Thermal Labels and Ribbons for Zebra, Honeywell and Other Barcode Printers

Zebra PartnerConnect Registered Reseller serving the barcode industry since 1997. Free US shipping on Ecotherm labels, no minimum.

Find Labels for Your Printer

Choose your printer model to see the label rolls and ribbons that match its core size, roll diameter and media width.

Shop Thermal Labels by Size

Start with Ecotherm, our own direct thermal label brand, then compare genuine Zebra and generic stock labels in the same size. Ecotherm white direct thermal labels are BPA-free and BPS-free, tested by SGS, with Permanent Hot Melt adhesive. Free US shipping on Ecotherm labels, no minimum.

See all label sizes

Custom Labels Made to Your Spec

Need a size, material or adhesive we don't stock, or labels pre-printed with your logo or text? Tell us the label size, your printer model and the quantity, and we'll quote direct thermal or thermal transfer labels on rolls or fanfold. We'll reply within 1 business day.

Thermal Transfer Ribbons

Thermal transfer printers need a ribbon matched to the label material.

  • Wax: For paper labels used indoors: shipping, receiving and shelf labels.
  • Wax/resin: For coated paper and synthetic labels that need more smudge and scratch resistance.
  • Resin: For polyester and polypropylene labels exposed to chemicals, heat or outdoor conditions.

Business Accounts: Net 30, Purchase Orders and Reorders

Net 30 payment terms are available to companies and government agencies. Approved accounts can order against a purchase order and pay by invoice. You can also ship on your own UPS or FedEx account. Sign in to see past orders and reorder the same labels and ribbons.

Thermal Label and Ribbon Questions

What is the difference between direct thermal and thermal transfer labels?

Direct thermal labels have a heat-sensitive coating that darkens under the printhead, so they print with no ribbon. They suit shipping, receiving and other short-term labels. Thermal transfer labels are printed by melting ink from a ribbon onto the label. Choose thermal transfer when a label must stay readable through heat, sunlight, abrasion or long storage.

Which labels fit a Zebra ZD421?

The Zebra ZD421d direct thermal printer takes rolls on a 1 inch core with an outer diameter up to 5.0 inches. It feeds media from 0.59 to 4.65 inches wide and prints up to 4.09 inches wide. That covers 4x6, 4x4, 4x3 and 2.25 inch wide direct thermal rolls. Fit is decided by media width, not print width.

When do I need a ribbon?

You need a ribbon only when you print thermal transfer labels on a thermal transfer printer. Direct thermal labels never use one, and a printer that is direct thermal only has no place to load one. Match the ribbon to the label material, and choose a ribbon slightly wider than the label so the printhead is covered.

What is the difference between wax, wax/resin and resin ribbons?

Wax ribbons are the standard choice for paper labels used indoors, such as shipping and shelf labels. Wax/resin ribbons print on coated paper and synthetic labels and resist smudging and scratching better. Resin ribbons are for synthetic labels such as polyester and polypropylene that face chemicals, heat or outdoor exposure. Choose by label material first, then by handling.

What core size and roll outer diameter does my printer take?

Desktop printers take label rolls on a 1 inch core. Zebra ZD-series desktop models accept rolls up to 5.0 inches in outer diameter. Mobile printers take small rolls on a 0.75 inch core, and the Zebra ZQ630 accepts rolls up to 2.6 inches in outer diameter. Industrial printers use rolls on a 3 inch core. Check both numbers before you order.

How do I get Net 30 terms?

Net 30 payment terms are available to companies and government agencies. Download the application from the Net 30 page, complete it and email it to Sales@BarcodeSupplies.com. We check trade and bank references before opening terms. Once approved, you can order against a purchase order and pay by invoice. Card orders need no application.

How are custom labels quoted?

Send us the label size, material, print method (direct thermal or thermal transfer), adhesive, whether the label is printed or blank, the number of print colors, the core size, your printer model and the quantity. We price the job from those details and email you a quote. Use the custom label quote form or call 800-545-2442.