Coding and marking technologies are essential in the manufacturing and logistics sectors. However, many businesses only consider the initial costs when purchasing these systems and do not take hidden costs into account. In this article, we will examine the hidden costs that can be encountered in coding and marking technologies.
1. Consumables and Ink Costs
One of the biggest operational costs for coding machines is consumables. Inks, solvents and cleaning fluids are consumables that need to be purchased regularly. Low-quality inks may seem affordable at first, but over time they can reduce print quality, require more maintenance and shorten the life of the machines.
2. Maintenance and Repair Expenses
Coding and marking machines need regular maintenance. Especially continuous inkjet (CIJ) and thermal inkjet (TIJ) printers require regular maintenance. Without maintenance, machines will fail, leading to production losses. Although planned maintenance costs are often overlooked, in the long run they can be a major expense item.
3. Labor and Training Costs
Operators need to be trained in the use of coding and marking systems. When a new machine is purchased or a system is replaced, time and resources need to be allocated to training personnel. Incomplete or inaccurate training can prevent machines from working efficiently and reduce labor productivity in the long run.
4. Energy Consumption
The energy consumption of coding machines is also a factor that should not be overlooked. Machines that require high energy, such as laser coding systems, can significantly increase electricity bills. Energy costs can be optimized by choosing more efficient machines.
5. Integration and Software Updates
Integration with production lines may incur additional software costs. Some coding machines require special software, which may require regular updates and license renewal fees. Incompatibilities during the integration process can also create additional labor and time costs.
6. Waste and Environmental Costs
Low-quality inks or solvent-based systems generate more waste and can make it harder to comply with environmental regulations. Switching to environmentally friendly and low-emission systems can be costly initially but can reduce waste management costs in the long run.
7. Lifetime and Replacement Costs
The lifetime of coding and marking systems is also an important factor in the cost calculation. Machines with lower initial costs can often have a shorter lifespan and require frequent refurbishment. Such costs can be avoided by choosing durable and long-lasting machines.
Conclusion
When selecting coding and branding technologies, long-term hidden costs should also be taken into account, rather than focusing only on acquisition costs. Factors such as consumables, maintenance costs, energy consumption, software updates and training are important factors that determine the total cost of ownership. Smart investments made with these costs in mind can reduce costs in the long run while increasing the efficiency of businesses.
