Clarify the brief
A clear brief improves the quality of machine recommendations.
Specification template
Front and back labeller specification template
Use this specification template to prepare a clearer front and back labelling machine brief before asking for a quote. It covers product, label, output, layout and integration details.
Selection intent
Use the guide to reduce specification risk
Early labelling machine research is most useful when it turns a broad idea into a clear technical brief. The aim is to reduce assumptions before a machine is shortlisted.
The strongest enquiries explain the product, pack, label, output and line context together. This makes it easier to compare suitable routes and avoid generic recommendations.
- Capture pack dimensions and label dimensions together.
- Include label material, reel direction and any clear label requirements.
- Explain the current process, desired output and labour constraint.
- List any coding, inspection, conveyor or integration needs.
Avoid hidden assumptions
Pack handling, label material and site layout can affect cost and suitability.
Compare support
Installation, training and spares are part of the buying decision.
Machine routes
Which labelling route should you compare?
Most projects start with the pack shape, label position, material and output. These are the core machine routes to compare before requesting a quotation.
Automatic twin-side labeller
Best for established production where two labels need to be applied consistently in one pass.
Compact twin-side labeller
Useful for smaller footprints, lower-volume production, trials and fast SKU changes.
Top and bottom labelling
Useful for flat packs, cartons, trays, sleeves and products requiring label application to upper and lower faces.
Quote preparation
Information that improves the shortlist
Copy these field names into your brief and complete one record for each pack format:
- Pack: material, filled condition, closure, overall dimensions and usable label panels.
- Front label: size, face material, liner, gap, pitch, core and outside roll diameter, winding direction and artwork reference.
- Rear label: record the same roll details separately, even when the two labels appear similar.
- Position: mark each label from a repeatable pack datum and state the allowed variation.
- Output and changeover: target rate, format range and changeover frequency.
- Line: conveyor direction and height, available space, utilities, upstream and downstream equipment, coding and inspection needs.
- Trial and acceptance: production-condition packs and rolls, measurement method, defects to check and responsibilities.
Mark missing values as TBC and identify any provisional drawings, artwork or production conditions. Agree which samples or short videos are needed for review; a completed brief is a starting point for selection, not proof of machine performance.
Useful enquiry details:
- Container height, width, diameter or panel size.
- Label dimensions, material, reel direction and core size.
- Required label position and allowed placement tolerance.
- Target output, current line speed and changeover frequency.
- Photos, samples, drawings or a short video of the current process.
Related pages
Continue comparing front and back labelling options
Compare machine types, pack applications and buying guidance before preparing your enquiry.
Enquiry checklist
Core checklist for quote preparation.
How to choose a front/back labeller
Main buying guide.
Products
Compare machine families.
Contact
Send the brief to Lancing UK.
Frequently asked questions
What is the minimum information for a front and back labeller brief?
Describe the actual pack and its production condition, record the front and rear label rolls separately, and mark each required position and tolerance. Add target output, changeover range, available space and upstream or downstream connections. State the trial and acceptance requirements, and mark unconfirmed values as TBC rather than treating them as proven machine capability.
Will this replace a sample trial?
No. The guide improves the starting brief, but unusual containers, clear labels and premium presentation projects may still benefit from sample testing.
Can Lancing UK review the brief?
Yes. Send the details through the contact form and Lancing UK can help compare suitable labelling machine routes.
Send your front/back labelling brief to Lancing UK
Share the pack, label material, output target and any integration requirement. The team can help you compare the most suitable compact, automatic or top/bottom labelling route.