There are all sorts of different labels you can use to create a brand identity and make consumers aware of your products. There also is a wide array of labeling equipment and machines you can use to apply labels to your products. The process of selecting the best labeling solutions may seem overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be.
Step 1: Define your needs and objectives.
What type of statement to you want to make with your product packaging or labeling? Do you want your products to be easily identifiable from competitors’ products? Using color, eye-catching images, and other such identifiers can make you stand out and get noticed.
Step 2: Establish a budget.
Before you invest in labeling machines and equipment, you need to know how much you can spend. If you are just getting started as a new business, an alternative to purchasing a machine would be to inquire about leasing one or outsourcing your label and package printing to a qualified third party.
Step 3: Explore different types of labeling equipment and machines.
From automatic labeling machines you can install on your production line to label printers requiring your employees to apply the labels to products, there is a host of different types of labeling solutions to consider.
When selecting a solution for your business, think about other current and future labeling needs. Can the machine or equipment be used to create labels or packaging for more than one of your product lines? Investing in a multipurpose labeling solution can be a good choice.
Step 4: Determine what speed you need to meet production goals.
Labeling systems are available in three general types. There are manually operated labeling machines, semi-automatic labeling machines, and automatic labeling machines. Each one will determine the speed of production output, with manual being the slowest and automatic being the fastest.
Manual machines are well-suited for small operations that work in small batches. Semi-automatic machines are better-suited for medium-sized operations that find they are getting being using a manual machine. Automatic machines are for operations that are turning out large volumes of products.
Step 5: Ask for a demonstration of the labeling equipment.
You need to know how the equipment is going to work with your products whether the machine is just printing or is applying the labels to your products. Demonstrations are easy to do, thanks to online video conferencing.
Step 6: Verify the labeling equipment supplier installs the machine.
Some suppliers just sell the equipment and leave it up to you to figure out how to install it or contract with another party. Other suppliers install the equipment for you at your facility. After installation, they also test the machine to confirm it is working correctly and delivering the proper output.
Step 7: Confirm training is offered and included.
You and your employees will need to know how to operate the machine, as well as perform maintenance on it. You also need to know who to call if the machine needs to be repaired and the repairs are beyond the scope of your maintenance technicians.
Step 8: Ask about warranty information and post-installation support.
No matter which machine you select, you need to know what the warranty period is on the machine and what is and is not covered. You also need to know what level of post-installation support will be available from the machine supplier.
By following these eight steps, you are sure to choose the best labeling systems for your business. To learn more about our labeling equipment and materials and other solutions, please feel free to contact GCB Solutions, Inc. at (904) 263-2804 today!
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