Thermal labels are a type of label that contains a special heat-sensitive coating and can be printed with thermal printers without the need for ink. They are widely used in logistics, warehousing, shipping, and retail sectors for printing barcodes, QR codes, and variable data.
Thermal labels contain a special heat-sensitive chemical coating. The thermal printer's printhead applies heat to specific points on the coating, creating an image. They require no ink, toner, or ribbon. This reduces printing costs and maintenance needs.
| Type | Feature | Area of Most Common Use |
|---|---|---|
| Eco Thermal | The most economical option is heat and light sensitive. | Shipping, logistics, market labeling |
| Top Thermal | Surface coated, more durable. | Retail, food, pharmaceuticals |
| Laminated Thermal | Protective lamination, water and oil resistant. | Cold chain, outdoor |
| Synthetic Thermal | PP or PE based, tear-resistant and waterproof. | Industrial, chemical, health |
In logistics and warehouse management, thermal labels provide traceability, speed, and accuracy. Shipping barcodes, shelf labels, delivery notes, and product tracking labels can be printed instantly using thermal printers. Thermal labels are an indispensable solution, especially for high-volume labeling needs in the e-commerce and cargo sectors.
Thermal labels print directly using heat, eliminating the need for ribbons. Thermal transfer labels, on the other hand, print via ribbons and offer significantly more durable print quality. Thermal transfer should be preferred for applications requiring long-lasting and chemically resistant printing.
Eco-thermal labels are sensitive to heat and light and are therefore suitable for short-term use. Top thermal labels have a longer lifespan. Laminated or synthetic thermal labels, on the other hand, can maintain their durability for years.
For cold chain and frozen products, laminated thermal or synthetic thermal labels should be preferred. Standard eco-thermal labels may lose their adhesion at low temperatures.
Standard thermal labels print in a single color (black). For color printing, pre-printed thermal labels or digital printing should be preferred. For detailed information, please see our digital printing page.
Thermal labels are generally produced in roll format and in high quantities. Minimum order quantity varies depending on material and size. Please contact us for detailed information.
At Doğa Barkod Etiket, we manufacture roll labels in eco-thermal, top thermal, laminated thermal, and synthetic thermal materials. For thermal label solutions tailored to the logistics, warehousing, cargo, and retail sectors, you can review our unprinted labels page or contact us to request a quote.
In the automotive industry, label selection is based on requirements such as high temperature resistance, chemical contact resistance, UV resistance, and longevity. Labels for lubricants, tires, batteries, and spare parts, unlike standard labels, must be produced with special materials and adhesives that are resistant to harsh conditions.
Material selection for detergent and cosmetic labels is determined by chemical resistance, moisture resistance, surface compatibility, and aesthetic requirements. Incorrect material selection can lead to label fading, peeling, or falling off the packaging. PP, PE, and polyester are the most commonly preferred materials.
Traceability on drug labels is ensured through technologies such as barcodes, QR codes, serial numbers, and data matrices. Tracking each unit of medication from production to consumption is a legal requirement. In Türkiye, under the Ministry of Health's Drug Tracking System (ITS), all medications are required to be marked with a QR code.
High-strength labels are a special type of label that maintains its durability for extended periods against extreme temperatures, humidity, chemical contact, and outdoor conditions. They are preferred in industrial equipment, automotive, machinery, and outdoor applications where standard labels are insufficient.
Multi-layer labels are a type of label that contains multiple layers, with the top layer being peel-off. They are used to present information in multiple languages on a single package, add detailed usage instructions, or create promotional content. They are commonly preferred in export packaging for the pharmaceutical, food, and cosmetics industries.
A security label is a special type of label that indicates that a product or packaging has been tampered with, opened, or counterfeited. There are various types offering different levels of security, including void, invisible, perforated, fragile, and holographic labels. They are used to ensure product safety in the pharmaceutical, cosmetics, electronics, and food industries.
Hologram labels are security labels that feature a holographic effect that changes color in three dimensions under light. They provide visual verification against counterfeiting and product copying. They are used to guarantee product safety in the pharmaceutical, cosmetics, electronics, and premium food industries.
Adhesive label glue types are classified as hotmelt, acrylic, nonpermanent (removable), freezer-freeze, and re-adhesive glues. The correct glue selection is determined by the product's usage conditions, surface type, and temperature requirements.
Metallic labels are a type of label made from special materials containing aluminum or metallic coatings, offering a bright and premium appearance. They are preferred in cosmetics, perfumes, olive oil, and industrial products to enhance brand value. Thanks to their waterproof structure, they are resistant to moisture and oil.
Roll labels are a type of adhesive label wound in a reel format for use in labeling machines. They are integrated into high-speed production lines with automated labeling systems. It is the most commonly used label format in the food, pharmaceutical, cosmetics, and logistics industries.
