Investing in a label system is not a decision to be made lightly; it deserves careful consideration as to how the machine will meet business needs now and in the future. With such a significant investment at stake, the label system has to provide a sizable return. Discerning which model is right for your operation can be challenging, but focusing on a few specific factors can make that decision easier and ensure it’s on target. Below are a few key factors to weigh when trying to ascertain which system is best.
5 Key Considerations
- Application: Your application will often dictate the type of labeling machine you will purchase because certain machines are better suited for specific products, like wrap labeling (for full or partial wrap labeling of cylindrical containers) versus front and back labels or top and bottom labeling (automatic in-line labeling systems). First narrow down the field to those models known to handle your type of product, packaging material and label design.
- Environment: It’s imperative to ensure the machine will not be adversely impacted by its placement. Some equipment was built to withstand harsh environments or wash-down environments. Identify in advance if there must be a high level of durability to continue working without breaking down due to heat, dust, or humidity. Other environments may be cramped or small work spaces that require compact systems or machines that can be mounted or seamlessly integrated into an existing production line.
- Features: The features are clearly one of the most important factors because these are what will determine how functional, flexible and versatile a system is. These features will dictate what you can do on your production line now and the degree of expansion and growth in the future as it relates to label size, data components, material and volume of label production.
- Production Time: You clearly want your production line to output as much volume as possible with as little downtime as possible, so taking scheduled maintenance requirements into consideration is a must. Machines with fewer components and less moving parts tend to require less planned and unplanned service, further bolstering the bottom line.
- Cost: While all the other factors have to apply in order for a system to be the right fit, the price must also be right. And, if all the other features are in place, you may want to be more flexible if the system exceeds your target budget. With such a capital expenditure that will grow with you and continue to add value and return over a longer time period, one shouldn’t be penny wise and pound foolish.
In Summary Here are the main points to remember about uncovering the label system that meets your business needs:
- Think about the type of application you have as some labeling equipment is more apt to handle that type of labeling need than another.
- Not every label machine was built to withstand heat, dampness, and dust while others may be too bulky for tight operations; make sure the machine fits your environment.
- Features are everything for now and into the future; make sure these are features you could use and that cover all of your production goals and objectives.
- Everyone needs the most uptime possible so make sure the machine can deliver.
- Cost is not just a price tag; it is about aligning your budget with a machine that offers the most value and return on your investment.
