Printed Packaging and Traceability
Design, branding and aesthetic impact spring to mind when we think of printed packaging. Which colours, imagery and typography will help the product and brand stand apart? How can the unboxing experience be enhanced with internal decoration?
Another side to printed packaging is practical. It might include handling instructions for couriers or recycling information. In this category falls barcodes, QR codes and Lot Numbers; all play a vital role in traceability and tracking.
Why is Packaging Tracking Important?
Firstly, the surge in online shopping has driven the demand for tracking. Customers want to be informed about when their orders will be delivered. By scanning a barcode, automated emails can be sent at each stage of logistics or the customer can track progress online. It is also possible for the company to track returns, which can aid stock management and refunds.
Buyers are also paying more attention to where products are coming from. This isn’t simply to satisfy intrigue; supply chain traceability is often essential for regulatory compliance or to evidence sustainability.
Traceability can be a safety requirement, as is the case in the pharmaceutical industry. Under the banner of safety, printed data helps to pinpoint batches when product recalls are necessary. It reduces the risk of counterfeiting, which can impact product safety and brand reputation.
Finally, tracking aids business planning and warehousing and logistic efficiency. The data provided can be used to optimise productivity and resource management. If there are unforeseen delays, customers can be quickly informed or alternative plans are made to fulfil orders.
Traceability Options
Radio Frequency Identification Technology, Smart sensors, AI controllers all provide systems to support traceability, but the most cost-efficient option is the humble barcode. This can be printed onto shipping cartons or product packaging as part of the box manufacturing process.
Speak to your packaging supplier to discuss the option of adding barcodes, QR codes, Lot Numbers and other print details to aid product tracking and process efficiency.
