How to Smoothly Transition to Linerless Labels

Transitioning to linerless labels can revolutionise your labelling process, bringing significant cost savings, improved efficiency, and a reduced environmental footprint.  These benefits are happening across many industries including:

• Transport & Logistics
• Quick Service & Takeaway
• Food & Beverages
• E-Commerce & Retail

However, for your business to fully benefit from linerless labels, you must have a well-planned and executed transition.  We’re here to help.  In the following blog, we will guide you through the key steps for a smooth shift to linerless labels.

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Choose Compatible Equipment for Your Linerless Labels

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To begin, select scales or printers specifically designed for linerless labels. Unlike traditional labels, linerless labels require specialised equipment that can handle their unique properties, such as the adhesive backing and the need for precise cutting. 

When choosing equipment, consider:

• Compatibility: Your equipment must match the type of linerless labels you use.
• Durability: Your equipment should be able to withstand your operational environment. Whether your environment is a warehouse, retail space, or production line.
• Ease of Maintenance: Opt for equipment with easy maintenance and available technical support to reduce downtime.
• Advanced Features: Look for features, including; automated calibration, self-cleaning, and user-friendly interfaces to boost efficiency.

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Select the Right Linerless Labels

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Next, you will need compatible linerless labels for your new equipment.  You can work closely with your supplier to find the right labels.  Finding linerless labels that meet your specific needs involves several critical considerations, after all, you will want to maintain consistent quality and functionality.

When selecting the right linerless labels, consider:

• Material: Choose durable materials that suit your product’s environment, such as moisture or heat resistance.
• Adhesive: Check the adhesive sticks well without peeling off or causing damage upon removal.
• Size and Shape: Select labels that fit your packaging requirements, whether custom or standard sizes.
• Print Quality: Verify that labels offer high clarity and resolution for readability, including barcodes and detailed information.
• Compliance: Confirm labels meet industry regulations, especially in regulated sectors like food, pharmaceuticals, or logistics.
• Supplier Reliability: Opt for a reliable supplier that delivers consistent quality, timely shipments, and support for optimising your labels.

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Configure Your Linerless Label System

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Properly setting up your software is key to accommodating linerless labels. This important step involves several specific adjustments to your scales or printers, helping them function optimally with the new technology.  Beware, misconfigurations can lead to printing errors, wasted labels, and operational inefficiencies, so take your time.  It’s beneficial to your business to get it right from the start.

When configuring your systems, consider:

• Software Updates: Install the latest firmware to support linerless labels and improve compatibility.
• Print Settings: Calibrate print speed, pressure, and temperature for clear printing and proper adhesion.
• Label Formats: Update label formats in your software to match linerless label dimensions and designs.
• System Integration: Make sure your linerless label system works smoothly with inventory management, point-of-sale, and supply chain tools.
• Testing and Calibration: Conduct initial tests until you are confident your new equipment has correct printing and smooth operation.  Fine-tune your settings as needed.
• User Interface: Configure a user-friendly interface with clear instructions and logical menus to reduce errors and improve efficiency.

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Test and Fine-Tune Your New Linerless Labels Process

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Before full implementation, conduct thorough testing to verify that your linerless labels are printing accurately and meeting your quality standards. With testing you will identify potential issues and address them early.  This prevents disruptions and leads to a smooth rollout of your new linerless label system. 

When testing and fine-tuning your linerless label system, consider the following factors:

• Initial Testing: Conduct small-scale tests to verify equipment and software functionality. Print various labels to check for clarity and alignment of text, barcodes, and images.
• Quality Checks: Evaluate label quality for issues like smudging, misalignment, or incomplete prints. Look for proper adhesive performance and adherence.
• Environmental Testing: Test labels under varying conditions.  This includes; different temperatures, humidity levels, and light exposure to guarantee durability and legibility.
• Volume Testing: Run high-volume print jobs to detect issues like equipment overheating, label jams, or print quality degradation over time.
• Adjustments: Based on test results, fine-tune the print speed, pressure, temperature settings, and label designs to optimise performance.
• Feedback Loop: Establish a feedback system for employees to report issues, allowing for quick resolution and ongoing improvement.
• Documentation: Maintain detailed records of testing procedures, results, and adjustments for future reference and troubleshooting.

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Train Your Staff for Linerless Label Usage

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For a smooth transition, provide comprehensive training to your employees. Proper training will equip your team with the knowledge and skills to use the new linerless label system efficiently and effectively.  This minimises errors and maximises the benefits of your innovative new technology. 

When training your staff, consider:

• Comprehensive Training Program: Create a detailed programme covering theoretical and practical aspects of your linerless label system.
• Loading Rolls: Train employees on correct loading techniques for linerless label rolls to avoid damage.  This will lead to the smooth operation of your new linerless label system. 
• Operating Procedures: Provide step-by-step instructions for printing labels, adjusting settings, and performing routine maintenance.
• Troubleshooting: Offer guidance on resolving common issues like paper jams, print quality problems, and software errors, including quick fixes to minimise downtime.
• Maximising Benefits: Show employees how to leverage the system’s features for cost savings, reduced waste, and improved efficiency.
• Safety and Compliance: Make your staff aware of safety precautions and compliance requirements, particularly in regulated industries such as food and pharmaceuticals.
• Ongoing Support and Refresher Training: Set up a system for continuous support and periodic refresher training to keep skills current and new employees well-trained.
• Training Materials: Provide manuals, video tutorials, and quick-reference guides for ongoing support and easy access to information.

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Gradually Implement Your Linerless Label System 

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If possible, consider starting with a pilot programme in one area of your business before rolling out linerless labels company-wide. This gradual approach allows you to identify and resolve any challenges on a smaller scale, paving the way for a successful broader implementation.

When phasing in implementation, consider:

• Pilot Programme Selection: Choose a specific department or location where the impact of linerless labels can be closely monitored, such as a single production line or retail outlet.
• Clear Objectives: Set clear goals for the pilot, such as reducing label waste, improving print efficiency, or increasing productivity.
• Initial Setup: Install the necessary equipment and configure systems in the selected area.  Check that all hardware, software, and label supplies are ready.
• Monitoring and Feedback: Monitor the pilot closely and collect feedback from involved employees to identify issues and areas for improvement.
• Performance Metrics: Track key metrics like label quality, print speed, waste reduction, and cost savings to assess the pilot’s effectiveness.
• Problem Resolution: Address any issues that happen during the pilot and use insights to refine equipment, software, or processes.
• Scalability: Assess how well the linerless label system can be scaled based on pilot results. Plan for its eventual expansion.
• Documentation and Lessons Learned: Record the pilot process, including any problems and their solutions, to guide the broader rollout.
• Training for Broader Rollout: Remember, train additional staff based on pilot insights and update training materials and protocols as needed.

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Update Your Linerless Label Processes

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Update your labelling procedures to match the new linerless label system. Switching to linerless labels typically requires a major process change to integrate smoothly and fully capitalise on the technology.

When updating your processes, consider:

• Inventory Management: Adjust procedures to handle and store linerless labels.  Update inventory systems to track label usage and stock levels accurately.
• Quality Control: Incorporate specific checks for linerless labels, such as verifying adhesion, print clarity, and regulatory compliance.
• Order Fulfilment: To effectively use your linerless labels system, modify order fulfilment processes. Adapt picking, packing, and staff training for your new linerless labels. 
• Workflow Integration: As needed, align workflows with the new labelling system by adjusting production, packaging, and distribution steps. 
• Documentation and Procedures: Update all documentation and standard operating procedures (SOPs) to reflect the new labelling processes, providing clear guidance on changes.
• System Integration: Check that changes in your labelling procedures are integrated with broader operational systems, such as ERP or supply chain management.  This will maintain consistency and efficiency.
• Communication and Coordination: Communicate changes to all relevant departments and stakeholders.  Everyone should understand their roles in the new procedures.
• Continuous Improvement: Regularly review and refine processes based on feedback and performance data. Seek opportunities to optimise workflow to further benefit from linerless labels.

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Monitor and Optimise your Linerless Label System

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Regularly assess the performance of your linerless label system so that it meets your expectations and delivers its intended benefits. Ongoing monitoring and optimisation are crucial for maintaining efficiency, identifying areas for improvement, and maximising the advantages of linerless labels.

When monitoring and optimising your system, consider:

• Performance Metrics: Track metrics such as;
  - Cost savings (e.g, reduced material and disposal costs)
  - Waste reduction (e.g, fewer remnants and lower environmental impact)
  - Productivity gains (e.g, faster labelling and improved efficiency).

• Data Analysis: Analyse data on print quality, label adhesion, equipment uptime, and defects to identify trends and areas for improvement.
• Cost-Benefit Analysis: Regularly compare the costs of the new system with savings in materials, labour, and waste management to measure financial impact.
• Feedback Loop: Gather feedback from your team on system performance and challenges to gain insights for adjustments and improvements.
• System Maintenance: Perform routine maintenance to address wear and tear or technical issues.  This will help optimise your new system’s performance and prevent disruptions.
• Process Refinement: Adjust processes based on monitoring results to enhance performance, including tweaking print settings, updating procedures, or making hardware adjustments.
• Benchmarking: Compare your system’s performance against industry standards to evaluate its effectiveness and identify areas for further improvement.
• Continuous Improvement: Foster a culture of continuous improvement by regularly reviewing performance.  Staying updated on new technologies and best practices in linerless labelling will give you a competitive edge.

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Start Your Transition to Linerless Labels Today

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Transitioning to linerless labels is a game-changer for many industries. These labels offer significant cost savings, boost efficiency, and are a more sustainable option with less waste.

With our extensive guide, you can now smoothly transition into a linerless label printing solution that helps you and the environment.  Learn more about Linerless Label with our latest news. 

Go linerless today.  See how LinerlessUK can help your business improve its efficiency and cut down on waste.  Check out Linerlessuk.com for more information. 

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