Labeling cardboard boxes: label vs. inkjet printing
Cardboard boxes are perfect for transporting goods safely. Everything it takes is the right label for logistics, shipping or traceability. In some of these cases, costs can be reduced if you choose inkjet printers over labeling systems. But when exactly is direct marking just as suitable as applying labels? We compared both methods in terms of print quality, flexibility, speed and operating costs. Find out which method is best for you!
Comparing labeling and direct printing
Are you wondering whether you need a print-apply system or whether a cost-saving inkjet printer would also fulfill your labeling requirements? We have compared the key application-related data for carton labeling with that for direct printing.
| Comparison |
Labeling
|
Direct printing
|
| Technology | Automatic labeling | Inkjet coding |
| Print content |
|
|
| Maximum resolution | 600 dpi | 600 dpi |
| Print speed | up to 400 mm/s | up to 2.500 mm/s |
| Maximum print size |
|
|
| Label positions |
|
|
| Suitable surfaces |
|
|
| Print colors |
|
|
| Readability | optimal legibility of black markings on white label material | good to very good legibility of black ink on white cardboard; brown cardboard may reduce legibility |
| Print sharpness | pin-sharp thermal transfer printing on label material | the absorbency of the cardboard can reduce the sharpness of the print. |
| Format change | no change of label size possible during operation | font sizes can be changed during printing process |
| Movability of the print head / stamp plate |
movable and variable, |
static, non-movable |
| Maximum distance between marking system and carton |
greater distance (thanks to the extendable dispensing stamp and blow-on process, different distances can be bridged) |
short distance (usually only a few mm) |
| Acquisition costs | comparable | comparable |
| Costs for consumables | higher (labels, ribbons) | lower (ink) |
|
Printing costs per 1,000 prints (with the same format and content) |
higher |
lower (about 60% less) |
Labeling cardboard boxes
White labels paired with black thermal-transfer printing achieve excellent print resolution. Furthermore, they compensate for unevenness on corrugated cardboard surfaces. Both factors are important when external partners and customers are supposed to read out markings such as barcodes or data matrix codes without errors. Retailers often demand very high print quality that complies with ANSI Code Grade A.
In addition, labeling systems are more adaptable than inkjet printers. You can label your goods sideways, from above or below and around the corner. Even with variable carton heights, they label very accurately thanks to extendable tamp pads and contactless labeling techniques.
Directly printing labels on cartons
Industrial inkjet printers apply text, numbers, barcodes, or logos quickly, efficiently, and without contact to your cartons on the conveyor belt in the logistics line. They offer a cost-saving alternative to conventional labels and are available with different printing technologies.
Piezo ink jet
Piezo inkjet printers are ideal for large-format, high-resolution printing on cardboard boxes. They are particularly suitable for high printing speeds and high print volumes. They have extremely durable print heads that require very little maintenance. The large ink tanks reduce downtime and can be refilled during operation. These advantages mean that PIJ printers achieve very low costs per print.
Printer recommendation: Markoprint integra PP 108 bicolor can print two colors simultaneously with just one print head, allowing GHS symbols to be applied to cartons in red and black, for example.
Thermal ink jet
Thermal inkjet printers impress with high-resolution and clean print images that stand up to almost any comparison with labels – perfect for reliable markings with barcodes, production data, or dates. They are particularly inexpensive to purchase and are considered virtually maintenance-free because the print head is replaced with every cartridge change.
Printer recommendation: Markoprint integra Singular 108 offers an impressive print height of up to 108 mm and a print resolution of up to 600 dpi, making it our top recommendation for cost-effective carton printing with high print runs!
Conclusion
When it comes to industrial labeling, the choice between applying labels and direct printing depends largely on the requirements for legibility, flexibility, production speed, and cost-effectiveness.
Labels offer high contrast and meet the most stringent requirements for legibility for humans and machines, which is why they are indispensable for shipping labeling, among other things. Labeling systems are also more versatile when it comes to changing packaging sizes and specific label positions.
Inkjet printers, on the other hand, are significantly more cost-effective to operate at high speeds and high volumes. They can replace labels in internal logistics in many cases.
Are you looking for the right technology for your application? Feel free to contact us for a free, individual expert consultation!
