A Guide to Print and Apply Barcode Labelling Automation

What is Print and Apply technology? Production lines tend to be optimised to run at high speeds to maximise the potential output of a manufacturing facility. That extends to fixing identification labels to the outer packaging, although as it happens at the end of the production line, it is sometimes overlooked. Relying on anything other than a dedicated machine to carry out this task leaves manufacturers open to significant risk. To overcome this risk, Print and Apply labelling solutions enter the equation. In its simplest form, a Print and Apply machine prints a label containing data relevant to the product on the line and applies it to the traded unit’s outer packaging as a single action. It prints and applies. A well-configured, high-quality machine helps ensure the label is always applied, always legible, printed to a high standard and applied in the same location (or locations) to satisfy the needs of specific industries. But really this is just scratching the surface. Labels often contain barcodes but can be so much more. Graphics, variable data (e.g. best before dates), QR codes, ingredients, personal information or pretty much any other type of data can be applied in real-time to a label and securely affixed to your packaging. Be that a case, a shrink-wrapped outer pack, a pallet, a keg, a barrel or a box (and in one or more places). And it all happens automatically. So while the principle of print and apply is relatively simple, when the complexities of unique product lines and environments are considered, there are lots of factors to bear in mind when specifying a solution.

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