Labelling and marking in logistics is a key element that supports the entire supply chain process from the receipt of goods to their delivery to the final recipient. This process starts as early as the production or storage stage. Each product, pallet or consignment is appropriately labelled with information such as barcode, batch number, expiry date, weight and other relevant data. This enables goods to be accurately tracked at each logistical stage. The information contained on the labels allows products to be recognized quickly and without errors. This speeds up receiving, storage, picking and shipping operations.
The importance of labelling and marking in logistics.
Labelling and marking are crucial in modern logistics as they enable the efficient management of the flow of goods along the supply chain. Appropriate labelling of products with unique codes allows them to be identified quickly and unambiguously, which is essential in a dynamically changing logistics environment. The information contained on the labels, such as assortment data, receipt date, expiry date and product specifications, is invaluable to warehouse staff and supply chain managers. Warehouse management systems work in tandem with the labelling process, generating codes for individual items and monitoring their location in the warehouse. This allows close tracking and management of stock levels in real time.
With effective labelling, warehouse operators gain the ability to quickly locate products on the racks and efficiently fulfil orders, significantly reducing errors. Efficient labelling not only increases operational efficiency, but also improves customer service. In addition, it is an important competitive factor in today’s market.
What information should the label contain?
In an era of increasing automation and complexity of logistics processes, proper labelling is becoming an indispensable part of the warehouse management strategy. The warehouse label should contain key information such as the product name and those that enable and improve effective product management and identification. We can distinguish the following elements:
- Barcode / QR code, enabling goods to be scanned and identified in warehouse management systems,
- Full product name,
- Production batch number (Batch Number),
- Product expiry date (Expiration Date),
- Weight and dimensions,
- Contents (number of pieces, units of measurement, etc.),
- Storage instructions (temperature, humidity),
- Warning symbols,
- Contact information.
Labelling and marking in logistics: A labelling system.
In an era of rapidly changing market needs and increasing competition, effective product labelling is becoming not only a practical but also a strategic issue. With the right labels and labelling systems, processes can be optimized. This translates into better inventory management and increased operational efficiency. Below, we take a look at the different types of labelling systems that can support organizations in their day-to-day operations.
Barcodes are the most popular way of marking products and consist of a sequence of horizontal lines of different thicknesses. They allow rapid scanning and identification of goods in warehouse management systems. There are two main types of codes: 1D (one-dimensional) and 2D (two-dimensional). 2D codes, such as Data Matrix, have the advantage that they can store much more information. This makes them more versatile in logistics applications.
Labels with QR codes, however, allow much more information to be stored than traditional barcodes. Their versatility makes them easy to scan using smartphones and tablets. This makes them particularly popular in retail and marketing.
Laser marking is a method that involves permanently marking products with a laser to ensure high quality markings. Thanks to its resistance to external influences, laser marking is ideal for industrial applications where long-lasting and reliable identification of goods is required.
Information management systems (WMS) are software that control the labelling and marking process in the warehouse. They allow integration with label printers and other systems. This allows processes to be automated and goods to be monitored in real time, increasing operational efficiency.
Good practice in labelling and marking of goods.
There are some very important principles to follow when labelling and marking goods. Following these practices improves operational efficiency and eliminates potential logistical errors.
- Clarity and legibility – Labels should be legible and the data on them must be clearly visible, regardless of storage conditions. The use of appropriate fonts and contrasts helps information to be scanned and read quickly.
- Standardization of processes – The use of standard barcode and label formats ensures compatibility with warehouse management systems. As a result, integration with suppliers and customers is facilitated. In addition, the use of WMS systems minimizes the occurrence of human error.
- Durability of labels – Labels should be resistant to mechanical damage, moisture or external factors. In harsh environments, foil labels are ideal.
- Full labelling – All necessary information, such as product name, barcode, batch number, weight and best-before date, should be on the label, allowing full identification of the goods.
- Location of labels – Labels should be placed in prominent locations on packaging. This allows quick access to key information for both staff and scanning systems.
ERP and WMS, and labelling and marking.
Modern companies cannot afford not to have modern IT solutions. This could significantly affect the efficiency and quality of customer service in logistics. In order to minimize errors and improve data flow, IT systems are increasingly being implemented. Here, we can distinguish such systems as WMS (Warehouse Management System) and ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning). These tools enable the management of goods receipt, storage and labelling, as well as integration with other systems.
At LCL Logistic, we use the best solutions linked to labelling and marking systems. Find out more about WMS or ERP systems.
