In a busy warehouse, there’s no time for downtime or delays. Every part of the operation has to work to maximum efficiency to keep the supply chain moving.
That’s where print and apply labelling comes in. The multiple steps involved in manually applying labels can cause bottlenecks and backlogs, but automating the process removes these, boosting productivity and simplifying stock control.
Manual labelling vs. print and apply labelling in logistics
When products are labelled manually, someone must peel, align and stick each label, then check it’s correct, all of which takes time and staff resources. In contrast, a print and apply labelling system merges printing and application into one action. Labels featuring barcodes, serial numbers, shipping details or other information are generated on demand and fixed precisely, straight from the conveyor or robotic arm. The result is rapid throughput, even at peak times, improved consistency and more accurate details, with less scope for mistakes and greater warehouse labelling efficiency.
Better inventory control
Reliable labelling helps to maintain accurate stock records by ensuring items are marked with the right information. An incorrect SKU can trigger a chain reaction of delays and extra costs including missed deliveries and unfulfilled orders. Connecting logistics labelling solutions – especially print and apply systems – with your Warehouse Management System (WMS) and ERP ensures:
- Item details come straight from your database without the need for time-consuming manual entry
- As each label is applied and scanned, real-time stock levels adjust
- Labels can carry aisle, bay and rack codes, guiding operatives exactly where to store or pick
This cuts overstock, out of stock items, and wasted searching time, all crucial when dealing with growing e-commerce volumes.
Improved traceability
Once a label is applied, that package can not only be tracked throughout the warehouse but right through to the end recipient. Using either traditional barcodes or advanced RFID tags, automatic labelling ensures every movement is recorded. That means:
- You can spot delays or mis-routes instantly
- Issues get sorted before they escalate
- Accurate, legible labels meet industry standards and speed up audits or customs clearance
Implementing these stronger traceability practices reduces returns and boosts customer confidence, both vital for growth.
Greater efficiency
Automated systems deliver consistency and pace that it’s impossible for a human operative to match. With no need for breaks, holidays or sick leave, systems keep rolling regardless of the time or season. They are also highly adaptable, reacting quickly to changes in product type or volume and switching formats or data sets accordingly.
In addition, predictive maintenance features built into many logistics labelling solutions monitor equipment health and ink levels, triggering alerts before consumables run out and systems are forced to shut down. This proactive approach keeps downtime and support calls low and improves overall warehouse efficiency.
Discover the power of automated labelling for your warehouse. Browse our range of print + apply machines and see how our technology can enhance your efficiency.
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