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Code position
Decide whether the code appears on the label, bottle, cap or carton.
Coding integration
Date coding and labelling line guide
Many packaging lines need date, batch or lot codes as well as labels. This guide explains how coding should be considered when specifying a bottle labelling machine.
- UK specification advice from Lancing
- Automatic, compact and semi-automatic options
- Built around container, label and output requirements
Integration guide
What this guide covers
Date coding can happen on the label, bottle, cap or secondary packaging. The position affects machine layout, sensor triggering and space around the labeller. Planning coding and labelling together avoids awkward retrofit work later.
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Trigger point
The coder needs a reliable product signal and stable product movement.
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Access
Leave room for printer maintenance, ink or ribbon changes and inspection.
Practical comparison
Key points to check
| Coding location | Consideration | Line impact |
|---|---|---|
| On label | Label must pass consistently at print head | May be before or during application |
| On bottle | Surface shape and stability matter | Needs space before or after labeller |
| On cap | Cap orientation and height matter | May need separate handling |
| On carton | Later in packing line | Separate coding station possible |
Specification advice
How this affects machine choice
Check the pack first
Review the actual container shape, diameter, label panel and surface finish. A label applicator works best when the pack is stable and the label area is predictable.
Match label to machine
Confirm label material, roll direction, label gap and adhesive before ordering production labels. Clear, film or metallic labels may need extra testing.
Plan the production route
Decide whether the operation is batch-fed, compact automatic or part of a conveyorised filling and capping line. The best machine is the one that fits the full process.
Related searches
More useful labelling pages
These internal links help users and search engines understand the related machine types, applications and specification topics.
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Wraparound labelling machine buyer guide
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Specification checklist
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Label roll direction guide
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Diameter and label length guide
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Output speed guide
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Troubleshooting guide
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Label applicator FAQ
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Automatic wraparound labeller
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Compact wrap-around labeller
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Semi-automatic wrap-around labeller
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All wraparound labellers
Read more about all wraparound labellers and compare it with the wider Lancing wraparound labelling range.
Questions
Common questions
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Can coding be added to a labelling line?
Often yes, but the best position should be planned with the labelling process.
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Should coding happen before labelling?
It depends on where the code needs to appear and how the product is handled.
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What information is needed?
Code position, code size, substrate, speed and whether the line already has a coder are useful details.
Technical review
Reviewed by Lancing Ltd
This guide is maintained by Lancing's packaging machinery team. Lancing states that it has specialised in semi-automatic and fully automatic machinery for over 40 years and supports equipment across the UK, Europe and worldwide. Final recommendations are confirmed against actual containers, labels and production targets.
Last technical review: 11 July 2026 · About Lancing · Official company profile
Quick enquiry
Send us your labelling requirement.
Include container diameter, label size, material, target output and whether the label is paper, film or transparent. Lancing can recommend a suitable semi-automatic, compact or automatic configuration.
Phone: 01494 623015
Email: sales@lancinguk.com