3 identification approaches
Direct printing on the pack, label print-and-apply, automatic logistics labeling.
Secondary coding and logistics labeling · Markem-Imaje
Industrial marking and labeling for cases, multipacks and pallets
The right information, on the right pack, at the speed of your logistics flow.
From the moment products leave the packing line to their receipt in the warehouse or delivery to a distributor, every case and every pallet must be identified clearly, verifiably and connected to the correct data.
Imark Sistem provides industrial solutions for direct printing on corrugated board, large-character coding, automatic label printing and application on cases, and pallet labeling in line with GS1 requirements. We integrate Markem-Imaje equipment, consumables, reading systems and software into a coherent process. The choice does not start with the printer model, but with the pack, the information to be printed, the position of the code and your productivity goals.
Solutions for secondary and tertiary packaging
From the code on the case to the unique pallet identifier
7 equipment lines presented
5800, 5940 G, Valvejet 4500 and 4700, the 2200 series, 2200 Pallet and CimPak.
1D and 2D identification
Alphanumeric information and symbologies suited to the application, depending on the equipment and the verification requirements.
Connected data
Integration of coding with ERP, MES, WMS and CoLOS® software in compatible configurations.
Each capability depends on the configuration, the material, the type of marking and the chosen equipment.
Controlling information along the supply chain
A case with the wrong code can block more than a single shipment
Identifying secondary and tertiary packaging is the link between the finished product, company records and logistics operations. An unreadable code, a misapplied label or an identifier that does not match the contents can lead to extra checks, relabeling, delays at receipt and traceability difficulties. The goal is not just to apply a code, but to keep the correlation between the digital information and the physical unit.
Fewer manual operations
Formats and data can be managed centrally, depending on the software architecture.
Adapting to different product mixes
Reference changes through controlled message selection, without pre-printing every case variant.
Verifiable print quality
Codes can be read and, where necessary, assessed through appropriate inspection systems.
Operational traceability
Case and pallet identifiers can be correlated with production orders, batches and shipments.
Choose by process stage
Individual case, multipack or pallet? Each level needs a suitable solution.
Shipping cases
Direct printing of texts, batches, references and codes on board, or applying a label when the substrate or commercial requirements call for it.
See the solutionsMultipacks and collective packaging
Identifying units that hold several products, with codes and information relevant to production and distribution.
See the solutionsPallets and logistics units
Printing and applying labels with logistics identifiers, including SSCC, with attention to positioning and scanning.
See the solutionsMixed flows
Combining several technologies and data-management software for products, cases and pallets in the same process.
See the solutionsTechnical and economic comparison
When is it better to print directly on the case, and when to apply a label?
Direct printing on board
Inkjet directly on the pack
No separate adhesive carrier. Relevant on corrugated board compatible with the ink and with the contrast, size and scanning requirements. Benefits: eliminating the label cost for information printed directly, fewer pre-printed cases, late-stage customization. To check: board quality and color, texture, flatness, code readability.
Print & Apply on cases
Self-adhesive label applied in a controlled way
When a predictable print surface is needed, the board is printed/colored, or the process requires labels. Benefits: good legibility on correctly chosen labels, flexible positioning, adaptation to different materials. To check: adhesive, resistance, size, roll direction, print technology, speed and application clearance.
Automatic pallet labeling
Logistics identifiers on the shipping unit
Creating and applying identifiers on one, two or (depending on the model) more faces, at the end of palletizing lines and in warehouses. To check: unique SSCC, pallet type, label size, position, film integrity and read-after-apply.
The Imark Sistem recommendation
There is no universal winner. We compare the cost per case or pallet, code quality, installation availability and operational requirements. A plant may use direct printing on cases AND Print & Apply on pallets within the same architecture.
Industrial equipment for cases and pallets
Seven solutions from the Markem-Imaje portfolio, each with a distinct role
From high-resolution printers for corrugated board to automatic pallet labeling systems, the Markem-Imaje portfolio lets you choose the technology according to substrate, message, speed and level of automation. Imark Sistem assists you in analyzing the process, selecting the configuration and integrating with conveyors, sensors, PLCs and data-management applications.
The Markem-Imaje range
Direct printing on board — 5800 and 5940 G
Piezo Touch Dry® printers for high-resolution coding directly on corrugated board.
Piezo / LCIJ · Touch Dry® · direct coding
Markem-Imaje 5800
Direct case marking through piezo drop-on-demand technology and Touch Dry® hot-melt inks that solidify quickly on the right substrate, for well-defined characters and codes. For medium-duty applications: texts, logos, variable data and barcodes.
- Technology
- piezo DOD · Touch Dry®
- Resolution
- 200 dpi vertical
- Height
- up to 65 mm/head
- Codes
- 1D and 2D (supported configurations
- Speed
- up to 172 m/min at low density
- Integration
- Ethernet · CoLOS®
Piezo / LCIJ · Touch Dry® · high productivity
Markem-Imaje 5940 G
For high volumes: high-contrast Touch Dry® codes and the Intelli’Flow™ system that limits dust and ink build-up at the printhead. A multi-head platform for different zones of the case or extended messages.
- Technology
- piezo DOD · Touch Dry®
- Resolution
- 200 dpi vertical
- Height
- up to 65 mm/head
- Heads
- up to 4
- Controller
- IP54 · 10″ color interface
- Integration
- PLC · databases · CoLOS®
The Markem-Imaje range
Large characters — Valvejet 4500 and 4700
Non-contact large-character coding for alphanumeric messages that stay visible on cases and packaging.
Valvejet · DOD · large characters
Markem-Imaje Valvejet 4500
Non-contact valve-jet printing for large alphanumeric messages on compatible cases and packaging: batches, references, destinations, information that is easy to recognize visually. NOT recommended by default for small 2D codes or high-resolution verification requirements.
- Technology
- Valvejet DOD (valves)
- Marking
- large characters, non-contact
- Applications
- batch, destination, reference
- Materials
- corrugated board, shipping cases
- Operation
- simple and robust
Valvejet · robust industrial marking
Markem-Imaje Valvejet 4700
Extends the Valvejet family to applications that require non-contact coding on varied materials and products, with large alphanumeric messages in packing and handling processes. Depending on the ink and configuration, it can be assessed for cases, certain films, containers and components.
- Technology
- Valvejet DOD (valves)
- Marking
- large characters
- Integration
- sensors and control (available interfaces
- Applications
- cases, corrugated board, compatible materials
- Role
- sorting and operational identification
The Markem-Imaje range
Print & Apply — 2200, 2200 Pallet and CimPak
Automatic label printing and application on cases, multipacks and pallets.
Print & Apply · case and multipack labeling
Markem-Imaje 2200
Thermal label printing + application mechanisms adapted to format and position. Top, side, front and corner applicators; the eTouch-S® applicator with SoftTouch controls the motion and monitors application. Thermal transfer or direct thermal, depending on the label and the intended lifetime.
- Technology
- Print & Apply (TT/DT
- Resolution
- 200 and 300 dpi
- Application
- top/side/front/corner
- Applicator
- eTouch-S® (SoftTouch
- Integration
- code reading · CoLOS®
Print & Apply · pallets · GS1 identification
Markem-Imaje 2200 Pallet
Printing and applying labels on pallets, on a single face or on two adjacent faces, for repeatable code positioning. Through CoLOS® and compatible databases, the label is generated with the information sent by production and palletizing.
- Application
- 1 or 2 adjacent faces
- Capacity
- up to 120 pallets/hour (documented configurations
- Technology
- direct thermal or transfer
- Resolution
- 200 or 300 dpi
- Options
- code scanning · CoLOS®
Print & Apply · demanding logistics applications
Markem-Imaje CimPak
A solution for printing and applying labels on pallets, for demanding production and storage environments. Application on the front face, side and, where applicable, the rear. Detection devices handle variations in load position and geometry.
- Application
- up to 3 faces (configurations
- Capacity
- up to 120 pallets/hour (certain configurations
- Technology
- direct thermal or transfer
- Formats
- A5 and A6 labels
- Environment
- accessories for harsh conditions
A label with GS1-128 is not automatically compliant. The SSCC identifier, the data, the positioning, the format and the symbol quality must be verified. CimPak: confirm current commercial availability and its positioning relative to 2200 Pallet before promoting it as new in-stock equipment.
High-resolution direct marking
Touch Dry®: direct coding on board, with no separate label
Touch Dry® technology uses hot-melt inks in a piezo drop-on-demand system. The ink is held at working temperature and jetted in a controlled way; on contact with a compatible material it solidifies quickly, limiting migration into the board fibers and helping produce well-defined outlines.
For secondary packaging, this enables late-stage customization: generic cases receive variable information at the moment of packing, instead of a separate inventory of pre-printed cases for each item or market.
Quality for code reading
GS1-128, QR or Data Matrix in compatible configurations — verified against the application requirements.
Fewer pre-printed packs
Customizing at the last relevant point reduces the board variants in stock and increases flexibility across SKUs.
Managing the consumable
Touch Dry® inks are chosen according to substrate, color, storage conditions and code performance.
Integration into existing flows
Single- or multi-head configurations, adapted to the print positions, the conveyor and the case geometry.
Relevant technologies: Markem-Imaje 5800 and 5940 G.
DOD Valvejet | visual identification
Large-character coding for applications where simplicity matters
Not every case needs a dense 2D code. In many flows, large, easy-to-recognize information is enough: batch, destination, reference, internal identifier. Valvejet offers non-contact large-character printing through the controlled opening of valves.
Unlike high-resolution piezo Touch Dry® systems, Valvejet equipment is geared toward simpler, robust marking; selecting it takes the desired level of detail into account.
Where it adds value: messages visible from a distance, coding cases on conveyors, fast message changes and simple operation. Models: Markem-Imaje 4500 and 4700.
Automatic in-line labeling
Print & Apply: variable information printed and applied directly in the process
These systems combine the printing of a label with an automatic mechanism that applies it to the pack in the right position. Printing can be thermal transfer or direct thermal, and application can be by controlled contact, air-blow or dedicated mechanisms.
Front application
For cases moving toward a defined application point, with conveyor–applicator synchronization.
Side application
Positioning the label on one of the sides, adjusting the distance to the product.
Top application
When the top surface is available and suitable for reading and handling.
Corner application
The label distributed across two adjacent faces, in configurations designed for this operation.
Gentle application
Mechanisms such as eTouch-S® control the applicator motion, to protect the product and ensure repeatable positioning.
Integrated verification
Reading systems can confirm the code or the presence of the label, depending on the architecture.
Standardized logistics labeling
SSCC, GS1-128 and the correct position of the pallet label
A logistics unit must be uniquely identified throughout transport and storage. In the GS1 system, the key for this identification is the SSCC — Serial Shipping Container Code. The GS1-128 symbology encodes identifiers and data according to the applicable rules.
For pallets, labeling two faces with the same information is recommended, where the application allows, so that the identifier remains accessible for scanning.
SSCC — the logistics unit
18 digits, represented with application identifier (00). Each logistics unit receives a unique, properly managed SSCC.
GTIN ≠ SSCC
The GTIN identifies the trade item; the SSCC identifies the individual logistics unit. The case, the multipack and the pallet may have different identifiers.
What GS1-128 is
A symbology that represents structured data through GS1 application identifiers. It is not a product number and must not be confused with SSCC or GTIN.
ILLUSTRATIVE EXAMPLE — code to be validated before use
SSCC · application identifier (00)(00) 3 0012345 000000017 4
Pallet position: 400–800 mm from the base · min. 50 mm from the edge
According to the GS1 guideline, the code is usually positioned between 400 and 800 mm from the base of the pallet, and the symbol (with its quiet zones) at least 50 mm from the edge; for pallets lower than 400 mm there are specific rules. A scanner confirms readability, but a formal assessment of symbol quality requires a verification process. Apply the current edition of the standards and the retailer requirements.
Traceability and aggregation
Different identifiers, data connected within a single process
Efficient identification does not mean the same code at every level. The product, the case and the pallet may have distinct roles and identifiers, and the relationships between them are managed through the data systems.
Product identification
Manufacturing data, the batch and the trade identifier are generated or retrieved according to the process.
Case coding
The case receives the information suited to its contents and its destination in the supply chain.
Association with the multipack
In applications that require it, the system correlates product units with the case or multipack.
Palletizing
The system records the composition of the pallet and generates or retrieves its SSCC.
Applying the pallet label
The Print & Apply equipment prints and applies the label with the associated logistics information.
Verification and recording
Reading the code can validate the existence and the consistency of the data with the logistics unit.
Shipping
The identifiers are used in the documents and electronic messages that manage receipt, transport and distribution.
Readable codes and correct data
A code that looks good is not always a verified code
The quality of codes on board, labels and film depends on the technology, the material, the parameters and the handling. Board fibers, color variations, wrinkled labels or incorrect positioning can make automatic capture harder.
Presence verification
Inspection systems confirm that a code or a label is on the case or pallet, in the intended zone.
Data reading
An industrial reader decodes the information and allows comparison with the data expected for the product, batch or shipment.
Symbol quality assessment
For compliance requirements, codes are checked through the relevant methodology and equipment, not just through an occasional scan.
Managing non-conformities
Flagging a missing label, an unreadable code or a data mismatch, with stop, rerouting or relabeling.
Imark Sistem can treat printing, application and verification as stages of the same process, with parameters established for each application.
Compatibility and in-service performance
Ink, label and ribbon are selected together with the equipment
Touch Dry® inks
Hot-melt formulations for compatible piezo systems; selected by contrast, board type and production conditions.
Valvejet inks
Consumables for large characters, chosen by material and application; compatibility is confirmed per equipment and substrate.
Case labels
Paper or synthetic materials, with adhesives suited to the board, the finish and the temperature conditions.
Pallet labels
Formats and adhesives for board or stretch film, with assessment of peel resistance and legibility after transport.
Thermal transfer ribbons
Formulations compatible with the material and the intended lifetime; direct thermal can eliminate the ribbon, with durability limits.
Validated selection
Consumables are chosen together with the equipment and the substrate, with tests where necessary.
Centralized management of coding
The right code starts from the right information
Re-entering data at every piece of equipment increases the risk of error. Centralized message management standardizes the information and reduces manual operations. Markem-Imaje CoLOS® can support, depending on the modules and interfaces, format management, data transmission and integration with existing systems.
Message management
Creating and distributing formats in a controlled way for each item, pack and line.
Data transfer
Retrieving information from ERP, MES and compatible databases.
Logistics-unit traceability
Associating information about cases and pallets with production and shipping.
Data verification
Comparing printed identifiers with the expected information, to reduce errors.
Gradual expansion
Starting from one line and developing toward several coding points.
Full integration
Coding connected with the production and logistics infrastructure.
Discover the softwareSolutions for different industrial flows
From the food industry to distribution centers and component manufacturing
Cases, crates, trays and pallets
Product, batch and logistics identifiers. Solutions can combine direct printing and automatic labeling for items with high turnover and varied product mixes.
Multipacks, trays and collective packaging
Followed by identification of shipping pallets. Integration is matched to speed and the available space at the end of the line.
Frequent changes between SKUs and markets
Late-stage case customization can simplify the stock of pre-printed board.
Secondary packaging with management and verification rules
Serialization and aggregation requirements are analyzed separately from the simple identification of the case.
Packs with difficult shapes or surfaces
Durable labels, messages visible from a distance and application configurations adapted to the industrial environment.
Labels for cases and pallets
Codes for sorting and SSCC identifiers, integrated with warehouse management systems.
References, batches and codes agreed with the customers
The equipment is assessed against the customer-specific standards and requirements.
Applications documented by the manufacturer
Industrial technology demonstrated in real processes
Sabarot · 2200 + CoLOS®
Case labeling and message management
A study published by Markem-Imaje: Sabarot used Print & Apply equipment from the 2200 series and the CoLOS® software to organize case labeling.
Download the Sabarot studyTouch Dry® · 5940 G
Direct printing on corrugated board
The official 5940 G materials show codes applied directly on board, with variable messages and graphic elements.
Download the 5940 G datasheet2200 Print & Apply series
Integrating applicators on the line
Synchronizing label printing with the pack in process and selecting the application mechanisms according to position.
Download the 2200 datasheetThese are applications documented by Markem-Imaje; they are not presented as projects implemented directly by Imark Sistem. The original attribution is preserved.
Guides and information for the technical decision
Useful resources for reducing costs and choosing the right labeling
Direct printing or labeling? How to reduce the complexity of secondary packaging
Using generic cases and customizing at the final stage can reduce the number of pre-printed packaging variants and offer more flexible stock management.
See the articles in the News sectionThe eTouch-S® applicator: controlled application, with a focus on precision
The eTouch-S® applicator technology, developed for motion monitoring and label application in compatible industrial configurations.
See the articles in the News sectionMeasurable economic efficiency
What influences the real cost of marking a case or labeling a pallet?
The price of the equipment is only part of the investment. A sound decision requires assessing the total cost of ownership against the volume, the printed messages and the operating conditions.
Consumable cost
Ink, label and ribbon have a different impact depending on print density and format.
Operating cost
Consumable change times, interventions and message configuration influence the availability of the installation.
Integration cost
Conveyors, sensors, automation, reading systems and connectivity enter the assessment.
Cost of non-conformities
Wrong labels, unreadable codes and relabeling generate losses in production and logistics.
Flexibility across references
Customizing generic cases at the final stage can change the stock requirement.
The Imark perspective
The LCIJ / Valvejet / Print & Apply comparison is made on the real message, the actual material and the number of units.
The Imark evaluation methodology
How do we choose the right solution for your line?
We identify the pack
Corrugated board, treated board, stretch film, a printed case or another substrate.
We set the unit of identification
Case, multipack, tray, pallet or several levels within a single flow.
We define the data
Text, 1D/2D codes, GTIN, batch, SSCC and partner requirements, as applicable.
We assess the line rhythm
Cases per minute, pallets per hour, speed variation and available time.
We check the placement
Conveyor dimensions, case guiding, code position and access for maintenance.
We analyze costs and consumables
The amount of ink or the number of labels, the changes and the intended lifetime.
We plan testing and integration
Print trial, code validation, connectivity and operator training.
International technology, local integration
One partner for the entire industrial identification flow
Process-based consulting
We analyze the material, the production rhythm, the dimensions and the required information before recommending the technology.
Complementary technologies
We compare direct Touch Dry® printing, Valvejet coding, label printing and dedicated pallet solutions.
Integration and automation
Connecting with conveyors, sensors, PLCs and ERP, MES or WMS applications, depending on the project.
Identification quality
The reading, verification and data-correlation requirements, not just the printed look of the code.
Consumables and maintenance
Consumable selection and preventive maintenance, as part of long-term operation.
Correct identity
Each shipped unit receives the right information, usable in the next stage.
Technical answers for an informed decision
Frequently asked questions about case marking and pallet labeling
What is the difference between direct printing on the case and Print & Apply?
Direct printing applies the ink to the board, with no separate label. Print & Apply prints the information on a self-adhesive label and applies it automatically. The choice depends on the material, the required code quality, speed, cost and identification requirements.
Which printer is suitable for corrugated board?
For high-resolution coding — piezo Touch Dry® 5800 and 5940 G. For simple alphanumeric messages — Valvejet. For situations that require labels — the 2200 series.
Can I print GS1-128 codes directly on the case?
Yes, through equipment and configurations able to generate the required symbology and quality. The material, contrast, dimensions and verification of the result are assessed for the application.
What is Touch Dry® technology?
A Markem-Imaje hot-melt inkjet printing technology, in compatible piezo equipment. The ink solidifies quickly after application on the right material, for well-defined outlines.
What is the difference between Piezo Touch Dry® and Valvejet?
Both are drop-on-demand, but with different mechanisms and consumables. Piezo Touch Dry® targets high-resolution printing; Valvejet is oriented toward large characters and simple messages.
Can QR and Data Matrix codes be printed on board?
Yes, with compatible printers. The module size, contrast, data structure and quality are verified at the effective line speed.
What does Print & Apply mean?
A system that combines the automatic printing of the label with its application on the product or pack. It can use thermal transfer or direct thermal and application mechanisms chosen by surface and position.
Can I label two faces of the pallet?
Yes. Models such as Markem-Imaje 2200 Pallet are designed for one or two adjacent faces. Other systems may offer additional options.
What is SSCC?
The unique identifier of a logistics unit in GS1. It has 18 digits and is represented through application identifier (00). It must not be confused with GTIN, which identifies the trade item.
Is GS1-128 the same as SSCC?
No. GS1-128 is a barcode symbology that can encode GS1 identifiers. SSCC is the key that identifies the individual logistics unit.
Where should the label be applied on the pallet?
The GS1 guideline specifies positioning rules, typically 400–800 mm from the base and at least 50 mm from the edge. The configuration is adapted to the height, geometry and operational requirements.
Is two-face labeling mandatory?
The GS1 guideline recommends two faces for scanning accessibility, but the concrete rules are assessed with the logistics partner and the process.
Can I use a direct thermal label in the warehouse?
Yes, when the lifetime and conditions are compatible. For long or demanding uses, thermal transfer can offer greater resistance, depending on the label and the ribbon.
Can labels be applied on stretch film?
Yes, with the right material and adhesive. Texture, film tension, temperature and handling influence adhesion.
How do you ensure each pallet receives the correct information?
By correlating the identifier with the data from production/storage and by integrating reading or verification. The equipment alone does not validate all the information in the system.
Can marking and labeling be integrated with ERP or WMS?
Yes, depending on the model, software and interfaces. CoLOS® and other compatible integrations can manage messages and transfer data between industrial systems.
Is direct printing always cheaper than labels?
No. The total cost depends on volume, marking density, consumables, maintenance, code quality and changeovers. The comparison is made on the real application.
How do I choose between 5800 and 5940 G?
By the line volume and speed, the number of heads, the integration requirements and the desired autonomy. Imark Sistem can compare the two configurations starting from the real message and substrate.
How can I request a quote?
Send the type of cases/pallets, photos of the packaging, the line speed, the information to be printed, the size and position of the code and any GS1 requirements. An initial assessment can be made on this basis.
Connected technologies in the same plant
Extend identification beyond cases and pallets
Industrial labeling
Applicators, Print & Apply, thermal printers and consumables for different packaging levels.
DiscoverMarking applications by material
Marking technologies for board, glass, plastic, film and other surfaces.
Discover2D codes and GS1 Digital Link
Integrating two-dimensional codes into identification and traceability processes.
DiscoverAuto ID and inspection
Systems for reading, capturing and verifying codes in production and logistics.
DiscoverSupply-chain traceability
Correlating identifiers with physical movements and supply-chain information.
DiscoverIndustrial software
Message management and data integration between equipment and company systems.
DiscoverTechnical consulting for secondary and tertiary packaging
Tell us how your line works. We will help you choose the right solution.
Would you like to remove some of the labels by printing directly on the board? Do you need automatic label application on cases or pallet identification with SSCC? The Imark Sistem team can help you compare the solutions suited to your material, volume and infrastructure. For a faster recommendation, prepare the type of case or pallet, the dimensions, the line speed and an example of a label or code.
Requirements assessment
Material, format, code position, speed and the information to be printed.
Technical recommendation
A comparison between direct printing, Valvejet and Print & Apply.
Integration perspective
Connecting with the current flow and assessing the available technical services.
Discuss your case and pallet marking project
Phone: +40 21 255 71 74 · E-mail: office@imarke.ro