When businesses purchase shipping labels in bulk, one of the most common concerns is whether the labels themselves will expire or lose functionality over time. Since labels are an essential part of logistics, print quality and adhesive strength directly affect efficiency in daily operations.
Do Shipping Labels Go Bad Over Time?
The labels themselves do not have a strict expiration date, but their usability can be affected by storage conditions, label type, and how long they are kept before use.
1. Adhesive Performance
Most shipping labels are self-adhesive. If stored for too long in hot or humid environments, the adhesive may dry out or lose tackiness. This can result in labels peeling off during transit.
2. Print Quality
For thermal shipping labels, the surface coating reacts to heat when printed. Over time, if labels are exposed to sunlight, high temperature, or moisture, the thermal coating can degrade, causing fading or uneven printing.
3. Material Durability
High-quality labels are designed to resist tearing, smudging, and abrasion. Inferior materials may yellow, become brittle, or lose clarity if stored improperly.
How Long Can Labels Be Stored?
- Thermal labels: Typically remain effective for 6–12 months when stored in a cool, dry place.
- Direct thermal vs. thermal transfer: Direct thermal labels have shorter storage life, while thermal transfer labels (with ribbon printing) last longer.
- Ideal conditions: 18–24°C (64–75°F), humidity below 60%, and away from sunlight.
Best Practices for Businesses
- Store Properly – Keep labels in sealed packaging until use.
- Use First-In, First-Out (FIFO) – Rotate stock so older rolls are used before newer ones.
- Order in Suitable Quantities – Purchase volumes that match expected usage cycles to avoid long-term storage.
- Choose Quality Materials – Premium coatings and adhesives extend the usable life of shipping labels.
Our Assurance
We manufacture custom shipping labels with high-grade adhesive and durable print surfaces designed for long-term usability. By providing options such as thermal transfer labels, stronger adhesives, and protective coatings, we help clients minimize risks of label degradation and ensure that every printed label remains clear and functional when applied.
Conclusion
Shipping labels as a product do not “expire” like food or medicine, but their adhesive and print performance can weaken over time if stored improperly. For reliable results, it is recommended that labels be stored under controlled conditions and used within the recommended timeframe. If you require custom shipping labels, please contact us.
