A cardboard with a barcode

Marking on cardboards: Labeling vs. direct 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 and speed. Find out which method is best for you!

Labeling cardboard boxes

Carton box with corner wrap labelWhite 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. For example, retailers often demand very high print quality that complies with ANSI Code Grade A.

In addition, labeling machines 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 dispensing temples and contactless labeling techniques. The maximum printing speed is 400 mm / s.

Directly printing labels on cartons

Markoprint inkjet print on carton boxThe print quality of ink on cardboard is usually slightly lower compared to labels, as cardboard is very absorbent. Nonetheless, large-character piezo inkjet printers also achieve a high printing resolution, which is ideal for coding tasks in warehouse logistics, picking or quality assurance. Whether the color and quality of the cardboard allow the desired print image, must be checked individually.

Specific advantages of direct marking are the higher maximum printing speed (up to 1,000 mm / s) and lower printing costs (about 60% less per 1,000 prints). At the same time, the font size can be changed during the current printing process, which is not possible when labeling. Cardboard surfaces can be printed on the side or top, but the printhead must be installed very close to the surface.

Labeling vs direct label printing in comparison:

 

Labeling

White address label with barcode on carton box(print and apply)

Direct printing

Black inkjet print on carton box

(piezo inkjet)

Maximum resolution600 dpi200 dpi
Printing qualityPin sharp thermal transfer printing on label materialAbsorbency of the cardboard reduces print quality
ScannabilityExcellent (black print on white label)Reduced on brown cardboard
Maximum print sizeHeight: variable / maximum width: 160 mmWidth: variable / maximum height: 800 mm
Print of text, images, graphics and codesPossiblePossible
Various printing colorsPossiblePossible
Investment costsComparableComparable
Operating cost / consumablesHigher (labels, thermal transfer ribbon)Lower (ink)
Printing costs per 1,000 prints*Higher (ca. 9.50 €)Lower (ca. 3.10 €)
Maximum printing speed400 mm / sec1.000 mm / sec
Adjustability of labeling plate / printheadAdjustable and variable, corner wrap is possibleStatic, not adjustable
Print position
  • from above
  • from the side
  • from below
  • from above
  • from the side
Format changeNo change of label size possible while process is runningChange of print size possible while process is running
Suitable surfacesAbsorbent and non-absorbent substratesAbsorbent and slightly-absorbent substrates
Maximum distance to the cartonLarge (due to extendable dispenser and/or blow-off technology)Small (printhead must sit close to surface)

* in the format 105 x 150 mm, printed image see above, at 1 million prints p.a.

Conclusion

While print-and-apply-labelers are very versatile, cost-effective inkjet printers meet demands of many applications as well. In direct comparison, labels provide a better readability and are ideal for external logistics. On the other hand, inkjet printers work cheaper and faster. The print quality is suitable for many applications in internal logistics. The right decision often depends on the individual case. The experts at Weber Marking Systems will be happy to advise you personally and at no cost!

Get in touch for more information and FREE consultation

 

One comment

  1. Hi
    Good comparison between labeling and direct printing. Personally, labeling is better by resolution (depending on printer), and my preference is due to the barcode reader. For which label must be clear and legible.

    regards

    Nahum

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