With so many variables and types of primary packaging coding equipment on the market today, it can be difficult to make a conscientious purchase decision with the utmost confidence that the capital expenditure will result in high productivity and minimal-to-no downtime. To help narrow down your options when vetting primary packaging coding equipment to discern the model that’s right for you, apply these 12 tips to better assure your choice will be a sound one:
- Research your industry’s distinct requirements and make sure you understand what is required as the standard and also best practices – i.e., elevating standards.
- With respect to the specific products that you are packaging, discern what type of printing technology can help ensure the integrity of the printed information throughout the logistics and storage cycle.
- Learn what you can about the packaging materials to be coded so you understand where the materials are strong and durable, and what spots are more vulnerable.
- Create a “features matrix” of primary packaging coding equipment under consideration so you can readily cross reference both similar and disparate capabilities of each, which will duly showcase the strengths and shortcomings of each model. It will also allow you to better match on board features to your specific needs.
- Similarly compare overall cost of ownership, including potential ongoing expenses for consumables and maintenance as well as initial and ongoing capital costs associated with each machine.
- Bear in mind what type of motion you are using during the application process, such as whether it is continuous or intermittent.
- Account for the run length and batch size, finding a machine that can go that distance.
- Determine if you are going to be working with static or changing information as well as the size of the message and the type of barcode, if any.
- Know the type of environment that the coding equipment will have to work in as well as what type of environment the primary packaging will be stored.
- Consider how your company’s needs may change over time in terms of changing coding requirements, production volume, packaging sizes and/or packaging materials. With industry and consumer trends always changing, operations and objectives are often change as well.
- Do your homework when it comes picking a vendor that you can trust and that inspires confidence in terms of their expertise, integrity, value and reputation so that you can be assured that they will meet your expectations when you have questions or need technical assistance.
- Consider making additional initial investments that will allow you to scale up rather than buying all new equipment down the line, including coding management software or equipment that has the ability to be upgraded or integrated into newer systems at a later date as well as purchasing a spare parts package as a wise “insurance” policy to sustain production time.
In Review Here are the main points regarding the above primary packaging coding equipment purchase tips:
- There are many things to consider before you purchase coding equipment, including industry, product, environment, cost and productivity requirements.
- Doing your research so as to understand the equipment, changing audience needs, and vendor reputations are all smart strategies when considering coding equipment.
- Thinking about current and future needs is a must when making such a significant investment in equipment and technology.
