Bottles, vials, small pots, tubes or small-diameter containers: labelling small formats may seem “simpler”. In reality, it involves several technical constraints. The smaller the available surface, the more precise the label positioning needs to be. Container stability, diameter, shape and the type of label used directly influence the choice of labelling machine…

The challenge is to find a solution that ensures consistent labelling while remaining suitable for the formats actually used. So, what are the main difficulties encountered when labelling small containers, and how do you choose the right packaging solution?

Why are small containers more difficult to label?

 

A small container naturally offers less labelling surface. A variation of a few millimetres is much more noticeable than on a large bottle. The difficulty therefore does not only depend on the size of the label. It depends on all of the following parameters: the container, the label and the labelling machine.

Several parameters relating to the container and labels need to be considered:

  • its diameter;
  • its height;
  • its shape;
  • its stability during application;
  • the size and shape of the label;
  • the number of labels to be applied;
  • the production volume.

These factors determine the options required to achieve precise labelling.

Container diameter: an essential criterion

 

For small cylindrical formats, diameter is one of the first factors to consider. A small-diameter container provides a limited surface area and requires controlled application of the label around its circumference.

If the container is too small for a machine’s configuration, the label may be difficult to position correctly or apply consistently. This is why we always assess container dimensions before defining a labelling solution.

Our range of labelling machines includes several machines designed for different formats, including small products with reduced diameters.

For small cylindrical products, our Ninette Auto Mini is particularly well suited. It can be used for various applications, particularly in the cosmetics, food, pharmaceutical and chemical sectors.

This automatic labelling machine offers an interesting configuration for:

  • small production runs;
  • frequent product changeovers;
  • companies looking to progressively mechanise their production;
  • small products that are difficult to label consistently by hand.

An automatic labelling machine can also be integrated after filling and capping operations, making it possible to create a complete automatic packaging line.

Our Ninon 1500 is also part of our automatic labelling solutions and can likewise be integrated into various packaging projects. It is particularly appreciated for small containers once various adaptations have been implemented by our design office.

Container stability during labelling

Another key point concerns container stability. When a bottle is very small or lightweight, it can be more difficult to hold it correctly during label application. To achieve a consistent result, the container must remain correctly positioned while the label is being applied.

This issue is particularly important for small-diameter cylindrical containers, but it can also affect small bottles with unusual shapes. The holding system and application method must therefore be studied according to the actual container.

To support you in assessing this aspect, our Research & Development team works in collaboration with our sales team and design office to propose a suitable and durable solution.

One or several labels: an important difference

Labelling a small container can also become more complex when several labels need to be applied. A main label, back label, tamper-evident label or even a label with a specific shape may require different configurations.

On a small container, the available space needs to be assessed precisely to prevent labels from overlapping or creating areas that are difficult to reach.

It is therefore important to define from the outset:

  • the number of labels;
  • their dimensions;
  • their position;
  • their application orientation;
  • the available space on the container, i.e. the flat surface that will be used as a reference.

This information makes it possible to determine whether a single labelling station is sufficient or whether a more comprehensive configuration is required.

How do you choose a labelling machine for small containers?

Before choosing a machine, our experts need to gather several pieces of information, such as:

  • The container format. Its diameter, height and, where necessary, the different areas of its geometry need to be measured precisely.
  • The type of label. This includes its dimensions, material, shape and the number of labels to be applied.
  • The desired positioning. A label centred on the container, a wrap-around label or a label applied at a specific location do not necessarily require the same configuration.
  • The production volume. A few hundred containers per week do not necessarily require the same equipment as an industrial-scale production line.
  • The products or formats to be handled. The greater the number of formats, the more important ease of changeover can become as a selection criterion.

What if labelling is part of a complete line?

In a complete packaging line, labelling should not be considered as an isolated operation. The container must arrive correctly positioned from the previous station, be labelled and then continue along the line without disrupting subsequent operations.

At CDA, a complete packaging line can combine filling, capping or screwing and labelling. We can therefore integrate our labelling solutions into larger projects, before or after some of your equipment, thanks to our expertise as an industrial systems integrator. This approach allows you to consider the entire production flow rather than selecting each piece of equipment independently.

Labelling small containers requires particular attention because every millimetre can matter. Reduced diameter, limited available surface area, container stability, label dimensions, the desired positioning and production rate are all parameters that need to be taken into account.

 

Are you looking to label small containers and would like to check which solution would be suitable? Contact us today! Share your packaging project with us, whatever your sector, and we can assess your requirements and determine the most suitable labelling solution.

 

FAQ: Labelling small containers

Why is it more difficult to package a small container, particularly when it comes to labelling?

A small container offers a limited surface area and leaves less margin for label positioning. Its diameter, stability and geometry therefore need to be taken into precise consideration.

Which semi-automatic or automatic labelling machine should you choose for a small cylindrical bottle to be packaged?

The choice depends in particular on the bottle’s diameter, its dimensions, the label and the production volume. For certain small cylindrical products, solutions such as the Ninette Auto Mini or the Solo can be considered.

Can very small containers be labelled automatically?

Yes, certain machines are designed for small formats. However, compatibility needs to be checked against the exact dimensions of the container and label. Our teams can arrange testing under real operating conditions in CDA’s workshops.

Can several labels be applied to a small container?

Yes, depending on the product and machine configuration. However, the available space and the positioning of each label need to be taken into account. Several labelling stations may be required on your packaging machine.

Is a semi-automatic labelling machine suitable for small production runs?

It can be particularly relevant when production volumes remain moderate or when a company wants to progressively automate its labelling process while retaining a certain degree of flexibility.

Can labelling small containers be integrated into a packaging line?

Yes. Depending on the container and the other operations required, a labelling machine can be integrated into a complete packaging line combining, for example, filling, capping or screwing and labelling.

 

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