When preparing a labelling project, it is natural to start by thinking about the label itself: its format, design, the information to be displayed and even its material. However, in a packaging project, the label cannot be considered independently of the container to which it will be applied.

Bottle shape, diameter, height, material, available surface area, the presence of a shoulder or handle: all these characteristics can influence how the label needs to be applied. This relationship becomes even more important when moving from manual labelling to a semi-automatic or automatic labelling machine.

At CDA, we therefore consider the container and the label as a whole from the initial project assessment. This approach allows us to anticipate technical constraints and identify a labelling solution that is genuinely suited to the requirements.

Labels cannot be applied in the same way to every container

A perfectly cylindrical container offers a relatively even surface. However, not all packaging is as straightforward to label. The available surface area and its geometry partly determine how the label will be positioned.

A label designed for a cylindrical container cannot necessarily be applied in the same way to a container with a different shape. The container is an integral part of the labelling project.

How can the shape of a container affect labelling?

A labelling machine must apply the label to a given surface while maintaining a precise position. On a cylindrical container, for example, the label can be applied around the body of the product. With a rectangular container, the requirements may be different: one or more faces may need to be labelled. The container’s geometry therefore influences the movement the machine needs to perform.

A label that is too large or too small…

The label format must be consistent with the available surface area.

A label that is too large may encounter uneven surfaces or extend onto parts of the container that are not intended to receive adhesive. Conversely, a label that is too small may make it difficult to include all the required information or produce a visual result that differs from the one intended. It is therefore necessary to find a balance between:

  • the dimensions of the container;
  • the available surface area;
  • the information to be displayed;
  • the desired positioning;
  • the constraints associated with automatic application.

In a labelling project, these considerations should ideally be addressed before the label format and machine specifications are finalised.

Testing the label on the actual container

This is one of the most important stages of a labelling project. A label may appear perfectly suitable on paper, but its actual performance may differ once it has been applied to the container. A trial makes it possible to assess:

  • adhesion quality;
  • positioning;
  • any wrinkles;
  • lifting or peeling;
  • application consistency;
  • the final visual appearance.

When a container has an unusual geometry, these trials become even more valuable. We can assess the compatibility between the container, the label and the machine configuration before validating a solution.

What if several containers need to be labelled?

This is a common challenge for businesses offering several packaging formats. A single product range may include different container shapes and sizes while retaining a consistent visual identity. In this case, it is important to consider the flexibility of the labelling machine. For example, we offer the Ninon Mix, which enables automatic labelling of all types of formats. Changeovers can then be carried out with ease.

Product, container and label: taking a joined-up approach

A container filled with liquid may behave differently from an empty container when passing through a machine. Product weight, container stability and the need to observe certain handling precautions may all need to be considered during the assessment.

We therefore consider the project as a whole: Product → container → label → machine → production rate → operating environment. This approach helps avoid selecting a machine based solely on an isolated specification.

A label is never simply a printed surface that is applied at the end of the packaging process. Its format, adhesive and application method must be compatible with the container that will receive it.

The container’s shape, dimensions, material and available surface area directly influence how the label can be applied. When the aim is to automate this operation, these factors become even more important.

That is why we recommend considering the label and the container as a single system from the very beginning of the project. This approach makes it possible to choose a labelling machine that is suited not only to the label itself, but above all to the actual product and the company’s requirements.

Looking to invest in a labelling machine suited to your products and labels? Contact us so that we can work with you to identify the labelling solution best suited to your project.

FAQ: Labels and Containers

Why should labels and containers be considered together?

Because the container’s shape, dimensions and material influence how the label can be applied. The label must be compatible with the available surface area.

Does the shape of the container influence the choice of labelling machine?

Yes. A cylindrical, square or oval container, or one with a more unusual shape, may require a different labelling configuration.

Can the same labelling machine be used for several formats?

This depends on the characteristics of the different containers and the machine configuration. For a multi-format project, it is important to consider format changeovers from the design stage onwards.

Should a label be tested before purchasing a labelling machine?

When the container or label has particular characteristics, a trial is recommended. It makes it possible to check positioning, adhesion and application quality under real operating conditions.

Does the container material affect labelling?

Yes. The container material and surface condition can influence label adhesion. The container, label and adhesive must be considered together.

Can labelling be automated for an unusually shaped container?

Yes, certain shapes can be labelled automatically, but the solution depends on the container’s geometry and the desired label positioning. A trial helps determine the appropriate configuration.

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