According to some research, 59% of consumers said that they always look at the food labels on products. If you don’t have good labels on your products, then your consumers may not want to buy your products.
This is one reason that buying your own labeling machines is important. But how do you know which machines are the best ones to purchase?
Keep reading to discover everything you need to know about buying labeling equipment for your business.
Set a Budget
Before you start shopping around, then you’ll want to set a budget for your label maker. This will give you a good starting point before you start shopping around.
These machines can cost thousands of dollars depending on what manufacturer and what type of features you want on the machine. If you want to save money, you might want to try looking at used machines.
When you’re looking for machines, you’ll also want to consider how often you’re going to be using them. If you only need it for a few years, then it might be a better investment to buy a used one.
When you’re looking at labeling machines, you get what you pay for. When shopping around to save some money, then you will also want to consider how much it will cost to pay for any repairs or maintenance.
Identify Your Needs
When you buy a label machine, you’ll need to identify your needs to ensure that you buy the perfect machine. What are you going to be labeling?
Are you going to put product labels on a carton, pouch, bottle, bag, or something else? A machine that will put product labels on a jar won’t be flexible enough to put them on a package.
You’ll also want to figure out what your products are made of. If the application has a smooth surface, it will need a different machine for a rougher or rigid surface.
Lastly, consider where you’re putting the label on the product. Some machines will only do wrap-around labels, and others will apply on a flat surface. Some will also wrap around two panels, so you’ll need to determine what labels you need to use.
If you aren’t sure what type of labels you want, then you can contact the seller and ask them what they would advise.
Research Machines
There are different types of machines, but the two most common ones are automatic or semi-automatic label applicators. Many people assume that you can just easily stick a label on, but that isn’t the case.
Using the right labeling machine makes the entire labeling process seamless and easier. But there is a lot of engineering that goes on behind it. However, it can be just as difficult as the rest of the manufacturing process.
An automatic machine is much easier to learn how to use and operate than a semi-automatic machine, but the semi-automatic will offer more features that your business might need.
Compare Features
There are six different features that you should consider when you’re shopping for machines. Look for:
- Roll capability
- Product dimensions
- Label dimensions
- Standard features
- Options
- Specifications
You’ll also want to consider the equipment maintenance availability and shipping rates. When you have a full understanding of the production process and your labeling needs, it’ll make it easier to choose the right machine.
There are also different software features available to help you with label printing each day. For example, some of them are able to print in color to give you more functionality or integration.
Depending on the complexity and capability, these color printers might not be the easiest to use. You might also want something that will be more flexible.
However, the ability of your employee’s training and knowledge on how to work these printers is also a factor to consider. If they don’t know how to work it or the training is too difficult for employees, then you will just buy a machine that you will never end up using.
Consider Compatability
Some printers are more compatible with different software and accessories. If they don’t have an installation hassle, they will be much easier for you and your employees to use.
For example, if you’re printing labels on cans or bottles, you’ll want to have a bottle label applicator. If you don’t buy a label maker that can use those different applications, you may not be able to print those labels.
When you can install different attachments and accessories, then this will make your printing more efficiently. You may also want to install other applications, like commercial label applicators, a label roll rewinder, and a label roll under winder.
Decide on Container
Printing equipment has different containers of different sizes. However, different products require different containers.
For example, if you have a semi-automatic printing machine, then you can only apply labels on round or oval products. This will depend on the material of the container as well.
There are specialty machines that can print labels for wine bottles, box cartons, cosmetic tubes, and more.
Discover More About Buying Labeling Machines
These are only a few things to consider when you’re buying labeling machines for your business, but there are only a few things to consider.
We know that running a business can be stressful and overwhelming, but we’re here to help you out.
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