Ready-to-Drink (RTD) Labels

We can print and apply labels for just about any RTD container you’re using. Whether your drinks are carbonated, caffeinated, or cocktail-inspired, we’ve got materials and adhesives that perform perfectly across a range of formats:

• Aluminum cans: From 12 oz. sleek and standard cans to 16 oz. tallboys and smaller 8 oz. options, we produce labels that hold up to moisture, condensation, and cold storage.

• Plastic bottles (PET or HDPE): Ideal for juices, protein shakes, teas, and wellness drinks, our flexible film materials conform to curves and resist scuffing.

• Glass bottles: Perfect for premium coffees, teas, and cocktail mixers, with finishes and materials that deliver a polished, high-end look.

• Aluminum bottles: Durable and recyclable, these pair well with film labels or shrink sleeves designed to stay put through temperature swings and handling.

• Cartons and pouches: For niche or specialty RTDs, we can print flexible labels sized and shaped for small-batch or limited-release packaging.

When it comes to RTD drinks, durability and moisture resistance are key. We typically recommend film materials over paper because they perform better in cold, wet environments and during handling. Here’s a breakdown of your best options:

• BOPP (Biaxially Oriented Polypropylene): A go-to for most RTD cans and bottles. It’s waterproof, resists scuffing, and maintains its look through condensation and refrigeration.

• PET (Polyester): Offers excellent clarity and strength, making it ideal for curved or high-moisture containers.

• Shrink Sleeves: Provide full-body coverage and 360° design space while protecting graphics from wear and moisture.

• Coated Paper (for dry or limited-contact products): If you’re going for a natural or textured look, we can laminate or varnish paper stocks to help protect against moisture and abrasion.

We’ll help you match the right material and adhesive combo based on your container type, fill process, and storage conditions.

We offer shipping through several vendors like UPS, Fedex, and USPS. Ground, Next-Day, 2-Day, 3-Day, and custom freight options. 

Our preferred file formats are Adobe Illustrator or High-Resolution PDF.  You can view our complete artwork file standards checklist here.

Before printing your custom bbq sauce labels, we will provide a digital proof via email for your approval. This allows you to review your label, confirming details like positioning, color accuracy, text legibility, and more, prior to full production. We are committed to ensuring your complete satisfaction through this streamlined proofing process.

While Blue Label Packaging does not directly offer label design services, we do have resources to help with your custom label design needs. We maintain a directory of Blue Label Approved designers who specialize in label design and understand the unique requirements and technical details involved. We also showcase a gallery of label designs for inspiration.

Our printers are capable of matching up to 97% of the full color spectrum, allowing us to achieve precise color reproduction for your beer labels. We use advanced CMYK printing to produce an extensive gamut of colors. For designs requiring an expanded range, we also print using WOVG ink sets which add white, orange, violet and green.

Our top-of-the-line color management program and processes ensure we hit the correct hues, tints and shades. We color calibrate and profile all of our presses so your unique color palettes and gradations print true to your vision.