Choosing the right labeling machine is a critical step in streamlining your packaging operations. Here are some practical tips to assist you in navigating this decision-making process:

 

1. Product Formats and Shapes

When opting for a labeling machine, consider the diversity of product formats and shapes. Delve into this initial phase of decision-making with the following insights:

  • Create a detailed inventory of specific formats and shapes your company handles daily, from small 10ml containers to larger 1-liter ones.
  • Identify whether you deal with a variety of volumes and designs, such as conical, cylindrical, or rectangular products that require labelling on the same machine.
  • Evaluate the machine’s adaptability to different formats of the same shape, considering features like automated adjustments, modular fixing systems, and quick-set mechanisms.

 

2. Product Type

Determine whether your products are rigid or flexible, as this factor directly influences labelling quality. Explore this critical consideration:

  • Recognize that flexible products pose challenges during labelling due to potential distortion during the label application process.
  • Ensure the chosen labelling machine has specific adjustment mechanisms to accommodate the flexibility of products.

 

3. Specific Product Characteristics

Examine whether your products possess features like welds or notches requiring precise label alignment. This consideration is crucial for impeccable product presentation:

  • Consider investing in features such as sensing cells for increased precision in label placement, reducing the risk of misalignment or incorrect application.

 

4. Number of Labels

Determine the number of labels required for each product, keeping in mind that more labels necessitate additional labelling stations:

  • Adjust the labelling machine according to the number of labels required, ensuring each station corresponds to a specific label.

 

5. Label Specifications

Consider the specific characteristics of your labels, such as transparency, embossing, need for a best-before date (BBD), or integration of barcodes:

  • Explore options like advanced sensors for transparent labels and adjustments for embossed labels to ensure accurate application.
  • For products requiring a BBD or barcodes, opt for a machine equipped with advanced detection systems.

 

6. Labelling Speed Requirements

Strike a balance between optimum productivity and quality by assessing your labelling speed needs:

  • Choose a labelling machine that matches your current production needs, with the flexibility to adapt to potential future growth.
  • Opt for machines offering adjustable speeds to accommodate fluctuations in demand.

 

7. Scalability and Growth

Consider the ability of the labelling machine to evolve and adapt to your business’s future growth:

  • Choose a scalable machine capable of adjusting to increased production without major modifications or additional investments.

 

8. Budget

Effective budget management is crucial for selecting a labelling machine:

  • Clearly define your budget and conduct a thorough analysis, considering not only the initial machine cost but also expenses related to specific features and options.
  • Explore financing options to ease the initial financial burden.

By considering these factors, you can select a labelling machine that aligns perfectly with your operational needs. Our hands-on approach involves testing machines with your samples to evaluate their performance and determine the optimal solution for your specific requirements.

Contact us to discuss your packaging projects and obtain more information.