Choosing Shelf and Rack Label Holders by Where They Mount
The right label holder depends on the surface you are labeling. Start with where the label will go.
| Surface | Label Holders | How They Attach |
|---|---|---|
| Wire shelving | Clear Wire-Rac, Econo Holder, Clip-On, Angle Vu, and SUPER SCAN label holders, plus a holder for shelving with mats in high-moisture areas | Snap or clip onto the front of the shelf, with most fitting the standard 1.25"–1.50" shelf face |
| Wire shelving posts | EZ Post Vertical and modular racking label holders | Flexible C-shaped snap fits 1" diameter posts or 1"–1.12" tubing |
| Pallet racks and metal surfaces | Magnetic label holders, magnetic rolls, write-on magnetic labels, and the warehouse aisle sign kit | Magnetic backing, or snap-on aisle signs for racks with 2" hole spacing |
| Bins, totes, and wire baskets | Tri-Dex, Bin Buddy, and wire basket label holders | Slide into the bin's front slot, adhere to plastic or metal, or snap onto wire baskets |
| Wood and metal shelves | Shelf clip label holders and movable book shelf label holders | Flexible clips for 3/4" or 1" thick shelves, or holders that stay in place under items |
| Any clean, dry surface | Slip-Strip, Open-Edge Top-Loader, and SUPERSCAN GOLD label holders | Peel-and-stick adhesive, with some cut to custom lengths |
For locations that change often, write-on magnetic labels and write-on/wipe-off magnetic rolls let you update information with a dry-erase or wet-erase marker. Rolls come in white, blue, green, orange, red, and yellow, so you can color-code zones by department or aisle.
Magnetic vs. Adhesive Label Holders
Many label holders come with magnetic or self-adhesive backing. The right choice depends on the surface and how often labels move.
Choose Magnetic Label Holders When:
- You are labeling pallet rack beams or other metal surfaces
- Labels will move as inventory locations change
- You want write-on, wipe-off labels for frequent updates
Choose Adhesive Label Holders When:
- You are labeling plastic bins, wood, or other non-magnetic surfaces
- Labels will stay in one location
- You need long strips you can cut to length
Printable Label Inserts and Document Holders
Finish your labeling system with inserts sized to your holders, plus holders for paperwork that needs to stay with the inventory.
Printable Label Inserts
Pre-perforated 8-1/2" x 11" sheets, 50 per pack, with printing instructions. Choose inserts for holders under 1"h, 1"h to 2"h, or over 2"h.
Pouches and Job Ticket Holders
Zip-seal vinyl pouches keep documents dry, with self-adhesive, magnetic, or grommet options. Job ticket holders keep paperwork visible on both sides.
Match Label Holders to Your Shelf Face and Inserts
Most wire shelving label holders fit the standard 1.25"–1.50" shelf face, and shelf clip label holders are sized for 3/4" or 1" thick shelves. Check your shelf edge before ordering.
Label inserts are sized by holder height, so order inserts that match the holders you choose.
How to Choose Shelf Labels and Label Holders
Check these details before choosing label holders for your shelving or racks.
Check these before you order:
- Surface: Match the holder to wire shelving, posts, pallet racks, bins, or wood shelves.
- Shelf edge: Measure the shelf face or thickness so the holder fits securely.
- Scanning: Choose barcode-compatible holders if you scan inventory.
- Environment: Use holders made for high-moisture areas or with humidity and chemical resistance where needed.
- Updates: Choose top-loading, slide-in, or write-on labels if information changes often.
- Quantity: Count the shelves, beams, or bins to label, and add matching inserts.
Shelf Label and Label Holder FAQs
Answers to common questions about choosing, printing, and installing shelf and rack labels.
How do I label warehouse racking?
Label the aisle first, then each bay, then each beam level, then individual bin positions, numbering in the order pickers travel. Magnetic label holders, with 3"h labels sized for pallet rack beams, can be moved if you reslot inventory. For aisle signs, the warehouse aisle sign kit includes a snap-on option for pallet racks with 2" hole spacing.
Which label holders fit wire shelving?
Clear Wire-Rac, Econo Holder, Clip-On, Angle Vu, and SUPER SCAN label holders snap or clip onto the front of wire shelves, and most fit the standard 1.25"–1.50" shelf face. For high-moisture areas, use the wire shelving label holder made for high-moisture environments. To label posts, use EZ Post vertical label holders.
What is the difference between a label holder and a label insert?
The holder is the plastic, magnetic, or steel frame that mounts to your shelf, rack, or bin. The insert is the printed card that goes inside it. Many holders include inserts, and printable inserts are also sold separately by holder height, under 1"h, 1"h to 2"h, or over 2"h, so you can reprint labels without replacing holders.
Can I scan barcodes through the label holders?
Yes, with barcode-compatible holders. SUPER SCAN holders have a matte, glare-free finish made for scanning through the cover, and many other holders use clear, barcode-compatible PVC.
How many label holders do I need?
Count one holder per label position, such as each shelf section, beam level, or bin, then add a few extras for positions you find once the project starts.
When should I contact Shelving.com before ordering?
Reach out if you are labeling a full warehouse, need custom insert colors or job ticket holders, or are not sure which holder fits your shelving. Our team can help you choose and put together a quote.
Need a Label We Don't Stock?
Custom-sequenced barcode labels, floor labels, and warehouse signage are available through our vendors. Tell us what you're labeling, and we'll spec and quote it.
Need a label we don't stock yet?
Custom-sequenced barcode labels, floor labels, and warehouse signage are what our vendors do best. Tell us what you're labeling and we'll spec and quote it.
Request a QuoteNeed a label we don't stock yet?
Custom-sequenced barcode labels, floor labels, and warehouse signage are what our vendors do best. Tell us what you're labeling and we'll spec and quote it.
Request a Quote