Guide to Custom Barcode Labels

Published: 09/23/201902/10/2023

Barcode Durability

Our barcodes are built to withstand:

Any linear or 2D barcode symbology can be used, including:

All manufacturing processes and materials are critical in forming a premium barcodes.

Aluminum – anodized aluminum barcode labels are printed with an ultra-durable sub-surface image. Barcode and graphics are photo-imaged, dyed, and sealed within the anodic aluminum surface for extraordinary performance and extended durability in the harshest environments.
Polyester – DuraPoly™ polyeser barcode labels are second-surface printed on the underside of the label surface for extended durability. Metalized polyester barcode labels are printed on metallic polyester for an attractive finish. Standard polyester labels are surface-printed for economical identification.
Stainless Steel – stainless steel barcode labels & tags are laser-marked or chemically-etched & filled out of corrosion-resistant stainless steel alloy 304 or 316. Stainless steel barcode labels & tags provide aesthetic barcode identification for rugged industrial environments.
Ceramic – ceramic barcode labels provide the ultimate durability against acids, alkalies, and high temperatures. A rugged borosilicate glass ceramic coating is fused to a stainless steel backing to produce this premium product.
Vinyl – vinyl barcode labels are printed on premium vinyl with permanent pressure sensitive adhesive backing. Vinyl barcode labels provide economical barcode identification in mild indoor environments.

The easiest way to design custom barcode labels is through our Universal Designer, where you can specify every label element, including size, text, logo, background, corner radius, hole diameter and placement, and data sequence. You may also submit an engineered drawing or call to speak with one of our design specialists. Our design team and 30+ years of industry experience allow Express to evaluate business needs and develop lasting identification solutions for large-scale deployment.

Environmental Resistance – what type of conditions will your barcode label have to endure? Express manufactures barcode labels to withstand prolonged exposure to UV radiation, caustic chemicals, repeated abrasion, extreme temperatures, multiple freeze / thaw cycles, moisture, salt spray, and other environmental challenges.
Surface – what type of surface will your label adhere to? Smooth and clean surfaces are best for adhesion. Rough surfaces are more challenging and barcode labels may need to be attached with rivets or screws. The surface material is an important consideration because metal and plastic surfaces have different adhesion characteristics.
Size – barcode label size and X-dimension are critical to ensure barcode integrity and machine readability. In a linear 1D barcode (Code 39 or Code 128), the X-dimension refers to the width of the narrowest bar in the symbol. In a 2D symbol (Data Matrix or QR Code), the X-dimension refers to the height and width measurement of one cell (square element). Express has standard X-dimensions and can advise on the proper label size to ensure barcode quality and integrity.