
Ink marking is one of the most widely used technologies for carton packaging because it is fast, flexible and can handle batch numbers, best-before dates, logos and barcodes.
However, carton is a varying material – from uncoated and porous surface to coated or laminated – which means that the ink must be adapted to always provide clear and durable marking.
Labelling is a very flexible option for carton packaging, especially when the packaging needs to contain a lot of information, multiple language versions or promotional messages. Labels can carry entire blocks of information – everything from ingredient lists and allergen declarations to barcodes, QR codes and graphic elements.
With print & apply systems, labels can be both printed and applied to the carton in real time. This is particularly useful when variable information such as batch numbers, best-before dates or production codes need to be applied to the packaging at the same time as production is running.
Labelling is also common for outer cartons and pallet marking, where large labels are used to ensure traceability in the logistics and distribution chain. Here, the same system can print logistics data, EAN or SSCC codes and apply them directly to the carton or pallet with high precision.
Label printers are a crucial part of the food industry’s labelling process. They are designed to print batch numbers, best-before dates, barcodes, shipping labels and custom-designed food labels – always with consistent quality even in medium-sized volumes. Thanks to their robust construction, they can withstand harsh environments with moisture, cold, heat and chemicals, which are crucial in the various stages of food production.
With fast print speeds, label size flexibility and compatibility with a variety of materials, the label printers are particularly suitable for businesses producing up to 5,000 labels per day and need reliable 24/7 operation, ensuring that your labels are always of the same high standard – from production to the shelf.
Other challenges relate to the production environment. Carton packaging can be exposed to cold, condensation or friction during transport, which risks affecting the readability of batch numbers, best-before dates or barcodes. Therefore, the print must be both clear, durable and adapted to the entire journey of the packaging – from production to store.
Common uses for carton marking:
Individual packaging – batch number, best-before date and barcodes directly on the carton.
Outer cartons – high-resolution text, logos or codes for traceability in the warehouse.
Pallet marking – large labels with product information and logistics data for easy handling in the transport chain.
Combination solutions – labelling on both packaging, carton and pallet for full traceability throughout the flow.
In short: marking on carton is not just about choosing the right method – but about finding a solution that can handle the unique properties of the material and the practical challenges the product faces along the way.
Do you want to see how the machine works in your production on your material or product? Book a free Demo We will be happy to show you the machine (or similar machine) in operation and how we can tailor the solution based on your needs.
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