Durable, High-Quality Labels for Cans

Cans are a versatile and durable packaging option used across a wide range of industries, from food and beverages to pet products and industrial goods. Whether made of aluminum, tin, or steel, cans provide excellent product protection, extended shelf life, and a sleek, modern appearance. However, applying labels to cans requires careful attention to fit, adhesion, and durability to ensure a professional and long-lasting result.

Canned beverages, such as craft beer, energy drinks, and soft drinks, often use shrink sleeves or pressure-sensitive labels to achieve a seamless look. In the food industry, canned goods like soups, vegetables, and sauces require labels that can withstand temperature changes, moisture, and handling throughout their lifecycle. Beyond food and drinks, cans are also widely used in industries like cosmetics (aerosol sprays), pet food, and industrial chemicals, each with unique labeling needs.

For a successful label application, brands must consider key factors such as label material, adhesive strength, and durability. Labels should resist condensation, handling wear, and environmental exposure while maintaining clear branding and product information. Whether you need full-wrap labels for a bold visual impact or spot labels for a minimalist approach, choosing the right label solution ensures your cans stand out on the shelf and meet industry standards.

Below, we’ll explore the essential aspects of designing, printing, and applying labels that fit cans perfectly, ensuring both functionality and brand appeal.

The Must Have Elements of Can Labeling

Labeling cans requires a combination of durability, precision, and high-quality printing to ensure a polished and professional look. Whether for food, beverages, or industrial products, cans face unique challenges such as condensation, refrigeration, and frequent handling. Custom-fit labels help prevent wrinkles and bubbling, ensuring a smooth application.

Strong adhesives are essential for keeping labels firmly in place, even in cold storage or high-moisture environments. Without the right adhesive, labels can peel or shift, compromising the product’s appearance and branding. Additionally, durable materials that resist water, scuffs, and fading ensure that labels maintain their clarity and integrity over time.

Finally, vibrant, high-resolution printing ensures that logos, branding, and regulatory information remain clear and visually appealing. A high-quality label not only enhances the overall look of the can but also helps it stand out in a crowded marketplace. By selecting the right combination of materials, adhesives, and printing techniques, brands can achieve can labels that are both durable and eye-catching.

A Cracker Jack Denver Beer can with a custom label created by Columbine Label Company.

Custom-Fit Label Shapes

Cans often have curved surfaces, requiring precision-cut labels to prevent wrinkling, bubbling, or misalignment. Whether using full-wrap labels or spot labels, a tailored shape ensures a seamless and professional application.

Adhesive Strength

The right adhesive ensures labels stick securely to metal surfaces, even in cold storage or high-moisture environments. Strong, permanent adhesives prevent peeling and shifting, maintaining the label’s integrity throughout the product’s lifecycle.

The New Image presents its new custom-label beer can, made by Columbine Label Company.

Durability & Moisture Resistance

Labels for cans must withstand condensation, refrigeration, and handling. Choosing water-resistant, scuff-proof, and fade-resistant materials ensures that branding and product information remain intact and legible over time.

Half Acre custom labeled can leaning on a glass full of beer.

Vibrant, High-Quality Printing

Bold colors and crisp printing are essential for making can labels stand out. High-resolution printing and protective coatings help maintain label vibrancy, ensuring that branding remains sharp and eye-catching on store shelves.

Can Labels Applications & Examples

Three cans of TommyKnocker craft beer in a ice cold stream.

Beverage Can Labels

Common Material Types: BOPP, Poly Films, Paper, Wine Stock

Custom beverage labels are essential for showcasing your brand while ensuring compliance with industry regulations. Whether for bottles, cans, or specialty packaging, we offer high-quality materials, vibrant designs, and durable finishes. From clear product information to eye-catching branding, we create labels that enhance your beverage’s appeal and stand out on shelves.

Pet Product Can Labels

Common Material Types: BOPP, Poly Film

Pet product labels need to be durable, attractive, and informative to stand out in a competitive market. We provide custom labels for pet food, treats, supplements, grooming products, and more. With high-quality materials and finishes, our labels resist moisture, wear, and handling, ensuring long-lasting performance. Whether you need vibrant branding, ingredient lists, or regulatory compliance details, we create labels tailored to your needs. From small boutique brands to large-scale pet product manufacturers, we offer solutions that enhance packaging appeal while keeping important product information clear and legible. Let us help your pet products make a lasting impression.

FDA Compliance

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) guidelines provide direction on label size, placement and required food label information. Understanding and following these additional food label requirements are essential to avoiding delays and unnecessary costs.

Use Columbine Label Company for _______

Assorted products arranged for a photo including honey, bread mix, and hot sauce.

Labels for Jars

Custom labels for glass or plastic jars are crafted for durability, offering strong adhesion to smooth or textured surfaces. Choose from matte, gloss, or clear finishes to enhance your brand while ensuring long-lasting, vibrant designs.

Labels for Tapered Containers

Custom labels for tapered containers are designed to fit curved surfaces seamlessly, preventing wrinkles or misalignment. We offer flexible materials and precise die cuts for a smooth, professional look that enhances branding on any shape.

Labels for Tight Mandrel Containers

Custom labels for tight mandrel containers, like lip balm tubes, are designed with strong adhesives that ensure secure application without lifting or peeling. These labels conform tightly to narrow, cylindrical surfaces, providing a clean, durable finish.

Labels for Tinctures

Tincture labels are designed to ensure clear, accurate product information while enhancing your brand’s image. We offer custom labels with durable, high-quality materials that resist wear and moisture, ensuring your tinctures stand out with vibrant, professional designs that meet regulatory standards.

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