Last updated: 2026-01-03
“My labels smudge” is almost never a printer problem. It’s usually the wrong coating for the print method. Inkjet and laser put ink on a surface in completely different ways — so label stock needs different chemistry.
Quick fix: Tell us what you’re printing with (inkjet or laser) and what the label touches (water/oil/handling).
Inkjet label coatings (why they absorb)
Inkjet uses liquid ink, so many inkjet label stocks use a more porous or absorbent topcoat to pull ink in quickly. This gives fast dry times and sharp colour — but it can be vulnerable if the surface isn’t protected for the environment.
- Great for vibrant colour when matched to the right stock
- Can require protection for moisture/oils/abrasion (construction-dependent)
Laser label coatings (why they resist heat)
Laser printing uses heat to fuse toner to the surface. Laser label stock needs a surface that tolerates heat and still anchors toner. The failure mode here is often toner flake or poor adhesion if the coating isn’t correct.
Decision table: what you should choose
| Your reality | Better direction | What to specify |
|---|---|---|
| Office labels, dry environment, low handling | Paper stocks are fine | Print method + finish preference |
| Condensation, oils, frequent handling | Film labels (e.g., BOPP) are safer | Environment + container material + adhesive needs |
| Need a premium look but still durable | Matte/satin films or protected paper constructions | Scuff resistance expectations + usage context |
What to send for a correct recommendation
- Printer type: inkjet or laser (model helps)
- Environment: dry / wet / refrigerated / oils / outdoor
- Container: glass / plastic / metal / cardboard
- Finish: gloss / matte / satin
- Quantity + size: so we can match the right construction
If you’re shipping products in the Golden Horseshoe and you need labels that stay readable through handling and storage, we’ll recommend a construction that matches your use case (and we’ll be honest when something is “not the right tool”).
Typical production is 3–5 business days after proof approval.