Weber Packaging Solutions, Inc.

Been There, Labeled That -- Weber's Blog on Labels

Why does an unwind direction matter when ordering labels?

Posted by Margaret O'Leary

Jul 3, 2014 8:44:55 AM

It's time to order a batch of labels for my new product. I need to get this label order right the first time so production goes smoothly. What information does my label printer need from me?

There are a lot of specs you need to give to your printing company when it's time to order new pressure-sensitive labels. These usually include:

  • Label material
  • Label adhesive
  • Final label size
  • Number of colors
  • Special label features (like booklet, coupon, extended text, etc.)
  • And the Unwind direction

What is the unwind direction?

The unwind direction is the orientation of the label as it will feed out of a label printer or label applicator. There are eight different directions you could choose from for your unwind direction. Depending on whether you are applying them by hand or using automated machinery, this can be a critical factor.


Why it matters

If your labels are to be fed out of a label printer or label applicator, then it is very likely that the label orientation is critical to the application. If you don't pick the correct unwind direction, you risk printing your barcode or other variable data in the wrong spot or even over your artwork. Selecting the correct direction also means you won't need to adjust your applicator because the labels are applying upside down!


Check out this handy guide to the various rewind directions.


Next time you are near your labeling operation, see if you can use this chart to figure out your current label orientation. Maybe you need to adjust it on your next order to improve labeling efficiency?

Find more information like this in A User's Guide to Labels

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Topics: Labels