How you approach your product labeling is highly dependent on the scale of the operation of your business. Creating product labels in-house can help save a big part of a lean budget for smaller businesses just starting out.

The most basic branded packaging materials will often have its foundations in printable label sheets or rolls.

Just as the name suggests, roll labels are self-adhesive materials rolled up (much like a tissue paper roll) with a thick cardboard core. On the other hand, sheet labels are more like printer papers, and this format precisely looks as it is called.

Specific factors will undoubtedly influence the label type and format you choose. Let’s take a look at the essential factors you should look at below.

What Material or Stock is Best for My Custom Labels?

It only follows that professional printing materials ensure the production of high-quality labels. The quality of your label has a direct effect on product sales, as this is an integral part of your branded experience.

You risk losing sales or even paying high fines for using the wrong packaging material. If you’re printing your labels with your office printer, using low-standard label stocks could also induce errors in your printer.

Apart from quality, the choice of type of material is crucial. Make sure you think about where your products will be displayed and how they will be stored. Think about how people will handle and use your products.

Compile a list of requirements based on all your discussions to make sure you pick the material that best supports your requirements.

Help Me Choose the Best Format or Type for My Custom Labels

SHEET LABELS: Choose sheet labels for easy production since you can use these with inkjet and laser printers in your home or office. You can get your labels in format configurations larger than the traditional 8.5″ by 11″ paper size.

While there are many label stocks you can use for your packaging projects, remember that you are limited to what your printer can handle if you are printing your own labels. Sheet labels are easy to keep, especially in small quantities, since you can insert them into envelopes for simple storage.

ROLL LABELS: Labels on a roll are ideal for the production of labels in bulk. There are special printers for this label format, including ink roll printers, direct thermal printers, and thermal transfer printers. After being spun around a cardboard spool, the labels are mounted on the printer. The printer then produces one label at a time.

Unlike sheet labels, it is more difficult to print your own labels using roll stickers. It is not entirely feasible. Unless you have technical knowledge working with laser toner cartridge printers and know how to hand feed, using rolls is a highly tedious process that is prone to error.

It is highly recommended that you purchase your custom roll labels from professional printers with years of expertise and Prepress know-how. Concerning storage, roll labels are stackable, and it is easy to keep track of inventory, especially if you are ordering by a set number per roll.

Do Adhesives Matter?

Definitely! Standard tack adhesives are great for regular retail situations. For more demanding situations, special adhesives work to make sure labels stay on the packaging. These are true for cold and wet environments or unique surfaces such as Styrofoam.

Using the wrong adhesives or materials could mean damaged, missing, or “improper” labels. Improper labeling of products is unlawful, and there are heavy fines for non-compliance.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Custom Label Material

The material you are using for your label should stick to the package and relay the intended message, feel, and look.

To achieve this, review and create an action plant for these factors for consideration:

1. The material of the product package

Adhesives and label materials react differently to different surfaces. Therefore, it is essential to know what works best with the material of your package.

2. Method of application

Labels can either be applied to containers or primary packaging by machine or by hand. Choose the label material and format depending on the best application method that is at your disposal.

3. Environments in which the label can survive

If your product will need refrigeration, use a label material and adhesive that can survive under the temperature. Similarly, choose the appropriate label for products that don’t require low temperatures.

4. The shape of the container

The shape of the product package may cause strain on the label. Use a flexible label material that will be able to bear the strain. For more bespoke-looking branding, print special shape “die-cut” labels that follow the curves of your container.

5. Product package color

Readability is crucial in product labeling. The colors on the label should contrast with the packaging container to ensure that your product information is legible. A clear label goes splendidly with a transparent or translucent container as well.

Make the Smartest Choice for Your Current Setup

With all the benefits of using the correct print materials and formats for custom label printing, it is necessary to conduct thorough research before deciding on your final specifications.

You can undoubtedly print your own labels. This will depend on the capabilities of your own printer and what kind of labels you are printing. Know that choosing this route means you have more limited options. 

Suppose you have the budget for it, print with the professional’s Regardless of what style your label design is and how small or big your business is, your print service provider will answer all your questions and address your special requirements.