Proper storage is essential for a wide range of items, both at home and in the workplace. Perishable food spoils when not refrigerated. Medications become less effective if left in a hot car. And if you use labels in your operation, proper storage is an essential element. In fact, storing labels correctly is key to preserving their quality, legibility, and stickiness. Failing to do so can result in fading, peeling, and weakened adhesion, negatively impacting both the function and aesthetics of your labels. By adhering to these label storage best practices, you can sidestep these issues and keep your operation running smoothly.
Factors Affecting Label Storage
There are numerous factors that guide proper label storage.
Temperature and Humidity
Both temperature and humidity impact label performance. Because label materials are derived from wood products, they shrink and swell as humidity goes from low to high. Printing and handling issues increase for materials not stored in the proper heat and humidity range.
Packaging
Label products are commonly shipped in corrugated containers and wrapped in plastic which protects the label and reduces the impact of heat and humidity. Plus, the wrapping protects the labels from dust or other debris that might occur during shipment or when in storage.
Storage
Storing label rolls and cartons properly will increase their useful life and ensure smooth processing.
Best Practices for Label Storage
There are a variety of label storage steps that prevent problems from occurring.
First, to maintain the integrity of labels, follow these guidelines:
- Storage Conditions: Between 68°F to 75°F temperature and 40% to 50% humidity are optimal conditions.
- Original Packaging: Store labels in their original packaging to protect them from dust, light, and environmental fluctuations. Return unused labels to the carton or protective covering and make sure that the packaging is sealed properly after each use.
- Dry Storage Area: Choose a storage area away from direct sunlight, heat sources, and moisture to prevent exposure to conditions that might degrade the labels.
- Avoid Concrete Floors: Because of their high moisture content, never store labels on concrete floors. The moisture is likely to leach into the rolls and damage the paper.
In addition,
Acclimate Before Use
UPS, FedEx and other freight carriers have been delivering packages reliably and in a timely manner for years. In addition, Amazon redefined our expectations for receiving products quickly after placing an order. But, you will avoid processing problems by replenishing your supply before you run out.
Why?
Because acclimating labels will help ensure smooth processing, especially in more extreme weather conditions. Truck trailers typically don’t control heat or humidity. The odds you will experience a problem increase when a product exposed to those elements is immediately set up for processing. In fact, it can take 24 to 48 hours before you can expect to print and process trouble-free.
In addition, if you store labels in a warehouse or dock area, the conditions likely mirror the truck trailer. So keep a few cartons in a climate-controlled office area.
Store Labels on Lower Shelves
Temperature and humidity conditions are best lower to the ground. Simply storing them on lower racks or shelves, preferably will reduce potential problems.
Packaging and Placement
Labels typically come wrapped in plastic. Keep the plastic around the labels to improve performance. Further, if you use roll labels, store them horizontally to help prevent adhesive settling and labels sliding on the liner.
Special Considerations for Different Label Types
In addition to the optimal 68°F to 75°F temperature range and the 40% to 50% humidity levels, some materials and adhesives require further safeguards. For example,
- Paper Labels: Store in a cool, dry place to prevent moisture absorption and fading
- Vinyl and Polyester Labels: Avoid high-temperature areas to prevent material warping
- Polypropylene Labels: Store in a dry environment below 75°F
- Dissolvable Materials: These are extremely sensitive to humidity and temperature. Keep materials wrapped in plastic and use within six months of purchase.
- Repositionable Adhesives - Store in a cool dry place and avoid exposure to extreme heat or cold
- Acrylic Adhesives - Keep materials wrapped in plastic until use
- Rubber Based Adhesives - Maintain in a well ventilated, cool and dry location
- High Temperature Adhesives - Store in a dark, dry location
In addition, labels used in certain applications like pharmaceuticals or food and beverage products, may require more stringent storage conditions.
Preventing Common Storage Issues
While labels don’t spoil like food, their failure rate increases if materials remain in storage for too long. So whether you have thousands of cartons in stock or only a few, make sure you move inventory into production on a first-in-first-out basis. This reduces the possibility of spoilage.
Although the ideal order quantity is a four to six-month supply, organizations with lower volume requirements often extend that number to benefit from quantity discounts. But, the longer you expect your supply to last, the more important it becomes to implement periodic inspections. Check the labels for things such as discoloration, curling edges, or loss of adhesion.
In addition, regardless of the number of labels in storage, make sure they are away from direct sunlight, heat sources, and moisture to prevent exposure to conditions that might degrade the labels. Maintain a stable environment and adhere to the ideal temperatures and humidity levels.
Handling and Organizing Labels
Implementing proper handling and organizing steps prevents label obsolescence, decreases printer disruptions and reduces costs.
- Stack cartons of laser labels flat and rolls horizontally to avoid bending or curling.
- Before loading sheets into a laser printer fan the label stack. This will release any sheets that stick together. This can occur when adhesive seeps out from the liner, something that happens more often when the material is stored for long durations in a hot environment. A change in humidity can also trigger this problem. In fact, even with air-conditioned offices, indoor temperatures and humidity often spike during a change of seasons or an unusual weather pattern.
- Handle labels with clean hands or use gloves. This prevents transferring dirt or residue onto a label which can smudge the print image.
FAQs About Label Storage
Do you need more label storage tips? Here are 10 frequently asked questions that will help you maximize the life of your labels and minimize downtime due to processing errors.
What is the ideal temperature for storing labels?
The ideal temperature range for storing labels is between 68°F to 75°F. This range helps to maintain the integrity of both the label material and the adhesive.
How does humidity affect label storage?
Humidity levels between 40% and 50% are optimal for label storage. High humidity can cause label adhesives to weaken, leading to peeling or curling, while low humidity can dry out adhesives, reducing their tackiness and effectiveness.
Can I store different types of labels together?
Yes, different types of labels can be stored together, provided they are all stored under the recommended environmental conditions. However, it's crucial to keep them in their original packaging to prevent cross-contamination and to maintain their quality.
Why is it important to store labels in their original packaging?
The original packaging is designed to protect labels from dust, light, and environmental fluctuations, which can degrade the labels over time. It also helps in maintaining the humidity and temperature conditions ideal for label storage.
What should I do if my storage area exceeds the recommended temperature or humidity levels?
If the storage area does not meet the recommended conditions, consider using climate control solutions such as air conditioners, dehumidifiers, or humidifiers to stabilize the environment. Additionally, ensure the labels are securely packaged to minimize exposure.
How should I handle labels during storage to prevent damage?
Handle labels with clean hands or gloves to avoid transferring oils or residue to the adhesive. Make sure not to compress or drop rolls or stacks of labels, as this could lead to deformation or damage to the edges.
What are the signs of improper label storage?
Signs include discoloration, fading, curling edges, loss of adhesion, and material warping. These indicate that the storage conditions may not be optimal and need adjustment.
How often should I inspect my stored labels?
It's advisable to inspect your stored labels at least every 3 to 6 months to ensure they remain in good condition. This frequency might increase depending on the sensitivity of the materials and environmental stability.
Can direct sunlight affect stored labels?
Yes, direct sunlight can lead to fading and degradation of both the label material and the adhesive. It's best to store labels in a location away from direct sunlight.
What should I do with labels that show signs of storage-related damage?
Evaluate the extent of the damage to determine if the labels are salvageable. In some cases, adjusting the storage conditions might prevent further damage. If the labels are significantly degraded, they may need to be disposed of to avoid compromising the quality of your products or processes.
United Ad Label
By understanding the factors that affect label storage and implementing these best practices for storing labels, businesses can significantly extend the lifespan and functionality of their labels. United Ad Label is a label manufacturing company that brings a deep understanding of materials and adhesives and their diverse handling and storage requirements. Contact us to learn more.