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Shrink sleeve labelling

Shrink Sleeve Labelling Machines for Bottles, Jars and Containers

A shrink sleeve labelling line places a printed sleeve on the container, then shrinks it to fit. For a full-body label, compare the seam, artwork and barcode on the finished pack. Bring the actual container and printed sleeve so the applicator placement and tunnel result can be checked separately. Use the finished-pack inspection guide to agree what a trial should show.

Shrink sleeve labellingFull-body labelsBottle sleevingJar sleevesPrinted sleeves

Best-fit applications

Where this sleeve applicator route usually fits.

A shrink sleeve labelling project is normally specified as an applicator, conveyor handling and shrink tunnel package. The applicator controls placement while the tunnel controls final presentation and barcode readability.

  • High-impact product branding with 360-degree coverage
  • Shaped containers where pressure-sensitive labels are difficult
  • Food, drink, cosmetics and personal-care packs
  • Promotional sleeves and multi-SKU product presentations
  • Sleeve material: PVC, PET, OPS or project-specific film
  • Artwork position, barcode position and seam location
  • Shrink percentage and pack distortion risk
  • Container material and heat sensitivity
  • Required output, changeover range and line footprint

Specification checks

Details to confirm before choosing the machine.

Good sleeve applicator selection starts with the real pack, the real sleeve and the target output. The checks below help narrow the applicator, conveyor and tunnel route before a quotation is prepared.

Related pages

Compare nearby sleeve applicator options.

These pages help connect the search route to the correct machine family, application type or quotation checklist.

Related route

Bottle applicators

Compare full-body bottle labels, partial sleeves and short bands around the closure.

Bottle applicators →

Related route

Shrink tunnels

Compare tunnel options against film, pack shape, available utilities and the required finish.

Shrink tunnels →

Related route

Buying guide

Compare sleeve purpose, pack handling, tunnel utilities and changeover needs before choosing a machine.

Buying guide →

FAQ

Shrink sleeve labelling questions

Is a shrink sleeve labelling machine the same as a sleeve applicator?

A sleeve applicator is the application stage. A shrink sleeve labelling machine or line often includes the applicator, conveyor handling and a shrink tunnel.

Can shrink sleeve labels cover the full bottle?

Yes. Full-body sleeves can cover most or all of the container, but artwork and shrink testing are important on shoulders and shaped areas.

Which tunnel is best for shrink sleeve labelling?

Steam, hot-air and electric tunnels can all be used. The best choice depends on sleeve film, container shape, utilities and finish expectations.

Project support

Send container, sleeve and output details for a practical shortlist.

Lancing can review the pack format, sleeve material, target speed, tunnel route and line layout before recommending a sleeve applicator configuration.

Send project details