Stickers vs. Roll Labels: Which One Is Right for Your Business? (2025 Guide)

Are you launching a new product or branding your business in Canada? One of the most common questions we get at Custom Sticker Print is: "Should I order individual stickers or roll labels?"

It might seem like a small detail, but choosing the right format can save you time, money, and hassle. Whether you are labeling honey jars in BC, shipping boxes from Alberta, or handing out swag at a trade show in Toronto, here is everything you need to know.

The Short Answer

• Choose Die-Cut Stickers: If you are handing them out individually to customers (e.g., swag, promo items, laptop stickers).

• Choose Roll Labels: If you are peeling and sticking them onto packaging (e.g., bottles, boxes, bags) in high volume.

What are Custom Stickers (Die-Cut / Kiss-Cut)?

Custom stickers (often called "Singles") are cut individually. They are not attached to a reel. When you order 100 stickers, you get 100 separate pieces in a stack.

Best Used For:

• Promotional Swag: Perfect for tossing into shopping bags or handing out at events.

• Resale: If you are an artist selling designs on Etsy.

• Laptop & Water Bottle Stickers: They usually come with a thicker backing paper, making them feel more premium as a giveaway item.

Pros:

• High perceived value (feels like a gift).

• Easier to distribute individually.

• Available in Matte, and Glossy finishes.

What are Roll Labels?

Roll labels are printed on a continuous liner and wound around a cardboard core. You simply peel them off one by one to apply them.

Best Used For:

• Product Packaging: Labeling coffee cups, juice bottles, cosmetic jars, or shipping boxes.

• High Volume Speed: It is much faster to peel from a roll than to separate individual stickers.

• Machine Application: If you use a label dispenser machine, you must use rolls.

Pros:

• Cost-Effective: Generally cheaper per unit when ordering in bulk (e.g., 250+ qty).

• Faster Application: Saves your team hours when labeling inventory.

• Storage: Rolls are compact and easy to keep organized in your workspace.

Comparison Table: Stickers vs. Labels

Which Material Should You Choose?

At Custom Sticker Print, we offer durable materials for both formats right here in our Markham facility.

• For Waterproof Needs: Go with our Vinyl or BOPP options. These are oil-resistant and waterproof—perfect for hot sauce bottles or shampoo containers.

• For Writing: If you need to write an expiration date on the label, choose our Writable Roll Labels (Paper material).

Why Buy Canadian? 🇨🇦

Unlike ordering from US-based competitors, buying from Custom Sticker Print means:

• No Customs Duties: We ship directly from Markham, Ontario.

• No Exchange Rate Surprises: You pay in CAD.

• Fast Shipping: Reliable delivery coast-to-coast.

Still Not Sure?

Don't worry! Whether you are a local business in the GTA or an e-commerce brand in Montreal, we are here to help. You can order a sample pack to test the materials yourself before committing to a bulk run.

Ready to print?
👉 Shop Custom Stickers
👉 Shop Roll Labels