| Paper-based packaging with 100% recycled content and an uneven surface can be difficult for labels and stickers to adhere to. Each year, we hear from a handful of customers using 100% Recycled Padded mailers that they are having issues getting shipping labels to stick. This either leads them to cover their shipping labels with clear plastic tape (making the entire package far more difficult to recycle) or to transition their packaging strategy. While only a small percentage of Padded Mailer users face these issues, we believe it is important to offer a shipping label that makes it feasible for this group to utilize their desired sustainable packaging solution. With this goal in mind, we are pleased to offer this high tack shipping label. These shipping labels utilize a hot melt adhesive, which is 100% adhesive (no water), similar in material makeup to a hot glue stick. This makes for a stronger and more permanent seal than can be achieved through acrylic emulsion. Most labels, including UPS and DYMO labels, utilize acrylic emulsion adhesive (which are ~50% adhesive, ~50% water). Check out this video comparing different labels on a 6x9" padded mailer. In fact, when we tested these internally, we realized that the biggest drawback to them was that if you stuck them on the wrong place on a mailer, you could not get them off without ripping the entire label apart. It is important to recognize that these are not a more sustainable option than standard labels. They are a solution designed to help companies ensure they can successfully use 100% recycled paper-based packaging that has an uneven or cushioned surface. We recommend eco-minded companies test our our Zero Waste Shipping Labels (available as sheet labels and direct thermal), featuring a 100% recycled and curbside recyclable release liner, and only consider this high tack option if the zero waste labels have not been successful. | |||
This direct thermal shipping label utilizes a STANDARD, silicone lined, virgin release liner that is not curbside recyclable. While it is not a sustainable shipping label alternative, it has an extremely high tack adhesive, allowing it to bond with difficult-to-adhere materials such as our 100% Recycled Padded Mailers. We are offering it as an option for companies that want to use Padded Mailers but haven't struggled to find a shipping label that works effectively for them.
