Thermal top-coated paper vs synthetic labels (PP/PE/PET)

Thermal top-coated paper vs synthetic labels (PP/PE/PET): which should you choose?

In logistics, warehousing and industrial environments you often have to choose between thermal top-coated paper and synthetic labels such as PP, PE or PET. Both are used in Dymo, Brother and Zebra label printers, but they are designed for very different conditions.

What is thermal top-coated paper?

Thermal top-coated paper is an upgraded thermal material with a protective coating. This coating improves resistance to:

• abrasion on boxes, bins and conveyors
• UV exposure and fading
• condensation and light moisture
• higher print temperatures
• loss of contrast in barcodes

It is the professional standard for shipping and barcode labels. Many labels on our site, such as 100 × 150 mm shipping labels and labels for the Dymo LabelWriter 4XL, are made from thermal top-coated paper.

Best suited for

• shipping labels
• picking and packing labels
• standard warehouse barcodes

What are synthetic labels (PP / PE / PET)?

Synthetic labels are made from plastic materials instead of paper. The most common types are:

• PP – strong, water resistant and ideal for logistics
• PE – flexible, suitable for curved surfaces
• PET – extremely durable and resistant to heat and many chemicals

These labels are used in demanding environments where paper, even top-coated, is not robust enough. Typical examples include cold storage, outdoor warehouses and industrial production lines, often combined with Zebra printers or Brother BDE labels.

Comparison by application

Conclusion

• Thermal top-coated paper is ideal for most shipping and warehouse label applications.
• Synthetic labels (PP/PE/PET) are essential for demanding environments with moisture, extreme temperatures or chemicals.