Abstract: A deformable label processor and related methods are described. The processor is heated and urged against a label, such as a heat transfer label, to apply one or more designs from the label onto a container or other surface. The processor and methods are well suited for application of labels onto compound curved surfaces. Also described are high volume label application processes using assemblies of multiple label processors. Additional assemblies and methods are described for selectively contacting and adhering regions of a label onto a moving container during labeling operations.