5 Ways to Lower Your Labeling Costs Without Sacrificing Quality

Editor’s Note: This article was originally written during the economic slowdown of 2009. While the economy has changed over the years, one challenge remains the same: every company is looking for ways to reduce costs without sacrificing quality or productivity. These five strategies are just as relevant today as they were then.

When business conditions become uncertain, many companies immediately look for ways to reduce expenses. Unfortunately, one of the first places they often look is the price of their barcode labels.

While reducing costs is important, choosing the lowest-priced label isn’t always the lowest-cost solution.

Over the years, we’ve helped hundreds of companies reduce their overall labeling costs—not simply by lowering the price of a roll of labels, but by improving their entire labeling process.

Here are five strategies that consistently produce the greatest savings.

Lower Your Total Cost—Not Just Your Label Price

The purchase price of a label is only one part of the equation.

Poor print quality, excessive waste, printer downtime, unreadable barcodes, and frequent printhead replacements often cost far more than the labels themselves.

The goal should always be to reduce your total cost of ownership rather than simply finding the lowest bid.

Standardize Your Labels Whenever Possible

Many companies accumulate dozens of different label sizes and materials over time.

By reviewing your applications and standardizing where practical, you can often reduce inventory, simplify purchasing, improve production efficiency, and lower overall costs.

Sometimes a simple review of your current labeling program uncovers significant savings.

Choose the Right Materials for the Application

Using the wrong label or ribbon can create unnecessary problems.

Labels may fail to adhere properly.

Barcodes may not scan reliably.

Printheads may wear prematurely.

Taking the time to select the proper label material, adhesive, and printing technology for the application helps eliminate these hidden costs.

Work With a Supplier Who Understands Your Business

Your supplier should do more than simply quote prices.

An experienced supplier should help identify opportunities to improve your labeling process, recommend better materials when appropriate, and help solve problems before they become costly production issues.

The best suppliers become long-term partners—not just order takers.

Think Long-Term

Successful labeling programs are built on consistency, quality, and reliability.

Companies that evaluate long-term operating costs instead of focusing solely on purchase price often experience fewer production interruptions, better barcode quality, and lower maintenance costs over time.

A strategic approach almost always delivers greater value than chasing the lowest price.

Continue Learning

If you’re evaluating your current labeling program, visit our Barcode Labeling Resource Center for additional educational resources.

You may also enjoy:

• Barcode Printing 101: Everything You Need to Know Before You Print Your First Barcode
• Industrial Barcode Labeling Guide
• Choosing the Right Thermal Transfer Ribbon: Why Ribbon Length Matters

We’re also updating our comprehensive Buyer’s Guide, How to Choose the Right Barcode Label Supplier, which explores these topics in greater detail. Watch for it soon in the Resource Center.

Need Help Evaluating Your Current Labeling Process?

Every labeling application is unique.

If you’d like an experienced second opinion on your current labels, printers, ribbons, or overall labeling process, we’re happy to help.

Visit the PaladinID Online Shop or contact PaladinID to discuss your application.

PaladinID delivers label solutions that stick!