Return Labeling Systems

Methods for Automated Return Labeling

FOX IV has three methods for ARS labeling:
 

1.) Label-over-label

This method utilizes two standard automated labeling systems. One printer-applicator on the fulfillment line prints and applies a return label, and a second in-line label printer-applicator applies a label over the first. The first label contains the return shipping label and has permanent adhesive, while the second label is the initial shipping label that directs the package to the customer. The customer shipping label is usually larger than the return label and would have a removable or semi-permanent adhesive, so that it peels from the return label, or be a specialty label that only has adhesive on the outer edges and a perforated removable section – similar to the TwinPrint® label described below. You could also use a standard label applicator for the return label instead of a printer-applicator if the return shipping information is preprinted on the label and doesn’t change.
 

2.) FOX IV TwinPrint®-over-label

This method also utilizes two automated labeling systems; however, one is the dual-sided TwinPrint® system. By using the TwinPrint® system, you can also incorporate the packing list (or other messaging like return instructions, gift messaging, etc) with the shipping labeling. Similar to the label-over-label system, the two labeling systems are mounted in-line. The first, print-and-apply system or label applicator, applies the return shipping label to the box. The TwinPrint® then prints a larger, dual-sided shipping label/packing list and applies it over the return label. When the customer receives the box, following the directions on the FOX IV TwinPrint® label, they reveal the packing slip and return label underneath.

View video: https://youtu.be/mbqA3VjIDAs

NOTE: Both label-over-label and TwinPrint®-over-label can be utilized in-line as packages are moving past the labeling systems. These methods require two automated labeling systems.
 

3.) FOX IV Duo system

The FOX IV Duo is designed specifically for label-over-label applications like ARS but utilizes a single label printer-applicator. The Duo first prints a standard shipping label for the return label and applies it to the box, then prints a larger shipping label, similar to the TwinPrint® label with adhesive around the outside, perforated tear area, and liner void. It applies the larger label over the return label as the box is paused on the fulfillment line. This method eliminates the need for two label print-and-apply systems but does require Duo label rolls from FOX IV.

View video: https://youtu.be/SxQsMrvizX0

Alternate Method

An alternative method to an ARS that allows the recipient to utilize their own packaging for returns is to print the return label on the reverse side of the TwinPrint® label and have the recipient affix/tape the return side of the label to package. This method requires only the TwinPrint® system to print-and-apply a dual-sided TwinPrint® label to the package. The label is applied “on-the-fly” without having to pause to label.

The recipient ship-to label is printed on the top side of the TwinPrint® label and the return shipping label is printed on the reverse. The dual-sided label is applied to the package with the return shipping information hidden. To return an item, they would remove the perforated section of the TwinPrint® label and to reveal the return label. They would then tape the return side of the label facing up onto the return shipping packaging. This allows the end-user to use the same or different return packaging from the original shipping packaging. Because the return label is printed and applied on the reverse of the shipping label, it is never forgotten.

Before moving forward with a return labeling project, you’ll need to decide which method best suits your operation. Can the package be paused to apply two labels with the same machine or do you want to apply as the packages are moving? Do you want to add a packing slip or additional information to the label grouping? What speed do you need to achieve, and will one or two labeling systems be better? Must recipients use the original packaging or can they use something different? FOX IV can help with your decision by evaluating your application and suggesting what will work for you.

No matter which method you choose, you can be confident that the return label is securely applied and the package is ready for return to the facility.