Liner Type L vs Standard - How to Reduce Logistics Label Costs?

For high-volume logistics labels, every saving matters. One of the most effective ways to reduce costs is choosing the right liner (backing paper). In this article, we explain the differences between type "L" (lightweight) and standard liners and show when changing the liner can bring significant savings.

What is a Label Liner?

The liner is the siliconized paper on which self-adhesive labels are mounted. After peeling off the label, the liner goes to waste. Although it may seem insignificant, it constitutes a significant part of the total product cost - up to 15-25% of the label price.

Different liner weights are available on the market:

• Standard liner - basis weight 60-80 g/m², most commonly used
• Type "L" liner (lightweight) - basis weight 40-50 g/m², thinner and cheaper
• Reinforced liner - basis weight 80-100 g/m², for demanding applications

Differences Between Type L and Standard Liners

Parameter	Standard Liner	Type "L" Liner
Basis Weight	60-80 g/m²	40-50 g/m²
Stiffness	High	Medium
Labels per Roll	Standard	Up to 15% more
Roll Weight	Higher	10-15% lighter
Price	Baseline	10-20% lower
Printer Compatibility	All	Most modern printers

When Does Type L Liner Pay Off?

Example Savings Calculation

A logistics company using 200,000 shipping labels 100x150mm per month:

Detailed calculation:

• Monthly usage: 200,000 pcs
• Price difference: €0.001-0.0017/pc
• Monthly savings: €230-350
• Annual savings: €2,800-4,200

When to Stay with Standard Liner?

Standard liner is still a better choice in the following situations:

• Older printers - some models may have issues with thinner liner
• Manual application - stiffer liner makes label handling easier
• Complex-shaped labels - die-cuts for irregular labels require more stable liner
• Difficult storage conditions - large temperature and humidity fluctuations
• Very small labels - below 30x20mm

How to Switch to Type L Liner?

Step 1: Pilot Test

Order a trial batch (1-2 rolls) of labels with type L liner. Test them on your production line for at least one week.

Step 2: Check Printer Compatibility

Most modern Zebra, TSC, Honeywell, SATO printers handle thinner liner without problems. If in doubt, contact your printer service or us.

Step 3: Adjust Liner Tension

Some printers may require slight liner tension reduction. This is a simple adjustment in printer settings.

Step 4: Monitor for a Month

Track any issues: jams, improper unwinding, calibration errors. If everything works correctly - you can switch permanently.

Additional Benefits of Type L Liner

Less Waste

Thinner liner means less waste to dispose of. At high volumes, this can mean savings on waste removal and a positive environmental impact.

More Labels per Roll

Thanks to thinner liner, more labels fit on a roll of the same diameter. This means less frequent roll changes and higher production line efficiency.

Lower Transportation Costs

Lighter rolls mean lower freight costs, especially important for international deliveries.