Shrink sleeves vs. Pressure-sensitive labels

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One of the frequently asked questions I received from entrepreneurs or Start-ups is – Which one is best between Pressure Sensitive labels or Shrink Sleeves. I would answer that today. In my 16 yrs of experience - Customers usually select relatively suitable products before making the best choice. We all have preconceived notions about everything. And, prior to our best selection, we all choose the less-best product.

Being an author of three well received books helps me try unconventional ways to serve our clients. My first book “Sleeve it Right” explain the basic information on packaging. And now with “Packaging Black Book” & “5 Myths about sustainable shrink sleeve” books, this topic is even more clear. Let’s get clarity on a similar misunderstanding: the difference between shrink sleeves and pressure-sensitive labels.

Pressure-sensitive labels are the most common label solution in the world. They are widely used in the CPG, or FMCG, industry. Made up of different materials, like polymer or paper. They are pasted on the product’s container surface and provide limited information.

Shrink sleeves are the packaging that shrinks itself to the surface of the product. Provide 360-degree space for branding and information. Made up of different materials in polymers and they offer sustainable and recyclable sleeving opportunities too. There are several points like Application Format, Security, Integration ease, Price and Sustainability. Let us discuss them one by one for better clarity.

1. Application format

The pressure-sensitive label is applicable to the flat panel shape; any curved area will be a challenge for them. It can also be hand-pasted on the surface. Hence, it invites various errors in the application.

On the other hand, shrink sleeves provide the best finish on any curve surface, allowing full body coverage and exceptional looks.

2. Security and tamper resistance

Shrink sleeves create an edge over pressure-sensitive labels in providing safety to the product. Shrink sleeves provide firmness on surfaces, especially in cups and cans. Information on these shrink films can’t be removed as they are printed by machines. Unlike pasted pressure-sensitive labels, which neither provide additional safety to the product nor its details, they can be tamper-free.

3. Integration Ease

If you are thinking of a temporary packaging solution or one-time packaging help, then pressure-sensitive label integration is a feasible option. However, if you even have a small production set-up, then you must consider shrink-sleeve packaging. They provide packaging solutions for the long run. You don’t even need to own the application machine. You can get small quantities from packaging partners easily available in your price range.

4. Sustainability

PS Labels is quite fixed in its approach. There are set procedures for its disposal; however, shrink sleeves provide various options for sustainable packaging. You can even have renewable shrink sleeves to match global standards. It is difficult to monitor PS label removal and PCR consideration; however, with Shrink Sleeve, it is easily guided by set procedures.

5. Price

Obviously, with the given advantage, shrink sleeves may seem overpriced. PS labels are quite cheap and offer similar short-lived packaging solutions. With Shrink Sleeves, you will get a quality 360-degree packaging opportunity at a justified price.

In conclusion, you can consider various other factors than the above for a perfect choice in the packaging of your product. Yet these are the points you must consider largely. Shrink sleeves offer you choice and opportunity, which make your brand stand out in a highly competitive world. Yet, as a manufacturer, consider the best available options for your product.

We can help you solve your packaging query related to short quantities. You may connect us at [email protected] ?or call us 9667400924 for 1-2-1 session.