Five Perfect Packaging Options for Your Product

January 27, 2023

Labels and packaging are an essential component of product packaging. They help identify the product, provide information about its ingredients and usage, and create a brand identity for your product. Different label types are used for different packaging requirements, and each has its unique features and benefits. In this blog, we will discuss five common label types – Cut and Stack, Pressure Sensitive, Shrink Sleeves, In-Mold, and Flexible Packaging, and their common uses.

Cut and Stack Labels

Cut and stack labels are one of the most popular label types used in the packaging industry. They are made by printing the label design on large sheets of paper, which are then cut and stacked. These labels are versatile and can be used for a wide range of products, including food and beverage, health and beauty, and household products.

Cut and stack labels are a cost-effective option for medium to large volume production runs. They can be printed using a variety of printing techniques, including flexography, lithography (offset), gravure and digital printing.  At Inland we produce our cut and stack labels utilizing offset and gravure print technology.   They are available in a range of finishes, including matte, gloss, and satin.

Pressure Sensitive Labels

Pressure sensitive labels are self-adhesive labels that are applied to the product surface by applying pressure, most commonly compared to a sticker. They are commonly used for packaging products like bottles, jars, and boxes.

These labels are easy to apply, and their adhesive properties ensure that they stick firmly to the product surface. Pressure sensitive labels are often a great starting point for new brands, as they can easily be applied by hand, without the need of capital investment into labeling equipment.  They can be printed in a range of colors and designs and can be used for a variety of applications.

Shrink Sleeves

Shrink sleeves are labels that are applied to the product container by shrinking them using heat or steam. They are commonly used for packaging products like bottles, cans, and jars. Shrink sleeves are made by printing the label design on a special type of plastic film that shrinks when exposed to heat.

Shrink sleeves provide full coverage of the product container and are perfect for products that require high-quality graphics and design elements. They are also tamper-evident, which means that they cannot be removed without leaving evidence of tampering.

In-Mold Labels

In-mold labels are labels that are integrated into the product packaging during the manufacturing process. They are commonly used for packaging products like plastic bottles and containers. In-mold labels are made by printing the label design on a special type of plastic film that is inserted into the mold before the product is manufactured.

In-mold labels provide a seamless and durable label solution that cannot be removed or damaged easily. They are also resistant to moisture and heat, making them ideal for products that are exposed to harsh environments.

Flexible Packaging

Flexible packaging is a type of packaging that uses flexible materials like plastic films and foils. Flexible packaging can be used for a wide range of products, including food and beverages, pet food, cannabis, and personal care products. Flexible packaging is made by printing the label design directly onto the packaging material.

Flexible packaging is lightweight and requires less material than traditional packaging, making it an environmentally friendly option. It is also flexible, which means that it can be shaped to fit the product’s shape, providing a more custom and streamlined packaging solution.

This is the quick and dirty version of each of the product segments that Inland offers and that available in the market, each with its unique features and benefits. Choosing the right label type for your product can help you create a distinctive brand identity, communicate product information effectively, and ensure that your product packaging stands out on the shelves.  We’d love to help you along the way, Let’s Talk.