Supplies

The most commonly used type of material is called a BOPP. BOPPs are often polypropylene (a synthetic plastic) stretched out to create a flat, writable surface. They can often be transparent, immersed in water, or in high humidity without weakening. These are durable and often used for shipping, retail packaging, and pharmaceutical products. It comes in white, clear, and metallic.

Polyester labels are moisture-resistant to the point of almost being waterproof. These weather-resistant labels are used in thermal transfer & laser printers. They’re extremely durable and best used if your label is going to be outside long term.

Commonly referred to as a decal, vinyl is a type of plastic that is moisture resistant. These durable labels can be printed on inkjets, laser printers, and thermal transfer printers. These are best used with a laminate on top to help with the UV and weather resistance.

Paper is an affordable option for labeling. It can also come in a variety of colors and sheen like semi-gloss, gloss, and matte. Paired with a removable adhesive, it can be more environmentally friendly than the synthetic materials, however, it’s best to talk to a professional about what works best for your product and the environment.

Polyimide is used in places where extreme heat and harsh environments are normal. This material is for thermal transfer printers, dot matrix, laser printers, and inkjet printers. It is commonly used on computer parts like circuit boards and where high temperatures are consistent.

These labels are another cost-effective type of labeling. Direct thermal is commonly seen as receipts from the grocery store, barcodes, nametags, and coupons. How it's printed on is by heating pins called thermal transfer printing. There is no ink involved with this type of material and with direct thermal paper, you can produce red and black tones.

They’re the most affordable type of ribbon. They’re mostly used for general purposes like shipping labels. Full wax gives a lighter print and needs less heat so they don’t melt.

This type is made for synthetic materials and is the most durable of the ribbon types. It’s good for medical, chemicals, automotive, and packaging. It’s also weather-resistant so can handle water and UV exposure.

This type is more durable and can be used for freezers and heavy use. They’re good for barcoding, shipping, and manufacturing labels.

UV invisible ribbons can give you the security you need for you product. Security/Invisible ribbon ink is only visible under ultraviolet light.