What Is Print and Apply Labelling?

Effective and precise labelling plays a crucial role in the success of manufacturing and logistics operations. Proper labelling enhances the efficiency of the production process, whereas inefficient labelling practices can result in significant time and cost implications for a business. Among the various available options, print and apply labelling stands out due to its user-friendly nature, cost-effectiveness, and efficiency.

Print and apply labelling allows users to generate and directly apply labels onto products and their packaging. These labels can carry diverse data, including alphanumeric text, barcodes, serial numbers, 2D codes, QR codes, addresses, personalization, graphics, and more, all in a precise and economical manner. Utilizing Domino’s print and apply technologies can lead to increased efficiency by minimizing scrap reruns, reducing human errors, cutting labor costs, and enabling businesses to focus on meeting customer demands and core requirements.

Compliance is a crucial aspect, especially in the Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) sector, where adherence to GS1 standards is essential. The application and successful scanning of Serial Shipping Container Codes (SSCCs) for pallets and, at times, boxes, or GS-1 128 codes for secondary cases are critical. In the pharmaceutical industry, the adoption of EU Directive 2011/62/EU, which enforces item-level serialization, is driving the demand for advanced print and apply labelling technologies. Domino’s M-Series is designed to meet full GS1 Supply Chain specifications.

Understanding the fundamental principles of print and apply labelling is essential to navigate the challenges posed by the growing pressures in supply chain management and changing legislative requirements.

What Items are Suitable for Labelling?

Different labelling methods are needed for various items, such as tires, bottles, and bread. Irregular or unevenly shaped surfaces can pose a challenge for label application, but the M-Series provides users with a variety of application methods. The blow-on method is suitable for fragile and irregularly shaped items, while rugged surfaces can be labelled using a press-on pad, known as a Tamp application.

How do you Plan to Affix the Label?

Ensure you determine the label size based on the available space, typically measured by width and length. Next, consider the application method that best fits your requirements. There are four fundamental methods for label application. The blow method is quick and cost-effective but may lack precision. Tamp is the most commonly used method and suits various scenarios. A combination of tamp and blow is beneficial for adhering to uneven surfaces. Lastly, the wipe method is particularly suitable for long labels.

The labeling machines are designed to seamlessly integrate into diverse production line layouts. They are available in left and right-hand versions and can be configured to mount at different angles, providing flexibility for integration into your manufacturing process and environment. Custom-made label applicator sizes can also be designed and manufactured for specific labeling needs or products.

Where can the Label be Placed?

Domino’s print and apply labelling technology is designed to offer various choices for positioning the label on the product during the inline process. Labels can be printed and applied to the side, top, front, back, bottom, or over a corner. Additionally, it allows for the application of multiple labels on a single product. Check our informative visual guide below:

Incorporating into Your Production Line

Choosing the right print and apply technology depends on the intricacies of your production line. The machine not only needs to align with the product’s position during the process but must also be compact and adaptable to fit the available physical space in your production facility.

Domino’s print and apply technology is purposefully crafted to operate efficiently even in confined production spaces. It comes in various angles to cater to diverse label needs. While having a customized machine tailored to your production environment is an option, it’s essential to weigh the time required for construction against the urgency of the project. Conducting a focused site visit to assess the production line and specify user requirements ensures thorough research of the environmental context and project particulars, leading to the identification of suitable print and apply labelling technology.

Enhancing Operational Efficiency

When considering the benefits of investing in print and apply labelling, it’s important to note that it offers significantly higher speed and reliability compared to manual processes. This results in reduced wastage, minimizes potential errors, lowers running costs, and can potentially enhance the overall profitability and efficiency of your business. Our print and apply technologies are meticulously designed to seamlessly integrate with your packaging and processing systems. They are programmed to work harmoniously with Domino’s QuickDesign platform, enabling the addition of unique codes and labels to products and packaging in a streamlined, controlled, and automated process.

The speed of automated labelling equipment brings numerous advantages to your business. For instance, laboratory researchers can label up to 900 containers per hour, and tyre manufacturers can apply a tread label every 2.5 seconds. Eliminating the need for manual printing and label application reduces downtime and wastage, allowing for increased speed and the reassignment of team members’ skills to more critical, value-added operations. Moreover, this intuitive system eliminates the necessity to stockpile large quantities of labels for specific products, as it enables the on-demand printing of specific labels. As highlighted in the Worldwide Market for Printer/Applicators report by CB Consultants, the increasing demand for traceability and supply chain efficiency is expected to drive the continued adoption of labelling automation technology.

The global demand for print and apply labelling technology is anticipated to grow among businesses, propelled by the increasing trends in automation, traceability, security, and continuous improvement within the manufacturing and logistics sectors. For more information on these specific solutions, you can visit the M-Series range here.