Plastic bottle coding machines for date and batch marks
Choose a coding route for plastic bottles, jars and containers based on surface, speed, print position and traceability requirements.
Application guidance for bottle coding uk.
How to specify this coding application
Bottle coding can be direct-to-container or label-based. Curved, glossy or textured surfaces can make direct printing more demanding, so the pack presentation and print position are important. In many cases, printing the code onto a label before application gives better control.
- Bottle shape, diameter and surface finish
- Direct-to-bottle or label-coding approach
- Date, batch, lot and QR code content
- Conveyor stability and bottle spacing
- Ink adhesion and dry time on plastics
- Integration with filling, capping and labelling equipment
Recommended coding routes
Use these routes as a starting point before confirming samples, speed, substrate and integration details.
Label coding for bottles
Printing date and batch information onto labels before application can provide a repeatable route.
Direct bottle coding
Thermal inkjet or other direct marking may be considered where the bottle surface and handling are suitable.
Traceability data
Batch and QR codes should be positioned where they remain visible after labelling and packing.
Related coding machinery pages
These pages help connect the application to the most suitable coding technology and support route.
Bottle coding UK FAQs
Can you print directly on plastic bottles?
Sometimes, but the surface material, shape, speed and ink adhesion need testing.
Is label coding easier for bottles?
Often yes, because a flat label web can be coded before application to the bottle.
Can QR codes be added to bottle labels?
Yes, thermal inkjet and print-and-apply routes can add QR codes to labels if the print area is sufficient.
What details help specify a bottle coder?
Bottle material, diameter, line speed, code position, label format and code content are the key starting points.
Need help with bottle coding uk?
Send your material, speed, code size and example data so Lancing can recommend the right coding route.