Labels
Label printers for brands that have to get every panel right
Roll labels and shrink sleeves for bottles, jars, pouches and boxes. What to require, how to keep versions straight, and US printers whose own websites back every claim we list.
What to require from label printers
Material and adhesive for real conditions
Labels that sit in a fridge, get wet, touch oils or wrap a squeezable bottle need the right face stock and adhesive. Tell the printer the container and the conditions, and test samples.
Roll specs for your co-manufacturer’s labeler
Core size, outer roll diameter, unwind direction and gap between labels. Ask your co-manufacturer for their spec sheet and send it with the order; wrong rolls stop a line.
A proof you approve, every time
Approve a dated proof for each version before it prints. The printer prints what you approve, so check the supplement facts, nutrition facts or ingredient list against your formula.
Version numbers on the label
Put a small version code on each label so anyone can tell which artwork is on a unit. It makes it simple to use up old stock and to prove which label went on which batch.
Room for lot and expiry
Leave an uncoated area where your co-manufacturer can print lot and expiry, and confirm their printer works on that label stock and varnish.
Lead times and reprints
A label change can hold up a production run. Ask for the standard lead time from proof to ship, and how fast a rush reprint takes.
Questions to ask before you order
- Which material and adhesive do you recommend for my container and conditions?
- Can you print to my co-manufacturer’s roll spec: core, diameter, unwind direction?
- Do you print digitally, with plates, or both, and what changes the minimum?
- Can I combine several SKUs or versions in one order?
- How do proofs work, and how long do you keep approved artwork on file?
- Can you print a version code or lot number on each label?
- What is your lead time from approved proof to shipping, and for a rush?
Label printers
US suppliers whose own websites say they sell this packaging to brands.
We are checking label printers now
Every listing is checked against the supplier’s own website before it goes live, so this list fills in over the coming weeks. The guide on this page is ready today.
Sell packaging to brands? Request a listingFrequently asked questions
Who is responsible for what the label says?
You are. The printer prints the approved proof. Supplement facts (21 CFR 101.36), nutrition facts (21 CFR 101.9) and cosmetic ingredient lists (21 CFR 701.3) have their own rules; check them with your regulatory advisor before you approve.
Digital or flexo printing?
Digital needs no plates, so short runs and many SKUs cost less to set up. Flexo needs plates but costs less per label at high volume. Many printers do both and will suggest one based on your quantities.
How do I keep label versions straight?
Give every artwork version a code that prints on the label, keep the approved proof, and track each version as its own item in inventory. Then you can tell which batches carry which version, and use up old stock before switching.
Sell packaging to product brands?
If you supply bottles, closures, pouches, labels, cartons or shipping boxes, request a free listing. No paid placement.