What’s Better For Printing Bar Codes: Matte or Glossy Paper?
by Chelsea Camper | Last Updated December 30, 2015Matte paper vs glossy paper is a hot topic when it comes to printing your own forms. If you’re incorporating bar codes into your design (whether it’s for inventory or for shipping products) you’re going to be a little more limited on your paper choice.
We’re going to look at which type of paper is better for printing designs with bar codes, why that type is better, and how you can still use the less desirable type of paper.
Which Type of Paper is Better for 
Printing Designs with Bar Codes
Printing Designs with Bar CodesBefore we talk about the paper, let’s talk about the bar code. Bar codes are a series of (usually black) vertical lines separated by small gaps of space. A bar code scanner is used to read the bar code. It does this by scanning the bar code and reading the lines and breaks.
If the bar code gets distorted there’s a chance that the bar code will no longer be able to be read. Using glossy paper can cause the bar code to become distorted because it reflects light. The reflecting of light can interfere with the scanner while it’s trying to read the bar code. It’s similar to how if you place tape over a shipping bar code it can cause the package to be returned to you.
Why is Matte Paper Better?
When you’re using matte paper you don’t have to worry about the extra shine caused by glossy paper. Most shipping label sheets are also created on matte paper so it’s easier to find matte self adhesive labels. You also have the option of printing part of your design on an inkjet printer, though it’s advised to print the bar code with a laser printer.
Finding inkjet glossy paper can prove to be difficult and it can be a little more expensive than laser glossy paper. If you try to print on glossy paper that isn’t designed for inkjet with an inkjet printer, the ink will wipe right off of the paper.
How Can You Still Use Glossy Paper?
If your heart is set on glossy paper there is still a chance you can use it for your bar code forms. Some glossy paper is less shiny than other glossy papers. Also, some scanners are better than others.
If you can find a glossy paper that works well with your scanner, and you don’t plan on anyone else having to scan the bar code, then it’s perfectly okay to use that grade of glossy paper.
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