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Learn More About Labels

What kind of labels do you need?

Address labels

Ideal for: Standard–size envelopes (#10). Use for recipient's address or return address.

Key features:

Choose self–adhesive labels to speed up the packaging process.
For maximum readability, use labels that are approximately 1" x 2 5/8" or larger.
Typically come in 8 1/2" x 11" sheets that easily feed into laser and inkjet printers. Labels that work with dot matrix (pin–fed) are also available.
Look for compatibility with popular software packages such as Microsoft® Word, WordPerfect®, and Avery® LabelPro.

Tip: The United States Postal Service recommends using a minimum font size of 10 to 12 when printing labels.

Shipping labels

Ideal for: Packages and larger envelopes.

Key features:

Choose self–adhesive and pre–printed with to and from fields to speed up the addressing and packaging process.
For maximum readability and resolution of images, use labels that that are approximately 2" x 4" or larger.
A matte coating provides vibrant, high resolution of text, images, and colors.
Typically comes in 8 1/2" x 11" sheets that easily feed into laser and inkjet printers. Labels that work with dot matrix (pin–fed) are also available.
Look for compatibility with popular software packages such as Microsoft® Word, WordPerfect®, and Avery® LabelPro.

Tip: The United States Postal Service recommends using a minimum font size of 10 to 12 when printing labels.

File folder labels

Ideal for: Hanging and standard top–tab file folders.

Key features:

Choose labels with permanent adhesive to prevent lifting and curling. However, removable labels are best if you reuse file folders.
To make filing and retrieval easier, opt for labels with a color–coded strip. Some also come pre–lettered for alphabetical filing.
Typically come in 8 1/2" x 11" sheets that easily feed into laser and inkjet printers. Labels that work with dot matrix (pin–fed) are also available.
Look for compatibility with popular software packages such as Microsoft® Word, WordPerfect®, and Avery® LabelPro.

What’s available: 1/3 cut is the most commonly used size. These labels generally hold up to three typewritten lines.

End-tab file labels

Ideal for: End–tab and open shelf file folders.

Key features:

Color–coded and pre–printed in alphabetical, numerical, and monthly filing formats, which can make setting up new files, retrieval, and re–filing faster.
Look for self–adhesive labels that easily wrap around the end tab.
Opt for scored (creased) labels to insure easy and even folding of labels around tabs.

What’s available: Typically 1 1/4" x 1" before folding. Packages typically come with a variety of colors.

Standard labels

Ideal for: General office use. Create efficient and effective filing, routing and identification systems.

Key features:

Choose self–adhesive labels that stick to any surface to speed up the labeling process.
For easy and quick labeling, look for pre–printed fragile, confidential, etc. labels.
Look for labels that accept typed, stamped, or written info.
Unlike labels designed specifically for mailing, media, or files, these labels may need cutting or trimming to fit the specified space.

What’s available: Available in a variety of sizes and shapes. Assorted colors include fluorescent red, blue, green, yellow, and orange.

CD/DVD labels

Ideal for: CDs and DVDs. Identify and organize multimedia presentations, back–ups, MP3 downloads, music, digital photos, client and family data stored on CDs and DVDs.

Key features:

Generally round so the label fits right on a 4½" CD or DVD. Commonly white or clear.
Manufactured with a special adhesive designed to stick to CDs and DVDs – won’t peel off and damage CD/DVD drives.
Print from any inkjet or laser printer.
Look for compatibility with popular software packages such as Microsoft® Word, WordPerfect®, and Avery® LabelPro if you plan to design and print your labels.

What’s available: All–in–one CD labeling kits. Include design software (with ready–to–use backgrounds, photos, and clip art), a limited number of labels, a limited number of plastic CD carrying cases, and a label applicator that accurately centers the label on the CD/DVD.

Media labels

Ideal for: Videotapes, audiotapes, diskettes, and zip drives.

Key features:

Look for labels with a special adhesive designed to stick to the specified media format.
If you reuse your videotapes, audiotapes, diskettes, and zip drives, opt for removable labels, if not, choose permanent labels which are less likely to curl and lift.
Color–coded media labels can make organizing easier.
Look for compatibility with popular software packages such as Microsoft® Word, WordPerfect®, and Avery® LabelPro if you plan to design and print your labels instead of handwriting them.

What’s available: Typically come in 8 1/2" x 11" sheets that easily feed into laser and inkjet printers.

Stick-on name badge labels

Ideal for: Making name tags that only need to be worn once for a short time.

Key features:

Look for removable adhesive that won’t leave residue on garments.

What’s available: Typically come in 8 1/2" x 11" sheets and dot matrix format for easy and fast printing.

The information contained in this article is only an overview of the subject matter made for general guidance to the reader, and is subject in all cases to limitations and disclaimers set forth in Staples' Legal Terms and Conditions.

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