Blank Labels on Rolls – Your Questions Answered

Blank labels on rolls are one of the most versatile labelling solutions available. Whether you’re printing shipping labels, product labels, barcodes, or price tags, they can be tailored to your exact business needs. Below we answer some of the most common questions about printing onto blank labels.

How can I print onto blank labels?

If you have a thermal label printer, there are many types of blank labels you can use, depending on your application. Alternatively, you can also print blank labels supplied on A4 sheets using a standard office inkjet or laser printer.

Where can I buy rolls of blank labels?

At Northern Label Systems, we stock a huge range of blank labels on rolls in our warehouse in Preston, Lancashire. With over 20 years of industry experience and thousands of satisfied customers, we supply labels to businesses across the UK at competitive prices.

Can I buy custom sizes of blank labels?

Yes. If the size you need is not available on our website, simply visit our Custom Labels page and complete our quick quotation form. We’ll get back to you with pricing and delivery information as soon as possible.

What labels can my Direct Thermal printer use?

Direct thermal labels have a special heat-sensitive coating that turns black when the printhead applies heat. They are ideal for short-term applications such as parcel labels, shipping labels, product labels, ingredient lists, and price labels. Please note that the print can fade over time, making them unsuitable for long-term use.

What labels can my Thermal Transfer printer use?

Thermal transfer labels require an ink ribbon. The printhead transfers the ink onto the label surface, producing a durable and long-lasting image. These labels are ideal for applications where longevity is important, such as parts labelling, asset tags, inventory control, serial number labels, and safety or warning labels.

Can I print waterproof labels on my printer?

Yes. While most thermal transfer labels are paper-based, you can also print onto synthetic materials such as polypropylene, polyethylene, polyester, or vinyl. When used with a resin ribbon, these labels are extremely durable and resistant to water, chemicals, and handling.

Can I print tags and swing tickets?

Your thermal printer can also produce tags and swing tickets for items such as jewellery, clothing, luggage, automotive parts, or repair items. These are available in both direct thermal and thermal transfer materials, including durable synthetics for longer-lasting applications.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I print colour on blank thermal labels?
No, standard direct thermal and thermal transfer printers only print in black (or in the colour of the ribbon used). For full-colour labels, you’ll need an inkjet label printer or pre-printed labels.

Are direct thermal labels waterproof?
Standard direct thermal labels are not waterproof and can fade over time. For water-resistant labels, use thermal transfer printing with synthetic materials such as polypropylene or polyester and a resin ribbon.

What is the difference between direct thermal and thermal transfer labels?
Direct thermal labels use heat-sensitive material and are best for short-term applications like shipping. Thermal transfer labels use a ribbon for a more durable print, making them ideal for long-term or outdoor labelling.

Can I order blank labels in custom sizes?
Yes. If you can’t find the size you need, we can manufacture custom blank labels in different sizes, adhesives, and core options.

Can thermal printers print swing tickets and tags?
Yes, thermal printers can print tags and swing tickets for clothing, jewellery, luggage, automotive parts, and more. These are available in direct thermal, thermal transfer, and synthetic materials.