Manual vs Predefined Paper Brand, Model and Sizes: Which Should You Use?

Choosing the correct paper setup is a critical step when creating label templates in Retail Force Barcodes & Labels. The paper selection determines how your labels print, how barcodes align and whether text fits cleanly within the label area.

Retail Force offers two flexible methods for defining paper settings:

1. I know the brands and models
2. I will enter dimensions manually

Both options are powerful but each serves a different use case. This guide explains how each method works, their advantages and how to decide which one is right for your store.

Why Paper Selection Matters

Incorrect paper settings can lead to:

• Cropped or cut-off barcodes
• Misaligned labels
• Unscannable barcodes
• Wasted label rolls or sheets

By selecting the correct paper method in Retail Force, you ensure:

• Accurate barcode placement
• Clean label layouts
• Consistent printing across products
• Smooth inventory and checkout operations

Overview: Paper Selection in Retail Force

When creating or editing a label template, Retail Force asks:

“How would you like to select your paper?”

You are given two options:

• I know the brand & model
• I’ll enter dimensions manually

This choice defines how the system calculates label size, margins, spacing and layout behavior.

Option 1: Using Predefined Paper Brand & Model

What This Option Does

When you choose “I know the brand & model”, Retail Force allows you to select a known label brand and a specific paper model from its database.

Each predefined model already contains:

• Label width and height
• Standard margins
• Gap or spacing between labels
• Orientation and layout rules

This removes the need for manual measurements and reduces setup time.

How to Use Predefined Paper Models

1. Select a Paper Brand (e.g., Zebra, Avery, Dymo, Brother, Uline, BarcodeFactory)
2. Choose the Paper Model (e.g., 10010067 2.2" x 0.5") associated with your label stock
3. Retail Force automatically applies the correct specifications
4. Preview the label layout
5. Continue designing your template

Once selected, the system handles most of the technical setup for you.

When to Use Predefined Paper Models

This option is ideal if:

• You use standard retail labels
• Your label roll or sheet has a known model number
• You print labels regularly at scale
• You want a fast and reliable setup

It is especially recommended for:

• Barcode labels
• Price tags
• Inventory labels
• Shipping or shelf labels

Paper Information Incomplete Warning

In some cases, you may see a message such as:

“Some paper specifications are missing from this model.”

This simply means:

• Certain details (like margins or spacing) can be adjusted manually later
• The model is still usable
• You retain full control in the Paper Setup section

Option 2: Entering Paper Dimensions Manually

What This Option Does

When you select “I’ll enter dimensions manually”, Retail Force allows you to define every measurement yourself, including:

• Label width
• Label height
• Margins
• Spacing between labels

This option offers maximum flexibility. After entering the dimensions, you need to click on **“Find matching paper” **for finding the 100% matched and most resembling paper templates. You can choose from the listed templates that can fit for your product label. If you have not found any most resembling template, just contact the Customer Support Team of Retail Force and Barcodes. Our App Development team can create the most suitable template for you, so you can easily select that template after refreshing your page.

When to Use Manual Dimensions

Manual setup is recommended if:

• Your paper brand is not listed
• You use custom-made labels
• You have specialty labels such as:
• • Jewelry rat-tail tags
  • Hang tags
  • Loop or fabric tags
• You purchase labels from local or regional suppliers

This option is commonly used by:

• Jewelry stores
• Fashion boutiques
• Handmade product sellers
• Luxury and custom brands

Important Considerations for Manual Setup

Because everything is entered manually:

• Measurements must be precise
• A small error can affect alignment
• Test prints are strongly recommended

Manual setup gives you full control but requires careful attention.

Comparing Both Options

Which Option Should You Choose?

Choose Predefined Paper Models If:

• Your label brand and model are available
• You want fast, reliable results
• You print standard barcode or price labels
• You prefer minimal setup effort

Choose Manual Dimensions If:

• Your labels are custom or uncommon
• You use jewelry or specialty tags
• Your supplier is not listed
• You need precise control over layout

Best Practices for Perfect Printing

• Always verify your label size physically
• Use Label Preview before saving
• Run a test print for new templates
• Adjust margins in Paper Setup if needed
• Keep barcode size large enough for scanners
• Save separate templates for different paper types

Final Thoughts

Retail Force Barcodes & Labels is designed to support both standard and custom workflows. Whether you rely on predefined paper models for speed or manual dimensions for flexibility, the system gives you complete control over label creation. For most users, predefined paper brands and models offer the best balance of speed and accuracy. For specialized use cases, manual paper setup ensures your labels match your exact needs. By choosing the right paper method, you ensure professional labels, accurate barcodes and a smoother inventory process.

Updated on: 22/01/2026