Tire bead labels are barcode labels applied to the bead of the tire either pre or post-vulcanization. These unique identifiers act as a license plate for the tire throughout the manufacturing process. 

Barcode labels applied prior to vulcanization are also referred to as vulcanized tire labels.

Tire specific details such as date of manufacture, safety and performance ratings, etc. are tracked using the barcode.

Additionally, bead labels can function after manufacturing has been completed. Some automated tread label applicators source information from the bead barcode as tires pass through integrated scanners— providing variable data needed to print the tread label.