When creating package delivery and logistics labels, the choice usually comes down to thermal transfer vs. direct thermal printing technology. While these two methods may seem similar on the surface, they actually differ quite a bit, especially when it comes to printing delivery and logistics labels that are scannable and offer the kind of adhesion necessary for use in a variety of environmental conditions.
Thermal transfer and direct thermal printing also differ in the application process and the media or substrate that’s best suited to create crisp, clear package and delivery labels. Here, we’ll look at the differences between thermal transfer and direct thermal printing, and which of these two processes results in the best quality labels for package delivery and logistics applications.
Thermal transfer and direct thermal printing also differ in the media or substrate that’s best suited to create crisp, clear package and delivery labels. Here, we’ll look at the differences between thermal transfer and direct thermal printing, and which of these two processes results in the best quality labels for package delivery and logistics applications.
Thermal transfer labels are printed via a thin ribbon that is placed on top of a sheet of media. Heat is applied to the ribbon via printheads, and the ink is then absorbed into the substrate, thus creating a desired image — in the case of delivery and logistics labels, this could be a barcode.
Thermal transfer helps create labels that are extremely durable and resistant to a large variety of weather conditions. Images created via thermal transfer are also resistant to smudging and rubbing, and, with the right combination of ribbon and media, thermal transfer can produce reliable, consistent barcode labels on a large scale.
The downside to thermal transfer technology is that each job requires a specific ribbon that must be changed prior to each individual run. Not only can this result in increased material costs, it can create significant bottlenecks in the event of supply chain issues or material shortages. What’s more, the substrate and ribbon must be compatible, and ensuring a match can mean working with multiple suppliers and a more complex set of procurement logistics and waste disposal, particularly while also adding security protocols to mitigate the risk of leaded "photo negatives" that remain on the ribbon.
Direct thermal printing is a process that uses a specialty coated substrate — direct thermal paper — combined with a heat sensitive application method that induces a chemical reaction on the sheet’s surface to create a text or image without the need for a ribbon. This heat-based application takes place at extremely high temperatures and requires the use of a direct thermal paper to successfully print a label.
Compared with thermal transfer, direct thermal printing does not create labels that are as durable with prolonged exposure to the environment, but direct thermal printing does print supremely clear, crisp images.
Plus, direct thermal printing is a much faster process. The use of small print heads can transfer images in a matter of seconds, and the chemically-active surface of direct thermal paper eliminates the need for ink and toner to help save additional print time and cost.
This reduced production time can make it easier to adapt to sudden increases in market demand or supply contraints. What’s more, the coated nature of direct thermal paper helps ensure a smooth, even printing surface for consistent and high-quality label production.
And, whereas thermal transfer requires the perfect marriage of ribbon and media, direct thermal printing is a simpler method that doesn’t require additional resources like inks or ribbons.
While direct thermal labels have traditionally shown tendencies to fade in certain environments, new formulations in direct thermal paper have helped enhance how well labels printed using this method perform over time.
In fact, while previous generations of direct thermal printing technology were susceptible to fading or degradation when faced with environmental conditions like sunlight, heat, or moisture, today’s direct thermal printing technology produces labels that are clear, clean, easy to scan and read.
Plus, the high-speed nature of package processing requires delivery labels that can hold up the increased rate at which packages are shipped and handled, and direct thermal printing can help meet the rigors of modern package handling — provided you choose the right direct thermal paper.
Appvion’s new Résiste® 165 E is that direct thermal paper. Our direct thermal paper uses innovative engineering to provide improved resistance to heat, water, and alcohol, ensuring longevity and durability. Its resistance to fading guarantees that crucial information remains clear and legible throughout the entire lifecycle of the label.
Plus, Résiste® 165 E allows for efficient label production, catering to the high-speed demands of package delivery and logistics operations. This efficiency translates to reduced energy requirements for printing high-contrast images, contributing to increased cost savings and environmental sustainability.
With the new Résiste® 165 E, you can produce high-quality shipping and delivery labels quickly with an eye toward process efficiency. Request a free sample of Résiste® 165 E.