A study from the Friedman School of Nutrition Science at Tufts University concluded that certain food labels can result in a cutback of unhealthy food options by up to 13%. Since labels are such an important part of marketing and consumer interaction, making sure your product labels are printed correctly can help make a difference when it comes to selling your product.

For instance, thermal label printers can offer several advantages that other options cannot. If you haven’t already implemented this technology, here is what you need to know.

Thermal Printing

A thermal printer utilizes heat to print text or images onto a label. Direct versions of this printing process operate on heat alone, while a thermal transfer printer uses a ribbon with a resin or wax-based ink. Thermal transfer labels are often high quality and high resolution. Moreover, they can be used without the need for liquid ink. This not only makes them reliable but also more eco-friendly than other alternatives.

The Advantages of Thermal Transfer Labels

Thermal transfer labels are perfect for companies that have high print loads and need long-lasting results. This makes them good candidates for printing things like barcodes, as these materials will need to retain their form for a potentially long period. Thermal transfer labels are also able to be created faster than alternatives, with labels being printed in mere milliseconds. In addition to this, they are also sturdier and able to stand up to more wear and tear than other methods of printing. This means you won’t have to worry about ink fading, smearing, or becoming distorted if it is exposed to oil, water, or extreme temperatures.

While both direct thermal printing and thermal transfer label printing have the ability to produce great images, direct transfer printers are unable to print in color. This is something to keep in mind if your label design is meant to be colorful or more personalized than other options.

Who Benefits From Using Thermal Transfer Labels?

While thermal transfer labels can be used in a myriad of ways, they are especially perfect for inventory printing or in applications wherein products must be easily identified. Retail outlets can also utilize them for shipping, as they are both quick to print and able to stand up to a lot of wear and tear. Even produce growers can benefit from using these labels as you don’t have to worry about fading due to dirt or water. Furthermore, as mentioned above, they are also great for printing barcodes that will have to remain on products for long periods of time while still remaining scannable.

If that wasn’t enough to convince you, thermal printers typically don’t require as much maintenance as other printers because they utilize a ribbon. This makes the process quicker, easier, and more reliable overall. All you have to do is print and move on.

If you think your business could benefit from thermal transfer labels, reach out to a distributor or supply shop and see about the different types they have available. It’s also a good idea to stock up on ribbon for the future to ensure you never run out when you need it most.