Barcode & QR Code Labels
With over 50 years of experience, state-of-the-art processes, and a range of quality materials, we manufacture custom QR code and barcode labels for any requirement.
Rugged Barcode & QR Code Labels
Since 1974, GSM Graphic Arts has been a trusted manufacturer of rugged barcode labels, QR code labels, and asset identification solutions for industries including aerospace, marine, military, electronics, warehousing, catering, and manufacturing.
Designed to withstand harsh environments, our durable labels improve traceability, inventory control, and operational efficiency, while eliminating scanning issues and unplanned downtime.
What Are Rugged Barcode & QR Code Labels?
Barcodes and QR codes provide a simple and reliable way to store and retrieve information. Traditional barcodes use black lines and spaces to encode product data such as supplier information, dimensions, stock levels, and serial numbers, while QR codes can hold significantly more information and direct users instantly to websites, manuals, menus, ordering systems, payment portals, apps, or online marketing content.
These technologies are widely used for:
- Asset tracking and inventory management
- Product identification and traceability
- Equipment and tool tracking
- Access to online product information or manuals
- Hospitality ordering and payment systems
- Warehouse and logistics operations
- Electronics and assembly management
- Anti-counterfeit and authentication systems
- Wi-Fi network access and digital interaction
In many industries, labels are exposed to abrasion, UV light, chemicals, moisture, extreme temperatures, and demanding outdoor environments. To ensure long-term readability and performance, GSM manufactures robust barcode and QR code solutions using high-performance materials and specialist in-house processes. Our in-depth manufacturing process combines sturdy materials with high-quality printing methods to bring a myriad of benefits for operations. The high-quality products we deliver eliminate scanning issues, boost visibility, and reduce unplanned downtime.
Types of Rugged Barcode Labels
Our rugged barcode labels are crafted with advanced materials and techniques to meet the toughest requirements. For heavy-duty applications like military or aerospace, our metal barcode asset tags offer exceptional durability and resistance to extreme environments, with thickness options ranging from 0.3mm to 3mm. For more data-rich and interactive needs, our engraved metal QR codes and rugged stickers provide reliable, long-lasting functionality, ensuring valuable data remains intact over time.
For enduring performance, our anodised aluminium labels feature barcodes digitally printed and sealed into the surface, offering solvent-resistant and durable solutions. Alternatively, our cost-effective plastic barcode labels, made from polycarbonate and acrylic, are under-surface printed for durability in high footfall areas.
Whether it’s extreme conditions or large-scale operations, our barcode label solutions ensure reliability, longevity, and adaptability for any project.
Markets we support
Our custom industrial label printing solutions are trusted across multiple market sectors for their precision, durability, and resistance to challenging environments.
Markets we support
Our High-Performance Materials
At GSM Graphic Arts, we provide an array of high-performance materials designed to fit your exact needs and budget. All our labels are manufactured using a range of durable, high-performance materials selected to suit your exact application and budget. The materials we have available include:
Anodised Aluminium
Using our in-house anodising plant, barcodes and QR codes are digitally printed into the open pores of electrically charged aluminium before being sealed beneath the surface. This creates an exceptionally durable, solvent-resistant finish suitable for outdoor and industrial applications.
Benefits include:
- Extremely hard-wearing and UV-resistant
- Suitable for harsh outdoor environments
- Available in a variety of thicknesses
- Ideal for medical, military, electronics, and sports industries
Stainless Steel
Laser-marked or chemically etched stainless steel provides maximum durability in harsh environments.
Options include:
- Laser-marked stainless steel for precise detail
- Etched-through “1000 Degree Barcodes” for extreme heat applications
- Marine-grade 316 stainless steel for superior corrosion resistance
- Suitable for oil & gas, marine, and heavy industry
- Plastic Labels (Polycarbonate, Polyester & Acrylic)
- Digitally printed on the reverse surface for excellent scratch resistance and durability.
Benefits include:
- Cost-effective barcode and QR code solution
- Ideal for high-volume asset tagging and inventory control
- Available with permanent adhesive or tamper-proof fixings
- Excellent for warehouse, logistics, and identification applications
Plastic (Polycarbonate & Acrylic)
The options available when utilising plastics include:
- Digitally printed on the underside, offering scratch-free and durable finishes
- Excellent for asset tagging, warehouse logistics, identification, and inventory control
- Available with adhesive backing or tamper-proof mechanical fixings for additional security
Our Processes, Finishes, & Fixings
With over 50 years of manufacturing experience and state-of-the-art equipment, GSM offers a complete range of in-house processes to create durable, high-quality barcode and QR code labels. We have worked tirelessly to perfect our manufacturing processes to enable us to utilise the best materials, finishes, and fixings available, ensuring our customers receive the best quality labels possible.
Digital Printing
Full-colour logos, text, barcodes, and QR codes can be reproduced with precision using the latest digital printing technology. Variable data, including serial numbers, part numbers, and unique IDs, can also be incorporated.
Anodising
Creates a sealed protective layer over printed graphics and codes, ensuring long-lasting durability and chemical resistance.
Laser Marking & Laser Cutting
Ideal for stainless steel applications requiring high precision and resistance to abrasion or corrosion.
Chemical Etching
Produces extremely durable metal labels capable of withstanding harsh industrial conditions and extreme temperatures.
Fixing Options
Our labels can be supplied with fixing methods to suit your application, including:
- High-performance self-adhesive backing
- Mechanical fixing holes
- Tamper-resistant fixings
- RFID integration for enhanced tracking capabilities
Explore Identification & Tracking Labels
Serial Number & Rating Plates
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Metal Nameplates
Learn MoreGet in touch to speak to an expert today
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