Direct thermal labels print without a ribbon, using heat-sensitive facestock. That makes them the standard for shipping, picking and receiving labels with a short useful life. They fade with heat, light and abrasion, so they are not suited to long-term asset or outdoor labelling.
How direct thermal works
The printhead applies heat directly to a coated facestock that darkens where heated — no ribbon, no ink. Fewer consumables to stock and swap makes direct thermal the lowest-friction choice for high-volume shipping stations.
Where direct thermal fits (and where it does not)
Use direct thermal for labels that stay indoors and live days to weeks: shipping, picking, receiving and food service. Anything that must stay scannable for months, or faces sun, heat or friction, needs thermal transfer instead.
Top stock sizes including 4 x 6
The 4 x 6 inch label is the workhorse — the standard for carrier shipping labels and pallet and carton marking. We stock 4 x 6 alongside common shelf and small-item sizes, with custom widths and lengths quoted to order.
Adhesives
Permanent adhesive covers most shipping and carton use. Removable and freezer-grade adhesives are available where labels must peel clean or apply to chilled goods.
Direct thermal vs thermal transfer
Direct thermal needs no ribbon but fades over time; thermal transfer uses a ribbon to produce an image that survives heat, moisture and abrasion for years. If the label outlives the shipment, choose thermal transfer.
