Shrink sleeve labels are full-color, 360-degree printed labels that utilize heat in the application process to conform the label to the shape of the pack. The labels are typically printed on either plastic or polyester film material and are commonly used on aluminum cans and glass or plastic bottles.

One of the greatest advantages of using shrink sleeves is that it allows you a 150 percent increase in label real estate compared to pressure sensitive labels. This additional space can be used to help tell your brand story, add more imagery, or make room for all of the regulatory information that needs to go on your label. Beyond branding, shrink sleeves can function as more than just a label, Like in the water bottle-caps, shrink sleeves can double as tamper-evident sealing to give your products the extra security they need with a perforated shrink cap. Shrink sleeves can also be used to package multiple items together for the purpose of offering it as one product. Because shrink sleeves are form-fitting, you can package different sized and shaped packs, like free samples or Special offers, together easily. Another benefit of using shrink sleeves is that they are very made of very durable materials. This makes them an excellent labeling option for products like hair care products and soda that are often in humid or moisture-heavy environments like showers and refrigerators.

Once your sleeves are ready, it’s time to apply them to your products. the sleeves are slipped over your packs and sent through a heat or steam tunnel, where the intense heat will shrink the film around the pack. It’s important to note that since the film is made to react when exposed to heat, it’s vital that they don’t get too hot or cold before they’re applied to your packs. Excess temperature in either direction can cause pre-shrinkage or affect the ink on the labels, which can impact the quality of the label and even render them unusable. As such, proper storage and shipping is a must.

Shrink sleeve labels allow you to add a “second skin” to your packs. When the film sleeve is placed around your container and heat is applied, it conforms to the shape of the pack to create a label that looks like it’s truly part of your product. Here are a few more reasons why so many businesses are turning to shrink sleeves for their labeling needs:

• Maximize branding opportunities

• Full color digital processing

• Waterproof label

• Abrasion resistance