LABELLING FOR 3PL BUSINESSES
white printing with the Pro1050. Together with the Evidnt traceability platform proposed by OKI, this opens up a broader conversation about how printed labels and digital traceability can work together within the customer’s operation.” Jeremie says resellers should make 3PL customers aware of several factors when discussing labelling solutions. “First, the versatility and reliability of the labelling device are important,” he says. “This includes ensuring there is less downtime when using devices; fewer spare units are needed, and demonstrating that standard printing coupled with RFID is possible. “In addition, maintenance needs to be easy for first-level changes, for example, print heads or Platten rollers. “Resellers should also recommend that customers select devices which are compatible with WMS and ERP systems to make data collection accurate, easy and streamlined. Finally, printing accuracy when using mobile printers is vital, especially when used during cross-docking, because organisations cannot afford to have a label mismatch occur during this key process.” Deyon says that resellers should move the conversation beyond print speeds and hardware specifications. “The focus should be on how labelling solutions improve inventory accuracy, reduce manual intervention, minimise shipping errors and support wider automation initiatives,” he says. He adds that there is also value in helping customers prepare for evolving industry standards. “GS1 certified devices such as Toshiba’s BX410T Series provide confidence that businesses can support current barcode requirements and the growing adoption of GS1 Sunrise 2027 compliant 2D codes, protecting long-term technology investments.” Future prospects Changes seen in this market over the past couple of years are expected to continue in the next 12-18 months. “The
market is expected to see continued growth in RFID adoption, greater demand for end-to-end traceability and closer integration between
labelling solutions and warehouse automation platforms,” says Deyon. “The transition towards GS1 compliant 2D barcodes will also gather pace as businesses prepare for Sunrise 2027. “For channel partners, the opportunity will increasingly lie in delivering integrated solutions that combine printers, labels, software and data capture technologies. As supply chains become more data driven, labelling will play an increasingly strategic role in operational efficiency and visibility.” Flexibility, reliability and efficiency will continue to grow as important competitive differentiators for 3PL businesses, adds Jeremie. “This will be particularly evident in cross-docking services,” he says. “Changing customer expectations will mean 3PLs need to deliver seamless, scalable processes that quickly adapt to changing requirements. As a result, greater emphasis will be put on high-quality, consistent and integrated printing solutions that can accommodate demands for more detailed labelling information, while supporting innovations such as visual inspection systems and augmented QR codes. “Ultimately, access to a broad range of reliable print solutions from a single provider, which will allow solutions to be swapped in and out as required, will be key for 3PLs wishing to successfully respond to evolving client expectations fast, while driving continuous improvement.” Javier expects the link between labelling, automation and traceability to become even stronger. “This will give resellers an opportunity to move from simply supplying printers to helping customers improve the way goods are identified, tracked and managed,” he says. n
Pro1050
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For channel partners, the
opportunity will increasingly lie in delivering integrated solutions that combine printers, labels, software and data capture technologies.
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