Business owners, marketers, and consumers see three main types of labels. These are roll labels, sheet labels, and cut-to-size labels. Each type helps with different packaging needs. Product labels also have different uses. Some are for branding, some give information, and some describe products. The packaging industry wants custom labels and thermal labels. Roll labels are very popular. They have 50% of the market because they print fast. Picking the right label affects cost and workflow. The chart below shows the market share for each label type. This helps people make important choices.
Key Takeaways
There are three main types of labels. These are roll labels, sheet labels, and cut-to-size labels. Each type is used for different packaging needs. Roll labels print quickly and work with machines. They are best for big orders and making lots at once. Sheet labels come in flat sheets. They are easy to print at home or in an office. They are good for small jobs or custom needs. Cut-to-size labels have special shapes and sizes. They are great for unique packaging and small amounts. Product labels have different jobs. Brand labels help people know the brand. Informational labels give facts and safety details. Descriptive labels tell about features and benefits. Picking the right label depends on many things. These include order size, how you put it on, how long it lasts, design, and legal rules. Good label design helps products get noticed. It builds trust and follows laws and rules. To avoid mistakes, test your labels and follow the rules. Update designs to keep labels working well and trusted.
Three Main Types of Labels
Roll Labels
Roll labels are used by many businesses. They help print labels quickly. These labels come on a long roll. This makes them good for making lots of labels at once. Companies use roll labels with thermal printers and digital printers. This helps them label things faster. The roll shape makes storage simple. It is easy to use them in machines.
How They Work
Roll labels are wrapped around a tube. Machines or dispensers pull the roll. They peel off each label for use. The sticky side helps the label stay on boxes or products. Thermal labels use heat to show words or pictures. This makes them strong and able to last in tough places. Digital printing makes labels bright and clear.
Tip: Roll labels are best for machines. They help save time and stop mistakes.
Ideal Use Cases
Shipping and moving packages
Keeping track of items
Food and drink packaging
Cosmetics and home goods
Online orders
Medicine and health items
Store branding
Factory products
Roll labels have many good points:
They are fast, up to 20% quicker than others
The roll makes less trash
They look good and can wrap all the way around
You can pick the size, shape, and look
Some are made to last outside or in factories
Sheet Labels
Sheet labels are flat and come in sheets. You can use them with normal printers at home or work. These labels are easy for small jobs. They come in many shapes and sizes. People use them for custom labels or small business needs.
How They Work
You print sheet labels with inkjet or laser printers. Each sheet has many labels. You peel them off and stick them by hand. The sticky side keeps the label on paper, plastic, or boxes. You do not need special tools to use sheet labels.
Note: Sheet labels can get stuck in printers. They also cost more for big jobs. Thermal labels print faster and do not jam. They also cost less.
Ideal Use Cases
Mailing and address labels
Organizing files and folders
Barcodes and price tags
Name tags for events
Fun labels for crafts
Shipping labels with lots of details
Custom product labels for small amounts
Sheet labels are good for small or medium jobs. They let you pick different looks and materials. But they are not as fast for big jobs. Sheet labels can make more trash and need more work than roll labels.
Cut-to-Size Labels
Cut-to-size labels are cut one by one. They are made for special packaging or branding. You can choose the shape, size, and material. This makes them good for special uses.
How They Work
Each label is cut from a big sheet or roll. People put these labels on by hand or with small machines. The sticky side keeps the label on bottles, boxes, or bags. You can pick shiny, plain, or clear looks.
Tip: Cut-to-size labels are great for special jobs. They work well when you need a certain shape or spot.
Ideal Use Cases
Labels for juice, soda, and honey bottles
Coffee shops and seals for safety
CBD and cannabis with special packaging
Bakeries and food to-go
Breweries and outdoor gear
Promo items and small batches
Cut-to-size labels give you:
Special shapes and sizes for cool packaging
Strong labels that last in water or outside
A pro look for your brand
Safety features to show if opened
Many choices for materials and printing
Businesses pick cut-to-size labels for special containers. They look nice and fit well. These labels take more work and cost more. They are best for small jobs or special projects.
Types of Product Labels by Purpose
Businesses use product labels for many reasons. They help with marketing, laws, and what customers want. There are three main types of product labels by purpose. These are brand labels, informative labels, and descriptive labels. Each type helps show and explain products in its own way.
Brand Labels
Brand labels show the brand name and logo. They help products get noticed on busy shelves. Companies use brand labels to make people remember and trust them. You see brand labels on clothes, soap, and food packages. There are different kinds of brand labels. Some are manufacturer’s labels, some are private labels, and some are generic labels. Manufacturer’s labels show the real brand. Private labels are for stores. Generic labels use simple names and designs.
Brand labels make products look different from others. They show quality, special things, and price. A good brand label can share a story about the company. Custom labels let brands pick colors, shapes, and designs. This helps people remember the product. In busy markets, brand labels show quality and help buyers pick between products.
Note: Brand labels help products stand out. They make people loyal and want to buy again.
Informational Labels
Informational labels give important facts about the product. These labels show things like who made it, what is inside, how to use it, and when it expires. Informational labels must follow rules from laws. Some laws are the Fair Packaging and Labeling Act and the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act. These laws say labels must be clear and true to keep people safe.
Informative labels help buyers make smart and safe choices. They list nutrition facts, allergens, and warnings. This is good for people with allergies or special diets. Informational labels also have barcodes for tracking and keeping count. Many products use thermal labels to print this information fast and clear.
Here is a table that shows what is on informational labels:
Label Element | Description |
|---|---|
Statement of Identity | Name or description of the product |
Net Quantity | Amount in weight, volume, or count |
Nutrition Facts | Details on calories, fats, protein, vitamins, and minerals |
Ingredient Statement | List of ingredients in order by weight |
Allergen Declaration | Clear warning about major allergens |
Expiration Date | Date showing product freshness and safety |
Barcodes | Used for tracking and sales management |
Informative labels help people decide what to buy. Simple and clear labels build trust. Studies show people pay more for products with easy labels. Nutrition facts and other details help shoppers pick healthy and safe items.
Descriptive Labels
Descriptive labels tell what makes a product special. They show features, benefits, and how to use it. Descriptive labels say if something is new, better, or has cool qualities. For example, a label might say “energy-boosting” or “extra soft.” This helps buyers know about the product fast.
Descriptive labels help people know what is inside. They give tips about storage, handling, and safety. In food and drinks, descriptive labels must show nutrition facts, ingredients, and how to use it. These labels help companies follow rules and avoid problems.
Tip: Descriptive labels help buyers compare products. They make it easier to pick the best one.
Descriptive labels also help build trust. When companies give clear and honest facts, buyers feel sure. Checking and updating labels keeps them correct and follows new rules.
Other Types of Labels
Environmental Labels
Environmental labels help people pick products that are better for Earth. These labels show if something follows eco-friendly rules. Groups use global standards to keep labels fair and honest. The ISO 14000 series sets the main rules for these labels. ISO 14021 is for self-declared claims. This means companies say their products are green without outside checks. ISO 14025 is for environmental product declarations. These need third-party checks and real data about a product’s impact. Some labels, called Type I-like, focus on special eco or social features. Independent groups manage these labels.
Note: Environmental labels help buyers choose products that support sustainability and responsible production.
Here is a table showing the main types of environmental labels and their standards:
Environmental Label Type | Governing Standard | Verification Type | Typical Application |
|---|---|---|---|
Third-party Verified EPD | ISO 14025 | Independent third-party | Accepted widely, any purpose |
Project EPD | ISO 14025 | Internally verified | Specific projects, contracts |
Self-declared Environmental Claims | ISO 14021 | None (self-declared) | Transparency, marketing claims |
System Verified EPD | ISO 14025 | Not verified | Large scale EPD use |
Environmental labels build trust by sharing clear facts about a product’s impact. Ecolabels help people see what is true. They let shoppers make smarter choices and buy greener things. Labels with third-party checks make people trust them more. This helps people buy sustainable items. Studies show good labels, like traffic light labels, help people pick eco-friendly products. People trust labels more when they are easy to read and backed by trusted groups.
Ecolabels help people compare products and avoid confusion.
Good design and clear info help people trust labels.
If labels are not honest, people may not trust them.
Regulatory Labels
Regulatory labels make sure products follow safety and quality rules from the government. These labels show that products meet strict health, safety, and environment standards. In the European Union, the CE Mark is needed for many products. This includes electronics, toys, and medical devices. The WEEE Symbol tells people to recycle electronics the right way. Battery labels must show special symbols and info. Other marks are for cars, cosmetics, and food. In the United States, labels must follow rules from groups like the FDA and EPA. These labels list ingredients, allergens, warnings, and safety instructions.
Here is a table with common regulatory labels and what they mean:
Category | Description |
|---|---|
CE Mark | Shows product meets EU safety, health, and environmental rules |
WEEE Symbol | Tells users to recycle electronics separately |
Battery Labeling | Shows recycling info and safety details |
Automotive (e-mark) | Certifies vehicles and parts approved by authorities |
Other Mandatory Marks | Includes labels for cosmetics, food, chemicals, and more |
Voluntary Marks | Eco-labels, recycling marks, used for marketing in some countries |
Regulatory labels protect people by sharing clear safety and quality info. These labels must be easy to read and last a long time. Regular checks and updates keep labels up to date with new rules. Labels must use the right language and follow design rules. When companies use proper labels, they show they care about safety and follow laws. This helps buyers trust them and keeps companies out of trouble.
Tip: Regulatory labels help buyers feel safe and confident about their choices.
Regulatory labels also help people know what is inside a product and how to use it safely. Companies that follow label rules avoid fines and keep a good reputation. Labels help protect health and the environment.
Comparing Types of Labels
Comparison Table
Picking the right label depends on many things. The table below shows how roll, sheet, and cut-to-size labels compare. It looks at cost, speed, how you use them, and more. This helps people see which label is best for them.
Aspect | Roll Labels | Sheet Labels | Cut-to-Size Labels |
|---|---|---|---|
Cost | Low per label for large orders; setup fees | Best for small orders; higher per label for bulk | Custom sizes may add extra cost |
Printing Volume | High; ideal for bulk production | Low to medium; good for small batches | Low to medium; best for special projects |
Primary Printer Type | Thermal or digital printers | Inkjet or laser printers | Varies; often digital or offset |
Application Method | Automated or manual; works with dispensers | Manual; hand-applied | Manual; hand-applied |
Efficiency | Fast, automated; saves time | Slower; manual application | Slower; custom shapes take more time |
Durability | Excellent; laminated, weather-resistant | Variable; not laminated, less durable | Depends on material and finish |
Customization | Many shapes, sizes, and finishes | Versatile; many shapes and sizes | Highly customizable; unique shapes possible |
Storage | Compact rolls; easy for machines | Flat sheets; easy to stack | Depends on size; similar to sheets |
Minimum Order | Usually required | No minimum; order as few as needed | Varies; often custom order |
Note: Roll labels are great for printing lots of labels fast. Sheet labels work well for small jobs and custom needs. Cut-to-size labels are best for special packages or projects.
Key Differences
Labels are different in price, speed, and how you use them. Each type has good and bad points:
Roll Labels
Good for big orders and quick printing.
Use thermal labels and digital printers for clear prints.
Cheaper per label when you buy a lot.
Need special machines to put them on.
Very strong if laminated.
Easy to get custom labels in many shapes.
Sheet Labels
Best for small jobs and custom labels.
Print at home or work with inkjet or laser printers.
No minimum order, but cost more for big jobs.
You stick them on by hand, which takes longer.
Not as strong; no lamination.
Great for crafts, tests, and small businesses.
Cut-to-Size Labels
Great for special shapes and cool packaging.
Custom sizes can take more time and money.
Put on by hand; good for small batches.
How strong they are depends on the material.
Used for bottles, jars, and special items.
Product labels also have different jobs:
Brand Labels help people know and trust a product. They make products stand out and help people remember the brand.
Informational Labels give facts like ingredients, warnings, and dates. They help companies follow rules and keep buyers safe.
Descriptive Labels tell about features and benefits. They help shoppers compare and pick what they want.
Product labels are important for selling and following laws. Brand labels help products get noticed and sell more. Descriptive labels and grade labels make sure products meet rules. Good labels protect buyers and build trust.
Tip: Pick the label type that fits your needs. Roll labels are best for lots of products and fast printing. Sheet or cut-to-size labels work better for small jobs or special projects.
Choosing the Right Label
Factors to Consider
Picking the right labels for a new product takes planning. Business owners should think of this as a big decision. They need to ask important questions before picking custom labels or thermal labels. Here is a checklist to help with label design and product labeling:
How many labels do you need to print?
Will you put labels on by hand or with a machine?
Does your product need labels that resist water or tearing?
What is the shape and material of your packaging?
Are there any rules or laws for your product labels?
How much do looks and brand style matter?
What is your budget for printing and materials?
Do labels need to last through shipping or tough places?
Is it important for labels to be eco-friendly?
What must be on the label for rules and customer trust?
Tip: Businesses should study the market to know their buyers and rivals. They should work with trusted label makers and pick products that fit what customers want.
The table below shows the main things to check when picking labels:
Criterion | Description |
|---|---|
Brand identity | Use the same colors and fonts to build loyalty. |
Target audience | Make labels that match what buyers like. |
Competitor designs | Look at other brands to stand out. |
Container size & shape | Make sure labels fit and are easy to read. |
Material | Pick vinyl for water resistance or cardstock for a fancy look. |
Product purpose | Match label strength to how the product is used. |
Compliance & regulations | Follow all label laws and rules. |
Sustainability | Choose green labels for buyers who care about the planet. |
Readability | Make sure details are clear and easy to see. |
Design balance | Use empty space so labels do not look crowded. |
Font usage | Mix serif and sans serif fonts for easy reading. |
Matching Labels to Needs
Businesses need to pick label types that fit their products. Roll labels are best for big jobs and machine use. Sheet labels are good for small batches and hand use, like address or product labels. Cut-to-size labels are flexible for special shapes and edge-to-edge designs. Special labels, like water-resistant spice labels or rectangle labels, make products last longer and look better.
Product labels must also follow rules for each industry. Food labels need to handle cold storage. Cosmetics need labels that do not get ruined by water. In shipping, labels should have SKU, lot numbers, and location codes for tracking. Using color and strong materials helps keep things organized and easy to find.
Some mistakes can make labels fail. Businesses sometimes forget about rules or pick weak materials. They might use glue that does not stick or hard-to-read fonts. Bad color choices and too much info make labels confusing. Not testing labels or updating designs can cause trouble. If labels are not weatherproof or tested for shipping, they can get damaged. Not getting help from pros or asking users for feedback can also hurt label success.
Note: Avoid these mistakes by teaching design teams, testing materials, and asking for feedback. Check and update label designs often to follow rules and work well.
Good label design helps people know your brand, keeps products safe, and follows rules. Businesses should check labels and packaging when they arrive, make sure they are right, and keep good records. They must throw away unused labels with codes to stop mistakes. Testing for fit, seal, and toughness makes sure labels last as long as needed.
Product Labels in Practice
Business Uses
Many companies use labels for their work. Roll labels are good for big jobs. They help with barcodes, shipping, and name tags. These labels print fast, up to 70 each minute. Sheet labels work for smaller tasks. Offices use them for return addresses and product labels. They also use them for bright designs. Cut-to-size labels, like fanfold labels, are easy to tear. People use them by hand for quick jobs. Warehouses use these for barcodes and tracking items. Stores pick custom labels to match their brand.
Label Type | Description | Common Business Uses |
|---|---|---|
Roll Labels | Sticky, wrapped around a core, used in thermal printers | Barcodes, shipping, name tags |
Sheet Labels | Pressure sensitive, cut to size, desktop printer ready | Return address, product, colorful designs |
Cut-to-Size | Perforated, folded, easy to tear, in dispensers | Address, shipping, barcodes |
Businesses pick labels to save time and stop mistakes. This helps products move faster.
Marketing Applications
Marketing teams use labels to help brands stand out. Brand labels show logos and colors. These labels help shoppers know the product and trust it. Descriptive labels give facts about what is inside. Grade labels, like Energy Star, show quality. They help buyers feel sure about what they buy. Promotional labels show deals or new things, like “Limited Time Offer.”
Label Type | Marketing Purpose | Impact on Brand and Engagement |
|---|---|---|
Brand Labels | Show logos and colors | Build trust and loyalty |
Descriptive Labels | Give product facts and benefits | Help buyers make smart choices |
Grade Labels | Show quality standards | Make buyers feel confident |
Promotional Labels | Show deals and features | Get attention and quick decisions |
Good design is important. Clear writing and simple looks help people read labels. Using the same style makes labels easy to remember. Labels that show eco-friendly choices attract buyers who care about nature.
Everyday Examples
Labels are everywhere in daily life. Shipping labels go on packages and show addresses. Warning labels on tools keep people safe. Durable labels on outdoor gear do not fade or wash away. Product labels on food and cosmetics list ingredients and directions. Asset tags help track equipment in factories.
Label Type | Common Everyday Products | Benefits Provided |
|---|---|---|
Shipping Labels | Packages, boxes, envelopes | Stick well, show info for delivery |
Warning Labels | Tools, equipment | Keep people safe, show dangers |
Durable Labels | Outdoor gear, mailboxes | Resist weather, last longer |
Product Labels | Food, cosmetics | Show brand, ingredients, directions |
Asset Tags | Inventory, factory equipment | Easy tracking, barcode scanning |
Labels help people find and use products. They make life safer and more organized. Labels also help people trust what they buy.
Picking the right labels helps businesses with packaging and following rules. Roll, sheet, and cut-to-size labels all have their own good points. Brand, informational, and descriptive labels are used for different reasons.
Checklist for selecting labels:
Pick the label type and how you will print it
Make sure the label is strong and follows rules
Choose a label that fits your product’s shape
Check the design so it is easy to read
Want help finding the best label? Our team can help you. Contact us for a custom quote.
FAQ
What are custom labels?
Custom labels let businesses pick the size, shape, and color. They also choose the material for their products. These labels help brands get noticed. Companies use custom labels for special packaging and ads.
How do thermal labels work?
Thermal labels use heat to make words or pictures. A thermal printer heats up special paper. This makes labels fast, clear, and strong. People use them for shipping, barcodes, and keeping track of things.
When should a business use roll labels?
Businesses use roll labels when they need lots of labels. Roll labels work best with machines. They help save time and stop mistakes when packing and shipping.
What is the difference between sheet labels and cut-to-size labels?
Sheet labels come in flat sheets for small jobs or home printers. Cut-to-size labels are cut one by one for special shapes or packages. Both types are good for custom labels.
Are there labels for outdoor or harsh environments?
Yes. Some labels are made to be waterproof or weatherproof. These labels last longer outside or in rough places. Many thermal labels are extra tough for these jobs.
Why are informational labels important?
Informational labels give facts like ingredients, warnings, and dates. They help people make safe choices. These labels also help companies follow rules and build trust.
Can businesses print labels at home?
Yes. Many businesses use inkjet or laser printers for small jobs. Sheet labels are good for printing at home or in the office. For big jobs, companies use pro printers or thermal labels.
How do labels help with product compliance?
Labels show that products follow safety and legal rules. Regulatory and informational labels list key facts. This helps companies avoid trouble and keeps people safe.