Description
Direct Thermal and Thermal-Transfer Labels
Choosing the correct printing method is important for reliable printing and the required label lifespan.
Direct Thermal Labels
Direct thermal labels use heat-sensitive material and do not require a printer ribbon. They are a convenient and economical choice for shorter-term applications such as:
- Shipping and freight labels
- Parcel and carton identification
- Dispatch labels
- Short-term inventory labels
- Retail and general-purpose labelling
Direct thermal labels are commonly used for 100 × 150 mm shipping labels and other high-volume dispatch applications.
Thermal-Transfer Labels
Thermal-transfer printers use a ribbon to transfer the printed image onto the label. This method is generally preferred when labels require greater durability or a longer usable life.
Common applications include:
- Warehouse and inventory identification
- Product and shelf labels
- Long-term stock identification
- Equipment and asset labelling
- Manufacturing and industrial applications
- Labels exposed to frequent handling
The correct ribbon must be matched to the label material and application to produce a clear, durable result.
Barcode Label Materials
Different environments require different label materials. Available options include:
Paper Labels
Paper labels are an economical option for general indoor use, retail, warehousing, cartons and short-to-medium-term identification.
Synthetic Labels
Synthetic labels provide greater resistance to moisture, tearing and frequent handling than standard paper labels. They are suitable for applications requiring additional durability.
Polypropylene Labels
Polypropylene labels offer good durability and are commonly selected for products, containers and environments where paper labels may not be suitable.
Polyester and Mylar Labels
Polyester and Mylar materials are designed for demanding, longer-term identification applications. They are commonly used for equipment, machinery, tools and fixed assets.
Material availability and performance specifications vary. Tell us where and how the labels will be used so we can help recommend an appropriate option.
Permanent, Removable and Special-Purpose Adhesives
The label adhesive should be selected according to the surface, temperature, environment and required lifespan.
Available options include:
- Permanent adhesive: For general-purpose labels that need to remain securely attached.
- Removable adhesive: For temporary identification where the label may need to be removed cleanly.
- Freezer-grade adhesive: For cold-storage and freezer applications.
- High-tack adhesive: For challenging surfaces or applications requiring stronger initial adhesion.
For the best recommendation, let us know whether the label will be applied to cardboard, plastic, glass, metal or another surface. Temperature, moisture and surface condition can also affect adhesive performance.
Standard and Custom Label Sizes
We supply standard and custom label sizes for desktop and industrial thermal label printers.
Available options include:
- 100 × 150 mm shipping label rolls
- Small barcode and product labels
- Retail and inventory labels
- Carton and pallet labels
- Custom label widths and heights
- Different core sizes and roll configurations
Label compatibility depends on more than width and height. The printer’s core diameter, maximum roll diameter, sensing method and printing technology must also be considered.
Barcode Labels for Different Applications
Our blank label rolls can be selected for a wide range of business applications.
Retail and Product Identification
Print product barcodes, prices, stock codes and other information for retail products, shelves and packaging.
Warehousing and Inventory Control
Identify stock, bins, shelving, cartons and pallets to support barcode-based receiving, picking, stocktaking and inventory control.
Shipping and Dispatch
Use direct thermal labels for freight, courier, parcel and dispatch applications. See our shipping labels range for options including the popular 100 × 150 mm size.
Cold Storage
Freezer-grade materials and adhesives are available for applications exposed to low temperatures. The correct combination will depend on the surface and whether labels are applied before or after freezing.
Equipment and Asset Identification
For longer-lasting equipment and fixed-asset identification, see our durable asset labels and asset tags.
Choosing the Correct Barcode Label Roll
Before requesting a quote, consider the following:
- What is the brand and model of your label printer?
- Does it use direct thermal or thermal-transfer printing?
- What label width and height do you require?
- What surface will the label be attached to?
- Will it be exposed to moisture, low temperatures or frequent handling?
- Do you require permanent, removable, freezer-grade or high-tack adhesive?
- What core size and maximum roll diameter will fit the printer?
- Approximately how many labels or rolls do you require?
Providing this information will help us recommend a compatible label roll and prepare an accurate quote.
Barcode Label Printer Compatibility
Our blank barcode labels are available for a range of desktop and industrial thermal label printers. Compatibility depends on the printer model, printing method, label dimensions, core size and roll diameter.
Contact us before ordering if you are uncertain about compatibility. Supplying your printer model is usually the quickest way for us to determine the appropriate roll configuration.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you supply blank barcode label rolls?
Yes. We supply blank barcode labels that customers print using their own direct thermal or thermal-transfer label printer. We do not provide pre-printed or variable-data barcode printing through this product page.
What is the difference between direct thermal and thermal transfer?
Direct thermal printing uses heat-sensitive labels and does not require a ribbon. Thermal-transfer printing uses a ribbon and is generally selected for longer-lasting or more demanding applications.
Do you supply 100 × 150 mm shipping labels?
Yes. We offer the popular 100 × 150 mm shipping-label size. Contact us with your printer model and required quantity so we can confirm compatibility, availability and pricing.
Can you supply custom label sizes?
Yes. Standard and custom sizes are available. Minimum quantities and lead times will depend on the required dimensions, material, adhesive and roll configuration.
Which label material should I choose?
The best material depends on the application, surface, environment and required lifespan. Paper is suitable for many general indoor applications, while synthetic, polypropylene, polyester and Mylar options provide additional durability.
Which adhesive should I use?
Permanent adhesive is suitable for many general applications. Removable, freezer-grade and high-tack options are available for specialised requirements. Tell us about the surface and operating environment so we can help you choose.
Will these labels fit my printer?
Compatibility depends on the printer model and roll specifications. Send us the printer brand and model, and we can help identify a suitable option.
Do you deliver Australia-wide?
Yes. We supply blank barcode labels and thermal label rolls to customers Australia-wide.
Request a Quote for Barcode Labels
Contact Track ‘n Trace Solutions with your printer model, required label size, material, adhesive, application and approximate quantity. We’ll help you choose a suitable blank barcode label roll and confirm pricing, availability and lead time.
