Common Labelling Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Labelling is a critical part of product presentation, compliance, and branding. However, even minor errors in labelling machinery or applications can lead to costly consequences, such as misbranded products, compliance violations, wasted materials, or customer dissatisfaction.
Whether you’re in food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, or industrial manufacturing, ensuring accurate, high-quality labels is essential for smooth operations. This article highlights the most common labelling mistakes and how businesses can avoid them with the right Impresstik labelling systems.
1. Misaligned Labels
Problem: Labels applied at an angle, off-centre, or inconsistent in placement.
Why It Happens:
Inconsistent product positioning on the production line.
Incorrect calibration of labelling machinery.
Worn-out components affecting label dispensing.
How to Avoid It:
✅ Use AI-powered labelling machinery: Smart sensors automatically adjust label alignment for precision.
✅ Ensure proper product spacing: Labels may misalign if bottles or containers are placed too closely together.
✅ Regularly maintain Impresstik labelling systems: Routine checks on rollers, guides, and sensors ensure consistent placement.
2. Labels That Don’t Stick Properly
Problem: Labels peeling off or failing to adhere properly.
Why It Happens:
Choosing the wrong adhesive type for the product material.
Environmental factors like humidity, cold temperatures, or oil exposure.
Poor surface preparation (dust, moisture, or grease on containers).
How to Avoid It:
✅ Select the right adhesive for the environment (e.g., freezer-grade adhesives for cold storage).
✅ Use surface cleaners before applying labels to ensure optimal adhesion.
✅ Work with Impresstik experts to choose adhesives suited to your production conditions.
3. Unreadable or Smudged Printing
Problem: Text or barcodes become blurred, making labels difficult to read or scan.
Why It Happens:
Poor-quality ink or improper print settings.
Smudging from moisture, heat, or friction during handling.
Using incompatible thermal transfer ribbons or inkjet settings.
How to Avoid It:
✅ Use high-quality inks and label stock designed for your printing method.
✅ Test labels under real-world conditions (e.g., refrigeration, UV exposure).
✅ Upgrade to digital printing for crisp, clear text and barcodes.
4. Incorrect Information on Labels
Problem: Expiry dates, batch numbers, ingredients, or safety warnings are incorrect.
Why It Happens:
Human error in data entry before printing.
Outdated label templates being used.
Software glitches affecting automated labelling machinery.
How to Avoid It:
✅ Automate date coding: Use an AI-driven system to update information dynamically.
✅ Implement a quality control checkpoint before production starts.
✅ Use integrated software to connect inventory databases with labelling systems.
5. Non-Compliance with Industry Regulations
Problem: Labels fail to meet legal requirements, leading to fines, recalls, or product bans.
Why It Happens:
Not following updated regulatory guidelines.
Failing to include mandatory safety icons, allergens, or disclaimers.
Incorrect barcode or batch tracking information.
How to Avoid It:
✅ Stay up to date with industry-specific labelling laws (e.g., GHS labels for chemicals, TGA compliance for pharmaceuticals).
✅ Use Impresstik’s compliance-ready labelling machinery with automated updates.
✅ Verify labels with a regulatory expert before production runs.
6. Wasted Labels Due to Machine Jams
Problem: Labels tear, fold, or misfeed, causing frequent reprints and material waste.
Why It Happens:
Worn-out label rollers or misaligned label webbing.
Inconsistent label stock size or thickness.
Poorly maintained labelling machinery.
How to Avoid It:
✅ Regularly clean and inspect label dispensing units.
✅ Use Impresstik high-precision labelling systems designed for seamless label handling.
✅ Test labels in small batches before full production.
7. Labels Fading Too Quickly
Problem: Labels look great initially but fade within weeks due to UV exposure, moisture, or friction.
Why It Happens:
Using low-quality label stock not suited for the product’s lifecycle.
Exposure to direct sunlight, high humidity, or frequent handling.
Using non-UV-resistant ink.
How to Avoid It:
✅ Use UV-resistant and waterproof inks for long-lasting print clarity.
✅ Opt for laminated labels to protect against moisture and wear.
✅ Choose Impresstik’s high-durability label solutions for tough environments.
How Impresstik Labelling Systems Help Prevent These Issues
At Impresstik, we provide cutting-edge labelling machinery designed to eliminate these common errors. Our systems ensure precise label application, high-speed production, and compliance with industry standards.
Why Choose Impresstik?
✔ Advanced AI-Powered Systems: Automatically correct misalignments and detect defects.
✔ Custom Labelling Solutions: Tailored to your product shape, material, and adhesive needs.
✔ Durable Label Materials: Designed to last in any environment.
✔ Regulatory Expertise: Compliance-ready solutions for food, pharmaceuticals, and industrial applications.
✔ Dedicated Support: Local manufacturing and after-sales support.
Conclusion
Avoiding labelling mistakes is critical to maintaining efficiency, reducing costs, and ensuring compliance. By investing in the right labelling machinery, businesses can improve accuracy, minimise waste, and enhance their product presentation.
📞 Need a reliable labelling solution? Contact Impresstik today to discover how our high-performance labelling systems can optimise your production line.
📧 Email us: sales@impresstik.com
🌐 Visit us: www.impresstik.com
📞 Call us: (02) 9736 8400
