Why thermal inkjet printers are the go-to option when you need quality marks at an affordable price point

If you are into crafting bespoke goods or selling your wares at a market stall, you likely have a simple manual way of placing tracking codes or best buy dates on products. But what happens when you’re ready to up-level to a production line? It’s a nice “problem” to have, but part of the cost of growing your sales is growing your capacity to manage not only product production, but also packaging, marking, labeling, inventory, and shipping.

When it comes to marking and coding, your small business might get by for a while printing and hand-applying labels or using an inexpensive handheld coder. But at some point, whether due to regulatory requirements or simply (and happily) reaching higher volumes, you will need to upgrade your product marking to something more permanent and robust.

If you’re considering investing in an automated marking and coding system, you may have experienced sticker-shock, particularly if you were looking into continuous inkjet (CIJ) marking systems. These systems are heavily marketed, but they’re also very expensive – often costing $5,000 or more for an entry-level system. CIJs are complicated to set up, and this type of printer requires frequent (and costly) maintenance to keep it working smoothly.

Thermal inkjet printers offer a reliable, low-cost alternative to CIJ

High-resolution industrial thermal inkjet printers (TIJ) provide an easier, more affordable and more reliable alternative for variable coding and marking on most products as well as cases and cartons. Entry-level TIJ printing systems like our lineup of Evolution printers are a great way to get started with marking and coding. They are compact, easy to install, and virtually maintenance free. Given their low cost and reliability, it’s easy to add more printers to your lines as your business grows.

Getting started with printing involves some advance planning. You’ll need to think about what substrates you’ll be printing on, what types of ink will work best and how to set up and add the printer to your line. That’s why simply buying the cheapest printer you find on Amazon or eBay may not be your best option. Will you be able to find the correct inks? Will they work with your substrates and handle special requirements, such as resistance to fading when exposed to the elements? Can you reliably obtain replacement ink as needed?

You’re certain to have better outcomes and save money in the long run by working with a supplier who’s been there and done that. To that end, Matthews has a network of Evolution channel partners across North America who work with businesses like yours every day. They can help you get the right marking and coding solution set up exactly the way you need it – all at highly affordable prices. And most of them offer a whole lineup of other products and solutions that will help you get your factory automated and your production lines humming along.

Call us today at 1-800-775-7775 or fill out the form below to learn more about Evolution industrial printing solutions or for a referral to one of our channel partners in your area.