Barcode Labels: Preprinted vs On-Demand. How to Determine What’s Right for You?
August 08, 2024
Barcode labels are used in various industries to encode information in a machine-readable format. They are important because they provide a quick and accurate way to capture and process data, which helps in inventory management, point-of-sale transactions, tracking shipments, and more. Here are some key reasons for their importance:
Efficiency: Barcodes allow for fast scanning and data entry, reducing the time needed for manual entry and minimizing errors.
Accuracy: Manual data entry is prone to errors, while barcode scanning significantly reduces the chances of mistakes.
Tracking and Inventory Management: Barcodes help track items in real-time, improving inventory accuracy and reducing losses.
Cost-Effective: Automating data capture with barcodes can lower labor costs and improve overall operational efficiency.
Data Retrieval: Barcodes can store various types of information that can be quickly retrieved, improving decision-making processes.
Preprinted Barcode Labels vs. Print on Demand Barcode Labels
Preprinted Barcode Labels
Definition: These are barcode labels that are printed in bulk by a specialized manufacturer and delivered ready to use.
Advantages:
Cost Efficiency:
• Lower Printing Costs: Preprinted bar codes can be produced in bulk, often reducing the cost per unit.
• Reduced Equipment Costs: Eliminates the need for investing in on-demand printing equipment. (Equipment maintenance, ribbons, blank media, print heads, bar code software)
• Labor: Dedicated individual printing bar codes.
Speed and Convenience:
• Faster Processing: Using preprinted bar codes can speed up the labeling process, as there is no need to print labels on the spot.
• Simplicity: No need to train staff on using printing equipment or handling different types of printing materials.
Quality and Durability:
• High-Quality Printing: Preprinted bar codes are typically produced with high-quality printing techniques, ensuring better readability and durability.
• Consistency: Ensures uniformity in the appearance and quality of the bar codes, which is crucial for machine scanning.
Reliability:
• Reduced Errors: Preprinted labels reduce the risk of printing errors or misalignment issues that can occur with on-demand printing.
Print on Print-on-demand barcode Labels
Definition: These are barcode labels that are printed as needed using in-house printing equipment like Zebra, Sato, TSC, Printronix, and more.
Advantages:
Flexibility:
• Customization: Allows for the customization of bar codes as needed, including adding variable data such as serial numbers, dates, or batch information.
• Adaptability: Easily adapts to changes in product information, regulatory requirements, or customer needs.
Inventory Management:
• Reduced Inventory: Eliminates the need to keep large stocks of preprinted labels, reducing storage space and associated costs.
• Less Waste: Minimizes waste from outdated or unused preprinted labels.
Operational Efficiency:
• Just-In-Time Production: Enables just-in-time label production, aligning with lean manufacturing practices.
• Responsive: Quick response to last-minute changes or updates in labeling requirements.
Cost Efficiency in Small Batches:
• Cost-Effective for Small Runs:
• Printing on demand can be more cost-effective for small quantities or limited-edition products where preprinting would be impractical.
Choosing Between Preprinted and Print on Demand
The choice between preprinted and print-on-demand barcode labels depends on the specific needs of your business:
• Preprinted Bar Codes are ideal for high-volume, consistent labeling needs where cost efficiency, quality, and speed are paramount.
• Printing Bar Codes on Demand is better suited for operations requiring flexibility, customization, and efficient inventory management, especially for smaller batches or variable data.
