If you are looking for a smarter, more affordable labeling solution, linerless labels are what you need. Companies today want more than an inexpensive option—something easy to use, versatile, and eco-friendly. Linerless labels offer all that and more, providing various benefits for businesses across various industries. Linerless labels check all those boxes, offering many benefits for businesses in various industries.
So, what are linerless labels? Well, unlike regular labels with three parts—face stock, adhesive, and a liner to stop the labels from sticking—linerless labels only have two: the face stock and adhesive. The best part is that these labels have a special coating that prevents them from sticking to each other when rolled up, making them a convenient option for businesses looking to streamline operations.
Why Companies Are Switching to Linerless Labels: Benefits and Insights
Due to their many advantages, a growing number of businesses are adopting linerless labels in their operations. Here are some examples of how different industries are using them:
Grocery Stores and Delis – As more consumers seek freshly packaged foods, grocery stores, delis, and other food suppliers need efficient labeling at the point of sale. Linerless labels display key information such as the price, barcode, nutritional facts, and expiration dates, all printed and applied directly to the package.
Restaurants – With the rise in online orders and takeout, clear labeling is essential for order accuracy. Linerless labels are applied to food containers or bags, helping customers quickly verify their orders for pickup.
Healthcare – Many labeling tasks that were once handled centrally are now done at the bedside, such as unit dosing for medications. Linerless labels, printed by devices, streamline this process, improving efficiency and patient safety.
Manufacturers and Distributors – With the rise of eCommerce, the demand for shipments has skyrocketed. Manufacturers and distribution companies are turning to linerless labels to simplify their processes, boost efficiency, and keep up with the rapid growth in consumer orders.
What Is Linerless Labeling?
Linerless or liner-free labels differ from traditional labels because they don’t have a backing paper or liner. Standard labels usually come with a release coating liner, which helps the label peel off easily while preserving the adhesive for sticking to items like boxes or envelopes. In contrast, linerless labels have a silicone release coating on the top layer and a special adhesive that separates them from the label beneath them. This design lets linerless labels function without backing, making them their liner.
What Are the Main Advantages of Linerless Labels?
Companies constantly search for methods to cut expenses, increase efficiency, and decrease waste. By doing away with the liner, linerless labels provide a clever substitute for conventional labels that are more economical and environmentally friendly. If you are still using traditional labels with liners, here are some reasons to move to linerless labels.
Less Waste, Lower Costs
Since linerless labels don’t have a backing liner, there is no extra material to discard. This reduces waste, lowers disposal costs, and helps maintain a cleaner work environment. Additionally, businesses using linerless labels can more effectively meet sustainability goals and comply with environmental regulations.
More Labels Per Roll, Fewer Roll Changes
Linerless label rolls can hold up to 50% more labels than traditional rolls. This means businesses need to change rolls less frequently, which increases productivity, reduces storage requirements, and lowers shipping costs.
Faster Processing and Fewer Steps
Without liners to peel and discard, the labeling process becomes more efficient. This is especially beneficial in high-volume logistics, retail, and food service industries, where speed and accuracy are crucial.
Lower Overall Expenses
Linerless labels weigh less than traditional labels, which helps reduce shipping costs. Since they contain more labels per roll, they also take up less space in storage and require fewer roll changes. This results in both time and cost savings for businesses.
Safer Workspaces
Discarded liner scraps can create workplace slip hazards, especially in warehouses and manufacturing facilities. By eliminating liners, businesses can maintain a cleaner, safer work environment for employees.
More Flexibility for Different Uses
Linerless labels are versatile and can be used in various industries, including shipping, retail, healthcare, and food service. They also allow for adjustable label lengths, minimizing material waste and offering greater flexibility in labeling applications.
Switching to linerless labels is a simple way to improve efficiency, cut costs, and reduce waste. Many businesses are making the change—should yours?
What Are the Limitations and Challenges of Linerless Printing Solutions?
While switching to linerless labels can improve efficiency and reduce costs, it also presents some challenges. Businesses need to consider printer compatibility, adhesive management, and operational adjustments before making the transition. Let’s take a look at some critical challenges to consider:
Printer Compatibility Issues
- Standard thermal desktop and mobile printers do not support linerless labels.
- Linerless printers need a special non-stick platen roller to prevent adhesive buildup.
- Testing linerless labels with existing printers is necessary to ensure they function correctly.
Adhesive Management
- Without a liner, the adhesive comes into direct contact with printer components, which can cause sticking.
- Non-stick platen rollers help minimize issues, but regular maintenance is needed to keep printers running smoothly.
Cutter Requirements
- Linerless printers come with a built-in cutter that trims labels to the correct size during printing.
- The cutter must be durable enough to handle continuous operation and should be maintained regularly to prevent breakdowns.
Initial Setup and Cost Considerations
- Upgrading to linerless printers may require a significant upfront investment.
- Businesses need to assess whether the long-term savings on labels and waste disposal justify the initial costs.
Key Factors to Consider When Adopting a Linerless Labeling Solution
Implementing a linerless labeling solution requires more than just swapping out traditional labels. Businesses need to account for specific requirements to ensure a smooth transition. From selecting the right equipment to managing adhesives, careful planning can help avoid disruptions and improve overall efficiency.
Optimizing Print Performance for High-Quality Output
- Linerless labels need a higher print darkness setting than standard direct thermal labels to produce a clear and durable image.
- The heat from the printhead must penetrate the release coating to activate the thermal chemistry effectively.
- Extended testing is required to prevent the release coating from accumulating on the printhead, which can affect print quality.
Proper Manufacturing Practices for Reliable Label Production
- Linerless labels must be precisely wound to ensure they fit correctly in the printer.
- Accurate manufacturing is crucial since there is no liner, as labels cannot be repositioned on the roll.
- The release coating must be fully cured to prevent jamming or feeding issues, and the adhesive must be compatible with the platen roller to ensure smooth operation.
The Importance of Testing and Maintenance in Labeling Solutions
With packaging materials changing to support sustainability efforts, thorough testing is crucial to ensure proper adhesion, durability, recyclability, and compliance with regulations. Regular maintenance is equally important to prevent equipment failures and minimize downtime. Here’s why both should be a priority:
Routine Testing to Ensure Print and Adhesive Performance
- Different packaging materials require specific adhesive formulations to ensure labels stick securely.
- Print quality testing helps confirm that labels remain readable and intact throughout a product’s lifecycle.
- Durability testing simulates exposure to temperature changes, moisture, and rough handling to ensure long-lasting performance.
- Adhesion testing verifies that labels stay in place on various surfaces without peeling or shifting.
Identifying and Resolving Issues Proactively to Minimize Downtime
- Regular inspections help catch adhesive failures, print smudging, or feeding issues before they impact operations.
- Chemical compatibility testing ensures that adhesives do not react with packaging materials, preventing contamination.
- Recyclability and compostability testing confirm that labels do not interfere with waste management processes.
- Identifying and fixing minor technical issues early helps avoid expensive production delays and rework.
Importance of Preventative Maintenance to Extend the Lifespan of Equipment
- Routine cleaning of printheads, platen rollers, and cutters reduces adhesive buildup and extends equipment life.
- Regular maintenance helps keep printers and applicators running smoothly, minimizing unexpected breakdowns.
- Following manufacturer-recommended service schedules ensures consistent print quality and efficient label application.
- Ensuring compliance with regulatory standards prevents legal issues and supports sustainability efforts.
Conclusion: Lowry Solutions: Simplifying Labeling for the Modern World
A quick chat with your label converter can help you avoid major headaches later. Talking to them about upcoming design, environmental, or container changes ensures your labels are built to perform. No matter what updates your product is undergoing, they will make sure your labels can handle the new demands.
At Lowry Solutions, we have the scale to serve businesses nationwide but still keep things personal. We print labels across industries, work closely with material suppliers for testing when needed, and tackle performance challenges head-on—so your labels work exactly how you need them to.
Great products deserve great labels. Let’s craft labels that last—connect with Lowry Solutions today!
Frequently Asked Questions
Linerless labels are coated with a special release layer that prevents them from sticking to one another. This allows them to be stacked or rolled without requiring a backing liner.
Some existing labeling equipment can handle linerless labels, but others may need modifications or specialized machines. It is important to check if your current system is compatible.
Yes, linerless labels are useful in many industries, including:
- Retail: Used for pricing, promotions, and product labeling.
- Logistics and Warehousing: Helps improve shipping and inventory processes.
- Food and Beverage: Works well in fast-paced environments like restaurants.
- Healthcare: Used for accurately labeling medications and specimens.
Yes, linerless labels are as durable as traditional labels. They can withstand handling, shipping, and storage conditions, making them a reliable choice for various labeling needs.
Linerless labels eliminate the need for a backing liner, which reduces material waste and decreases landfill contribution. This helps lower the overall environmental impact and supports sustainability initiatives using fewer raw materials.
