Thermal Transfer Ribbons

Thermal Transfer Ribbons - FAQs

We have compiled a list of commonly asked questions
to provide you with
quick and informative answers.

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• What is the difference between Coated Side In (CSI) and Coated Side Out (CSO)?

  
  Coated Side In (CSI) means the ribbon is wound inward around the core, with the ink facing inward. CSI thermal transfer ribbons are compatible with Datamax and Sato printers. Coated Side Out (CSO) means the ribbon is wound outward around the core, with the ink facing outward. CSO thermal transfer ribbons are compatible with Zebra, Intermec and Printronix printers.

• How do you choose the right ribbon for thermal transfer labels?

  
  Choosing the right ribbon starts with determining the ribbon width. Your ribbon should be slightly wider than your label; for example, a 4.00" label requires at least a 4.33" ribbon. Next, consider whether you need a coated side out or coated side in ribbon. Some printers, like Zebra and Intermec, use coated side out ribbons, while others, such as Datamax and Sato, use coated side in ribbons. Finally, match the ribbon type to the label material: wax for paper labels, resin for synthetic labels, and wax/resin for a balance of durability and cost. Ensure compatibility with your printer model for the best results.

• What is the difference between Wax Ribbon and Wax Resin Ribbon?

  
  Wax ribbon is primarily made of wax and is the most common type of thermal transfer ribbon. It works best on paper labels used in barcoding and shipping applications. Wax-resin ribbon is a combination of wax and resin, offering high durability and resistance to chemicals, abrasions, and extreme temperatures. It’s ideal for synthetic materials like polypropylene or polyester, making it suitable for long-term, outdoor, and industrial applications.

• How do you choose the correct ribbon core size?

  
  Choosing the correct ribbon core size depends on your printer type. Industrial printers typically require a 1" core, while desktop printers need a 0.50" core.

• What is the label roll to ribbon ratio?

  
  If you are using a 1476' or 1345' ribbon, you will go through one ribbon for about every three rolls of labels. For a 985' or 1182' ribbon, one ribbon is needed for about every two rolls of labels. Similarly, with a 244' ribbon, you will use one ribbon for about every two rolls of labels.

• What is LTL Shipping?

  
  If your order is large enough, it might ship LTL. LTL stands for less than truckload freight shipping. LTL shipping is typically much cheaper on a per case basis than UPS or FedEx ground. In addition to LTL being cheaper than UPS or FedEx ground, LTL shipping will ensure your goods arrive in pristine condition. This is due to the fact that the shipment will be placed on a pallet and shrink wrapped.

• Do we offer free shipping?

  
  Unfortunately, we do not offer free shipping. The reason for that is simple: we want you, the customer, to see the true cost of our labels. Many other companies will offer free shipping as a value added service, which they ultimately use as a mechanism to charge you more than needed on labels. We prefer our customers to get a true apples to apples comparison.

• Can I expedite shipping?

  
  Yes! We would recommend that you provide us with either your FedEx or UPS collect account to expedite some or all of your order. If you want us to add the expedited shipping charge to your bill, please ask for an estimate.

• Can my order be shipped collect on my account?

  
  Yes of course! Please indicate that you would like your order shipped collect on your purchase order or at the time of checkout.

• Can I return my order?

  
  If the product you received is defective or doesn’t meet your expectations, we will gladly provide a full refund.
  
  If you need to exchange your order due to purchasing the wrong item, we will offer a full refund, minus the shipping cost.
  
  To submit a return request, please email our customer service at support@smithcorona.com. Product returns will only be accepted with a valid Return Goods Authorization (RGA) number displayed on the outside of the return package. This information will be provided to you once you initiate a return request.

• What is my return timeline?

  
  To initiate a refund for a defective product, an item that doesn’t meet your expectations, or a wrong purchase, please contact us within 60 days of your order’s shipment date.

• What forms of payment does Smith Corona accept?

  
  Smith Corona offers a wide range of payment options to their customers. We offer the following credit card options - Visa, MasterCard, American Express, and Discover. Additionally, Smith Corona offers PayPal as another payment option. Finally, we also offer Net 30 payment terms to credit worthy customers.

• How do I get sales tax removed from my order?

  
  If you are sales tax exempt, we can get sales tax removed from your order, as long as you let us know prior to placing your order. For more details, please visit our sales tax exemption page..

• Can I have a copy of Smith Corona’s W9?

  
  You can download a copy of our W9 here.