Not every barcode label is created equal. There are thousands of different label and tag materials available – each with their own set of features that affect durability and printer performance. To ensure your labels match your needs, our material sciences experts have pre-tested, selected and certified the highest-performing label and tag materials to assure durable print and minimal printer wear and tear, while also considering your budget and application.

Extensive Pre-Testing

When we say we test our labels, we mean it. Our supplies go through rigorous testing across a wide range of printers, print speeds and darkness settings to ensure print quality and durability. We also test them in harsh conditions using specialized equipment to rate durability to outdoor elements, abrasion, harsh chemicals and extreme temperatures to provide only the toughest labels guaranteed to fit your purpose—and go the distance.

Every Type of Label

With more than 400 stocked ZipShip paper and synthetic labels and tags – all ready to ship within 24 hours – Zebra has the right label and tag on hand for your application. From synthetic materials to basic paper solutions, custom to compliance requirements, hard-to-label surfaces to easy-to-remove labels, or tamper-evident to tear-proof, we have more than 90 material options to meet your unique needs.

Unmatched Quality

Other manufacturers swap out materials to increase their profits – leaving you high and dry when your labels don’t perform like they used to. Instead of substituting materials, Zebra utilizes an ISO 9001 certified, 23-point quality inspection to ensure consistent quality. And, we only use thermal-compatible inks and varnishes to safeguard printer performance.

1. Label adherence. Adhesive performance can vary based on the surface type and shape. A Supplies expert can tell you quickly which labels are designed, pre-tested and certified to adhere directly to various materials. In turn, you can be confident that the labels you affix to your products, packages or pallets will remain secured for years.
2. Print and label durability. Each thermal material and ribbon on the market today has a different temperature, environmental and chemical resistance, and it can be hard to know a label’s resistance and tolerance to various elements without an expert’s assistance. Fortunately, they’ll be able to help you confirm whether or not the label can endure exposures or contacts with certain chemicals, fluids, radiation, weather elements and more.
3. Label compliance with industry and customer compliance requirements. It’s not always easy to confirm which labels are suitable for use on electronics, food and beverage items, medical devices, automobile components and other products where ID labels are required to have special markings. Our Supplies team experts can help you quickly identify which labels are compliant with UL/cUL, FDA 175.105, UID, Globally Harmonized System (GHS), Unique Device Identification (UDI) and GM 14573 mandates, for example.
4. Label security. Tamper-evident labels are often demanded by retail customers and others who are prone to losses from counterfeit goods, product contamination or even “clearance fraud”.
5. Printer ribbon compatibility with the various product ID labels. Not all thermal ribbons are compatible with all thermal materials.  When the ribbon is not compatible with the material, the print easily rubs off or disappears when subjected to abrasion, making the product unidentifiable. 
6. Label quality and authenticity. This isn’t broadly advertised, but many supplies manufacturers will substitute materials used to produce labels, ribbons and other components, and that can severely impact the quality and performance of your labels. (For the record, Zebra never substitutes materials or ribbon formulations for any reason once we spec them in. You will always get the exact same supplies at the exact same quality. All of our supplies are also ISO 9001:2015 certified via strict quality control processes to ensure reliable, consistent performance.)
7. Customization flexibility. It’s important to work with a Supplies manufacturer that can create labels in any size and configuration and, if needed, pre-print static information and branding. Zebra is authorized to pre-print the UL mark.  This will help you reduce waste, (again) ensure compliance and reduce labeling-related delays when you’re trying to go to market with new products.

Factors to consider include customization options, strategic pricing, and eco-friendly choices, among others.

Cleanroom environments demand meticulous attention to detail and adherence to stringent protocols to maintain optimal cleanliness and safety. Cleanroom labels are crucial in identification, organization, communication, and maximizing efficiency. This article will explore the key technical and business considerations for selecting cleanroom labels while considering these important factors.

Technical considerations

Material compatibility

One of the primary considerations when choosing cleanroom labels is material compatibility. Cleanroom label construction materials withstand the unique environmental conditions within and outside a controlled environment. Cleanroom designs minimize contamination, and labels should resist chemicals, solvents, and cleaning agents commonly used in cleanroom

maintenance. The labels should not generate particulates or shed fibers that could compromise the cleanliness of the environment.

Adhesive properties

The adhesive properties of cleanroom labels are equally important. Labels must adhere securely to various surfaces, including equipment, containers, and packaging materials while remaining easily removable when necessary. Labels with inadequate adhesion may peel off or become detached, leading to confusion, misidentification, and potential safety hazards. Conversely, labels with excessively strong adhesion may leave residue or damage the surface when removed, compromising the cleanliness and integrity of the cleanroom environment. It is essential to select cleanroom labels with specialized adhesives that balance secure attachment and clean removal.

Resistance to environmental factors

Cleanroom labels experience exposure to extreme temperature gradients, moisture, aggressive chemicals, and unique sterilization methods. Labels must withstand these conditions without degradation or loss of legibility. High and frigid temperatures, frequent sterilization cycles, and exposure to harsh chemicals should not compromise adhesive or printing quality. Choosing labels designed to resist environmental factors prevalent in cleanroom settings is crucial.

Legibility and print quality

Clear and legible labeling is essential for efficient operations and accurate identification in cleanroom environments. Cleanroom labels’ print quality should be high resolution and durable, ensuring critical information remains readable throughout the label’s lifecycle. The labels should be compatible with the appropriate print method of the user, including direct thermal, thermal transfer, inkjet, and laser printers. Selecting labels with smudge-proof, fade-resistant, and solvent-resistant printing capabilities will help maintain visibility and readability, even under rigorous environmental conditions within or outside the cleanroom.

Business considerations

Customization for brand communication

In an increasingly competitive market, labels create brand differentiation, identity, and product appeal. High-quality print and customization options enable businesses to create visually striking labels that capture the target audiences’ attention while communicating key information effectively. Labels should support high-resolution printing techniques, such as thermal transfer or digital printing, to ensure the clarity and durability of text, barcodes, and graphics. Moreover, labels should allow for customization, enabling businesses to incorporate logos, branding elements, and product-specific details. As consumer preferences continue to favor personalized experiences, labels offering customization options will remain a valuable asset.

Pricing and buying strategies

While choosing cleanroom labels, pricing and buying strategies are vital in optimizing budget allocation without compromising quality. Factors such as label material, size, quantity, customization options, and supplier relationships impact the overall cost. Businesses should consider obtaining multiple quotes, evaluating the labels’ long-term durability and performance, and balancing cost and quality. Adopting a strategic pricing and buying approach ensures that cleanroom labels meet required standards within budgetary constraints.

Customer-facing labels vs. process labels

Cleanroom label categorization has two main branches: customer-facing labels and process labels. Customer-facing labels are visible to external stakeholders and play a significant role in brand representation and customer experience. These labels require a higher aesthetic appeal and should align with the brand identity. On the other hand, process labels are primarily utilized for internal operations, providing crucial information for identification, safety, and process optimization. Understanding the distinction between these label types helps businesses prioritize their labeling needs and make informed decisions about label design and customization.

Understanding current cleanroom label technologies and embracing future trends

Advancements in cleanroom label technologies are revolutionizing the field, enhancing efficiency and traceability. Future cleanroom label trends encompass advancements catering to efficiency, sustainability, and customer expectations. Some of the notable trends include:

• Smart labels: Smart labels, equipped with RFID (Radio-Frequency Identification) technology, enable real-time tracking, data capture, and inventory management within cleanroom environments. These labels provide enhanced visibility and automation, improving process efficiency and reducing errors.
• Linerless labels: Linerless labels eliminate the need for liner waste, offering a more sustainable solution with significantly less carbon footprinting. These labels are adhesive-coated on both sides and can be dispensed without a liner, reducing environmental impact and improving operational efficiency.
• Label automation: Automation of labeling processes streamlines operations and reduces manual errors. Label automation allows for automatic label printing, application, and verification, ensuring consistency and accuracy while saving time and effort.
• Auto-applied labels: Auto-applied labels design allows for automatic application to products or surfaces, eliminating manual application. This trend enhances efficiency, reduces labor costs, and ensures consistent label placement within the cleanroom environment.
• Dissolvable labels: Dissolvable labels dissolve or disintegrate upon contact with water or other specified substances. These labels are particularly useful in applications where residue-free removal is critical, minimizing the risk of surface contamination or damage.
• Adhesive technologies: Adhesive technologies are evolving to meet specific cleanroom requirements. Manufacturers are developing adhesives that adhere well to cleanroom surfaces and resist chemicals, moisture, and temperature fluctuations, ensuring label longevity and reliability.
• Customer expectations: Customer expectations are increasingly shaping cleanroom label trends. Customers demand high-performance labels that can visually display clear, concise information. Labels that align with brand image and provide ease of use and procurement contribute to overall customer satisfaction.

These future trends for cleanroom labels focus on improving efficiency, and sustainability, meeting customer expectations, and enhancing overall operational effectiveness within the cleanroom environment. By embracing these advancements, cleanroom operators can stay ahead of the curve and ensure optimal performance and compliance.

Sterilization indication and regulatory compliance

Sterilization indication is vital when choosing cleanroom labels, especially in the healthcare and pharmaceutical industries. Labels should indicate whether a product or equipment has undergone sterilization, ensuring proper handling and adherence to safety protocols.

Maintaining regulatory compliance is also essential to meet industry standards and safety requirements. Cleanroom  operations must often comply with specific industry standards, regulations, or quality management systems. It is crucial to choose cleanroom labels that meet these requirements. Labels manufactured by reputable suppliers with a track record of adherence to regulatory standards are more likely to ensure compliance and provide the necessary documentation, such as certifications and test reports. Compliance with standards such as ISO 14644 and cGMP (current Good Manufacturing Practices) should be verified before selecting cleanroom labels.

Choosing the right labels involves careful consideration of the latest cleanroom label technologies and future trends of an evolving customer landscape. By embracing the latest technologies and considering advanced customization and environmental-friendly choices, businesses can enhance efficiency, brand identity, and sustainability. Strategic pricing and buying strategies ensure that labels meet required standards without exceeding financial constraints. Distinguishing between customer-facing labels and process labels facilitates effective communication in both external and internal contexts. Emphasizing sterilization indication and cleanroom regulatory compliance safeguards against contamination risks and ensures adherence to industry standards. 

By considering these key factors, businesses can make informed decisions and choose labels that meet their specific requirements while upholding cleanroom.