Beyond the Shipping Label

Let's explore the many ways label printers can go beyond the box.

Packaging Applications

• Overprinting on Pre-Printed Labels

  • Brand Consistency: Maintain a cohesive visual identity by adding variable data—like lot codes or expiration dates—onto labels that already feature logos, color palettes, or regulatory icons.

  • Cost Efficiency: Reduce the need for fully custom labels for every SKU. Use pre-printed stock and add only the necessary variable information.

  • Operational Flexibility: Enable just-in-time labeling by printing product-specific data on demand, minimizing waste and improving turnaround.

  • Regulatory Compliance: Easily add traceability elements such as batch numbers, barcodes, or RFID encoding without redesigning the entire label.

• Other Thermal Labeling Uses:

  • Create minimalist, clean packaging labels (think Rae Dunn-style simplicity).

  • Apply secondary barcode or compliance labels to pre-printed packaging.

  • Print correction labels to salvage mislabeled inventory.

With Full-Color Label Printers:

• On-Demand CMYK Product Labels

  • Reduce inventory of pre-printed labels and eliminate obsolescence.

  • Make design changes quickly without waiting for new label stock.

• Product Differentiation

  • Use color to distinguish between similar SKUs (e.g., shoe colors or syrup flavors).

  • Improve shelf appeal and speed up picking with visual cues.

Facility & Operational Labeling

• Print inventory and case labels with barcodes for faster scanning.
• Create rack, bin, or floor location labels for warehouse navigation.
• Use color-coded labels to streamline product identification and picking.
• Generate record-keeping labels for files, storage boxes, or archives.
• Print visitor badges or temporary access passes.
• Produce instructional placards or procedural signage for workstations.

Manufacturing & Compliance

• Print compliance labels with warning symbols or regulatory information.
• Generate inventory control labels for raw materials and finished goods.
• Print pick lists or packing lists directly at the point of use.
• Create instructional labels for assembly, inspection, or quality control.

Shipping—And Then Some

• Use color to highlight key areas on shipping labels (e.g., fragile, rush).
• Add coupons, QR codes, or return instructions directly to the label.
• Print packing slips as supplemental or concealed labels.
• Include promotional stickers or branded inserts to enhance the unboxing experience.

Conclusion: One Printer, Many Possibilities