Comparison of Security Voiding Labels

Author: stickynotes   Date Posted:2 February 2026 

Security voiding labels provide unmistakable evidence of tampering by revealing hidden messages or physically breaking apart when removal is attempted. The primary difference lies in the residue left on the surface: Non-Transfer labels leave nothing behind, Total-Transfer labels leave a full adhesive mark, Partial-Transfer labels leave a patterned residue, and Destructible labels fragment into tiny pieces.

Detailed Label Characteristics

Non-Transfer

Clean-Surface Security

Non-Transfer labels are designed for surfaces that must remain pristine. When the label is peeled, the void messages appears only on the label itself, leaving no sticky residue on the application surface.

  • Best for: High-value reusable assets, luxury packaging, and sensitive surfaces.
  • Typical Surfaces: Glass, metal, glossy plastics, and electronics.
  • Advantage: Allows for easy cleaning and re-labeling without adhesive buildup.

Total-Transfer

Maximum Surface Evidence

Total-Transfer labels leave a complete layer of adhesive on the surface, usually spelling out 'VOID' or 'OPENED'. The label itself becomes transparent or altered, making it impossible to hide the tampering attempt.

  • Best for: Cardboard boxes, paper envelopes, and porous materials.
  • Typical Surfaces: Corrugated cardboard, paper, and fibrous packaging.
  • Advantage: The evidence is stuck to the package, even if the label is completely removed.

Partial-Transfer

The Hybrid Solution

Partial-Transfer labels leave a semi-tacky, patterned residue (like a 'VOID' grid) on the surface while some adhesive stays on the label. This provides a clear visual alert without the heavy cleanup of total transfer.

  • Best for: Plastic bags, low-energy plastics, and general retail packaging.
  • Typical Surfaces: PE bags, shrink wrap, and coated papers.
  • Advantage: Cost-effective and works on a wide range of "difficult" plastic surfaces.

Destructible

'Eggshell' Security Labels

Unlike VOID labels that use adhesive layering, destructible labels are made from an ultra-brittle vinyl. They bond so strongly that any attempt to peel them causes the label to shatter into tiny fragments.

  • Best for: Asset tracking, warranty seals, and small electronic components.
  • Typical Surfaces: Computers, power tools, and smooth industrial surfaces.
  • Advantage: Physically impossible to remove in one piece or transfer to another item.

Quick Comparison Guide

Non-Transfer (NT)

Total-Transfer (TT)

Partial-Transfer (PT)

Destructible

Surface Residue
None

Surface Residue
Full (Sticky)

Surface Residue
Patterned (Semi-Tacky)

Surface Residue
Fragments (Chipped)

Security Level
Medium

Security Level
High

Security Level
Medium-High

Security Level
High

Best Surfaces
Glass, Metal, Electronics

Best Surfaces
Cardboard, Paper

Best Surfaces
Plastic, Shrink-wrap

Best Surfaces
Smooth Plastics, Metal

Primary Goal
Protecting surface aesthetics

Primary Goal
Maximum evidence on packaging

Primary Goal
Universal utility

Primary Goal
Preventing label swapping