Linerless thermal labels are becoming a smart choice for businesses across Michigan—from Grand Rapids manufacturing to Detroit retail and food service operations. If you’re looking to reduce waste, save time, and improve label printing efficiency, this guide will help you understand what linerless labels are, when to use them, and how BBCS can help.

At BBCS, we specialize in helping Michigan businesses find the right thermal printing solutions for their operation. Whether you use Zebra, Sato, or Printronix printers, we’ll help you evaluate whether linerless labels are a good fit—and get you started with the right supplies and hardware.

What Are Linerless Thermal Labels?

Linerless thermal labels are pressure-sensitive labels without a paper backing or liner. They’re coated with a special release surface so the labels don’t stick together on the roll. These labels are printed using direct thermal printing, which means you don’t need a ribbon—just heat and the right label material.

Why More Businesses Are Switching to Linerless Labels

1. Less Waste
No liner means less trash and fewer trips to the garbage bin. It’s a great fit for companies trying to reduce their environmental footprint.

2. More Labels per Roll
Without a backing liner, rolls can hold more labels—leading to fewer roll changes and improved productivity.

3. Variable-Length Printing
Zebra and Sato linerless-compatible printers allow variable-length label printing. This is perfect for applications like order tickets, receipts, or barcode labels that vary in size.

4. Compact Workspaces
Since there’s no liner to rewind or collect, linerless printers are ideal for mobile setups, kitchens, or tight counter spaces.

Best Use Cases for Linerless Labels

Businesses in Michigan are using linerless labels for:

  • Food service (prepared foods, grab-and-go labeling)

  • Retail (markdowns, shelf tags, returns)

  • Healthcare and pharmacy (prescription labeling, records)

  • Shipping and logistics (short-term barcode or parcel labeling)

  • Field service and mobile printing (labeling in remote or mobile environments)

Need long-term durability, outdoor resistance, or rugged adhesive? Explore our thermal transfer label solutions instead.

Do I Need a Special Printer for Linerless Labels?

Yes—linerless media requires printers designed to handle the adhesive coating without jamming or wearing down parts. Many modern thermal printers are now linerless-compatible, including:

  • Zebra ZD621 (with linerless configuration)

  • Zebra ZQ600 Series

  • Sato FX3-LX

  • Printronix M4L2

Not sure what your current printer can handle? We can help you check compatibility, or recommend a printer upgrade based on your needs and label volume.

Choosing the Right Linerless Media

BBCS offers linerless thermal label rolls with the right specs for your equipment—custom sizes, adhesives, and configurations to match Zebra, Sato, and Printronix models. We also offer testing samples so you can evaluate performance before committing to a full case.

Why Michigan Businesses Choose BBCS

As a local label supplier and thermal printer expert, BBCS supports companies across Michigan with everything from OEM printing supplies to custom label recommendations.

We offer:

  • Expert help choosing the right linerless media

  • Competitive pricing and fast shipping

  • Free product samples for testing

  • Friendly support from a team that understands your equipment and environment

Want to learn more about BBCS and what we offer? Visit our homepage or check out our thermal printing supplies.

Ready to Try Linerless Labels?

Let us help you figure out whether linerless labels are the right solution for your business. Whether you’re based in West Michigan, Metro Detroit, or anywhere in between, BBCS can guide you through setup, testing, and ongoing supply management.

Contact BBCS today for quotes, samples, or expert help with your thermal printing setup.