The decision to print lab labels in-house or buy them preprinted from a label manufacturer should be based on label content, economics, and durability.
Smaller facilities that process only a few vials, plates or slides per day (or 10,000 or less per year) may want to buy labels custom 
printed for them. If your label information tends to be generic with sequential numbering, ordering preprinted labels is an excellent choice for your small lab.
If, on the other hand, your labels need extensive unique data you cannot specify when buying, you will want to print them yourself.
Larger labs frequently:
- Process high volumes of specimens
- Link to a LIS or HIS system
- Track unique/variable patient or sample information
If the above issues describe your lab, it will be better for you to print on-demand in-house.
Looking for Increased Durability? Laminate
For ultimate durability we recommend laminating labels with a clear film overlay to protect your printed information against moisture, chemicals and solvents. The easiest way to laminate labels is to have us print them for you. Purchasing printed labels also lets us add color with full label tinting, color bars and graphics.
There are also ways you can print your own labels with lamination, but they tend to be a bit labor intensive and require some specialized label engineering!
Connect with The Label Experts to discuss the best way to print your own laboratory labels.
