1. What Are Security Labels?
Security labels are specialized tamper-evident identification tools designed to secure products, packaging, and documents from unauthorized access, tampering, and counterfeiting. They serve as both visual deterrents and authentication mechanisms, commonly used across high-risk industries such as logistics, electronics, pharmaceuticals, financial institutions, and consumer goods.
These labels are engineered with one or more of the following features:
- VOID Patterns: Leave a visible “VOID” message when removed or tampered with
- Destructible Films: Break apart upon peeling, preventing reuse
- Holographic Effects: Offer high visual security and branding
- Barcodes & QR Codes: Enable inventory tracking and end-user verification
- Serial Numbers: Ensure one-to-one traceability across supply chains
Whether you’re shipping high-value electronics or safeguarding pharmaceutical packaging, security labels play a crucial role in enhancing product authenticity, improving traceability, and supporting compliance with industry standards like ISO 17712, FDA labeling, and GS1 barcoding systems.
For more detail on how different types of labels are used across industries, see our full product page on Tamper Evident Labels or read our blog post Everything You Need to Know About Security Labels.
2. Why Security Labels Matter
In today’s globalized and highly competitive marketplace, security labels play a critical role in protecting brands, safeguarding supply chains, and meeting regulatory obligations. Without tamper-evident packaging, companies risk:
- Revenue loss due to counterfeit goods entering the market
- Brand reputation damage from consumers unknowingly receiving fake or altered products
- Regulatory penalties for failing to comply with industry-specific labeling and handling standards
- Public safety threats, especially in pharmaceuticals, electronics, and food packaging
Security labels provide immediate visual evidence of tampering, deter malicious actors, and help trace products through unique serial numbers, QR codes, or VOID reveal features. In regulated industries such as healthcare, defense, and aviation, using verified tamper-evident security labels is not just a good practice—it’s a compliance requirement.
For example, the U.S. FDA mandates packaging security for pharmaceutical products to prevent tampering and diversion. Read FDA’s drug product security guidelines (fda.gov) for more details.
🔒 For B2B businesses in logistics, government contracting, and high-value manufacturing, investing in high-quality security labeling is a strategic necessity, not a luxury.
3. Types of Security Labels
Security labels come in various formats to suit different industries and protection levels. Whether for logistics, electronics, medical packaging, or luxury branding, choosing the right type of label ensures tamper-evidence, traceability, and regulatory compliance.
🔹 Label Types by Tamper Evident Feature
| Type | Description | Application Example |
|---|---|---|
| VOID Labels | Leave “VOID” text when removed | Carton sealing, warranty labels |
| Destructible Labels | Break apart when peeled off | Asset tags, electronics stickers |
| Tamper Slit Labels | Pre-cut slits that break upon tampering | Pharmaceutical box seals |
Tip: Choose VOID or destructible labels when you need visible, irreversible evidence of tampering.
🔹 Label Types by Authentication Technology
| Type | Description | Application Example |
|---|---|---|
| Hologram Labels | 3D or color-shifting designs | Luxury goods, ID cards |
| QR Code Labels | Link to authentication or registration pages | Retail packaging, warranty claims |
| Serial Number Labels | Unique code per item for traceability | Manufacturing, tracking systems |
Tip: Use QR or serial-coded labels if your supply chain requires verification, traceability, or inventory control.
🔹 Label Types by Material & Format
| Type | Description | Application Example |
|---|---|---|
| PET Film Labels | Durable, tear-resistant, moisture-proof | Logistics, outdoor use |
| Paper-Based Labels | Eco-friendly but less resistant to abrasion | Document sealing, inner boxes |
| Thermal Transfer Labels | Compatible with barcode printers | Real-time printing applications |
Tip: For rugged use (logistics or electronics), choose PET or synthetic materials; for documents or cost-sensitive projects, paper-based options may suffice.
4. How Are Security Labels Made?
Creating high-quality security labels involves a specialized production process that combines material science, anti-tampering technology, and advanced printing methods. Manufacturers must ensure that each label resists removal or duplication while aligning with industry regulations and customer branding.
🏭 Production Process Overview
- Material Selection
Depending on the intended use, labels are made from PET film, destructible vinyl, paper, or thermal materials. PET film is often chosen for its durability and moisture resistance, while destructible vinyl breaks apart upon tampering. - Security Feature Integration
Tamper-evident features—such as VOID patterns, slit cuts, or destructible surfaces—are embedded during coating or die-cutting. Additional features like holograms, microtext, or UV inks can be added to enhance visual authentication. - Printing and Coding
Using flexographic or digital printing, custom graphics, barcodes, QR codes, and serial numbers are printed for traceability. Some manufacturers offer thermal transfer options for on-demand printing. - Adhesive Application
Industrial-strength adhesives—such as permanent, removable, or freezer-grade—are chosen based on the application (e.g., carton sealing, document protection, pharmaceutical packaging). - Die Cutting and Quality Control
Labels are die-cut to custom shapes and sizes. Each batch undergoes visual inspection and adhesion testing to ensure compliance with durability and tamper-proofing standards.
📌 Product Link
To learn more about our production process and available formats, visit our Tamper Evident Security Label product page.
5. Who Uses Security Labels?
Security labels are widely used across industries:
- Electronics Manufacturers – To prevent warranty fraud or unauthorized repair.
- Medical Device and Pharma Companies – For regulatory traceability and tamper-proofing.
- Logistics and Warehousing Firms – To secure transit packaging and shipments.
- Automotive and Aerospace – For tracking parts and components.
- Retail and E-commerce – To ensure sealed, authentic delivery to customers.
6. Key Features of Security Labels
A reliable security label must balance functionality with regulatory and branding needs. Key features include:
- Tamper Evidence – The most essential feature. Whether it’s a VOID message, destructible film, or frangible material, the label must provide visible or irreversible signs of tampering.
- Custom Branding – Security labels should not only protect but also reflect your brand. Options include full-color logo printing, holographic effects, and company-specific warning messages.
- Environmental Resistance – High-quality labels must withstand moisture, UV exposure, chemicals, and temperature fluctuations, especially in industrial, medical, or logistics settings.
- Track and Trace – Integrated barcodes, QR codes, or serial numbers help improve traceability through your supply chain and support authentication.
- Material Flexibility – PET, vinyl, or destructible materials tailored for application on glass, plastic, cardboard, metal, and more.
These features ensure your security labels are not only secure—but also functional, durable, and brand-aligned.
7. Core Benefits of Using Security Labels
Investing in security labels brings measurable benefits across your supply chain and customer journey:
- Brand Protection – Security labels deter counterfeiters and unauthorized resellers by making duplication and tampering detectable and traceable.
- Regulatory Compliance – For industries like pharmaceuticals or electronics, using certified security labels is often a legal requirement (e.g., ISO, RoHS, FDA).
- Operational Efficiency – Serialized codes and scanable identifiers help speed up inventory audits, shipping, and warranty claims.
- Customer Trust – Visible security measures on packaging increase consumer confidence and demonstrate your commitment to quality and safety.
- Loss Prevention – Tamper-evident seals reduce internal theft or product swapping during transport or in retail environments.
In essence, security labels support business continuity, legal protection, and reputational strength.
8. How to Choose a Reliable Security Label Supplier
Selecting the right supplier can make or break your labeling strategy. Here are key evaluation factors:
- Experience and Specialization – Does the supplier have a proven track record in your industry (e.g., medical, logistics, eCommerce)?
- Production Capabilities – In-house printing, die-cutting, and finishing capabilities ensure better quality control and lead time management.
- Customization Services – Can they support your required dimensions, adhesive strength, colors, and security features like holograms or QR codes?
- Compliance and Documentation – A good supplier provides MSDS, ISO certifications, RoHS compliance, and full product traceability.
- Customer Support – Look for transparency in quoting, production status updates, and responsive after-sales service.
Partnering with a supplier who understands your industry ensures smoother collaboration and fewer quality issues.
9. Why Choose EcoSecurityTape as Your Supplier
At EcoSecurityTape, we simplify your procurement of security labels with end-to-end support tailored to B2B clients:
- Help you source from China all types of anti-counterfeit products—not just labels, but security bags, tapes, and seals.
- Offer small MOQ options, ideal for pilot programs or phased rollouts.
- Provide design support, including barcode integration, logo placement, and material selection advice.
- Help you visit local factories and audit quality if you need deeper supply chain control.
- Support international certifications, including ISO 9001, MSDS, and RoHS, making compliance simple across borders.
We’re not just a supplier—we’re your strategic partner in security packaging.
10. FAQs About Security Labels
Q1: What types of adhesives are available?
We offer permanent, removable, and high-tack adhesives tailored for cardboard, metal, plastic, or glass surfaces.
Q2: Are these labels compatible with laser or thermal printers?
Yes. Our blank security labels can be supplied for both laser and thermal printing systems.
Q3: Can I order samples before placing a bulk order?
Absolutely. Free standard samples are available, and custom samples can be arranged within 5–7 days.
Q4: What’s your lead time for large-volume orders?
Production typically takes 10–20 working days, depending on complexity and customization.
Q5: Can these labels be tracked in my warehouse system?
Yes. Our serialized or QR-labeled formats are compatible with most ERP or inventory systems.
11. Final Thoughts
Security labels are a critical tool for safeguarding product authenticity, reducing risk, and earning customer trust. Whether you’re protecting sensitive electronics, medical goods, or premium retail items, the right label can strengthen your entire value chain.
By choosing a reliable supplier like EcoSecurityTape, you gain access to world-class production, flexible customization, and global support—backed by experience in helping B2B clients secure their operations.
📩 Contact us today at info@ecosecuritytape.com or WhatsApp +1 615 480 2757 to request your sample pack or get a free quote tailored to your labeling needs.