Print & Apply as Used in Fulfillment Operations
“Print and apply” refers to a labeling process commonly used in material handling operations, particularly in automated packaging and shipping environments. It involves printing labels with variable information, such as product details, barcodes, serial numbers, or shipping addresses, and automatically applying them to products, packages, or shipping containers.
Why is Print & Apply Used?
Fulfillment operations that feature high volume and high throughput are highly dependent on automation technologies to keep the operation running without delay and without errors. Without this type of automation, processing and sorting would take far longer, would be far more expensive, and would be more error-prone.
But all of this automation technology is dependent on the ability of machines to recognize and read information about the inventory within the system. That’s where print and apply comes in. By applying labeling such as SKU’s, barcodes, tags, address information, and more, automation technology can be utilized at scale and speed. This not only helps improve speed and efficiency of a fulfillment operation, it helps to provide better information on product inventory and stock as well.
Print & Apply Process Overview
Label Design and Printing: First, the label design is created or customized using label design software. This includes specifying the layout, content, and variable data elements to be printed on the labels. The label printer is then used to generate the printed labels based on the design template.
Data Integration: The variable information needed for each label, such as SKU numbers, product names, or shipping addresses, is often sourced from a central database, warehouse management system (WMS), or trailer manifesting systems (TMS). Integration between these systems and the label printing software ensures accurate and up-to-date data for each label.
Label Application: Once the labels are printed, they are automatically applied to the target items, packages, or containers using a print and apply system. This system typically consists of a label applicator, applicator arm, or labeling mechanism that affixes the printed labels to the appropriate surfaces.
Verification and Quality Control: In some cases, a verification step is included in the print and apply process to ensure label accuracy and readability. Barcode scanners or vision systems may be used to confirm that the printed labels meet quality standards and that the information is correctly encoded.
Integration with Material Handling Systems: Print and apply systems are often integrated into larger material handling or packaging systems. For example, in automated picking and packing operations, the print and apply process can be synchronized with conveyor systems, robotic arms, or sorting equipment to ensure efficient labeling and routing of products.