How to reduce coding and labelling costs without compromising quality

Coding and labelling are essential processes, particularly in industries like food and beverage, where compliance, traceability, and branding are key. Yet, reducing these costs should never mean sacrificing the quality or reliability of your product codes and labels.

If you're wondering how to reduce coding and labelling costs, here are proven strategies to optimise your operations without compromising quality or compliance.

1. Choose Cost-Efficient Inks and Consumables

The choice of inks and consumables directly affects your coding and labelling budget. Consider these tips:

Select high-yield inks: These provide more prints per cartridge, reducing the need for frequent replacements

Use compatible supplies: Some printers support third-party inks and fluids that can be more affordable than OEM options

Minimise waste: Choose inks designed for low-maintenance printers to prevent clogs and reduce waste

Tip: Work with a trusted supplier like us at Industrial Printer Services Ltd, who can guide you to cost-effective and high-quality consumables suitable for your specific coding technology. Our team are just an email or phone call away.

2. Invest in Preventive Maintenance

Printer downtime and repair costs can quickly escalate if equipment isn’t properly maintained. Preventive maintenance ensures your printers function efficiently and minimises unexpected failures.

Schedule regular servicing: A well-maintained printer is less likely to experience breakdowns that disrupt production

Clean printer components: Keeping printheads, filters, and other parts clean extends their lifespan and maintains print quality

Replace parts proactively: Using readily available spare parts can prevent costly delays caused by waiting for replacements

3. Optimise Printer Settings for Efficiency

Ensuring your printer is configured correctly can significantly impact coding and labelling costs.

Adjust print quality settings: While high-resolution prints may be necessary for branding, lower resolutions often suffice for internal coding or traceability

Reduce print size: Using smaller codes and labels, where possible, can save ink and materials

Calibrate for speed and efficiency: Properly calibrating printers ensures smooth operation at production line speeds without waste or errors

4. Adopt Energy-Efficient Technology

Energy-efficient printers and equipment help reduce operational costs. Modern printers consume less power, offer faster print cycles, and include features to reduce idle energy use. Consider upgrading to newer models if your current systems are energy-intensive.

5. Standardise Your Coding and Labelling Processes

Standardising your coding and labelling across production lines can lead to significant cost savings:

Centralise printer management: Use software solutions to streamline settings and reduce errors across multiple printers

Consolidate supplies: Using a uniform ink type or label material across lines simplifies inventory and reduces bulk costs

Train staff: Properly trained employees ensure consistent operation, reducing errors and rework

6. Leverage Bulk Ordering Discounts

Purchasing consumables in bulk often comes with significant discounts. Partnering with a reliable supplier ensures you can stock up on essential items like inks, labels, and spare parts without worrying about shortages.

7. Use Data and Analytics to Optimise Performance

Modern coding and labelling systems often come equipped with management software. Use these tools to monitor performance and identify inefficiencies:

Track ink and material usage: Analytics can highlight wastage and help you adjust processes to save costs

Monitor printer uptime: Data insights help predict maintenance needs and avoid unplanned downtime

8. Upgrade to the Right Technology

The right printer can make all the difference when it comes to reducing costs. Consider solutions like:

Continuous Inkjet (CIJ) Printers: Ideal for high-speed production and versatile surfaces

Thermal Transfer Printers: Efficient for durable codes on flexible packaging

Laser Coders: Cost-effective for long-term use due to minimal consumable requirements

A professional consultation can help you determine the best technology for your specific needs.

Summary

By implementing these strategies, you can effectively reduce coding and labelling costs without compromising on quality, compliance, or efficiency. From choosing cost-effective consumables to leveraging data-driven insights, there are numerous ways to optimise your operations and save money.

At Industrial Printer Services Ltd, we specialise in providing tailored solutions that help manufacturers reduce costs while maintaining the highest standards. Contact us today to explore how we can help streamline your coding and labelling processes.

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