Paper or film label? Advantages and disadvantages of both solutions

Barcode labels are now an almost inseparable element of product packaging, parcels and pallets, warehouse markings, and production components. It might seem that all labels are the same. However, nothing could be further from the truth. Self-adhesive labels can be made from materials with different properties. The most popular are paper and film labels. What distinguishes them and which one should you choose? Here are some tips.

Which label is better – paper or film?

Paper label and its key features

Paper labels are definitely a universal solution that works well in many industries. They are popular due to their attractive price and versatility. The key features of a paper label are:

•              ease of printing using various techniques,

•              the possibility of multicolor printing,

•              the possibility of using different adhesives,

•              ease of recycling,

•              low price.

These types of labels are made from coated or uncoated paper prepared for thermal transfer or inkjet printing. Under the paper there is a layer of adhesive, which can be selected depending on the type of surface on which the label will be applied. The adhesive can be gentle, allowing the label to be removed, or very strong. The adhesive layer is protected by silicone paper, which is removed directly before applying the label.

Film labels – what do they offer?

Film labels are a solution for durable product marking. The main advantages of film labels include:

•              long service life,

•              resistance to moisture, oils, chemicals, and UV radiation,

•              flexibility, transparency,

•              the possibility of multicolor printing.

Film labels can be made from various plastics such as: PP (Polypropylene), PE (Polyethylene), PET (Polyester), PVC (vinyl), and PC (Polycarbonate). Polypropylene labels are lightweight and resistant to moisture, polyethylene labels are very flexible and work perfectly on curved surfaces. Polyester labels, on the other hand, are extremely durable and resistant to high temperatures and UV. Vinyl versions are flexible and waterproof. The most resistant and durable are polycarbonate labels used in the automotive industry. There are also specialist film labels available, such as transparent labels or security VOID labels. The choice of a film label should be adjusted to the type of material and surface to which it will be applied, as well as the conditions in which it will remain over the coming years.

What are the disadvantages of paper and film labels?

Despite so many advantages, both label versions have their drawbacks. As far as paper labels are concerned, they have limited durability. This means they may be damaged by moisture, oils, or other substances. Plastic labels, on the other hand, are more expensive and much more difficult to dispose of.

Which label is better – paper or film?

There is no clear answer to the question of which label version is better. The choice of labels depends on the function the label will perform, the industry, and the production conditions. Paper labels are most often used:

•              for marking cartons and multipacks,

•              in the food industry for product labeling,

•              as decorative labels on alcoholic beverages,

•              for addressing parcels and letters,

•              as price labels.

However, it should be kept in mind that paper labels work well only where storage conditions are dry. They will not be a good choice for products stored outdoors or kept in cold storage.

Film labels with permanent adhesive are used mainly in industry for marking products and production components. They are usually used:

•              in the automotive industry for marking components,

•              on electrical devices as nameplates,

•              for chemical labeling,

•              in laboratories for marking test tubes,

•              in the pharmaceutical industry for labeling medicines,

•              in logistics, if goods are stored outdoors,

•              as durable shelf markings in warehouses,

•              on premium products where aesthetics are very important.

Today, every product on store shelves or in warehouses has a barcode label. The choice between a paper and a film label should primarily depend on the individual needs of the company. Both versions have many advantages, but it is also worth being aware of their limitations.