The right label size comes from the container, not from the printer. Measure the flat area you want to cover, leave a small margin, then pick the closest stock size. This guide shows how to measure and which sizes our customers choose most.
How to measure in two minutes
- Height: measure the flat, smooth part of the container from top to bottom. Skip curves, ridges and seams. Take off about 1/8" at the top and bottom so the label sits clean.
- Width on a flat surface (bags, boxes, flat-sided bottles): measure the flat face and take off about 1/8" on each side.
- Wrap-around labels (round jars and bottles): measure the diameter and multiply by 3.14 to get the circumference. Make the label a little shorter than that, so the ends do not overlap unless you want them to.
- Test it: cut a piece of paper to the size and tape it on. If it looks right on the shelf, order that size.
Sizes our customers pick most
| Product | Common label sizes | Material |
|---|---|---|
| Coffee and tea bags | 3 x 5 or 4 x 6 | Matte paper |
| Jar fronts and lids | 3 x 3 or 3" circle | BOPP for sauces, oils and anything chilled |
| Bottles and tall containers | 2 x 6 or 2 x 8 | Gloss BOPP |
| Candles and tins | 2 x 2, 3 x 2 or a 3" circle | Gloss paper or BOPP |
| Boxes and cases | 4 x 4 or 4 x 6 | Matte paper |
| Barcodes and shelf tags | 2 x 1 or 4 x 1 | Matte paper |
| Lots of different products | 4" continuous cut to any length | Any |
These are starting points, not rules. Containers vary, so always measure yours.
Check the size fits your printer too
Label width has to sit inside your printer's media range. Many 8.5" printers need labels at least 2" wide, and 4" desktop printers top out around 4.25" to 4.4". Find your model in the label roll size chart, or shop by printer on the inkjet labels page.
Paper or BOPP?
Paper is the go-to for dry goods and gives the best value. BOPP (a plastic film) stands up to water, oil and the fridge. More detail in matte vs gloss labels and waterproof vs water-resistant labels.
