Thanks to their heat-sensitive surface, thermal labels allow printing without a ribbon. They are ideal for industries that need fast-moving or temporary labelling.
What Is a Thermal Label?
Thermal labels are a type of label created by applying a special heat-sensitive chemical coating onto paper. With barcode printers that use the Direct Thermal printing technique, a black print is produced by applying heat to the surface — no ribbon required.
Eco Thermal vs Laminated Thermal Label
- Eco Thermal: Thermal labels without a protective top layer, more sensitive to light, moisture and heat. Their lifespan is usually 3–6 months. Frequently used in shipping and in greengrocer and deli counters.
- Laminated (Top) Thermal: Has an extra protective top layer, making it more resistant to moisture, light abrasion and external factors than eco thermal. Its lifespan is longer (6–12 months).
Where Are Thermal Labels Used?
Because they are generally intended for short-term use, they are preferred in logistics and shipping, in hospitals (patient wristbands or tube labels), on the scales in the butcher, greengrocer and deli sections of supermarkets, and on cinema or concert tickets.
Remember: thermal labels can darken and their text can fade when exposed to sunlight, excessive heat or prolonged contact with liquids. For this reason they should not be used outdoors or on products that will sit on the shelf for a long time.