"Cold-Glue" refers to liquid glue used at room temperature. There are many types of cold glue, including "permanent" and "fugitive". Cold glue does not require preheating. It is sold as a liquid and has a limited shelf life.

"Hot-Melt Glue" is used when the application calls for removable glue, when an immediated bond is critical for coated or heavy stocks that tend to spring open after folding, or when there is concern about fiber tear of the printed piece. The gluing system heats the glue and provides a pump to pressurize the glue lines. The set-up time is longer than with cold glue since it takes about 20 minutes or more to heat the glue. (Heating times vary) Hot-Melt is used for longer runs and is quite cost-effective as an alternative to tabbing mail pieces. Hot-melt systems tend to be more expensive than cold-glue systems. The shelf life of hot-melt glue is longer than cold glue since it is not a liquid and is cooled and reheated during every use.

"Permanent" glue is used for a variety of applications that require a permanent bond including 8-page booklets, pockets, and perforated tear-offs on billing statements. Permanent glue is not resealable after the piece is opened.

"Fugitive" glue is used when the bond is intended to be temporary so that the piece can be easily reopened by the recipient. Self-mailers are one example of fugitive glue usage, which eliminates tabbing and inserting operations. Fugitive glue is not resealable after the piece is opened..