Look around you right now. You're probably surrounded by things with labels, from water bottles to stacks of mail. The truth is that labels make the world go 'round, and today, we're going to find out how they're made. Sit back, relax, and get ready for an inside look at the process of label printing (and how you can use it to your advantage!)
Label Printing: A Brief History
Label printing has a rich history. In the distant past, people were using labels to communicate key information and simplify product shipping--but these labels weren't as advanced as they are today. Instead, they used an adhesive that had to be licked in order to activate, somewhat like the flap on an envelope.
It took quite some time for label printing to advance, but when it did, the world was introduced to the magic of self-adhesives. Now labels could be printed and placed on products with ease, and you didn't even have to lick anything!
Today, some of the same label printing concepts are still in use, many of them related to design and placement. However, the printing process itself is digitized, and that makes all the difference.
How Modern Companies Handle Label Printing
Modern label printing is faster and more efficient than ever before, which is why it's used in just about every industry. Here's a look at how it happens:
Step 1: Plan your label printing project.
The first thing you need to do is build yourself a label printing quote. This is where you make decisions about the size and type of label, the material you want, the designs you'll use, and more--all so you know roughly how much time and money will be spent creating the perfect label. (Keep in mind that in-house label printing equipment is far cheaper than outsourcing!)
Step 2: Triple-check your print file.
You'll probably make all kinds of tiny adjustments to your print file before you send it to the label printing machine. Just make sure you double- and triple-check the file so you know everything is in the right place--that way, you save money by avoiding the need to reprint.
Step 3: Begin the label printing process.
The file is sent to the printer, where it's read by top-of-the-line software. When the machine knows exactly what you want, it uses advanced technology to transfer your label design onto your substrate material, creating crisp, clean lines and vivid colors. Label printing can be incredibly high-speed and high-volume depending on the type of machine you have--but either way, it's certainly faster than the label printing systems of the past.
Step 4: Wait for the finishing process.
After printing, your hot-off-the-press labels will go through a finishing process, where they're cut to your specifications. Some machines can also add finishing touches, like extra layers of protection against sunlight or moisture.
Step 5: Place your new labels.
Congratulations--the label printing journey is complete! Now all you need to do is put your labels right where they belong, step back, and enjoy.
Label Printing for Your Business
So, now that you're a label printing pro, are you ready to see what label printing can do for you?
The truth is that, no matter what industry you're in or how big your company is, you can probably make good use of label printing solutions. That's because labels are versatile, reliable, and--with the right equipment--incredibly efficient to create. Plus, with an in-house label printing machine, you won't have to worry about the costs and time constraints that come with outsourcing; instead, you'll have full artistic and financial control--which means every label printing detail is yours to command.
Here are just a few benefits of adding label printing to your repertoire:
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Better organization.
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Professional appearance.
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Improved workflow efficiency.
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Reduced risk of human error.
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Simpler, more precise communication.
In conclusion, label printing has a long and fascinating history. Today, it's a solution that helps modern companies enjoy all kinds of benefits--and all you have to do is take that first step.
Ready to see what label printing solutions can do for you? Contact us today to get started!
