Batch Coding Machine Buying Guide
What to Expect When Buying a Batch Coder: Demos, On-Site Installation & Services
CONTROL PRINT LIMITED | NOVEMBER 18, 2025
Selecting the right batch coder is a key investment decision for any manufacturer. Whether you’re marking expiry dates, batch numbers, or QR codes, understanding what to expect in your buying journey, from demos and substrate testing to installation and service support, can make all the difference.
This comprehensive guide will help you make an informed decision.
1. Types of Batch Coding Technologies — A Quick Overview
Before diving into the buying process, it’s important to know the main types of batch coding technologies available today:
- Continuous Inkjet (CIJ): Ideal for high-speed, non-contact printing on almost any surface, from plastics to metals.
- Thermal Inkjet (TIJ): Delivers sharp, high-resolution codes for paperboard and porous and non-porous substrates; great for clean environments.
- Thermal Transfer Overprinting (TTO): Best suited for flexible packaging films and labels.
- Laser Coders: Provide permanent, maintenance-free marks — often used in pharma and FMCG industries for traceability.
Each technology has its unique strengths, choosing the right one depends on your production speed, substrate, and compliance needs.
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2. The Typical Buyer Journey — From Enquiry to Installation
Your journey from interest to operation usually follows these steps:
- Initial Contact: Reach out to a coding and marking machine manufacturer or supplier with your product details and printing needs.
- Sample Testing: Control Print offers free sample prints on your substrate to validate ink adhesion and print quality.
- Quotation & Proposal: Once testing is successful, one can expect a detailed quotation including printer type, accessories, consumables, and service options.
Purchase & Installation: After placing your order, the supplier arranges for on-site installation, integration with the conveyor or PLC, operator training, and acceptance testing to ensure the coder performs to expectations.
3. Will the Supplier Install and Demo on My Products?
Usually, yes, but this depends on the supplier’s process.
Some companies provide a demo unit at one’s site, while others request sample packs to test in-house and send you the results.
A few also offer self-installable units with guided video support for quick setup.
Pro Tip: Always confirm what level of demo and installation support is included in your quotation.
4. Installation & Integration: What to Expect
Installing a batch coder involves more than simply unboxing it. Expect support in:
- Mounting and Alignment: Positioning on the conveyor or production line for accurate coding.
- Sensor Integration: Ensuring correct product detection and print triggering.
- PLC/SCADA Connectivity: For automated production tracking and control.
- Power & Space Requirements: Proper grounding and adequate space for maintenance access.
- Environmental Checks: Verifying performance under factory conditions of temperature, humidity, and dust.
Once installed, the supplier typically conducts commissioning and run-in tests to ensure print consistency before handing it over for production.
5. Consumables, Ink Compatibility & Substrate Testing
Ink performance is not universal. The right ink must match your substrate for proper adhesion, legibility, and durability.
For example, TIJ and LCP solvent-based inks work best on non-porous surfaces like plastic or glass, while water-based inks suit paper and cardboard.
Also, if your products are in food or pharma packaging, ensure your inks comply with food-contact regulations.
Most reliable supplier will conduct substrate compatibility tests before you finalize the purchase.
6. Maintenance, Uptime & Service Contracts
Like any production equipment, batch coders need periodic maintenance to ensure consistent uptime.
When evaluating vendors, check for:
- Service SLAs: Defined response times for breakdowns.
- Preventive Maintenance: Recommended intervals for cleaning and inspection.
- Remote Support: Diagnostic assistance that reduces downtime.
- On-Site Repairs: For critical issues requiring physical intervention.
Control Print offers comprehensive service agreements to ensure smooth operation throughout the equipment’s life cycle.
7. Validation & Regulatory Requirements (Food & Pharma)
For regulated industries like pharmaceuticals and food, validation is not optional.
Look for vendors who can assist with:
- IQ/OQ/PQ Documentation (Installation, Operational, and Performance Qualification)
- Traceability Support (Batch number, expiry date, serialization)
- Compliance Certifications
These ensure your coding system meets all quality and audit requirements.
8. Common Buyer FAQs
Q: Do manufacturers install coders on-site or just demo?
A: Both, but confirm before purchase. Most of the suppliers handle installation and training.
Q: Will the supplier print on my actual packaging before I buy?
A: Yes, in many cases. Ask for sample prints or an on-site demo to ensure your packaging is compatible with the selected coder.
9. Final Thoughts
Purchasing a batch coder is more than just buying a printer; it’s about securing reliability, compliance, and peace of mind for your production line.
From pre-purchase demos and substrate testing to on-site installation and post-sale service, knowing what to expect helps you make the most informed and cost-effective choice.
Ready to Find the Right Batch Coder?
Control Print offers end-to-end batch coding solutions, from Continuous Inkjet to Laser, all backed by complete demo, installation, and service support. With a presence across more than 1,600 cities and 2,500 pin codes, Control Print ensures that our expertise is always within your reach, reaffirming our commitment to deliver the absolute best service experience to our customers.
Get in touch with our experts today to schedule a free sample test or on-site demonstration.