Bar code labels - print your own or buy pre-printed?

If you are going to be using bar code labels, you need to consider whether to print your own with software, labels and maybe a dedicated bar code label printer ,   OR,  whether you should just order from a company that specializes in printing bar code labels. Here are some points to consider:

You probably want to buy pre-printed bar code labels IF;

1. You need a large quantity – thousands or tens of thousands .  Printing that many barcode labels all at once really ought to be done on a dedicated bar code printer.
2. Each bar code label is exactly the same.
3. Bar code labels are sequentially numbered – maybe these are to track files or equipment.  Someone at your company can either make mistakes, or intentionally replicate numbers, causing problems.
4. Permanent adhesion is planned. A specialized label can be non-removable and even indestructible.
5. Security is an issue – labels that you print yourself can be replicated.   You might want a hologram on your label that is very hard to reproduce.
6. You need specialized tags – extra small, weather proof, metal (maybe for permanent attachment to fixed assets like computers, desks, chairs or outdoor equipment – think party rental equipment or machinery.

If you need special labels, particularly for applications including automotive, health/medical, retail, warehouse or logistical needs - you are best off working with a vendor who can supply the right product in the proper sizes.  Click here to look at some special label applications, or visit our online directory for a list of hundreds of providers. 

You might be better off printing your own if:

1. You need to put unique customer information on each label (addresses, purchase order numbers, weight, quantity.)
2. You do not need a lot of labels – maybe hundreds or a few thousand.
3. Each label is going to be a little bit different, perhaps depending on method of shipment, or the receiving vendor’s requirements.
4. You want to put bar code labels on documents.
5. You want the flexibility of changing the barcode label over time.
6. You plan to put photo’s or other images on the labels (like membership cards) .

To print your own bar code labels,  there are two common approaches.  The first involves using bar code software on your computer to design and print labels.   Labels can contain all kinds of data, not just bar codes.      The Barcode.com online directory has a list of barcode software companies.   Most  software can print bar code labels on your laser or ink jet printer or on a specialized bar code label printer.    Bar code label printers come in various sizes and styles and a complete discussion of those here is not possible.  However, suffice to say that label width is a common variable, with many printers handling labels up to 2 inches wide , or up to 4 inches wide.  Additionally a number of companies sell card printers specifically for identification cards, or items like ski passes.   If you plan to print ID cards, you are best off picking out the type of card, and printer manufacturer that you intend to use, and only then choosing software that runs that particular machine.