Barcode labels are essential tools for businesses across various industries, from retail and healthcare to logistics and manufacturing. They streamline operations, improve inventory management, and enhance accuracy. However, using barcode labels effectively requires more than just printing and sticking them on. Many businesses make common mistakes that can lead to inefficiencies, costly errors, and even damage to their equipment.

Here are the top 5 mistakes to avoid when using barcode labels:

1. Overlooking Durability:

Not all thermal label materials are equal.  The environment your label lives in dictates the material it needs to be made from. Will it be exposed to extreme temperatures, moisture, chemicals, or abrasion? Choosing the wrong material can lead to fading, smudging, or peeling, rendering the barcode unreadable.

• Direct thermal labels are cost-effective for short-term applications like shipping labels, but they're sensitive to heat and light. These are best for short term applications where the label doesn't need to last or stand up to anything,
• Thermal transfer labels offer greater durability with options like paper, polypropylene, and polyester to withstand harsh conditions.  There are a variety of thermal transfer materials to choose from specifically designed to handle certain environmental factors such as high temperatures, extreme cold temps, humidity, submersion, chemicals and more.
  

2. Neglecting Print Quality:

A poorly printed barcode is as good as no barcode at all. Inconsistent darkness, smudging, or low resolution can make scanning difficult or impossible.  In certain cases, poorly printed barcode labels can be refused and cost suppliers money. The below tips seem obviously, but are commonly overlooked or underestimated causing printing issues. 

• Ensure your barcode printer is properly set up and calibrated
• Choose the correct ribbon for your label material (wax, wax/resin, or resin).
• Install both the labels and ribbon correctly to avoid jams and printhead damage.
  

3. Underestimating Adhesion:

The right adhesive is crucial for ensuring your labels stay put. Different adhesives are designed for different surfaces and environments.

• Consider the temperature range the label will be exposed to.
• Evaluate the surface texture (smooth, rough, curved).
• Choose an adhesive that can withstand the demands of your application.
  

4. Compromising on Material Quality:

Using cheap, old, or damaged label material can severely impact print quality and even damage your Zebra printhead. Poorly manufactured barcode labels may have inconsistent coatings or adhesives, leading to printing issues and reduced printhead life.  In many cases, low extremely low barcode label pricing doesn't save you money, it simply moves the cost down the road in the form of printhead replacement, increased printer maintenance and downtime. 

• Invest in high-quality labels from reputable suppliers like The ZPS Store (Zebra Printer Supplies Store).
• Store thermal labels properly in a climate controlled environment to prevent damage and degradation. 
  
  

5. Ignoring Printer Maintenance:

Regular printer maintenance is essential for optimal performance and longevity. Neglecting printhead and platen roller cleaning as well as regular barcode printer calibration can lead to print quality issues, jams, and costly repairs.

• Follow the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule or rely on a Zebra Printer Repair Specialist
• Clean the printhead and platen rollers regularly.  It's recommended you wipe down the printhead and platen roller every time you change out a roll of ribbons, or every two rolls of labels.
• Use isopropyl alcohol wipes for cleaning to avoid damage.

Why Genuine Zebra Printer Supplies are a Sure Bet

Zebra Technologies is a leading manufacturer of barcode printers and supplies. Choosing genuine Zebra supplies offers several advantages:

• Guaranteed Compatibility: Zebra supplies are designed and rigorously tested to work seamlessly with Zebra printers, ensuring optimal performance and print quality.
• Superior Quality: Zebra uses high-quality materials and strict manufacturing processes to produce durable and reliable labels and ribbons.
• Extended Printhead Life: Using genuine Zebra supplies helps protect your printhead from damage, extending its lifespan and reducing maintenance costs.
• Consistent Performance: Zebra supplies deliver consistent results, minimizing printing errors and ensuring accurate barcode scanning.
• Wide Selection: Zebra offers a wide range of labels, ribbons, and other supplies to meet the needs of various applications and industries.

By avoiding these common mistakes and choosing genuine Zebra printer supplies, you can ensure accurate, durable, and high-quality barcode labels that optimize your operations and minimize costs.

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