Semi-automatic labeling

Learn what semi-automatic labeling is, its purpose and how Weber Marking Systems can help you implement it!

Semi-automatic labeling is a labeling process which combines human and machine operations. More specifically, in semi-automatic labeling a human manually loads and unloads the items to be labeled while a labeling machine (usually a label printer and applicator) prints and applies the labels on them.

Semi-automatic labeling has both advantages and disadvantages compared to other labeling processes:

• Semi-automatic labeling vs manual labeling: semi-automatic labeling is definitely faster than manual labeling, where every step of the labeling process is done by hand. However, semi-automatic labeling requires an automated labeling machine, which is more expensive than a traditional desktop label printer. As a rule of thumb, manual labeling is a preferable option when the amount of items to be labeled is small and the labels do not have to meet regulatory or high quality standards. In all other cases, semi-automatic or fully-automatic labeling is the best way to go.

• Semi-automatic labeling vs fully-automatic labeling: in fully-automatic labeling, the entire process of moving items to the label printer and labeling them is done without human interaction. A human hand may, however, be necessary when it comes to monitoring the labeling process and fixing any eventual problems with the labeling machine or the software powering it. Compared to semi-automatic labeling, fully-automatic labeling is a much faster process, but requires a much higher initial investment to fully automate the entire labeling chain. Semi-automatic labeling is therefore a better option if the budget is limited and the amount of items to be labeled is not extremely voluminous.

Semi-automatic labeling offers two main advantages:

• Reasonable costs: since a human will be responsible for loading and unloading the items, no additional expenses will be incurred with the exception of the labeling machine (and its consumables).

• High quality printing: semi-automatic labeling machines provide a much better printing quality than traditional desktop printers.

• Reasonable labeling speed: the combination of human work and semi-automatic labeling machinery can easily label between 10 to 30 items per minute. For higher quantities, a fully automated conveyor line is preferable.

Weber Marking Systems provides state of the art labeling machines. Whether it is semi-automatic or fully-automatic labeling, our systems are equipped with cutting edge technology to overcome any major challenge. If you would like to know more, just get in contact with us!