The Ultimate Q&A Guide to Linerless Labeling

August 8, 2024

Linerless is emerging as a favored labeling solution. Whether in retail, logistics, healthcare, or beyond, enterprises are seeking a greener, more efficient labeling experience. Dive into our ultimate Linerless Q&A guide below to help you make informed decisions on sustainable and streamlined labeling.

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 save on shipping costs. This eco-friendly design delivers efficiency 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.

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 up to 50%.²
CO₂ emissions are lowered up to 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, minimizing 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 Switching to 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 Labeling 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.

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.

Q6: What to Consider Before Adopting a Linerless Labeling Solution?

A: Before choosing, consider these tips for linerless printer 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.
Broad Compatibility: Smooth interaction between the linerless printer and labels is crucial for a hassle-free printing experience. Validation of major brands' linerless labels with the printer is essential.