The biggest crisis in asset tracking or warranty processes is: "Someone peeled the label off a product and stuck it on a faulty one."
Customers often assume metallized (silver matte) labels can't be removed because the adhesive is so strong. True, they won't fall off on their own, but with deliberate effort they can be peeled off in one piece.
If your goal is security and warranty tracking, you need a VOID or destructible (security) label, not a standard metallized one. Let's compare the three in terms of tamper resistance.
1. Standard Metallized Labels (Silver Matte): Built for Durability
Our standard metallized roll labels are tear-proof, which is great for lifespan.
- Strength: plastic based and very tough.
- Risk: lifted at the edge with a blade and pulled patiently, it can come off in one piece, leaving little or no residue.
- Best for: computer cases, desks, chairs, engine parts (low security risk, high durability need).
2. VOID Labels: The Label That Tells Tales
From the outside it looks like a normal label, but it has a mechanism that kicks in when someone tries to remove it.
- How it works: the label has two layers. When peeled, the top layer comes away and the bottom layer stays on the surface, revealing "VOID", "OPEN" or a checkerboard pattern.
- Result: the label won't stick again, and tampering is obvious at once.
- Best for: electronics boxes, warranty screws, phone boxes. See our void hologram roll labels.
3. Destructible (Security) Labels: The "Eggshell"
Also called eggshell labels. They're so fragile that once applied they can't be removed in one piece.
- How it works: like a dry eggshell, it breaks into tiny pieces when you try to peel it with a fingernail.
- Result: transferring the label intact is impossible.
- Best for: screw heads, electronic components, calibrated instruments.
Comparison Table: Which Do You Need?
| Label type | When removed | Re-sticks? | Main purpose |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard metallized | Comes off in one piece (with effort) | Yes (weaker adhesion) | Long life / durability |
| VOID | Leaves "VOID" on the surface | No (damaged) | Warranty / box security |
| Destructible (security) | Breaks into pieces | Impossible | Proof of tampering |
Conclusion: Define Your Goal
If you want to track office furniture, standard metallized labels are the most economical choice. But if you need to know whether a customer has opened a device you sold, you need VOID or destructible labels. Read more in destructible vs VOID labels.
Can't decide which label suits your security needs? For samples and technical advice, contact us.
