Labeling & Coding RFQ template & spec checklist

Labeling and coding equipment puts identity and compliance information on the package: pressure-sensitive, shrink-sleeve, and glue-applied labelers, print-and-apply systems for cases and pallets, continuous inkjet and laser coders for date and lot marks, and the vision or scanner checks that verify them. Plants buy here when adding a SKU with new artwork, moving from hand-labeling to line speed, meeting a customer's barcode or traceability requirement, or replacing a coder that smears on the current substrate. Application accuracy, adhesion on the real container at line temperature and humidity, and code readability drive the choice. Comparing quotes surfaces which vendor actually trialed your substrate.

What to include in your request

• ▢ Container shape, material, and surface: round, oval, or flat; glass, PET, HDPE, carton, or film
• ▢ Label type and placement (wrap, front and back, neck, tamper band, sleeve) with position tolerance
• ▢ Line speed in containers per minute, and the container temperature or condensation state at labeling
• ▢ Code content and standard: human-readable date and lot, GS1 barcode, 2D data matrix, and print resolution
• ▢ Substrate for direct coding (film, foil, coated board) and ink or laser compatibility
• ▢ Environment: ambient, refrigerated, or washdown, and the required IP rating
• ▢ Integration: reject on no-read or no-code, data capture, and the upstream and downstream handshake

What drives the quote

• Number and type of label stations or coders
• Servo control, format flexibility, and change-part sets
• Vision inspection, barcode verification, and reject handling
• Coding technology: continuous inkjet versus thermal transfer versus laser, and marking speed
• Washdown or harsh-environment construction

Common spec mistakes to avoid

• Not label-trialing the actual container, so adhesion fails on condensation or a curved surface
• Specifying nominal line speed and ignoring the acceleration and gap control a labeler needs
• Choosing an ink that will not adhere or cure on the real substrate at production speed
• Skipping code verification, so unreadable barcodes reach the customer and trigger chargebacks
• Overlooking format changeover time when several label sizes will run on one machine

Lead time

Lead time is usually shorter for standalone coders and longer for servo labelers with change parts across multiple container formats or integrated vision. Custom applicators and print-and-apply tamps for odd geometries add time.

How to use this template

Fill in the bracketed parts, delete what doesn't apply, and send the same version to every supplier so the quotes come back on the same terms. Or start a request and our agents send it for you.

Frequently asked questions

How do I get quotes for Labeling & Coding?

Start a request and describe what you need once. Our agents shortlist Labeling & Coding suppliers that list it, email each one your request from a PostRequest address, follow up once, and line up price, minimums, lead time and terms side by side. No account or password needed.

Are the suppliers on this page vetted?

They're directory listings from public sources, not endorsements. Before our agents send your Labeling & Coding request, they check that each supplier actually offers what you need. During early access, a person on our team reviews every comparison before it reaches you.

Can I include suppliers I already use?

Yes. Add them and we'll request quotes from them alongside new options, so you see how they compare.

Do suppliers see who I am?

No. When our agents send your Labeling & Coding request, suppliers see the spec and roughly where it ships. Your name, company and contact details go to a supplier only after you choose to connect.

What does it cost?

Free during early access. No card needed.