns with your company's ESG strategy – while maintaining print quality and durability.

Dalpo labels with ready-made, custom print – no more production delays

In many industries, consistency in labeling and maintaining a uniform standard across entire product batches are crucial. That's why at Dalpo, you can order labels with your own print – prepared according to your design. Custom labels are available from us in rectangular, square, or round shapes. This solution allows for:

• full visual consistency - without stopping the production line or engaging additional resources,
• personalization - you choose the colors, paper, background, and quantity of labels you want to order from us,
• maintaining high print durability - up to 12 years without print fading (for glossy labels),
• eco-friendly options - use of BPA Free paper and solvent-free UV ink,
• professional appearance - high-quality printing and color saturation of labels guarantee readability of stickers.

Labels with pre-printed designs ordered from Dalpo are a solution that streamlines your production process – ensuring marking consistency and cost optimization.

Laser and inkjet printing on sheet labels

Not every application requires a specialized label printer. If you run an office, a small manufacturing business, or a handmade operation, sheet labels might be suitable for you. You can print them on a regular laser or inkjet printer. The biggest advantages of this type of printing are:

• high printing flexibility,
• ability to work with standard office equipment,
• possibility of producing smaller label runs.

Choosing sheet labels is a low-cost method for short, unique product series, which will work wherever you care about attention to detail.

Read more about this: Sheet labels: versatile solutions for product marking and identification

Which label printing method is for you?

Choosing a printing technology is a strategic decision for a company. Your labels should solve specific problems you encounter daily:

1. How long does the information need to be legible?
2. Under what conditions will the product be stored?
3. What impression do you want to make on the customer?

How to choose the right label printing technology for your company's needs?

In business, there's no room for half-measures. If you want your label to be durable and perform its tasks excellently – you should match it to the conditions in which it will be used.