Metal Rating Plates vs Adhesive Labels: Cost, Flexibility, and What Manufacturers Should Consider in 2026

Are Metal Rating Plates Still the Best Option in 2026?

In industrial production, metal rating plates and ID plates have long been the standard for durable product identification. However, rising metal costs, volatile markets, and evolving production needs are forcing manufacturers to reassess whether traditional metal plates are always the best solution.

This post explores how synthetic adhesive labels compare with metal rating plates and highlights why many businesses are making the switch.

Why Metal Rating Plates Are Still Used

Metal rating plates, usually made up of aluminium, stainless steel, or brass, offer long-term durability, resistance to abrasion, and heat tolerance. These are typically used in extreme environments were durability is key.

But, in recent years, metal pricing and supply fluctuations have become significant considerations.

Metal Pricing Challenges

Metal costs have been trending upward in recent years:

• Aluminium and stainless steel: Prices have seen steady increases, driven by global demand, energy costs, and supply constraints.

• Copper and brass: Commodity prices have risen sharply due to industrial demand and recycling market dynamics.

  
  

Volatility in metal markets can make budgeting for engraved plates unpredictable. Small changes in metal price can quickly inflate the total cost of production, especially when ordering in large volumes.

Synthetic Labels Over Metal Rating Plates

1. Cost Stability. Synthetic adhesive labels (e.g., polycarbonate, polyester, or vinyl) are less affected by commodity swings than metals, making costs easier to predict.

2. Flexibility. Design changes or updates to product information are simple with labels, no new engraving or tooling is required. This flexibility is especially valuable for products with frequent revisions.

3. Faster Lead Times. Labels can be printed, applied, or replaced quickly, supporting shorter production schedules and reducing downtime.

4. Versatility & Durability. High-performance labels can withstand moisture, heat, and chemical exposure while offering variable data printing, barcodes, and even RFID integration.

When Metal Rating Plates Make Sense

Metal plates remain ideal for components that experience extreme heat beyond what synthetic labels can handle (around 180c), harsh chemicals, or prolonged outdoor exposure. In these cases, plates provide unmatched physical durability. However, for asset tracking, rapid product updates, or inventory management, synthetic labels often deliver similar durability with lower cost, easier replacement, and faster turnaround!

Choosing the Right Solution

Many manufacturers, such as Romark Labels, adopt a hybrid approach:

• Use metal plates where extreme durability is essential.

• Use synthetic adhesive labels where flexibility, cost efficiency, and speed matter most.

Romark Labels can help businesses evaluate their requirements, from environmental conditions to regulatory compliance, and recommend solutions that balance performance, cost, and operational efficiency.

You can request free label sample packs on us to test materials under your actual production conditions before committing to large runs.

Conclusion

Rising metal costs and market volatility make it important to evaluate whether metal rating plates remain the best solution for every application. For many manufacturers, synthetic adhesive labels offer a more cost-stable, versatile, and efficient alternative without compromising durability.

👉 Contact us today to request a free sample pack and see the difference industrial-grade labels can make.

Call us on 02033 846291 or email us at info@romark-labels.com to talk through your project.