Pallet labeling

Pallet labeling is the process of applying labels to pallets.

Pallet labeling requires three steps: the creation of a label, the printing of the label and the application of the label to the pallet.

Creating a pallet label (also called transport label) is relatively simple. Nowadays, manufacturers can easily create them with the help of a label software. The contents of pallet labels are usually specified in technical standards developed by international organizations or industry players, the GS1-128 barcode being one of the most famous. It is typically found on transport labels that contain a Serial Shipping Container Code (SSCC).

Once the pallet label has been created, it must be printed and applied to the pallet. This is usually done at the point of dispatch or manufacture. Regardless of where the pallet label is applied, it can be done either manually or automatically with the help of a labeling system. In industrial logistics, print-and-apply labeling systems will be used.

The choice of labeling system to apply pallet labels basically depends on whether the labels are applied manually or automatically.

If the label is applied manually, a label printer is used to print the label. After the label has been printed, it is manually applied to the respective pallet.

However, applying pallet labels manually is not a realistic solution for businesses with a large manufacturing volume. In these cases, an automatic pallet labeling machine is preferred. This labeling method has several advantages, including the following:

• It allows businesses to label hundreds of pallets in a short period of time.
• It makes sure that the supply chain is not slowed down.
• It allows businesses to be more efficient by reducing time and costs.
• Like other labeling systems, automatic pallet labeling machines offer a high print quality.

Pallet labeling is extremely important to guarantee that the supply chain is not interrupted. In this sense, the pallet labeling process must be able to comply with the requirements from retailers. In fact, many retailers impose fines when a pallet label does not meet its requirements. As a result, having an appropriate pallet labeling system is absolutely necessary.