Many of our customers assume they need to invest heavily in automation to optimize their barcoding strategy. However, there are alternative options available.
In reality, laboratories can outsource several elements of labware preparation to a trusted partner. We often find that the scientific community is unaware of this opportunity, but the potential benefits are significant.
Here we will cover three top indicators that your lab could benefit from a barcode outsourcing solution.
What is barcode outsourcing?
Barcode outsourcing certainly includes purchasing pre-barcoded labware, but it can also involve additional elements of pre-analytical labware preparation, such as tare weighing. Most labs apply their labels in-house, either manually or with the help of automated equipment. While label automation can simplify your labeling process, it can be out of reach for many labs due to budget constraints, real estate limitations, etc.
Barcode outsourcing, or pre-barcoded labware, provides an alternative solution. Although many labware manufacturers offer generic, pre-barcoded labware, off-the-shelf options can be too limited for many facilities. When you work with an outsourcing partner, you no longer need to worry about labeling in-house or limit your options to what’s available in a catalog. Your partner will source, mark, and deliver ready-to-use labware directly to you.
Furthermore, your outsourcing partner should discuss your needs, processes, and goals with you to determine how they can best serve you. They may have additional marking technology options with increased durability, resolution, and color capabilities that you might not have access to otherwise or offer additional services such as tare weighing.
In the simplest terms, outsourcing your labeling means your partner will label your labware to your specifications before it arrives at your lab.
Below we list three situations where we’ve seen customers benefit from outsourcing their labeling.
1. Your laboratory is experiencing incredible growth and cannot keep up with labeling.
This is a common scenario for companies that decide to seek out an outsourcing program. Your business and employees specialize in science and research, not labeling labware, so spending large amounts of time on this task can seem like a waste of resources.
Especially when your company is experiencing great growth, it is necessary to spend more of your time focused on valuable laboratory processes and less on the repetitive task of labeling.
On top of that, ensuring your labeling is done precisely and correctly is critical in a lab setting. Manual labor is imprecise and there is room for human error, which can impact processes throughout your lab.
Outsourcing is a great option if the data required on your labels is not real-time and can be predetermined. If your barcodes require information like date and lot codes, you can still expedite the process and boost accuracy through the implementation of label automation.
2. Your laboratory needs to add color or other practical markings to your labware.
Most outsourcing partners are going to be able to offer vivid color options. Whether you need a color-coding system, a logo, or even functional markings like grad lines, your supplier should be able to accommodate your needs.
3. A standard label will not survive your experiments or environment.
Another common challenge across the healthcare industry is that samples frequently require exposure to chemicals or harsh storage environments. A “normal” pressure-sensitive label may not be able to survive these conditions. Our pre-barcoded labware service features three different marking technology options: pressure-sensitive labels, direct mark suitable for both glass and plastic, and ceramic ID labels for glass.
Direct Mark
Direct marking for glass or plastic containers involves etching, printing, and fusing barcodes directly onto the labware surface. This creates a near-permanent, precisely placed mark capable of withstanding various harsh exposures.
Laser
Laser marking technology is versatile, capable of marking metal, plastic, and glass on both flat and curved surfaces. It offers exceptional durability with resistance to chemicals, high temperatures, and abrasion.
Ceramic
Ceramic ID labels are fired onto glass tubes or vials in a kiln, permanently bonding both pieces. Like direct mark, this option can endure extremely harsh environments or treatments while guaranteeing precision placement and accuracy.
Fused
Fused marking bonds directly to the surface of your glass vials, creating a permanent label similar to ceramic. Fused barcodes are highly durable—withstanding temperatures as high as 230°C, as well as chemical soaks.
Outsourcing offers many benefits by reducing the number of monotonous tasks in your lab and allowing your employees to focus on tasks that directly contribute to your mission. An outsourcing program is beneficial if you want to increase throughput, reduce the time high-skilled workers spend on low-skill work, decrease inevitable human errors, and increase data management. Your partner should know the standard procedures, regulations, and effective solutions to your challenges to ensure a solution that frees your time, allowing you to focus on your goals.
Connect with our labelling experts today
Blog article form
"*" indicates required fields
