Shipping & Blank Labels & Ribbon

A Guide to Shipping Labels and Ribbons

Good shipping labels are key to any business that sends goods. A clear, strong label ensures your package gets to its destination. A blank label gives you the freedom to print what you need, when you need it.

This guide explains the two main types of label printing - Direct Thermal and Thermal Transfer - so you can choose the right labels and ribbons for your work.

Understanding The Printing Methods

How you print on your blank labels is the most important choice you will make.

Direct Thermal (DT) Printing

Direct thermal printers use special, heat-sensitive paper. The printer's head heats the paper directly to create the image. This method is simple because it does not use any ink, toner, or ribbon.

- Best for: Short-term use, like shipping labels and courier pickups. The print is not meant to last for years. StarTrack and Australia Post labels are a common use.

- Pros: Simple to use. No ribbon means lower running costs.

- Cons: The print can fade over time, or if exposed to heat or sunlight. Not good for long-term storage or use in harsh places.

Thermal Transfer (TT) Printing

Thermal transfer printers use a ribbon. The printer's head heats the ribbon, which then transfers ink onto the label. This creates a sharp, durable print that lasts a long time.

- Best for: Long-life labels, product identification, asset tracking, shelf labels, and use in tough conditions like warehouses or outdoors.

- Pros: Print is very durable. It resists heat, moisture, and abrasion. You can print on many types of materials, not just paper.

- Cons: You must buy and replace the ribbon, which adds to the cost and setup time.

Choosing Your Labels

Once you know your print method, you can choose a label.

- Direct Thermal Labels: These labels are made from the heat-sensitive paper needed for DT printers. They are a simple, all-in-one solution for shipping.

- Thermal Transfer Labels: These labels are not heat-sensitive. They need a ribbon to print. They come in more materials:

> Matte Paper: A standard, low-cost option for general use like product and box-end labels.

> Gloss Paper: Gives a more polished look. Good for product labels where appearance matters.

> Specialty Labels: We also offer labels made from plastic (synthetic) for outdoor or wet conditions, and freezer-grade labels for cold storage.

Choosing Your Thermal Transfer Ribbon

If you use a thermal transfer printer, you must match the ribbon to your labels and your job.

- Wax Ribbons: The most common and lowest cost ribbon. Use with matte paper labels for general printing and shipping.

- Wax-Resin Ribbons: A mix of wax and resin. The print is more durable and resists smudges more than wax alone. Use with gloss paper or some synthetic labels.

- Resin Ribbons: The most durable option. The print resists chemicals, heat, and tough conditions. You must use resin ribbons with synthetic (plastic) labels.