Selection of Barcode Label is Critical

Barcode is an optical machine-readable representation of data containing lines and spacings of parallel lines showed on products. These are printed on labels or tags called barcode labels. The labels contain data of a product in some specific symbologies. Various models of barcode including Symbol barcode are used by many industries. The labels are read by devices called barcode scanners. It is necessary to print efficient barcode labels. Proper label materials have to be selected for printing. There are some factors which have to be considered while selecting a label. Some of them are given here.

• The core size is determined on the basis of brand and model of the printer that is used. Core inside diameter sizes of 1 inch, 1.5 inch, and 3 inch are generally available.
• The orientation of labels is either wound with labels facing in or facing out.
• Certain conditions such as exposure to extreme temperatures; solvents; vibration; prolonged direct sunlight; and changes in lighting and abrasion may damage barcode labels. So it is necessary to select the label material that can withstand these conditions.
• Three basic layers of a barcode label include the tape, the adhesive, and a laminate layer. A label having appropriate components should be chosen.
• Labeling on warehouse shelves and storage bins; trade shows; conventions; and areas where work is in progress can use temporary labels. These can be used for a short period of time and discarded or reused. Some of the examples of temporary labels are paper labels, magnetic labels, static cling labels, and repositionable labels.
• Sometimes it is required that the barcode labels have to be permanent for at least 4 to 5 years. Then it is necessary to select appropriate adhesive labels which can be used for longer periods.
• Food processing industries and laboratories require labels that are used at low temperatures. Labels for these purposes should be selected having correct label tapes and adhesives. This is very important because if normal labels are used at these conditions, they get wrinkled and cannot be read by barcode scanners.
• Labels are to be printed on curved and rough surfaces also. Specific adhesives and materials have to be used by the labels in order to get attached to such surfaces.
• Sometimes it is needed to match corporate colors or match an existing color coding system. Label color is also a matter of concern at such issues.

Paper labels, synthetic tags, polypropylene tags, and polyester labels are some of the label materials used. Based on conditions where the label is used, various types of materials are used.