High quality product labels come in different shapes, sizes, and materials. One crucial step in creating a stunning design is the application process. Here’s what you need to know:
Understanding the Different Options for Label Application
When applying labels on your products, there are two main paths you can take: handle it internally or hire an outside vendor.
If you’re considering taking the label application process in house, good news: there are plenty of options available. From DIY applicators to fully automated machines, the endless possibilities mean there is likely a solution out there that will fit your specific needs and budget.
If you’ve done any research on in-house label application, you’ve likely found that sophisticated machinery tends to be more expensive. However, these extra costs often translate to increased efficiency—some automated machines can apply over 1,000 labels per hour.
It’s important to note that investing in a DIY label applicator is a big commitment, and you need to know what to expect before purchasing new equipment.
Why Your Business Should Purchase Label Applicator Machines
Before signing on the dotted line for your brand-new equipment, evaluate which of the following advantages impact your business the most.
Cost Control
For most companies, the cost per label alone can justify the purchase of in-house application, as these savings add up quickly. With an internal label applicator machine, you apply exactly the number of labels you need when they’re needed. This frees your business from order minimums while helping you avoid processing and shipment delays.
Simplify Your Process
When you order from outside label applicators with large order requirements, you need extra space to store all of your labeled products. Luckily, with an internal label applicator, you only need space to accommodate the machine and your materials.
In-house label applications also provide the advantage of on-demand delivery. If you find that you need more labels for your product on short notice, you won’t need to deal with the hassle of rush orders. Additional labeled products are just moments away. Applying your own labels also opens the door for seasonal, promotional, or event-specific branding opportunities.
Scheduling Flexibility
One of the most significant benefits of investing in your label applicators is you’ll no longer rely on outside schedules.
In-house label application allows you to dictate when it’s time to brand your goods, which in turn helps you consolidate project timelines, streamline the production process, and work around logistic concerns or supply chain issues.
Choosing the right Label Applicator Equipment
When it comes to labeling equipment, you have many options with unique capabilities. Your ideal piece of equipment will largely depend on the type of product you’re labeling, the material of the labels, your budget, and any existing system that the equipment will need to be integrated into.
Common types of labeling equipment include pre-printed label applicators, labeling systems, and print & apply label applicators. When deciding on what type of equipment you need, there are a few specifics to keep in mind in addition to cost and quality concerns.
Flexibility and Versatility
If your company currently produces a variety of products needing different types of labels, or you have a product line you plan to expand in the future, keep this in mind when shopping for labeling equipment. For example, some labeling machines can only print or apply labels, while others can do either or both.
Speed
Speed is an important factor to consider, especially if you’re purchasing in-house equipment in order to reduce the time it takes to get labels on your products. That being said, speed shouldn’t be your only consideration as speed doesn’t always promise a high-quality output.
Type of Print Engine
Labeling systems either have a thermal transfer or direct thermal print engine. Thermal transfer engines produce long-lasting, durable labels. This type of equipment may be ideal for you if your products tend to be stored on shelves for long periods of time. Direct thermal print engines use a heat transfer process, which produces labels that won’t last quite as long. If you produce food products that don’t sit on the shelf for months or years, this type of equipment will likely work for you.
Choosing a Labeling Equipment Manufacturer
Once you decide to take your label application process in-house, it’s time to pinpoint the type of equipment you need and which manufacturer to order from. In order to make a decision confidently, first consider the factors that are most important to you when working with a manufacturer. The design and specific functionality of the equipment they offer is obviously your first consideration. Next, the manufacturer’s sales process, the level of support offered, costs associated with the equipment, and the company’s credibility are just a few of the things you may want to consider when making this important decision.
As an Authorized Distributor of both Label-Aire and CTM equipment, USTL has the top-of-the-line label applicator machinery necessary to meet the needs of every industry we work with, and the ability to create impactful labels for any business looking to make their products stand out. Our team of qualified sales engineers is ready to help you find the equipment solution that will meet your specific business needs.
Regardless of your reasoning for taking on the process in house, one factor remains the same: you need a trusted provider for your label applicator machinery.
USTL: Your One-Stop Shop for Label Applicator Equipment and Printing Services
If you’re interested in in-house label application, turn to U.S. Tape & Label.
From label printing to equipment vending, our comprehensive services provide solutions for any of your branding needs. Ready to take the next step? Reach out to our expert team and ask about our product samples.
