IML

In-Mold Labeling (IML) is a decoration technology where a pre-printed label is inserted into the mold before injection molding. During the molding process, the label becomes permanently fused with the plastic product surface, creating a durable and high-quality decoration effect.

IML is mainly suitable for polypropylene (PP) plastic materials. It is widely used for injection molded containers, buckets, cups, trays, storage bins, and household products.

Yes. IML labels are fully integrated with the plastic product, making them waterproof, moisture resistant, and suitable for frozen food and wet environments.

Yes. Most IML packaging uses compatible PP materials for both the label and the container, which helps simplify the recycling process.

Traditional stickers are applied after molding and may peel, bubble, or wrinkle over time. IML labels become part of the product during injection molding, providing better durability, stronger adhesion, and a premium appearance.

Yes. Since the label is fused into the plastic surface, IML products have excellent scratch resistance and long-lasting decoration performance.

Common printing technologies for IML include gravure printing, offset printing, UV printing, and metallic effect printing depending on product requirements.

The common thickness range for IML labels is between 50μm and 90μm. The suitable thickness depends on the mold structure, product design, and production process.

Yes. Weshare provides customized die-cutting solutions based on customer drawings, mold dimensions, and product requirements.

Yes. We provide technical support for mold matching and label optimization to ensure stable production performance.

IML is widely used in food packaging, paint buckets, chemical containers, household products, cosmetic packaging, and consumer plastic products.

Yes. IML is commonly used for food-grade packaging such as ice cream containers, yogurt cups, butter tubs, and takeaway food packaging.

Yes. IML technology is designed for automatic high-speed injection molding production lines and robotic systems.

Available surface finishes include glossy, matte, metallic, transparent, holographic, and orange peel texture effects.

Yes. Metallic IML labels can create silver, gold, brushed metal, and other premium decorative effects.

Yes. IML labels perform very well in frozen and refrigerated environments without cracking or peeling.

Yes. IML provides vivid colors, high-resolution graphics, and premium decoration effects that improve shelf appeal and brand image.

Compared with direct printing, IML offers better durability, scratch resistance, waterproof performance, and more consistent decoration quality.

Yes. Weshare provides customized materials, printing effects, die-cutting, and technical support according to customer applications.

Yes. Free samples and technical testing support are available for customer evaluation and production verification.

Yes. IML technology is suitable for many curved and specially designed plastic products depending on mold structure and label design.

Common household applications include storage bins, trash cans, stools, furniture components, and plastic containers.

Yes. IML reduces secondary labeling processes and supports recyclable mono-material packaging solutions.

Yes. Combination effects such as matte and glossy contrast finishes can be achieved for premium packaging design.

Weshare provides professional IML manufacturing experience, advanced printing equipment, strict quality control, customized solutions, and global export support for plastic packaging industries.