Stick to the Plan: How to Choose the Right Avery Labels for Your Office Project
Whether you are organizing a massive filing system in Saskatoon or mailing out invoices across Manitoba, Avery labels are the gold standard. However, open a supply catalog, and you’ll see hundreds of options. Pick the wrong one, and you risk more than just a crooked sticker—you could actually damage your office equipment.
Here is the PCBS guide to picking the perfect Avery label for your next project.
1. The Golden Rule: Laser vs. Inkjet
This is the most common mistake we see.
Laser Printers use high heat to fuse powder (toner) onto the page. If you put Inkjet labels in a laser printer, the heat can melt the adhesive, causing the labels to peel off inside the machine and ruin the drum.
Inkjet Printers use liquid ink. If you use Laser labels, the ink won't absorb into the specially coated surface, leaving you with a smeared, illegible mess.
The PCBS Tip: Look for the "Printer Type" icon on the top right of the Avery box. If your office uses both, look for "Cloud-Compatible" or "Multi-Use" labels that are rated for both machines.
2. Size Matters (The 5160 Standard)
If you are doing standard mailing, you want the Avery 5160. It is the most popular address label in the world (1" x 2-5/8"). Because it is so common, almost every software—from Microsoft Word to QuickBooks—has a pre-built template specifically for this size.
3. Specialty Solutions: Beyond the Envelope
Avery isn't just for addresses. Consider these for your specific Prairie business needs:
- Durable ID Labels: Ideal for Northwest Ontario warehouses or outdoor equipment. These are water and tear-resistant.
- File Folder Labels: Choose the "Permanent" adhesive for archives you need to keep for 7+ years, or "Removable" if you reuse folders every season.
- High-Visibility Neon: Perfect for "RUSH" shipments or marking "Fragile" boxes leaving our Winnipeg hub.
4. Use the Free Tools
Don't struggle with alignment. Avery provides a free online tool (Avery Design & Print) where you can enter the product code on your box (e.g., 5160, 8163) and design your labels perfectly every time. You can even upload your company logo for a professional B2B look.
The Bottom Line
The right label makes your business look professional and keeps your printers running smoothly. Not sure which code you need for your specific project? That’s what we’re here for.
Need a bulk quote on Avery essentials? Open a business account today.