Direct Thermal Labels

Betckey offer a wide range of direct thermal labels in various sizes and colors, Meet various application scenarios such as transportation, warehouse, food, shop, retail, supermarket, laboratory, hospital, library, etc. Our labels are compatible with major thermal printer brands such as Rollo, Zebra, Brother, and Dymo, ensuring seamless performance across...

All Direct Thermal Labels

Wide Compatibility: Works smoothly with Zebra, Rollo, Eltron, Intermec, Datamax, Fargo, Sato, NEX, and most thermal label printers.

4" x 6" Thermal Shipping Labels

Our 4“ x 6” thermal shipping labels feature crisp, smudge-free print quality and cost-saving bulk packaging options.

Colored Thermal Labels

For each label model you can find colored thermal labels in green, blue, orange, pink, red, yellow.

Removable Thermal Labels

they stay securely in place yet peel off cleanly without leaving residue.

Dymo Labels

Our thermal labels for DYMO printers are fully compatible with a wide range of DYMO models, including popular series like LabelWriter 4XL, 450, 450 Turbo, 450 Twin Turbo, 450 Duo.

Brother Labels

Thermal Labels for Brother Printers,Our thermal labels for Brother printers are designed to deliver high performance, seamless compatibility, and excellent print quality. 
1122

Thermal labels wholesale and bulk customization

Betckey offers a comprehensive range of thermal labels through our wholesale and custom options, designed to be compatible with various brands of thermal printers, including Brother, Zebra, Dymo, and more. Our selection includes multiple thermal label models, sizes, and adhesives to meet a wide array of industry needs, whether for shipping, inventory management, barcode labeling, or product packaging. We provide both standard and custom labels tailored to your specific requirements, ensuring you get the perfect solution for your business. Additionally, we offer discounts on large orders, making it even more cost-effective for businesses to source high-quality thermal labels in bulk. With Betckey, you can trust that our labels will deliver the performance and durability your business demands.

A Comprehensive Guide to Thermal Labels

What is thermal labeling?

Thermal labels are specialized labels that use heat to transfer ink or to change color on the label surface. There are two main types of thermal labels:
Direct Thermal Labels:
These labels do not require ink, toner, or ribbons. The heat from the printer head directly reacts with a special heat-sensitive coating on the label to produce the printed image.
Commonly used for shipping labels, barcodes, and product labels.
Suitable for short-term use because the print may fade over time, especially when exposed to heat or sunlight.
Thermal Transfer Labels:
These labels require a ribbon that contains ink. The heat from the print head melts the ink on the ribbon, which is then transferred to the label.
Provides more durable prints that are resistant to fading, smudging, or abrasion, making them ideal for long-term use.

Can thermal labels be used for barcodes?

Yes, thermal labels can be used for barcodes. In fact, thermal labels are commonly used in industries that require barcode printing, such as logistics, retail, and inventory management.

Thermal printers, especially direct thermal and thermal transfer printers, are designed to print high-quality barcodes. The print quality is crisp and clear, which is essential for accurate scanning of barcodes. Direct thermal labels are best for short-term use, while thermal transfer labels are more durable and suitable for long-term applications. Both types can handle barcode printing effectively, depending on the specific needs of the business.

What are the advantages of thermal labels?

Thermal labels offer several advantages, particularly in environments that require fast, reliable, and cost-effective printing solutions. Here are some key benefits:

1. No Ink or Ribbon Needed
Cost-Effective: Thermal printers use heat to print directly on the label surface, eliminating the need for expensive ink or toner cartridges, which lowers ongoing printing costs.

Less Maintenance: With no ink or ribbons to replace, thermal printers have fewer parts to maintain, reducing overall upkeep.

2. High-Quality Prints
Sharp and Clear Text: Thermal labels provide crisp and clear prints, which is essential for readable barcodes, shipping information, and other important data.

Durability: Thermal transfer labels are particularly durable, as they use a ribbon to transfer ink onto the label, which is resistant to fading, smudging, and water exposure.

3. Fast Printing Speed
Efficient Workflow: Thermal printers are known for their fast printing capabilities, which is ideal for high-volume applications like shipping, warehousing, and inventory management.

4. Quiet Operation
Minimal Noise: Thermal printers operate quietly compared to traditional inkjet or laser printers, making them more suitable for office environments where noise reduction is important.

5. Variety of Label Sizes
Versatile Labeling: Thermal printers can handle a wide range of label sizes, from small barcode labels to larger shipping or product labels, offering flexibility for different business needs.

6. Environmental Benefits
Reduced Waste: Since thermal labels do not require ink or toner, there’s less waste in the form of empty cartridges, contributing to a more eco-friendly printing solution.

7. Quick Setup and Ease of Use
Minimal Setup: Thermal printers often require less setup and are easier to use compared to ink-based printers, which need ink cartridges, paper adjustments, and other configurations.

These advantages make thermal labels a popular choice for a variety of industries, from retail to logistics.

What are the different types of direct thermal labels?

Direct thermal labels come in various types to suit different applications. Here are the most common types:

1. Standard Direct Thermal Labels
General Purpose: These are the most common type of direct thermal labels, used for basic labeling applications such as shipping, product labeling, and inventory management.

Usage: Ideal for short-term use as the print tends to fade over time when exposed to heat, light, or friction.

2. Weatherproof Direct Thermal Labels
Durability: Designed to withstand harsh environments, including outdoor conditions, moisture, and UV exposure.

Usage: Often used for labeling products or shipments that may be exposed to the elements.

3. High-Sensitivity Direct Thermal Labels
Sensitive to Heat: These labels offer a higher level of sensitivity to heat, which allows for sharper, more defined prints at lower temperatures.

Usage: Used in applications where clear and sharp printing is crucial, such as barcode printing for retail or inventory control.

4. Black Mark Direct Thermal Labels
Alignment Aid: These labels have a black mark on the backing paper that helps the printer detect the exact positioning of each label for more accurate printing.

Usage: Common in continuous label rolls for applications that require precise positioning, such as shipping labels or product barcodes.

5. Perforated Direct Thermal Labels
Easy Separation: These labels feature perforations between each label, making them easy to separate by hand.

Usage: Ideal for manual labeling in environments where labels need to be quickly removed and applied.

6. Custom Direct Thermal Labels
Tailored to Needs: These labels can be customized in terms of size, shape, and adhesive type to meet specific requirements.

Usage: Perfect for businesses with unique labeling needs, such as special packaging or custom products.

7. Tamper-Evident Direct Thermal Labels
Security: These labels have a design that makes it clear if the label has been tampered with, often leaving behind a "void" message when removed.

Usage: Commonly used for secure packaging, warranty labels, or sensitive product labeling.

Each type of direct thermal label serves different purposes, from everyday use to specialized applications. The choice of label depends on factors like durability, sensitivity, and the specific conditions to which the labels will be exposed.

How do I choose the right thermal labels for my needs?

Choosing the right thermal labels depends on your specific requirements, such as the type of product, the environment in which the labels will be used, and the printing conditions. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you choose the most suitable thermal labels:

1. Determine the Type of Thermal Printer

Direct Thermal vs. Thermal Transfer:

Direct Thermal Labels are best for short-term labeling needs (e.g., shipping labels, receipts) because the print can fade over time.

Thermal Transfer Labels use a ribbon to transfer ink, providing longer-lasting prints. They are ideal for labels that need to withstand harsh conditions like abrasion, moisture, or UV exposure.

Action: Check whether your printer is a direct thermal or thermal transfer printer, and choose accordingly.

2. Consider the Application
Shipping & Inventory: Choose labels that can withstand handling and various environmental conditions.

Standard Direct Thermal Labels work well for basic shipping and inventory needs but are best used in environments where the labels won't be exposed to excessive heat or light.

Product Packaging: For retail and product packaging, thermal transfer labels are often more suitable due to their durability and ability to resist fading and smudging over time.

Barcode Printing: If you need to print barcodes, both direct thermal and thermal transfer labels can handle it, but thermal transfer labels may provide better longevity for barcode scanning accuracy.

3. Evaluate Environmental Factors
Outdoor Exposure: If your labels will be exposed to outdoor elements (like sunlight, rain, or extreme temperatures), opt for weatherproof or UV-resistant direct thermal labels.

Harsh Handling: If labels need to resist abrasion, smudging, or exposure to oils and chemicals, thermal transfer labels with durable coatings are a better choice.

Temperature Sensitivity: If your labels will be exposed to extreme heat or cold, look for high-temperature resistant thermal labels.

4. Label Size and Shape
Standard Sizes: Common sizes include 4” x 6” for shipping labels and 2” x 1” for barcode labels. Make sure the size is compatible with your printer and application.

Custom Labels: If you need custom-sized or shaped labels, ensure your printer supports the label size, and look for custom thermal labels.

5. Adhesive Type
Permanent Adhesive: Best for items that need a long-term label (e.g., product packaging, permanent shipping labels).

Removable Adhesive: Suitable for temporary labeling needs (e.g., return labels, temporary price tags).

Weather-Resistant Adhesive: Ideal for labels that will be exposed to the outdoors or extreme conditions.

6. Print Volume
High-Volume Printing: If you’re printing large quantities of labels, look for bulk rolls or continuous label rolls. These are cost-effective and reduce the need for frequent reloading.

Low-Volume Printing: If you only need a few labels at a time, fan-fold labels or smaller packs may be sufficient.

7. Cost Considerations
Long-Term Use: Thermal transfer labels tend to be more expensive initially but offer more durability, making them cost-effective in the long run if you need labels to last.

Short-Term Use: Direct thermal labels are typically more affordable upfront, making them a great option for short-term applications like receipts or shipping labels that don’t need to last for extended periods.

8. Print Quality Requirements
High-Resolution Printing: If you need clear, sharp prints for barcodes or small text, make sure to select a high-sensitivity thermal label. This will ensure that the print is clear and readable.

Standard Printing: For basic labeling needs without fine details, standard thermal labels will suffice.

For short-term applications like shipping labels and receipts, direct thermal labels are a good choice due to their ease of use and low cost.

For long-term durability in harsh environments, thermal transfer labels are the better option as they provide longer-lasting prints.

Always match the label type with your printer’s capabilities and your specific labeling needs to ensure optimal performance.

By considering these factors, you'll be able to select the right thermal labels for your business needs.

What are thermal labels made of?

Thermal labels are composed of several key components that make them suitable for printing. Here's a breakdown of the essential parts:

Face Stock (Label Material):

This is the top layer of the label that holds the printed information.

Common materials include paper, polyester, polypropylene, and vinyl. Each material offers different characteristics such as durability, resistance to heat, moisture, and abrasion.

Direct Thermal Labels: The face stock is coated with a heat-sensitive material that turns black when exposed to heat.

Thermal Transfer Labels: The face stock is generally a more durable material that can withstand longer periods of exposure to various elements.

Adhesive:

The adhesive layer bonds the label to the surface it's applied to.

Permanent Adhesive: Bonds strongly and is designed for labels that are intended to stay on the product for the long term.

Removable Adhesive: Allows easy removal without leaving residue, ideal for temporary applications.

Specialty Adhesives: These are used for specific surfaces such as freezers, rough or textured surfaces, or for applying labels in extreme environments.

Release Liner (Backing Paper):

The release liner is the backing that protects the adhesive side of the label until it's ready to be applied. It typically has a silicone coating that allows the label to be peeled off easily without leaving adhesive residue.

Paper Liner: Often used for basic applications, providing a good balance of cost and functionality.

Polyester or Other Synthetic Liners: Used for more demanding applications, offering better resistance to moisture and heat.

Thermal Coating (for Direct Thermal Labels):

Direct thermal labels have a special heat-sensitive coating on the face stock that reacts to the thermal print head of the printer.

The coating is activated by heat to produce the printed image. The quality of the coating is crucial for ensuring clarity, especially for barcode printing.

Print Ribbon (for Thermal Transfer Labels):

In thermal transfer printing, a ribbon made of wax, resin, or a wax-resin mix is used to transfer ink to the label.

The ribbon melts onto the label surface when heat is applied, creating a durable, long-lasting print. Wax ribbons are more affordable but less durable, while resin ribbons provide more abrasion resistance.

What are the common applications for thermal labels?

Thermal labels have a wide range of applications due to their efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and durability. Here are some of the most common uses:

1. Shipping and Logistics
Shipping Labels: Thermal labels are often used to print shipping labels, including tracking numbers, addresses, and barcodes. They are commonly used in shipping carriers like UPS, FedEx, and USPS.

Barcode Labels: Thermal labels are perfect for generating barcodes for inventory management, product tracking, and order fulfillment in logistics.

2. Retail and Point of Sale (POS)
Price Tags: Retailers use thermal labels for price tags, especially in high-volume environments where fast printing is necessary.

Barcode Labels: Thermal labels are widely used in retail for labeling products with barcodes, making it easy to track and scan items at the point of sale.

3. Inventory and Warehouse Management
Inventory Labels: Thermal labels are used to track products in inventory. They can be placed on shelves, pallets, or bins for quick identification using barcode scanners.

Shelf Labels: Commonly used for labeling items on retail shelves or warehouse racks, helping staff quickly locate and manage stock.

4. Healthcare
Specimen Labels: In hospitals and labs, thermal labels are used to label samples and specimens, ensuring correct identification and tracking.

Pharmacy Labels: Used for labeling prescription bottles and medication containers, often including dosage instructions, patient information, and barcode labels.

Patient Identification: Thermal labels are used to create wristbands for patients, ensuring accurate identification during hospital stays.

5. Food and Beverage
Expiry Date Labels: Thermal labels are used for printing expiration dates on packaged food and beverages, helping ensure compliance with health regulations.

Ingredient Labels: Commonly used on food packaging to include ingredient lists, nutritional information, and product details.

6. Manufacturing
Product Labels: Thermal labels are used for labeling parts and products in the manufacturing process. These labels often contain barcodes for tracking production stages and quality control.

Compliance Labels: In manufacturing, thermal labels are used to print safety and compliance information, such as hazardous material warnings or handling instructions.

7. Event Management
Ticketing: Thermal labels are used for printing event tickets, passes, and wristbands, often including barcodes for entry scanning.

Event Badges: Custom thermal labels are used to create attendee badges for conferences, trade shows, and other events.

8. Transportation and Fleet Management
Vehicle Identification: Thermal labels are used for labeling vehicles and their parts, including fleet management for tracking maintenance schedules, inspections, and inventory of spare parts.

Asset Tags: Used for tracking transportation equipment, tools, and assets in transit.

9. E-commerce
Order Fulfillment Labels: E-commerce businesses use thermal labels for printing packing slips, shipping labels, and barcodes that track orders.

Product Labels: Used for labeling products with important details, such as product names, sizes, and barcodes.

10. Electronic and Electrical Equipment
Serial Number Labels: Thermal labels are commonly used to print serial numbers and other identifiers on electronic components, helping track production and warranty details.

Warranty Labels: Used to print warranty information on consumer electronics, ensuring proper documentation for future service or repairs.

11. Chemical and Industrial Applications
Hazardous Material Labels: Thermal labels are used for labeling chemicals and hazardous materials with proper handling instructions, warnings, and barcodes.

Tool Tracking: Industrial businesses use thermal labels to track tools and machinery, ensuring that items are maintained, repaired, and replaced as needed.

How do I choose the right thermal label size?

Choosing the right thermal label size is crucial for ensuring that your labels fit properly, are readable, and meet your specific needs. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you choose the right thermal label size:

1. Identify the Label's Purpose
The first step in choosing the right size is understanding what the label will be used for. Different applications require different label sizes. For example:

Shipping labels (e.g., USPS, UPS) typically use 4" x 6" labels.

Product labels (e.g., retail, inventory) might need smaller labels like 2" x 2" or 3" x 2".

Barcode labels often require smaller sizes like 1" x 1" or 1" x 2".

2. Consider the Information to Be Printed
Think about how much information needs to be included on the label. More complex labels that include logos, descriptions, barcodes, and addresses require larger labels, while simpler labels (like a barcode) can be smaller.

For shipping labels: You may need a label large enough to fit the address, barcode, and any special instructions.

For product labels: You might want to consider how much space is required for the product name, price, ingredients, and barcode.

3. Check Printer Compatibility
Not all thermal printers are compatible with all sizes of labels. Be sure to check the maximum and minimum label sizes your printer can accommodate. Some common thermal printers, like the Rollo or Zebra models, support a wide range of label sizes, but it’s important to confirm the dimensions with your specific printer model.

4. Label Placement and Surface Area
Consider where the label will be placed and the surface it will adhere to:

For small items (e.g., jewelry, cosmetics, electronics), you may want a smaller label to keep the look neat and professional.

For larger packages (e.g., shipping boxes), a larger label like 4" x 6" will provide more space for the address, barcode, and any required shipping information.

For bottles or cans: You might need a label size like 3" x 4" for easy application and visibility.

5. Industry Standards
Some industries have specific labeling standards or regulations that determine the required label sizes. For example:

Shipping and logistics: Common standard sizes include 4" x 6" and 3" x 2".

Retail: Common sizes include 1" x 2" for price tags or 2" x 2" for product labels.

Healthcare: Medical specimen labels might be smaller, like 1.5" x 1".

6. Consider Label Rolls vs. Sheets
Roll Labels: Most thermal printers use roll labels, which can be either small or large depending on the printer’s specifications. The advantage is that they can handle high volumes and are easier to load.

Sheet Labels: Some printers (like inkjet or laser printers) use sheet labels. These are typically available in standard sizes like 8.5" x 11" sheets, and you would need to select a sheet that fits your needs.

7. Test Label Fit and Design
Once you've chosen a size, it’s a good idea to test the label to see how well it fits your product or packaging. Ensure that the label does not obscure important details, and that barcodes and text are easily readable by scanners.

Common Thermal Label Sizes:
Here are a few common thermal label sizes based on typical uses:

1" x 1" – Small product labels or barcode labels.

1" x 2" – Ideal for small items like jewelry or cosmetics.

2" x 2" – Often used for product labeling or smaller shipping labels.

2" x 4" – Common for barcode labels in retail.

4" x 6" – Standard shipping label size, often used by shipping carriers like UPS, USPS, and FedEx.

3" x 5" – Used for larger product labels or packing lists.

4" x 4" – Suitable for product labels, often used in food and beverage packaging.