29 Apr

How to Avoid Common Coding Errors in Packaging – Expert Tips

Whether you are a part of the FMCG, pharmaceutical, seed, or beverage sector, small mistakes in batch coding, expiry dates, or QR codes can lead to regulatory penalties, product recalls, and loss of brand trust.

At BT Print, we understand the real-world challenges industries face. In this blog, we’ll cover common coding errors, their impacts, and expert tips to avoid them, ensuring smooth, error-free packaging every time.

Why Coding and Marking Accuracy Matters

Batch codes, manufacturing dates, QR codes, and expiry dates are more than just labels—they are vital for:

Product traceability
Compliance with Indian regulatory bodies like FSSAI, BIS,
Preventing counterfeit products
Managing recalls efficiently
Building consumer trust

Mistakes in coding can disrupt your entire supply chain. Thus, investing in reliable coding solutions and proper practices is non-negotiable for modern manufacturers.

Common Coding Errors in Packaging

Here are the top coding mistakes manufacturers often encounter:

1. Smudged or Faded Prints

Poor print quality due to unsuitable ink, wrong printer settings, or incompatible packaging material results in smudged or faded codes that become unreadable.

2. Incorrect Batch Information

Wrong batch numbers, expiry dates, or manufacturing dates can lead to major compliance issues, especially in industries like food, pharma, and seeds.

3. Missing Codes

Due to machine faults or operator errors, products can move down the packaging line without any coding at all—leading to untraceable shipments.

4. Misaligned or Off-Position Codes

Improper placement of the code on the packaging can cause scanning failures, customer dissatisfaction, and damage to brand reputation.

5. QR Code Errors

Incorrect or poorly printed QR codes mean consumers can't verify product authenticity, weakening your brand’s trust factor.

Expert Tips to Avoid Common Coding Errors

Here’s how you can stay error-free and maintain a high standard of product marking:

1. Choose the Right Printing Technology

The choice between CIJ printers, TIJ printers, TTO printers, or Laser Marking Machines depends on your product and packaging material.

Continuous Inkjet (CIJ) Printers: Best for high-speed coding on flexible materials like plastic, glass, or metal.
Thermal Inkjet (TIJ) Printers: Perfect for carton boxes, paper bags, and seed pouches needing high-resolution prints.
Thermal Transfer Over (TTO) Printers: Ideal for flexible films, food packets, and seed packaging.
Laser Marking Machines: Best for permanent, eco-friendly coding on rigid materials.

Explore: Compare CIJ vs TIJ Printers

2. Use High-Quality Inks and Consumables

Always use manufacturer-recommended inks and makeup fluids. Low-cost, poor-quality inks can cause smudging, fading, or even clog the print heads, leading to downtime.

3. Regular Maintenance and Cleaning

Follow a preventive maintenance schedule to clean nozzles, replace worn-out parts, and check ink levels. A well-maintained printer ensures consistent print quality and reduces unexpected breakdowns.

Related: CIJ Printer Maintenance Tips

4. Proper Operator Training

Train your packaging line operators properly. Mistakes often occur due to a lack of understanding of machine settings, ink management, or material compatibility.

5. Implement a Verification System

Install Batch Code Inspection Systems to verify each code immediately after printing. Any missing, misaligned, or unreadable codes can be automatically rejected before products move forward.

Know More: Batch Code Inspection Systems

6. Choose Packaging Materials Carefully

Ensure your ink or laser technology matches the surface properties of your packaging materials like woven PP bags, HDPE laminated bags, seed sacks, glass bottles, or PET packaging.

Explore: Best Printing Solutions for Seed Packaging

7. Use Variable Data Management Software

Advanced software allows you to automate date, batch, MRP, and QR code updates without manual intervention—reducing human errors drastically.

8. Environment Control

Humidity, dust, or temperature variations can impact printing quality. Maintain an environment that meets your printer manufacturer’s recommended operating conditions.

Industries Where Accurate Coding Matters Most

Accurate, durable coding is critical across various industries in India, including:

Pharmaceuticals (expiry dates, batch codes)
Food & Beverage (MRP, expiry, QR codes)
Seed Industry (batch codes, authenticity verification)
Automobile Parts (serial numbers, laser marking)
FMCG Packaging (lot numbers, promotions)
Logistics & E-commerce (tracking IDs, barcodes)

Final Thoughts: Stay Ahead with Smarter Coding Solutions

In India’s competitive industrial landscape, avoiding coding errors isn’t just good practice—it’s essential for business survival and brand reputation.

By choosing the right technology like CIJ printers, TIJ printers, TTO printers, and Laser Marking Machines, using high-quality inks, investing in maintenance, and upgrading to verification systems, you can minimize risks and ensure flawless packaging every time.

At BT Print, we offer expert consultation and customized solutions to ensure your packaging line runs smoothly without coding errors.

Contact BT Print for Customized Coding Solutions.