Do you ever find yourself wondering about the differences between stickers and labels? Despite being very similar, the two can be used to serve different purposes. At The Packaging Company, we sell both custom stickers and labels. If you’re reading this wondering which one to buy, read along!

Stickers vs Labels: What’s the Difference?

Stickers material is three times thicker than Labels. Our stickers have a matte finish compared to the glossy surface of labels. Stickers are individually cut, whereas Labels come rolled on a liner. Knowing these basic differences will give you a head start in determining which product serves your need. Let’s dive right into each of them specifically.

Tell me more about Stickers?

stickers vs labels; Stickers

Stickers are printed on premium thick vinyl and individually cut, which makes them easier to distribute. Stickers are a great way to promote your brand, and using thicker vinyl gives your logo the definition it needs. Our stickers have a slight matte finish, with a custom laminate that’s dishwasher-proof and weather resistant.

Stickers can be used as merchandise, tradeshow giveaways and packaging inserts (the little thank-you gifts that you put in customer shipments). This way customers can stick your brand to their favorite devices such as laptops, phones, and tumblers which will carry your logo everywhere they go. With our easy-to-use online design tools, you can create your custom design in under 5 minutes.

Tell me more about Labels?

stickers vs labels; labels

Labels on the other hand are made with a thinner material named BOPP. Biaxially Oriented Polypropylene is a process of two plastic films stretched out in opposite directions and then bonded together. This process creates a durable product with better flexibility and finer detail in design.

BOPP is the perfect material to print as labels, it’s designed for pigment-based ink printers and produces a dry finish that captures your design in high definition. Like all plastic, BOPP is resistant to water, oil, and other chemicals.

The durable nature of BOPP material makes it a great addition to your packages. Logos and artwork can easily be printed on labels and put on top of containers to add character to an otherwise plain box. Our labels can also be put on top of different mediums such as glass, plastics, and mailers.

Labels can be used for multiples purposes. Products such as shampoo bottles and food containers like mason jars are perfect examples. BOPP material is also used in a lot of food packaging, so it’s safe to use for products containing food such as honey, coffee, and teas.

Other common label types include:

  • Product Labels – Most brands have their products labeled to help them stand out from other competitors.
  • Care Labels – These types of labels are used to instruct and educate the masses on how to use, maintain and distribute certain products.
  • Mailing / Shipping Labels – These labels are used to help get your products out the door and right to your customer.

Want to design your own Custom Stickers and Custom Labels?

You’re in luck. Creating your own stickers and labels is as easy as visiting our Custom Shop. There you’ll find the online design tools you need to create standout branded packaging, including custom paper tissue, boxes, and mailers.

Now that you’re an expert on the differences between stickers and labels, upload your artwork and get started on your custom stickers and custom labels. We can’t wait to see what you create.