Print & Apply Labeling Overview

Perhaps the most familiar type of labeling is printing a label and applying it to a product or package. Aside from commercial and retail applications, this type of marking has been a feasible application in consumers own homes. Through home-printing advancements over the past 25 years, consumers have had the opportunity to print out customizable labels with a range of sizes, shapes, and adhesives all while being fully customizable for typeset and color through computer programs designed to assist in the creation of unique labels.

Although we have grown accustomed to seeing these types of labels in our everyday use, the commercial application for print and apply labels for manufacturers, retailers and distributors cannot be understated. The print and apply labels used to meet industry and supplier standards must always be readable and oftentimes scannable as well. This allows for high-speed automation throughout the manufacturing and transporting processes, eliminating any instances of human error and facilitating in the smooth and speedy processes required to meet industry demands.

In-line print and apply machines are by far the most popular type of print and apply label application for production use. These machines can often be integrated right into a manufacturer’s conveyor belt or production line. The printers are often integrated at a step in the production line that allows labeling of any of the multi tier levels of packaging.

Below are various types of applicators. Which to use will vary based on your process and needs:

• Blow/Tamp
• Swing Arm
• Wipe on
• Corner Wrap
• Pallet

Once labeled, the products or packages can be easily identified by the exterior packaging label, scanned, and transferred to the appropriate next destination.

Automatic label printers and applicators such as the equipment AMI specializes in, have the capability to mark and code printable labels using state-of-the-art SATO brand print engines that are then consistently applied to the products, containers, boxes, packaging etc. This sensor, programming and applicator ensures that labels are consistently placed in the same location on all similar or varied sized packaging. During the automatic labeling process, the are variables that are accounted for, like the time between label application based on conveyor speed, distance an applicator arm may have to travel, number of labels and more.

In addition to the obvious benefits of having legible and traceable information displayed on products and the exterior of packages, automated in-line labeling increases the efficiency of inbound and outbound transport. Precision and accuracy are another hallmark of in-line print and apply labeling, the application of ink on a label allows definable borders and crisp lettering and numbering. Another huge benefit of this type of label application is that it is customizable to work on a variety of package types and sizes, making in-line printing fully capable of adapting to a client’s needs- tailor made application of label types, size and location.

AMI specializes in in-line print and apply label equipment and technology and our knowledgeable staff can assist manufacturers, suppliers, and retailers alike. Call 1-800-345-6667 or have someone call you.