The Difference Between Thermal Labels and Ordinary Labels

Thermal labels are widely used in various links of logistics and transportation, including warehouse management, cargo tracking and distribution. Its high efficiency and low cost make it an ideal choice for B2B enterprise logistics and transportation.

But when it comes to waterproof labels, choosing the right label technology can not only ensure the safety and readability of cargo information, but also improve the efficiency and customer satisfaction of the entire supply chain.

In logistics and transportation, goods are often exposed to various harsh environments such as rain, high temperature and friction. Traditional labels often fade or blur quickly under these conditions, making the information unreadable. A question that B2B companies often encounter is: How to use labels that can maintain the clarity of information for a long time while ensuring cost-effectiveness?

Common challenges of traditional labels

Fading and smudges: Traditional labels will fade or smudge when exposed to moisture, chemicals or extreme temperatures.

Durability issues: Paper labels may tear or be damaged during transportation and handling.

Barcode scanning issues: Poor quality labels will hinder barcode scanning, resulting in errors and delays.

What is a thermal transfer label?

Thermal transfer labels use thermal transfer ribbons to transfer ink to label materials to form a durable image. This technology makes the labels light-resistant, water-resistant and abrasion-resistant, making them ideal for long-term storage and use. Thermal transfer labels can maintain the clarity and readability of information even in harsh environments, greatly reducing errors and delays caused by label damage.

Differences between thermal labels and ordinary labels

Before exploring the advantages of thermal transfer labels, it is important to understand the difference between thermal labels and ordinary labels.

Thermal labels

Printing is done using thermal paper, and the heat-sensitive layer on the paper changes color through the heat of the print head to form images and text. This technology is simple and low-cost, but has low durability and is easily affected by light, heat and friction, causing the image to fade or blur. Compared with ordinary labels, thermal labels do not require ink or ribbons, have fast printing speeds, and have less impact on the environment.

Ordinary labels

Usually refers to labels printed with ink or ribbons. Although they are more expensive, they have higher print quality and better durability. However, the durability of ordinary labels is still limited in harsh environments.

Thermal transfer labels

Combining the advantages of thermal printing and ordinary printing, thermal transfer ribbons are used to transfer ink to labels to form a durable image. This technology not only provides high-quality printing results, but also ensures the durability of the labels in harsh environments.

Thermal labels are ideal for short-term applications, such as labels for shipping, which will not be used for more than a few months. However, thermal labels are sensitive to heat and may fade over time.

On the other hand, thermal transfer labels have excellent durability. They are resistant to heat, water and abrasion, making them the first choice for businesses that need durable, high-quality labels for packaging that may be exposed to various environments during transportation.

How to waterproof labels during transportation?

Labels may be damaged during transportation, especially if they are exposed to rain or condensation. It is crucial to waterproof the labels to prevent this from happening.

Solution: Using thermal transfer labels printed with waterproof materials is the most effective way to make labels waterproof. This type of label ensures that important information, such as shipping addresses and tracking numbers, remain intact. In addition, applying a protective layer to the label can further improve its durability. At ChinaDivision, we help companies choose the right materials and label types based on specific transportation conditions, ensuring that the label maintains its integrity from beginning to end.

Application of thermal transfer labels in B2B logistics

Durability: The image of thermal transfer labels is highly durable, suitable for long-term storage and use, and reduces errors and delays caused by label damage.

Waterproofness: Waterproofness is critical in logistics transportation. Thermal transfer labels can withstand the test of rain and humid environments to ensure that information is always readable.

High-quality output: Thermal transfer technology can achieve higher printing resolution and image quality, suitable for complex label designs and barcodes, and improves accuracy and efficiency in the logistics process.

Wide application: Thermal transfer labels can print various types of labels, including product labels with high durability requirements, external environment labels, etc., to meet the diverse needs in B2B logistics.

How to choose a suitable thermal transfer label?

When choosing a suitable thermal transfer label, B2B companies should consider the following factors:

Label usage and requirements: If the label needs to be stored for a long time or exposed to harsh environments, it is recommended to choose a thermal transfer label.

Cost Considerations: While the initial cost of thermal transfer labels may be higher, the long-term benefits and reduced error rates make the overall cost lower.

Print Quality Needed: For label designs that require high resolution and complex images, thermal transfer labels generally provide better print results. Consider your printing needs, including label size, content, and printing speed.

Environmental Considerations: Evaluate the environmental conditions that the labels may encounter, such as temperature, humidity, and chemical exposure.

Compatibility: Make sure the labels are compatible with your printing equipment, including thermal printers and software.

Waterproofing: If the goods need to be transported in a humid environment, choose thermal labels with waterproof properties.

Advantages of Thermal Labels

Durability: Thermal labels are resistant to moisture, chemicals, and extreme temperatures, ensuring long-term legibility.

High-quality printing: Thermal printers produce clear, high-resolution, and easy-to-read prints.

Fast Printing: Thermal printing technology allows for quick label production, increasing efficiency.

Versatility: Thermal labels come in a variety of sizes, materials, and adhesives to suit different applications.

What are waterproof labels?

Waterproof labels are special labels that can remain legible in humid or watery environments. They are usually made of water-resistant materials and special coatings, suitable for goods that need to be exposed to water or humid environments for a long time.

Why choose waterproof labels?

In logistics transportation, labels may be exposed to humid or watery environments. Waterproof labels can ensure that the information on the label remains clear and readable even under these conditions.

What are the benefits of waterproof labels?

Waterproof labels can resist moisture and stains, maintain the integrity of label information, and reduce cargo handling errors caused by label damage.

How to choose the right waterproof label?

When choosing waterproof labels, you should consider the following points:

Material selection: Choose water-resistant materials such as synthetic paper or plastic labels.

Coating treatment: Choose labels with waterproof coating to enhance their waterproof performance.

Test verification: Conduct waterproof tests before actual use to ensure that the labels can remain clear and readable in humid environments.

Contact Chinadivision

If you encounter problems with label durability, waterproofness or printing quality during B2B logistics transportation, please contact Chinadivision. We provide high-quality thermal transfer label solutions that can meet your needs in various harsh environments.

By choosing the right thermal label, you can improve logistics efficiency and ensure the accuracy and completeness of cargo information. If you need further assistance or customized logistics solutions, please contact Chinadivision. Our professional team will provide you with support to ensure that your logistics transportation is worry-free.