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Should You Go With Custom Printed Labels on Sheets or Rolls?

Updated 05/11/2023

Custom labels are the perfect solution for small business owners, event planners, and sticker enthusiasts looking to save time. But if you’re just starting your custom label journey, you may be uncertain of what the differences are between label sheets and rolls, and which one would be the right one for you and/or your product. Look no further! Here’s our advice for figuring out if you should go with custom printed sheets or rolls.

So, what’s the difference?

Custom Labels on Sheets

Custom labels on sheets are printed on 8.5" x 11" label paper. They're available in dozens of size and shape configurations. We currently offer printed sheets in some of our more popular label materials including white matte, weatherproof, brown kraft, and clear.

Printed sheets are great options for shorter label runs, but may not be as economical if you need to print more than 1000 labels. Maybe you’re in the beginning stages of your business, or you just want to test out a new design and see how it looks on a label — with sheets, you can order a minimum of 1 sheet of labels, whereas with rolls, our minimum order is 100 labels.

Custom Labels on Rolls

If you're looking for a labeling solution that's more cost-effective at a higher quantity, you may want to consider custom labels on rolls. Our custom roll labels are also available in dozens of configurations. When you order your custom labels on rolls, you open up the opportunity to finish your labels, regardless of the material, with a protective gloss or matte laminate for an extra layer of protection and durability.

In addition to their cost-effectiveness at higher volumes, customers also choose custom roll labels if they need advanced printing options such as white ink printing. White underprints are especially important to consider if you’re seeking a clear label material. This process includes a layer of white ink under your design, making the print completely opaque and easy-to-read.

While our sheet printers offer great print results, our industrial roll printers also offer even more color and printing accuracy on your labels.

Other Things To Consider

How much space do you have for storage? Sheets come packaged conveniently in a plastic clamshell, however, one roll label can hold hundreds, sometimes thousands of labels.

Do you make frequent adjustments or changes to the design of your product packaging? Maybe consider going with the sheet option and ordering a smaller quantity, that way you aren’t stuck with an entire roll of a previous or outdated design.

Roll labels can also be applied with a dispenser which makes labeling easier and more efficient.


Whether you want sheets or rolls, OnlineLabels.com features a wide range of customization options with free digital proofs and quick turnaround. If you’re still feeling unsure about which option is right for you, visit our FAQ page for more information or give us a call at 1-888-575-2235 and we can work through it together.

Ready to get started with professionally printed labels? Shop custom labels to get started.

Need a large-scale printing job or premium label materials for your label rolls? Shop premium label solutions for enterprises today, or fill out the form below.


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