Applying labels to cartons that are moving at high speed along a packaging line by contacting the carton can create problems for the alignment of the carton and also for the equipment applying the label. The safest way to apply a printed label in this type of situation is to NEVER touch the carton but still see the labels completely adhered to the carton. The Tamp/Blow applicator extends the just printed label to a position that is very close to the side of the passing carton but does not touch the carton. The label is blown accurately across a very short distance as the carton passes at true line speed onto the side of the carton. Zero impact upon the carton alignment and zero impact force transmission to the labeling system – but the label is on the carton accurately and reliably.