​Printing Solutions: Fanfold Labels vs. Roll Labels

In today’s world of printing solutions, businesses face the constant challenge of choosing the right label format for their specific needs. Two popular choices that often find themselves at the forefront of this decision-making process are Fanfold Labels and Roll Labels. Both have their unique advantages, but understanding the differences between them is crucial to making an informed decision.

In this blog post, we'll explore the characteristics, benefits, and applications of Fanfold Labels and Roll Labels, helping businesses make an educated choice for their printing requirements.

Let’s begin!

What are Fanfold Labels?

Fanfold labels are a specific format of labels characterised by their folding pattern, resembling a fan. These labels are typically stacked and folded in an accordion-like fashion, forming a compact and easily manageable stack. The unique design of fanfold labels makes them space-efficient and convenient for handling during the printing process. This format is particularly advantageous for businesses with limited storage space, as the labels can be neatly organised in a stack, minimising storage requirements. The fanfold design also facilitates straightforward loading into printers, reducing the likelihood of errors and streamlining the printing process. Fanfold labels are commonly used in applications such as shipping and logistics, as their efficient design and ease of use make them a practical choice for high-volume labelling tasks. Additionally, their environmentally friendly nature, generating less waste due to minimal backing material, aligns with sustainability goals for businesses aiming to reduce their ecological impact.

What are the Advantages and Disadvantages of Fanfold Thermal Labels?

Fanfold thermal labels, a specific type of fanfold labels, offer distinct advantages and disadvantages that businesses should consider when choosing their labelling solutions.

Advantages of Fanfold Thermal Labels

• Space Efficiency: One of the primary advantages of fanfold thermal labels is their space-efficient design. The labels are neatly folded in a fan-like manner, allowing for compact stacking. This is particularly beneficial for businesses with limited storage space, as it maximises storage efficiency.
• Easy Handling: Fanfold thermal labels are designed for easy handling during the printing process. The fanfold format simplifies the loading of labels into thermal printers, reducing the chances of errors and ensuring a smooth printing operation.
• Cost-Effective Packaging: Due to their stackable nature, fanfold thermal labels often result in cost-effective packaging. The labels can be efficiently bundled together, minimising packaging materials and reducing overall costs.
• Environmentally Friendly: Fanfold thermal labels are generally considered more environmentally friendly than some other label formats. Their design often leads to less waste generation, contributing to sustainability efforts.

Disadvantages of Fanfold Thermal Labels

• Limited Application: Fanfold thermal labels may not be suitable for all types of printers. Businesses need to ensure that their thermal printers are compatible with fanfold labels, limiting their application to specific printing setups.
• Susceptibility to Damage: The fanfold design, while efficient for storage, may make the labels more susceptible to damage if not handled properly. Care should be taken during transport and storage to prevent bending or tearing of the labels.
• Less Convenient for Some Businesses: While fanfold thermal labels offer advantages in certain scenarios, they may be less convenient for businesses with varied printing needs. The continuous stack format may not be as versatile as roll labels for certain applications.
• Potential for Jamming: Improper loading or handling of fanfold thermal labels in the printer can lead to jamming issues. Businesses using these labels should ensure proper training for staff involved in the printing process to minimise disruptions.

What are Roll Labels?

Roll labels are a popular format for adhesive labels wound around a central core, creating a cylindrical roll. These labels are widely used in various industries for applications such as product labelling, pricing, and branding. Roll labels offer flexibility, ease of use, and are compatible with different types of label printers, including thermal, inkjet, and laser printers. Here's an elaboration on roll labels, specifically focusing on different types of Point of Sale (POS) roll labels:

• Thermal Roll Labels

Direct Thermal: Utilising heat-sensitive paper, direct thermal roll labels create images when exposed to the thermal printhead. They are commonly used for short-term applications such as shipping labels and receipts.

Thermal Transfer: These roll labels use a ribbon to transfer ink onto the label surface, providing enhanced durability. Thermal transfer roll labels are suitable for applications requiring resistance to heat, chemicals, or abrasion, making them ideal for product labelling and inventory management.

• Barcode Roll Labels

UPC and SKU Labels: Designed specifically for retail and inventory management, these roll labels often include barcodes such as Universal Product Codes (UPC) and Stock Keeping Units (SKU), facilitating accurate tracking of products.

• Colour Roll Labels

Coloured Labels: Roll labels are available in various colours, allowing businesses to use colour-coding for organisation, branding, or highlighting specific information on the label.

Custom Printed Labels: Businesses can order custom-printed roll labels with specific colours, logos, and designs to align with their branding and promotional efforts.

• Price Marking Labels

Monarch Labels: Commonly used in retail, Monarch labels are often employed for price marking, featuring pre-printed pricing information and serving as an essential component in pricing guns.

• Removable Adhesive Roll Labels

Removable Labels: Ideal for temporary applications or situations where labels need to be repositioned, roll labels with removable adhesive offer the convenience of easy removal without leaving residue.

• Security Roll Labels

Tamper-Evident Labels: Equipped with features that indicate tampering, such as a destructible substrate or a void message, security roll labels enhance the security of products and packages, making them suitable for high-value items.

• Durable Roll Labels

Weather-Resistant Labels: Constructed from materials like polyester or polypropylene, these roll labels are resistant to water, chemicals, and harsh weather conditions, making them suitable for outdoor or challenging environments.

• Promotional Roll Labels

Promotional Labels: Roll labels are often utilised for promotional purposes, featuring special offers, discounts, or marketing messages. These labels can be custom-designed to enhance brand visibility.

What are the Advantages and Disadvantages of Roll Labels?

Advantages of Roll Labels

• Efficient Printing Process: Roll labels allow for continuous printing, reducing the need for frequent reloads. This is especially advantageous in high-volume printing scenarios, enhancing overall efficiency.
• Versatility: Roll labels are compatible with various types of printers, including thermal, inkjet, and laser printers. This versatility provides businesses with flexibility in choosing the most suitable printing technology for their specific needs.
• High Volume Printing:The roll format facilitates uninterrupted printing for large quantities; making roll labels an ideal choice for businesses with high-volume labelling requirements.
• Ease of Application:The roll design simplifies the application process, whether manually or with automated label applicators. This ease of application is beneficial in environments where quick and efficient labelling is essential.
• Cost-Effective Packaging:Roll labels often result in cost-effective packaging as they can be efficiently bundled together. This reduces the need for excessive packaging materials, contributing to cost savings.
• Customisation: Roll labels can be custom designed to meet specific branding and promotional needs. This customisation allows businesses to create labels that align with their visual identity and marketing strategies.
• Space Efficiency:Roll labels are space-efficient, allowing for compact storage in warehouses or other storage facilities. This is advantageous for businesses with limited storage space.

Disadvantages of Roll Labels

• Label Waste: In some cases, roll labels may generate more waste compared to other label formats, especially if a significant portion of the roll is not used. This can be a concern for businesses focused on sustainability.
• Compatibility Issues: While roll labels are generally versatile, businesses need to ensure that their printers are compatible with the specific type of roll labels they choose. This may limit options for some businesses with specialised printing requirements.
• Initial Setup Costs: Businesses may need to invest in label dispensers or applicators for efficient use of roll labels, contributing to initial setup costs.
• Susceptibility to Damage: The exposed nature of roll labels makes them susceptible to damage during transport or handling. Care should be taken to prevent bending or tearing, especially in environments with harsh conditions.
• Limited Label Size: The size of roll labels is constrained by the width of the roll, which may limit the options for larger labels. This can be a consideration for businesses with specific size requirements.

Wrapping Up,

Choosing between Fanfold Labels and Roll Labels ultimately depends on the specific requirements of a business. Fanfold Labels are a space-efficient and environmentally friendly option, well-suited for shipping and logistics. On the other hand, Roll Labels offer versatility and are ideal for high-volume printing tasks across various industries. By carefully evaluating the benefits and applications of each, businesses can make an informed decision that aligns with their printing needs, ensuring efficiency and cost-effectiveness in their labelling processes.

If you are looking to buy fanfold labels and roll labels at the best prices in Australia, Label Warehouse is your one-stop shopping destination. Browse through our expansive inventory and shop for the perfect label to meet your business needs perfectly.