Start with the container and the conditions the label will face. Then compare face materials, adhesive and print protection as one construction. Use the steps below to prepare a specification or explain what you need from a new label.
1. Describe the Receiving Surface
Identify glass, plastic, coated metal, paperboard or another surface. Include curvature, texture, squeezing and any coating. Explain whether the surface is clean and dry during labelling or may carry moisture or product residue.
2. Define the Use Conditions
Separate temperature during application from storage and service temperature. Include water, oils, cleaning agents, abrasion, sunlight, intended life and any removal or reclosing requirements. A splash, an ice-water trial and prolonged immersion are different tests.
3. Shortlist a Face Material
| Material route | What to compare |
|---|---|
| Coated or kraft paper | Appearance, colour reproduction and the expected dry or protected packaging conditions. |
| BOPP | White, clear or metallized appearance, print protection and container compatibility. |
| PE | Conformability where the container flexes or is squeezed. |
| PET or polyimide | The exact grade and construction against the required heat, durability or process conditions. |
| Synthetic paper | Surface, opacity, thickness, printability and the actual polymer construction. |
| Thermal materials | Direct thermal versus thermal transfer, printer compatibility and readable life. |
4. Select the Adhesive and Finish
Choose the adhesive for the surface, application conditions and required attachment or removal behaviour. Choose the protective finish for appearance, handling and any overprinting. A face film that resists water absorption does not guarantee that the label will remain attached or that the print will resist a particular chemical.
5. Confirm Printing and Application
Identify rolls or sheets, machine or hand application, code printing and artwork versions. For automatic equipment, confirm the roll and liner specification. For transparent or metallic stock, show which design areas need white ink.
6. Approve a Representative Trial
Apply samples to the actual container and review them under agreed use conditions. Check appearance, adhesion, legibility, code performance and application behaviour. Record the approved construction and artwork so repeat orders have a clear reference.
Common Questions
Is one material always the cheapest?
Order cost depends on the construction, quantity, artwork, tooling and finishing. Compare complete quotations for specifications that meet the job.
Can I select by appearance alone?
Appearance is one requirement. Also review adhesion, exposure and application equipment before approving production.
Roll specifications · Performance requirements · All resources