In today's world of e-commerce and logistics, thermal labels play a key role in ensuring the efficient and effective shipment of parcels . Choosing the right labels and printing them correctly can significantly impact the quality of customer service and operational costs. Thermal labels allow for quick and accurate labeling of shipments , significantly streamlining the logistics process. They enable easy tracking of packages and quick identification of contents, minimizing the risk of errors. Choosing the right label depends on the type of printer, the surface on which it's applied, and the storage conditions of the parcels. Thermal labels are particularly useful in warehouses with high shipment volumes, where speed and precision are crucial. Proper label printing reduces the risk of damage or illegibility during transport. It's also important to ensure the compatibility of the materials and ink with the printer to avoid technical issues. Well-designed labels simplify the work of couriers and warehouse workers, thus improving the quality of customer service. The ability to personalize labels further enhances brand image. Using thermal labels also optimizes shipping costs by reducing errors and returns. In this article, you will learn how to effectively choose thermal labels and how to print them to avoid problems during shipping.
What are thermal labels?
Thermal labels are self-adhesive stickers that use thermal printing technology. Thanks to a special thermally active layer, these labels change color. 
Thermal labels are printed using heat, allowing for quick and precise information application. They are widely used in warehouses, courier companies, and retail. Their main advantage is that they do not require ink or toner, making them a cost-effective solution. Thermal labels are characterized by high durability and abrasion resistance, ensuring legibility of information even during long transport periods. They can be used both for labeling parcels and products in stores, facilitating inventory control. Thanks to their fast printing process, thermal labels are suitable for high-volume, time-critical environments . Furthermore, they are environmentally friendly, as they do not require additional consumables, such as ink. Their versatility allows for use in various industries, from logistics to food service, where product labeling is essential.
Types of thermal labels
There are various types of thermal labels available on the market, differing in material, adhesive, and intended use. It's worth noting:
- ECO labels : Economical and ideal for short-term use. They lack an additional protective layer, making them less resistant to moisture and scratches.
- TOP labels : They have a special protective coating, making them more resistant to external factors. Perfect for long-term storage.
How to choose the right thermal labels? 
Choosing the right thermal labels is crucial to the efficiency of the shipping process. Selecting the right thermal labels directly impacts the speed and accuracy of shipment processing. An incorrectly selected label can lead to legibility issues, damage during transport, or printer incompatibility. It's important to consider not only the size and shape of the label, but also the material it's made of and the type of surface it will be applied to. A well-thought-out choice minimizes operating costs and enhances customer service.
What to pay attention to when choosing labels?
Adhesive Type – The adhesives used in thermal labels are crucial. Permanent adhesives, which adhere well to the surface, work best for corrugated cardboard. For international shipping, it's worth investing in labels with low-temperature-resistant adhesive.
Label Material - Labels can be made from a variety of materials, such as thermal paper or foil. The choice of material should depend on the conditions in which the packages will be stored. Foils are more resistant to moisture and temperature changes, making them a better choice in harsh environments.
Label size - The standard courier label size is 100x150 mm, but it's worth adjusting the size to suit your shipments . Smaller labels can be used for individual products, while larger ones are best for bulk shipments.
How to print thermal labels? 
Thermal label printing is a key element of modern logistics and shipment management. Properly prepared and printed labels not only facilitate parcel identification but also influence the speed and accuracy of warehouse processes. Even minor printing errors can lead to transport problems, delays, or customer complaints. Therefore, it's important to learn the principles of proper data preparation, selecting the right labels , and thermal printer settings to ensure durable and legible prints.
Step by step: how to print thermal labels correctly
- Choosing a printer - Choosing the right printer is crucial. Thermal printers are most often used for printing labels . It's worth investing in a model that offers high print resolution, ensuring the legibility of barcodes and other information.
- Data preparation - Before printing, ensure all information is correct. Enter the sender and recipient details, as well as package information such as dimensions and weight. Incorrect data may lead to delivery delays.
- Printer Settings - Check your printer settings before printing. Make sure the appropriate print quality and paper size are selected. For self-adhesive labels , make sure your printer is configured to print on that material.
- Test Print - Before printing a large number of labels , perform a test print. This will ensure that all settings are correct and that the labels will be legible and adhere properly to the packages.
The most common mistakes when selecting and printing labels
Many mistakes can be made when selecting and printing thermal labels , which can lead to shipping problems. Selecting and printing thermal labels may seem simple, but in practice, many companies encounter various difficulties. Choosing the wrong label size can result in illegible information or problems with applying to the package . Using the wrong material can damage the label during shipping or cause it to fail to adhere properly. A common mistake is label incompatibility with the thermal printer, which leads to uneven or illegible print. Incorrect printer settings can result in print that is too light or too dark, making barcodes difficult to read. Skipping quality tests before mass printing can lead to material waste and shipping delays. Another problem is not considering shipping conditions – high humidity or temperature can damage poorly selected labels . Being aware of these potential errors allows you to effectively avoid them and ensure a smooth packaging and shipping process. Here are a few examples:
Incorrect material selection
Choosing the wrong label material can lead to durability issues. Paper labels may not perform well in humid conditions, so it's worth investing in foils that are more resistant.
Incorrect data
Incorrect information on labels is one of the most common causes of delivery issues. Always double-check the information you enter to avoid delays.
Incorrect printer settings
Incorrect printer settings can result in smeared print or illegible labels . Make sure your printer is properly configured before printing.
How to ensure label durability during transport? 
First and foremost, ensure the surface to which the label is applied is clean and dry – dust, grease, or moisture can significantly weaken adhesion. Choosing the right label material, tailored to the type of shipment and transport conditions, is also crucial. It's worth using additional protection, such as a clear protective film or laminate, to protect the print from abrasion and moisture. It's equally important to avoid bending or excessively stretching the label during application, which can lead to damage. These simple steps will ensure your labels remain legible and durable, even during long and demanding transport. To ensure that thermal labels are durable and adhere well to packages , it's worth following a few proven methods.
What methods are worth using?
- Proper label storage - Labels should be stored in a dry, shaded place, away from heat sources. Exposure to light and high temperatures can cause the print to fade.
- Use high-quality adhesive - When choosing labels, pay attention to the type of adhesive. Labels with acrylic or hybrid adhesive with increased adhesive strength will be more resistant to changes in temperature and humidity.
- Correct label application - When applying labels , ensure the surface is clean and dry. Pressing the label evenly against the package will help prevent the corners from peeling.
Thermal labels are an essential element in the parcel shipping process. Choosing the right labels and printing them correctly can significantly impact the efficiency and quality of customer service. Remember to pay attention to the type of adhesive, label material, and correct printer settings. Additionally, it's important to ensure the label is placed correctly – ideally on a flat, even surface of the packaging, away from the edges or seams of the box. If the shipment is exposed to extreme conditions, labels resistant to high or low temperatures, humidity, or UV radiation can be used. Regularly checking print quality before shipping helps identify any errors and prevents problems with barcode reading. It's also worth considering systematically training warehouse employees on how to properly apply and secure labels, which increases the consistency and reliability of the logistics process. These measures will ensure that shipments reach customers intact, and your brand will gain a professional image. By avoiding common errors, you will ensure a smooth shipping process and customer satisfaction.