As sustainability moves from trend to mandate across Europe, companies are reimagining their logistics to meet zero-waste goals. From carbon-neutral delivery fleets to plastic-free packaging, every detail counts, including the humble shipping label. Enter linerless label printing, a smart, eco-conscious technology that’s changing how European warehouses operate. Paired with BIXOLON’s market-leading linerless printers, businesses can now eliminate waste, cut costs, and streamline operations—all while staying compliant with EU green initiatives.
What Are Linerless Labels?
Unlike traditional labels, linerless labels don’t come with a silicone-coated backing paper (liner). This means:
- No waste from discarded liners
- More labels per roll, reducing changeovers
- Lower storage and transport costs
- Greater label flexibility in length and layout
Why Zero-Waste Warehousing Matters in Europe
The EU’s Green Deal and related policies such as the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) are pressuring logistics providers and manufacturers to reduce material use, increase recyclability, and limit landfill contributions. Warehouses, distribution centres, and e-commerce hubs are critical areas where environmental improvements can be made at scale.
With linerless label printing:
- Eliminates 100% of liner waste
- Cuts CO₂ emissions tied to label production and disposal
- Contributes to circular economy goals
- Reduces injury risks from slippery liner backings on warehouse floors
BIXOLON: Leading Linerless Innovation
BIXOLON offers an extensive range of linerless printing solutions, from the XL5-40 4-inch dedicated permanent labelling solution or the XM7 series of 2, 3 and 4-inch premium mobile label printers. Offering seamless linerless operations, perfect for high-volume environments where sustainability and speed are equally vital.
Key Features of our Linerless Printers:
- Anti-stick mechanisms to prevent label jams
- Cutter durability for continuous use
- Auto paper detection for dynamic label sizing
- Compact, rugged designs for warehouse environments
- Support for EU-standard languages and integration with WMS platforms
User Case: Industry leading Mail Order Company Deploys BIXOLON Linerless Labelling Printers to Improve Shipping Efficiency
Erwin Müller Versandhaus GmbH, a leading German e-commerce retailer, improved its shipping operations by adopting BIXOLON XL5-40CT linerless label printers. Partnering with GreenForest IT, the company replaced traditional liner-backed labels with more sustainable linerless alternatives, reducing paper waste, lowering consumable costs, and increasing operational efficiency. The integration of the new printers into their Windows-based warehouse systems enabled faster, more durable label printing, streamlining logistics while supporting environmental goals.
Results
- The new printers have brought efficiency and cost savings and have contributed to the overall improvement of shipping operations
- Printouts from the XL5-40 are now more durable than those produced from their old direct thermal printers
- The new linerless solution overcame the challenges of material waste, storage space and cost inefficiencies associated with traditional label rolls with liners
- The solution aligns with the company’s efforts to be environmentally conscious and reduce the environmental impact of their label
To read the full success story – https://bixoloneu.com/erwin-muller-improves-e-commerce-shipping-with-linerless-labelling-printers-from-bixolon/
Conclusion: Smart, Sustainable, Scalable
Sustainable warehousing isn’t a distant ideal, it’s a competitive necessity. Linerless label printing, powered by BIXOLON’s reliable hardware, delivers a low-effort, high-impact way to reduce waste and align logistics with Europe’s green future. Whether you’re a small fulfilment hub in the Netherlands or a multi-site 3PL across Germany, France, or Spain, this is one upgrade that pays off on day one and for the planet long-term.
For more information on BIXOLON’s linerless labelling range visit our website or contact our team to speak through your labelling requirements.
