For many retailers, the idea of using industrial inkjet printing to produce scannable QR codes, barcodes, and variable data directly on cases may raise some doubts. Can inkjet deliver the print quality and consistency needed for reliable scanning? Is it cost-effective? And can it keep up with the demands of high-speed production?

The answer is yes.

With the right printer, material-handling methods, and validation equipment, print-on-demand inkjet printing can efficiently and cost-effectively apply barcodes and variable information directly to case-level packaging. From barcodes and QR codes to lot numbers, dates, and other product information, industrial inkjet can deliver clear, consistent marks without the need for pre-printed cases or labels.

So, if you’ve written off inkjet as unreliable for barcode and variable-data printing, it’s time to take another look. Print-on-demand (POD) technology has come a long way, and when implemented correctly, it can be a reliable solution for case-level coding.

Capable Inkjet Printers

So, how can industrial inkjet coding reliably produce scannable barcodes and variable information for manufacturers and retailers alike?

It starts with selecting the right inkjet printer for the production floor. Legible, scannable, trouble-free printing begins with equipment designed to deliver consistent performance in demanding industrial environments. Not all inkjet printers are created equal.

At Squid Ink, we’ve engineered a range of industrial inkjet printers designed to print QR codes, barcodes, and other variable information accurately and consistently. Our printers are designed to produce high-quality marks over extended periods of operation, helping manufacturers maintain reliable print quality throughout production.

Choosing the right inkjet printer comes down to several key performance variables. First, manufacturers need a printer that can maintain consistent performance with minimal intervention. Features such as automatic printhead cleaning can help keep the system running reliably, while accessible components and straightforward serviceability can make maintenance and repairs easier.

Printing power is another critical consideration. An industrial inkjet printer needs strong printing power to throw the ink long distances, while maintaining clear, crisp marks even at high production speeds. When manufacturers pair the right printer with the right ink and application, they can achieve reliable, scannable barcodes and variable information without sacrificing production efficiency.

Material Handling

Material handling often contributes significantly to poor-quality marks and barcodes. Even with the right printer, inconsistent case movement or positioning can affect print quality and barcode readability.

Manufacturers should consider two key material-handling factors when implementing an inkjet coding system: conveyor vibration and case presentation.

• Minimize Vibration

Vibration on the conveyor line can cause the printer or printhead to move relative to the case, potentially resulting in distorted or inconsistent marks. To minimize this risk, the inkjet printer should be mounted securely to a floor stand rather than directly to the conveyor line. This helps isolate the printer from conveyor vibration and provides a more stable printing environment.

• Maintain Consistent Case Presentation

Case presentation is equally important. For an inkjet printer to produce accurate, consistent marks, each case needs to pass the printhead in a predictable position and orientation. Cases that shift, rotate, or move inconsistently can result in distorted text, barcodes, or QR codes.

Case presentation can be improved by using an inkjet printer equipped with built-in material-guidance features, such as a spring-loaded bracket or linear retraction. These features help guide and position cases consistently as they move through the printing area, supporting more precise and repeatable coding.

A high-quality printer can only perform as well as the material-handling system allows. Properly controlling how the case moves past the printhead is essential for producing consistent, scannable codes.

Print Validation

Manufacturers can integrate a print-validation system into their case-coding process. Validation adds an additional layer of quality control by verifying that printed codes are readable and that the correct information is present and properly positioned.

A validation system such as Squid Ink’s SquidCheck™ provides a method for validating printed codes during production. The Squid Ink Print Validation System ensures barcodes, labels, and other codes are present, legible, and correctly placed. Designed for industrial inkjet and packaging applications, the automated print-inspection system provides real-time error detection and integration with existing printing systems.

By identifying printing errors as they occur, manufacturers can reduce waste, ensure compliance with retailer requirements, and maintain consistent print quality across production runs.

Manufacturers can also consider using white corrugated cases when appropriate. The lighter substrate can provide greater contrast between the printed code and the packaging material, supporting barcode readability.

Cost-Effective Case Coding

Industrial print-on-demand case coding can help manufacturers reduce costs by minimizing material consumption and improving operational efficiency.

By printing barcodes, dates, and other variable information directly onto cases, companies can reduce material waste and eliminate the need for certain pressure-sensitive labels or pre-printed boxes. Print-on-demand also offers greater flexibility when product information changes, helping manufacturers avoid the cost and inventory challenges of maintaining multiple versions of pre-printed packaging.

Operationally, print-on-demand can improve uptime by reducing production interruptions associated with label jams and other label-application issues. It also lets manufacturers make quick digital changes to barcodes, logos, text, and other variable information, rather than manually changing physical boxes or labels.

The Bottom Line

Retailers expect their suppliers to deliver accurate, high-quality, scannable coding on every case. With the right equipment, material handling, and print-validation processes, manufacturers can meet those expectations with print-on-demand inkjet case coding.

Inkjet case coding can deliver the print quality, flexibility, and efficiency manufacturers need while reducing packaging costs and streamlining production.

If you’re considering print-on-demand inkjet for your case-coding application, the team at Squid Ink can help you determine the right solution for your production environment.