The Ultimate Q&A Guide to Linerless Labelling
Linerless is emerging as a favoured labelling solution. Whether in retail, logistics, healthcare, or beyond, enterprises are seeking a greener, more efficient labelling experience. Dive into our ultimate Q&A guide below to help you make informed decisions on integrating Linerless Labelling into your operations for sustainable and streamlined labelling.
Q1: What are Linerless Labels?
A: Linerless Labels, or Liner Free labels, lack a peel-off backing. Printed with an exposed adhesive backing, they reduce packaging waste and shipping costs. Supplied on a reel with adhesive strips, these labels offer easy package application, promoting efficiency. This eco-friendly design benefits users and significantly lowers the labeling industry's carbon footprint.
Q2: Why is Linerless an Economical and Eco-Friendly Solution?
A: Linerless labels offer an eco-friendly solution to reduce material use and waste which is vital for a sustainable future. Removing the liner results in fewer labels wasted per roll, thereby boosting environmental sustainability through reduced waste. Linerless labels require fewer raw materials, minimizing the environmental impact. Without a liner, it saves space and lowers transport, warehousing, and material management costs, contributing to a greener environment. Key linerless label statistics:
- Removing the liner adds up to 40% more paper length per roll.1
- They reduce the raw materials needed for label production by more than 15%.2
- Transport, warehousing, and material management costs decrease by 50%.2
- CO2 emissions are lowered by 50%.2
- They reduce waste by up to 50%.3
Q3: How Does a Linerless Solution Benefit You?
A: Linerless solutions offer three key benefits:
- Enhanced Sustainability and Safety: Linerless labeling contributes to sustainability by reducing carbon emissions during label production and eliminating liner waste, fostering a greener environment, and reinforcing workplace safety.
- Cost Reduction: The transition to Linerless labels brings substantial cost savings allowing usage of up to 40% more labels per roll, and reducing storage needs, minimising freight loads, and eliminating disposal handling costs.
- Increased Efficiency: Linerless labels enhance overall operational efficiency with quick application and the flexibility to print different label lengths on the same roll.
Q4: Is Linerless Expensive?
A: Comparing costs per label, a 4x5-inch traditional label costs approximately $0.02, while a linerless label in an 8-inch O.D. roll is $0.022. Linerless labels with up to 40% longer label lengths justify the slightly higher cost. Adopting a Linerless Labelling Solution offers added benefits, balancing the Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) over time (refer to Table 1).
Table 1: Benefits of Linerless labeling
| Liner Labels | Linerless Labels |
Liner Peel-off Time | Yes | No |
Multiple Length Printing | No, die cut with fixed length | Yes, flexible and consumes 100% of the roll length |
Storage Space | More | Less, fewer rolls needed for the same number of labels |
Logistics Costs | Higher because of more label rolls | Lower because of fewer label rolls |
Disposal Costs | Yes, need to handle liner waste | No |
Slipping Hazard | Moderate risk | Low risk |
Q5: What are Typical Linerless Applications?
A: Linerless printing excels across various industries, particularly in retail, warehouse and logistics, and healthcare, by eliminating backing paper and printing different label lengths on the same roll.
- Retail: Linerless labels adapt to dynamic needs, catering to applications like fast food, product packaging, pricing, and promotions.
- Warehouse and Logistics: Linerless labeling accelerates processes, enhancing efficiency by eliminating backing paper removal and reducing slipping hazards in fast-paced settings.
- Healthcare: Linerless labels, printed at the point of application, ensure accurate labeling for specimens and medications, improving overall healthcare operations.
However, the suitability of the linerless labeling solution varies among applications. While linerless is ideal for many, traditional liner labels may remain a better choice for specific long-term or pre-printed label requirements.
Q6: What to Consider Before Adopting a Linerless Labeling Solution?
A: Here are essential tips to consider before choosing a linerless printer for implementation:
- Stable Print Quality: Linerless labels' adhesive can impact print quality, causing sticking and residue. An effective linerless printer requires specific hardware to resolve this.
- Easy Cleaning and Maintenance: Residue is inevitable, so easy maintenance is crucial for regular cleaning. A safer linerless cutter cleaning design is also essential.
1 Alison Job, “Linerless Labels Support Green Goals,” July 5, 2022
2 GBF, “A Reduction Revolution in the World of Labels!”, March 16, 2022
3 Specialty, “Who Benefits from Linerless Labels?”
