The Various Kinds Of Product Identification Labels

| Thursday, August 22, 2013
By Helga Stokes


Product identification is an extensive category of tagging which comprises of functions like the integration of variable information, traceability and brand protection. Product identification labels are necessary in the current, rapidly-evolving business climate. They are also indispensable when it comes to curbing theft and counterfeit merchandise.

Traceability makes it possible to track goods from the manufacturing process to the end of the supply chain. Ideally, products at any stage of this chain should be traceable in the reverse direction through various procedures. This makes it possible to trace raw ingredients to their sources. This facilitates quality improvement by pointing out the sources of any defects, especially during recalls. Traceability is made possible through the incorporation of batch numbers and bar codes.

Today, several kinds of barcoded are used. These include polyester, ceramic and aluminum tags. They can also be found in various customizable shapes and sizes and come with a range of adhesive backings. This system has several benefits. It aids people in identifying various items. Prices and other relevant details can also be included in the codes to simplify handling at points of sale at the end of the supply chain. Other advantages include consistency, speed, economy and accuracy.

Polyester and vinyl tags are normally made using special printers and are perfect for tracking products if security isn't a big issue. In some cases, distinct markers are used in certain industries in order to meet specific needs. For example, detectable markers are normally used in the food processing industry where contamination sources have to be identified quickly. Should small parts of the sticker get into the item or if the label gets damaged/misapplied, it can be discovered easily.

In some industrial procedures, provisional tags are used. Most of them are usually magnetic and repositionable as well. This makes it easy to remove and placed when there's need to do so.

However, such types of markers can easily be counterfeited or removed. Different types of tags are therefore used where brand reputation needs to be maintained. They are also used for high-value items which can be counterfeited or stolen. There are some custom stickers which include a watermark that's only visible under UV light. This makes the tags harder to duplicate.

Other kinds of markers are used to deter removal and re-use. Where some handwritten information needs to be secured on a tag, there are special tapes for this. Alterations and erasing is made impossible by specially embossing the data.

Where variable information needs to be displayed, there are special tags for that. These can be used to show manufacture and expiry dates, batch ID codes, location of manufacture and lot numbers. This is usually written as numerals and text, bar codes or by combining the two. These tags also enable traceability as well.

If there's need to withstand severe conditions, there are special markers that are specifically used for durable items. Metallized poly tapes are usually used as they are easy to make and offer a brushed metallic look. You can find these in aluminum, silver and gold. Others are designed to withstand corrosive chemicals. These can be found in equipment that's frequently cleaned using strong detergents. To secure such product identification labels, special adhesives which stick to various surfaces such as fabric and wood are used.




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