The global business world is evolving at a “break-neck speed,” and the shipping and warehousing space is not left out. Because of the central role that logistics play in running smooth operations and keeping customers happy, business owners are almost always looking for cost-effective solutions that can help them streamline shipping and warehousing processes.
Thankfully, the search has ended because the solution is just your fingertips direct thermal labels.
You would probably be asking yourself how thermal labels solve shipping and warehousing problems, and if they truly do (as we will soon reveal), how can one implement them in logistics operations? Without wasting time, let us dig in and satisfy your curiosity. Shall we?
First Things First, What Are Direct Thermal Labels?
Without boring you with technical jargon, these labels are often used in shipping and warehousing. Unlike their traditional counterparts, you don’t need ink, ribbons, or toner to print them.
What is special about them is that they work through a heat-sensitive printing process. When they are exposed to heat, a chemical reaction occurs that produces high-quality text and images on the label.
Here is a list of their top advantages:
- Cost-Effective: No need for ink or ribbons reduces ongoing expenses.
- Eco-Friendly: No consumables mean less waste in the long run.
- Speedy Printing: Instantaneous label printing, enhancing productivity.
So, How Does Direct Thermal Labels Streamline Shipping Process?
It is almost impossible to describe the modern-day shipping process without mentioning scannable labels. With that in mind, you should already have an idea of how thermal labels fit into the picture.
Here’s how they help streamline the shipping process:
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Error Reduction
Because direct thermal labels produce high-contrast and legible prints, they contribute a lot towards reducing the chances of shipping errors. What this means for businesses is that there would be fewer returned packages. As such, increasing the number of happy customers.
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Swift Printing
As we hinted earlier, this type of label is relatively easy and fast to print. You can print them on demand and meet tight shipping deadlines without breaking a sweat.
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Barcode Compatibility
They are also perfect for barcode printing. This makes them an important investment for businesses that leverage tracking of packages in delivering their goods or services.
How about Warehousing Efficiency?
Having discussed how direct thermal labels can help businesses in the shipping industry streamline their process and operations, we can now shift our focus to warehousing. What role do labels play in this sector?
Top on the list is inventory management. If you execute this correctly, it will make it incredibly easy for your staff to identify and locate products quickly. Thereby cutting down the amount of time spent searching for items.
Next is batch tracking.
With these marvels (speaking of direct thermal labels), you can assign labels to specific batches of items or products to make tracking the movements of products within and around the warehouse much easier.
Last but not least, you get to save space. How?
Because direct thermal labels don’t need ink or ribbons, you don’t have to worry about losing space or creating one to store these items or consumables.
Choosing the Right Direct Thermal Labels
When you set out to choose the ideal label for shipping and warehousing, there are important factors you should keep in mind.
First is the label material; it is always best to use materials that will satisfy your needs. For instance, they should be able to withstand the specific exposure conditions in the warehouse or during shipping.
Next is durability. Of course, nobody wants to invest their hard-earned money on something that will put a hole in their pockets. You should always consider the print durability when choosing labels.
Always keep in mind how exposure to extreme conditions like moisture, cold, or heat will affect the label and the print. This equally points to the importance of considering suitable materials, as we mentioned earlier.
Then there is print compatibility. When choosing direct thermal labels, research and find out the kind or type of printer you can easily access – and ensure that your choice of label with your existing direct thermal printer.
This is important because compatibility will guarantee smooth label production, and everybody will be happy at the end of the day.
If you are not sure how to go getting direct thermal labels for your brand or are looking to make customised labels, CDM Labels is always available to help you make an informed decision.
Wrapping Up
Direct thermal labels have been praised as the unsung heroes of efficient shipping and warehousing, and they have lived up to the expectations. They offer remarkable logistic solutions and give businesses an edge over their competition.
Thanks to their cost-effectiveness, ability to reduce errors and streamline processes, they’re definitely an investment worth considering.
So, if you are serious about enhancing your shipping and warehousing operations, you should not hesitate to add this amazing tool to your arsenal: direct thermal labels. Rest assured, your business and customers will thank you for it.