Finding the right barcode label: buying guide
Barcode labels come in many varieties – different materials, sizes, barcode types and adhesives. This can quickly make the choice overwhelming. In this guide, we help you find the right label for your specific application.
Step 1: Determine the application
Where will the label be used? The environment plays a key role in determining which material you need:
- Office and indoor environments: Paper labels are cost-effective and sufficient – ideal for file spines, document archiving or temporary labelling
- Warehouses and production: Film labels made of polyethylene (PE) or polypropylene (PP) – they are moisture-resistant and can withstand dust and light mechanical stress
- Industrial and outdoor use: Polyester (PET) labels are the best choice – extremely scratch-resistant, smudge-proof and UV-resistant, heat-resistant and durable for many years
- Curved surfaces: Flexible PE films conform to curves, e.g. on cables or cylindrical housings
Step 2: Choose the right barcode type
The right barcode type depends on the data to be encoded:
- Code 39: The classic choice for inventory and logistics. Encodes numbers and uppercase letters. Widely used and readable by virtually any scanner
- Code 128: More compact than Code 39 and encodes the full ASCII character set. Ideal when space is limited or special characters are required
- DataMatrix: A 2D code in the smallest of spaces. Perfect for component identification or when the label needs to be particularly small
- QR Code: High data capacity, readable by any smartphone. Well suited when end customers are also expected to scan the code
Step 3: Determine the size and header
The label size depends on the available space and the scanning distance. A good rule of thumb: the barcode should be at least 20 mm high and have a quiet zone of approx. 5–8 mm all around it so that scanners can read it reliably.
Many of our customers use the header above the barcode for customised text – e.g. the company name, “Inventory No.”, “DGUV V3 certified” or a department name.
Step 4: Consider security features
Depending on the application, security features may be important:
- Security perforation (VOID): The label is destroyed when removed – tampering is immediately visible. Essential for inventory labels on IT equipment or high-value devices
- Tamper-proof adhesive: Extra-strong adhesion prevents accidental or deliberate removal
- Sequential numbering: Each label is given a unique number – ideal for seamless stock management
Our recommendations by application
| Intended use | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Inventory (IT, furniture, machinery) | Inventory labels – polyester, Code 39, with security perforation |
| Document archiving (folders, files) | Archiving labels – paper or film, Code 39 |
| Electrical testing in accordance with DGUV V3 | Test labels – film, with header and barcode |
| Product labelling (shipping, logistics) | Product labels – paper or film, as required |
| Cable labelling | Marking labels – flexible PE film, small and wrap-around |
Not sure which label is right for you? Our team will be happy to advise you personally. Drop us a line or give us a call on +49 7164 918 0456.