Why Using Genuine Labels and Ribbons Matters: Quality, Reliability & Long-Term Savings
When it comes to label printing, the focus often goes to the printer itself - but your choice of labels and ribbons is just as critical
When it comes to label printing, the focus often goes to the printer itself, but your choice of labels and ribbons is just as critical. Using non-genuine or low-quality media may seem like a cost-saving measure at first, but the consequences can be costly in downtime, poor print quality, and lost reputation.
What Does "Genuine" Labels and Ribbons Mean?
A “genuine” label or ribbon refers to a media product that is manufactured (or officially endorsed) by the original printer brand, or by a trusted partner who meets that brand’s specifications and quality assurances. These media types have been rigorously tested to work well with the printer models they are designed for.
Brands like Zebra highlight that their supplies go through extensive pre-testing to ensure compatibility, long-term reliability, and performance.
Risks of Using Non-Genuine or Low-Cost Supplies
Using off-brand, no-name, or uncertified media can lead to a host of issues:
- Poor Print Quality
Fading, uneven density, streaks, or smudging can result from mismatched ribbon coatings or inferior face stock materials.
- Printhead Damage
Cheap, abrasive, or incompatible labels/ribbons can wear down printheads faster, increasing replacement costs and downtime.
- Barcode/Scan Failures
In critical environments (warehousing, retail, pharma), a bad barcode means a failed scan, a rejected package, or regulatory non-compliance.
- Increased Waste and Reprints
When media doesn’t deliver consistent results, you’ll throw away misprints, re-run batches, and waste time and materials.
- Reduced Reliability / Downtime Risk
Poor media quality can lead to jams, label curls, adhesive failures, or ribbon wrinkles — all of which slow operations.
- Warranty & Support Issues
Some printer manufacturers may restrict support or void warranties if damage results from use of non-genuine supplies.
Benefits of Genuine, OEM-Grade Labels & Ribbons
Here’s what you gain when you stick with high-quality, tested supplies:
- Guaranteed Compatibility — Media designed to match the printer’s design tolerances, thermal behaviour, and mechanical design.
- Longevity & Reliability — Less risk of damage or premature wear; fewer service calls and replacements.
- Consistent Print Quality — Crisp, sharp text and barcodes, even at high speeds or large volumes.
- Better Adhesion & Durability — Media that’s been tested for your application (e.g. cold chain, moist environments, chemical exposure).
- Lower Total Cost of Ownership — Although the upfront media cost may be higher, you save on rework, downtime, and component replacement.
- Access to Support & Official Backing — If your printer supplier backs the media, there’s often better support, guaranteed performance, and future compatibility.
How to Choose Genuine Labels & Ribbons Wisely
| Checkpoint | Why It Matters | What to Ask / Look For |
|---|---|---|
| OEM or Certified Media | Ensures compliance with printer specifications | Ask for media approved for your printer model |
| Pre-Testing / Quality Assurance Claims | Gives confidence the media will work reliably | Request test reports or quality certifications |
| Materials & Coatings | Must suit your operating environment | Cold chain? Wet environments? Chemicals? Match accordingly |
| Ribbon Type & Grade | Wax, wax/resin, or resin depending on your media | Use the right ribbon for your label face stock |
| Adhesive Properties | Must adhere to your substrates (carton, plastic, glass) | High tack, removable, freezer-grade, etc. |
| Consistency of Supply | You don’t want to switch rolls mid-production | Choose suppliers who can deliver continuity |
The choice of labels and ribbons is far from secondary - it’s essential to your printing performance, reliability, and operational cost. For mission-critical uses (logistics, pharmaceuticals, manufacturing), genuine, pre-tested media isn’t just a “nice to have” - it can be the difference between seamless operations and costly disruptions.
At BHT Services, we specialise in supplying genuine, certified labels and ribbons tailored to your printer and application needs. If you want help finding media you can trust, that won’t let you down, contact us today!
