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Customizable Label Solutions for Startups and eCommerce

Have you ever wondered why color label printers can be this significant in today’s generation? In today’s competitive market, startups and eCommerce businesses must differentiate themselves to thrive. 

One aspect that is easily associated with brand recognition and appeal is the label on a particular product. However, traditional label printing requires large and expensive print orders, which most enterprises can avoid.

This is where Arrow Systems Inc. comes into the picture by providing solutions such as the ArrowJet Aqua 330R and the ArrowJet Hybrid Pro M

Since bringing the ArrowJet line to market, many businesses have been able to produce high-quality and customizable labels with no MOQ or lead time.

This blog will discuss how businesses can use Arrow Systems’ technology to develop labels that would find favor with their clients as well as meet statutory requirements for labels while minimizing production costs.

How Startups Can Leverage Color Label Printers?

The labels of products play the important role of making the new business startups easily noticed in the market and be preferred over other similar products. 

Conventional label printing has very high initial investments and minimum quantifiable orders, which can be a problem for startups.

In contrast, there are the color label printers, such as the ArrowJet Aqua 330R, that enable the startups to print labels on their own. 

It allows them to try out different designs on labels, adjust labels’ content if necessary, and eliminate the costs of purchasing a large number of labels printed in advance.

This is particularly advantageous for startups, who can thus try different kinds of packaging, limited edition designs, or temporary designs without worrying about having to print extensively.

Since a business can print short runs locally, it becomes easier for the business to shift and respond to changes in demand, promotional campaigns, or changes in the logo. 

This approach does not only reduce costs but also prevents the accumulation of stock and the disposal of unsold items that characterize conventional publishing.

Digital vs. Traditional Label Printing

When it comes to label printing, businesses typically have two options: traditional techniques such as offset or flexography printing or digital printing techniques. Each has its advantages and disadvantages, yet for those firm startups or eCommerce platforms, digital printing comes with more gains.

Traditional Label Printing

  • Ideal for high-volume production runs with large quantities of labels printed at once.
  • Delivers high-quality labels but involves a complex setup and longer delivery times.
  • Requires a higher order quantity, which may not be cost-effective for businesses with lower production demands or those that change packaging frequently.

Digital Label Printing

  • Best suited for on-demand and short-run label printing, allowing for quick adjustments.
  • Offers flexibility in design, color, and size customization, making it highly adaptable.
  • Provides variable data printing, enabling businesses to easily add barcodes, QR codes, or unique designs for different product variations.
  • Digital options, such as the ArrowJet Hybrid Pro M, allow for fast setup and seamless label production, catering to diverse business needs.

Key Considerations for Startups and eCommerce

  • For businesses with smaller print runs or those requiring frequent design updates, digital printing offers cost-effective, high-quality results.
  • Quick turnarounds and flexibility in print orders make digital printing an excellent choice for businesses needing adaptability without large order constraints.

Pros and Cons of In-House Label Printing vs. Outsourcing

In-House Label Printing

Pros:

  • Cost-Effective for Short Runs: Ideal for small to medium quantities, as you avoid setup fees and minimum order requirements.
  • Flexibility: You can print labels on-demand, making it easier to handle last-minute changes, updates, or customization.
  • Quick Turnaround: No waiting for external suppliers. You can print and apply labels immediately as needed.

  • Brand Control: Greater control over the design, color, and overall quality of the labels.
  • Reduced Dependency: You’re not reliant on third-party suppliers, allowing more control over production schedules.

Cons:

  • Initial Investment: Purchasing label printers, software, and materials requires upfront costs.
  • Ongoing Maintenance: Regular maintenance of equipment and replacement of consumables like ink and paper are necessary.

  • Limited Expertise: May require additional training or hiring skilled staff to manage label printing effectively.
  • Material and Color Limitations: Home or office printers may not provide the same material options or color accuracy as professional printing services.

Outsourcing Label Printing

Pros:

  • Professional Quality: External companies specialize in label printing, often delivering high-quality, durable labels with superior color accuracy.
  • Advanced Technology: Access to a wider variety of materials, finishes, and printing techniques, such as embossing, UV coating, or metallic finishes.
  • No Equipment Costs: No need to invest in printing equipment or supplies, saving on initial and ongoing expenses.
  • Expertise and Support: Printing companies often provide design and compliance assistance, ensuring that your labels meet industry standards.

Cons:

  • Higher Cost for Small Runs: For small orders, outsourcing can be more expensive due to setup fees and minimum order requirements.
  • Longer Lead Times: Outsourced printing usually involves shipping times, which can delay your production schedule.
  • Less Flexibility: Once an order is placed, changes are more difficult to implement. Customization and updates may involve added costs and delays.
  • Dependence on Supplier: Your production may be delayed if the printer faces technical issues, supply chain disruptions, or other problems.

Advancements in Ink Technology

Modern trends in ink production also offered a qualitative increase in labels applied by digital printers, as well as their sturdiness. Arrow Systems Inc.’s printers employ water-based and pigment inks, which are the following benefits for startups and eCommerce businesses.

Water-Based Inks for Safety and Eco-Friendliness


Water-based inks are environmentally friendly and free from food safety hazards. This makes them ideal for businesses dealing with consumable products, such as food, drinks, and cosmetics, as they comply with strict labeling standards. They allow startups to maintain quality while adhering to safety regulations, ensuring that the inks are safe for use on packaging that comes into contact with food.

Pigment-Based Inks for Vibrancy and Durability


Pigment inks offer bright, rich colors that resist fading, even when exposed to harsh conditions like sunlight or cold temperatures. This is crucial for labels that need to maintain their appearance over time. The durability of pigment-based inks ensures that labels remain eye-catching and functional throughout the product’s lifecycle, helping brands maintain their visual appeal in challenging environments.

Enhanced Product Presentation and Compliance 


By incorporating both water-based and pigment inks, businesses can be confident that their product labels not only look good but also meet regulatory requirements. These inks provide the right combination of safety and durability, ensuring that the labels retain their aesthetic quality while staying compliant with industry standards.

Long-Term Cost and Quality Benefits 


The use of modern ink technologies, such as water-based and pigment inks, guarantees long-lasting labels, reducing the need for frequent replacements. This results in cost savings for startups and eCommerce businesses while ensuring that their products remain attractive and compliant for the entire product lifespan.

The Rise of Short-Run Label Printing

The short-run label printing service is a necessity for eCommerce and direct-to-consumer brands as their industry expands. Such packaging has been prompted by the demand for more individualized, limited edition, or seasonal packaging designs, lower wastage, and overall lower cost of production.

Some of the benefits of short-run printing include, Unlike long-run printing, businesses can print labels in smaller quantities and only when they are needed since startups face a lot of uncertainties in the market. This means that businesses can easily order small batches of high-quality labels on digital printers, such as ArrowJet Hybrid Pro M, without running the risk of spending too much money on setup costs and imagining high costs due to low orders.

Of course, this flexibility is particularly convenient for industries that produce new products regularly or for companies that plan to experiment with different designs of labels before ordering bulk quantities of the finished product. Through short-run label printing, the startups can, therefore, remain flexible as they adapt to the ever-constant changes in the ecommerce market.

Sustainable Label Printing Solutions

In addition to flexibility and cost savings, startups are increasingly looking for sustainable printing solutions to reduce their environmental footprint. Arrow Systems Inc. addresses this need with its digital printing technologies, which use eco-friendly water-based inks and efficient printing processes that minimize waste.

By using digital printers like the ArrowJet Aqua 330R, businesses can print only the labels they need, reducing the amount of unused or obsolete labels that often end up in landfills. Additionally, the use of water-based inks helps businesses meet sustainability goals by reducing harmful chemical emissions and ensuring compliance with environmental regulations.

Conclusion

Startups and eCommerce brands can benefit immensely from Arrow Systems, Inc.’s customizable label solutions, especially with innovative printers like the ArrowJet Aqua 330R and ArrowJet Hybrid Pro M. These solutions offer flexibility, quality, and sustainability, making it easier than ever for businesses to create unique, eye-catching labels that elevate their brand. By embracing digital label printing, businesses can stay competitive, reduce waste, and meet the growing demand for on-demand, customizable packaging.