When barcode labels were first introduced they were only available in a paper format. It was quickly found that these labels disintegrated, faded or were otherwise damaged quite easily when in constant use, so a more durable type of barcode label was needed.
Durable barcode labels now feature a type of over-lamination, which provides a coating of a clear polyester material over the label. This over-lamination can then protect the labels from things such as:
• Adverse weather conditions
• Harmful UV rays
• Heavy soiling from grease and dirt
• Some types of chemicals
• Moderate abrasion
Because an over-laminated barcode label is protected from the rigours of a harsh environment, the label can remain fully functional and the barcode ‘stripes’ can be always read by an electronic reader.
As well as providing a good degree of durability to a barcode label there are a range of other benefits provided by over-lamination. This includes things such as:
• A reduction in glare – glare is reduced when an over-lamination is used on the label, this makes them easily readable
• Keeps the labels flat and smooth – When an over-lamination is applied to the label a side-effect is to keep the label flat, this helps with later reading of the label by a barcode scanner.