Packaging Code Management (PCM)
In highly competitive markets, effectively managing your supply chain is a key factor to growing your business. To achieve this you must have correct, scannable, human-readable (if needed) product identifiers and codes at the time your product is packaged on the production line.
A Packaging Code Management (PCM) solution automates the product coding process so that the right code goes on the right product at the right time — date code, batch code or barcode. A PCM also enables faster product change-overs and gives you real-time visibility into each of the production lines in a plant. Getting it right the first time is critical for lean manufacturing processes. A PCM means that you can get it right the first time.
Issues on the Packaging Floor
You’ve probably faced one (or several) of these coding and labelling issues on your production line:
- errors that force you to re-work product, which means wastage (time and money)
- trying to manage multi-coder production lines
- trying to manage coders on multiple production lines
- complying with legal requirements and your customer coding demands
Cost of Coding & Labelling Errors
Putting some numbers on these issues from our experience of working with companies across industries from FMCG to steel, incorrect coding can easily cost your business from $10,000 to $200,000 a year. Of course, the end figure depends on the number of goods produced, the type of fines and penalties involved, cost of labour and consumables for re-work among other factors.
That also assumes that it is actually possible to run packaged products through again for correct coding. If the packaging type or the product’s shelf life make this impossible, then the true cost of your uncoded or miscoded product is much higher. It also assumes the coding errors were found before reaching the shelves for end consumers. Recalling product at this stage is expensive — both financially and to a company’s reputation.
An advanced PCM easily resolves all these issues for you.