I've never had this happen with labels before. I use these not only for shipping but for craft projects. I noticed it first when a stack of mail ready to go looked like the labels were fading. I looked more closely and saw that the printing was wearing off because of the friction of moving the stack of envelopes. I use both an HP Color Laser printer and an Epson Artisan wide format. Both media are impermanent. The projects where I used these as pretty labels began wearing off from simple touching as I moved the objects from shelf to desk etc. NO WAY could I use these for items I sell or gift and definitely NO WAY can I use these as mailing labels because of the wear and tear of normal travel through the postal system. I don't know if this is the same label product or the wave of the future but when the mailman came yesterday we chatted as he tried to scan a very faded/worn looking label. He had to manually enter the tracking number (what a pitb) and he wasn't thrilled. Seeing that label is what reminded me come and review my labels. I really hate to have to take an extra step and expense of coating my labels to ensure they do what they are designed to do. I have to consider these temporary labels at best and not to use them for my mailings. :( I'll go back and try Avery but before this I've never had a problem with any Staples brand item.
I use this paper for making church bulletins and it is excellent because I print on all four sides and none of the laser printer ink bleeds through......it is also a very bright white. It is on the expensive side for paper but other than that it's excellent and I've been using it for several years. I'm sure the STAPLES price is better than a comparable brand name of the same quality. I also really appreciate the FREE and QUICK SHIPPING PERKS!!