Self-Adhesive Or Magnetic Label Holders - Which Is Right for You?

In any warehouse environment, effective organisation is key to maintaining productivity and accuracy. Labelling systems play a vital role in keeping everything in order, allowing staff to quickly locate inventory, monitor stock levels, and manage workflows.
Selecting the right type of label holder however can be a challenge, especially when there's a need to balance flexibility, durability and cost-effectiveness.
Two of the most popular options for warehouse labelling that we stock are self-adhesive label holders and magnetic label holders and while they serve a similar purpose, their unique characteristics make them suited to different applications.
In this blog, we’ll explore the benefits of each type and provide guidance on choosing the right option for your warehouse.
What Are Self-Adhesive Label Holders?
Self-adhesive label holders are designed to be permanently fixed to surfaces such as racking, shelving, or bins. These holders feature a strong adhesive backing, ensuring they remain securely in place even in busy warehouse environments. Typically, they have a clear front that allows you to easily insert and replace labels.


Benefits of Self-Adhesive Label Holders
- Once applied, self-adhesive label holders are reliable and long-lasting, making them ideal for static storage systems.
- They are often more affordable than magnetic alternatives, making them an economical choice for warehouses with fixed layouts.
- Self-adhesive holders can be used on a variety of surfaces, including smooth metals, plastics, and wood.
- The strong adhesive prevents movement or accidental displacement, ensuring labels remain legible and in place.
Ideal Uses of Self-Adhesive Label Holders
- Warehouses with permanent storage configurations where labels don’t need frequent repositioning.
- Environments where budget constraints favour a cost-effective solution.
- Locations where surfaces are smooth and compatible with adhesives.
What Are Magnetic Label Holders?
Magnetic label holders are made with a magnetic backing that allows them to be easily attached and removed from metal surfaces, such as shelving, racking, or steel bins. Like self-adhesive holders, they have a clear front for easy label insertion and replacement.
Benefits of Magnetic Label Holders
- Magnetic holders can be repositioned as needed, making them ideal for dynamic storage systems.
- Unlike self-adhesive options, magnetic holders can be reused in different areas of the warehouse, offering long-term value.
- They require no tools or adhesives for application, saving time and effort.
- Magnetic holders are highly durable and resistant to wear, making them suitable for heavy-duty environments.
Ideal Uses Of Magnetic Label Holders
- Warehouses with frequently changing storage layouts or seasonal inventory.
- Environments where temporary labelling is required, such as project-specific zones.
- Locations with metal surfaces, ensuring a secure magnetic grip.
How to Choose the Right Label Holder for Your Warehouse
When deciding between self-adhesive warehouse label holders and magnetic label holders, consider the following factors.
Storage Configuration
If your warehouse layout is fixed, self-adhesive holders may be the most practical and cost-effective choice. However, for flexible or evolving systems, magnetic holders provide the adaptability you need.
Surface Type
Assess the surfaces where labels will be applied. Magnetic holders are only suitable for metal, while self-adhesive holders work on a variety of materials.
Budget
If you’re working within a strict budget, self-adhesive holders offer excellent value. For a longer-term investment with reusable options, magnetic holders are worth considering.
Frequency of Changes
Warehouses with seasonal products or rotating stock will benefit from the repositionable nature of magnetic holders.
You can see our full range of warehouse label holders here.
- Amy Greaves