Southwest Solutions Group | Blog

GBS NetLabels and TABQuik Alternative with Virtual Labels

Written by Zach Jones | Nov 26, 2025 4:14:53 PM

If you built your file room around GBS Netlabels or similar color coded labeling software and now feel pushed into an expensive online “pay per label” platform, you are not stuck.

For records managers, that means:

  • Higher software costs

  • Extra “pay per label” click fees

  • Proprietary label stock and limited options

The good news is that you do not have to stay in that model. There is a NetLabels file labeling software alternative that keeps your color coded labels, supports formats that the new system will not, and usually comes in at about half the total cost.

What changed with Netlabels style systems

For years, GBS NetLabels and similar file labeling software made it easy to create color coded labels for end tab file folders in healthcare, legal, government, and corporate records rooms. Entire filing systems were built around these color coded labeling schemes.

Recently, a lot of those users have been pushed toward web based platforms that:

  • Charge for access to the software

  • Charge again every time you print a label

  • Lock you into proprietary stock and pricing

If you are looking for a cheaper option for NetLabels or a less expensive option for Tab quick, you are not alone.

Virtual Labels: no click fees, unlimited printing

Virtual Labels is a virtual labeling system that works as a drop in Netlabels and Tab quick alternative.

You pay once for the file labeling software, then you can:

  • Print unlimited color coded labels

  • Use your own compatible laser printer

  • Design one piece strip labels that match what you use today

In real budgets, that usually means roughly the same value and performance for about half the total cost of the click based systems.


Keep the color coded system you already use

The biggest fear with switching file labeling software is losing your color scheme. Virtual Labels is designed to match what you already have:

  • GBS Netlabels color coded labels

  • Tab quick and other internet click models

  • Smead color bar and smeadlink layouts

  • Colorflex labeling system formats

  • Colorflex labeling system formats

You keep your end tab folders and your shelving. Staff still read file numbers the same way. You just move that design into a virtual labeling system that does not charge you by the label.

 

What to buy on StoreMoreStore

Here is the quick shopping list for a Netlabels style replacement:

  1. Virtual Labels Labeling System


    Best choice if you are coming from GBS Netlabels or Tab quick style platforms.

  2. ColorBar Labeling System

    Best choice if you are replacing a Smead color bar or smeadlink system.

  3. Additional Label Design

    For extra layouts or custom color coded labeling designs.

  4. End Tab File Folder Labels

    One piece strip labels for color coded end tab folders.

  5. File Folder Labels, 6 per Sheet (Laserjet)

    Standard sheet labels for general color coded labels.

How hard is the switch

Most conversions from Netlabels or Tab quick style systems follow the same quick path:

  1. Pick your replacement

    • Virtual Labels for Netlabels or Tab quick

    • ColorBar Labeling System for Smead color bar

  2. Match your format
    Recreate your current label size, colors, and one piece strip layout in the new software.

  3. Test and roll out
    Print a small batch, compare to your existing labels, then roll it out to the rest of your file room.

If you want help mapping your current system into the new virtual labeling system, Southwest Solutions Group can walk you through it.

Stop paying by the label

If your current color coded labeling software now charges you for every click, you have options.

With Virtual Labels and the ColorBar Labeling System from StoreMoreStore, you can:

  • Use a proven Netlabels file labeling software alternative

  • Keep your existing color coded label design

  • Get roughly the same value for about half the cost

  • Print unlimited labels without click fees

Ready to move away from click based color coded labeling software?

Start here:

If you need help choosing the best path or planning your conversion, contact Southwest Solutions Group and we can help you design the right approach for your records room.