Inkjet vs. Labels: The Smarter, Cheaper Way to Print

In today’s fast-paced manufacturing and packaging industries, efficiency and cost control are everything. Companies are constantly seeking ways to reduce production costs, improve workflow, and streamline operations—all without compromising quality or compliance. One of the smartest ways to achieve these goals? Ditch the traditional labels and switch to direct product marking using Thermal Inkjet (TIJ) printers. In this blog post, we’ll explore why direct printing with TIJ technology is not only a more efficient solution, but also a powerful cost-saving alternative to adhesive labels.
TIJ vs. Labels: The Smarter, Cheaper Way to Print

Crush your print costs, get rid of errors & boost production efficiency with RN Mark printers 

What Is Direct Product Marking?

Direct product marking refers to the process of printing essential information—such as expiry dates, barcodes, batch numbers, logos, or QR codes—directly onto the surface of a product or its packaging, instead of applying a separate adhesive label.
And at the heart of this evolution in packaging is Thermal Inkjet (TIJ) technology.
rnjet 140 cartridge based printer printing on side and downwards on box

Labels vs. Direct Printing: The Real Cost Breakdown

1. Label Material Costs Add Up

Labels aren’t cheap. Each label used per product involves:


  • Paper or film material
  • Adhesive backing
  • Ink (if pre-printed)
  • Liner waste (which must be discarded)
  • Shipping, storage, and handling

For companies labeling thousands—or millions—of items per year, labeling costs can run into tens of thousands of dollars annually.


Direct printing with TIJ? You eliminate those material costs completely. You’re printing directly onto the product or package—no label stock required.

2. No Label Printers or Applicators Needed

Traditional labeling systems require:


  • Label printers
  • Label applicators
  • Rewinders
  • Sensors
  • Ongoing maintenance

Not only are these systems expensive to purchase and maintain, but they also take up valuable production space and increase the risk of line downtime due to mechanical issues.


TIJ systems, in contrast, are:


  • Compact and easy to install inline
  • Low-maintenance (no moving parts)
  • Quick to set up and reposition for different products


With fewer machines and fewer parts, your capital investment and maintenance costs drop significantly.

3. Reduced Labor and Downtime

Labeling lines often require manual intervention—loading rolls, clearing jams, calibrating sensors. This adds labor costs and increases the chances of production slowdowns.


TIJ printing allows for hands-free, inline integration:


  • No rolls to load

  • No sensors to align

  • Minimal operator intervention


This means fewer bottlenecks and more uptime, translating to increased productivity and further labor savings.

4. No Waste from Liner or Misapplied Labels

Labels typically include a liner that ends up as landfill waste. Misapplied or skewed labels often lead to product rework or rejection, increasing both material and labor costs.


TIJ direct marking produces no liner waste and has virtually no misapplication risk, because the print is placed precisely with every pass.

If you’re still relying on adhesive labels for product or packaging identification, it’s time to re-evaluate.


TIJ direct printing is faster, cleaner, more flexible—and significantly more cost-effective. You’ll reduce operational complexity, eliminate waste, and boost sustainability efforts—all while improving your bottom line.

Make the switch today and discover how RNJet industrial printers can help you go label-free for less.

Rate this post
Select your currency
CAD Canadian dollar

rnmark

Give us A Call!

 

We are here to help you.

 

+1 (905) 597 4977