Understanding the Differences: Direct Thermal Labels vs Thermal Transfer Labels
When searching for a labelling system for your products or packaging, you will encounter a crucial choice: selecting between direct thermal and thermal transfer labels. Although these options seem similar, they differ significantly in application. The challenge lies in deciding which method best suits your needs.
To make an informed decision, begin by considering the primary use of the labels. This key question will guide your choice between direct thermal and thermal transfer labels.
Direct Thermal Labels: Ideal for Short-Term Identification
Direct Thermal printing is a widely recognised method for its efficiency and cost-effectiveness. This technique doesn't require a ribbon; instead, the barcode or textual information is printed directly onto the label. When heat touches a special chemical on the thermal label, it makes the chemical react and form the picture or words you want to print.
Thermal Transfer Labels: Durable and Long-Lasting
In contrast, Thermal Transfer labels offer enhanced durability and longevity, making them ideal for products exposed to harsh conditions, including sunlight. This method requires the use of a ribbon, which transfers the print onto the label via heat. When the ribbon gets heated, the ink melts onto the label material, making the image or text you want to print.
To pick the perfect thermal option, match your printing needs with your printers. We've prepared a handy table.
What COURIER labels do I use for shipping tickets? |
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| 100mm x 174mm Courier Labels | NZ Post/CourierPost, ParcelPort, ParcelWings, GoSweetSpot, DHL etc |
| 100mm x 150mm Courier Labels | Mainfreight, Daily Freight, Owens, ChemCouriers etc |
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SHORT-TERM LABELING SOLUTION Perforated for easy tear off, it doesn't require ribbons when printing |
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For Desktop Printers (Zebra GK420, ZD220, ZD420, ZD421, Honeywell PC42, PC43 etc) |
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100x174mm Courier Labels
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CPL25 - 25mm core, 400/roll |
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CPL38 - 38mm core, 330/roll |  |
CPTICKET38 - 38mm core, 330/roll |
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100x150mm Courier Labels
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LDT38 - 38mm core, 400/roll |
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LDTY38 - 38mm core, 400/roll |  |
CPTHERM38 - 38mm core, 400/roll |
SHOP MORE DIRECT THERMAL COURIER LABELS FOR DESKTOP PRINTERS
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For Mid-range / Industrial Printers (Zebra ZT230, ZT231, ZT410, ZT411, ZT510, Honeywell PM42, PM43, PM45, PD45S)
100x174mm Courier Labels
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CPL76 - 76mm core, 750/roll | |
CPTICKET76 - 76mm core, 750/roll |
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100x150mm Courier Labels
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LDT76 - 76mm core, 1000/roll | |
CPTHERM76 - 76mm core, 1000/roll |
SHOP MORE DIRECT THERMAL COURIER LABELS FOR MID-RANGE / INDUSTRIAL PRINTERS
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LONG-TERM LABELING SOLUTION Perforated for easy tear off, it is required thermal ribbons when printing |
For Desktop Printers
(Zebra GK420T, ZD220T, ZD420T, ZD421T, Honeywell PC42T, PC42ET, PC43T, PC45T etc)
100x150mm Courier Labels
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LTT38 - 38mm core, 400/roll |
SHOP MORE THERMAL TRANSFER COURIER LABELS FOR DESKTOP PRINTERS
For Mid-range / Industrial Printers
(Zebra ZT230, ZT231, ZT410, ZT411, ZT510, Honeywell PM42, PM43, PM45, PD45S)
100x150mm Courier Labels
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LTT76 - 76mm core, 1000/roll |
SHOP MORE THERMAL TRANSFER COURIER LABELS FOR MID-RANGE / INDUSTRIAL PRINTERS