The core idea of this page: labeling and coding are two different machines — a labeler applies a pre-printed label, a coder prints variable data directly on the pack. Decide label-first or code-first by what your pack actually carries, then pick the technology your substrate and code life demand.
Labeling
A labeler applies a physical label (pressure-sensitive, sleeve or roll-fed) to the pack. Choose it when the pack carries a printed brand label. A Herma 500 Rotary reaches 150 m/min; a Krones Ergomodul reaches 100,000 containers/hour.
Coding
A coder prints variable data (date, lot, barcode) directly onto the pack or label, using CIJ, TTO or laser. Choose it when the pack needs traceability data. A Markem-Imaje 9450 CIJ reaches 6.6 m/s.
Decision rule
- Pack carries a printed label → start with the labeler.
- Pack needs a date/lot/barcode → start with the coder.
- Both → use a print-and-apply system to bridge them.
Source: Herma
HERMA 500 Rotary "a maximum labeling speed of 150 m/min".
Frequently asked questions
Can one machine label and code?
Print-and-apply systems print the code onto a label and apply it in one station — the bridge between coding and labeling for case and pallet labels.
Related guides
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- How Labeling and Coding Machines Work: Label Application vs Product Coding — labeling and coding are two different machines that buyers routinely c…
- Top 10 Labeling & Coding Machine Manufacturers (2026) — An independent ranking of the top labeling and coding machine manufact…
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Last verified: September 10, 2026.