Manufacturing is a trillion-dollar industry, one that relies heavily on labels for efficiency, safety and compliance. In fact, labels play a role in every stage of the manufacturing cycle, from tracking raw materials and streamlining warehouse workflows to managing inventory and shipping finished goods out the door.
If you’re not already selling labels to manufacturing companies, you could be missing out on a major opportunity to grow your label business.
But breaking into a new market isn’t always easy. It takes the right knowledge, the right solutions and the right label partner to win new business in the manufacturing industry.
At General Data, we know exactly what it takes — and we want to help our Channel Partners succeed. Keep reading for our tips to help you start selling to manufacturing and grow your business:
#1: Know Your Audience
When it comes to selling labels to manufacturing companies, your prospects may differ from those in other industries. Decision-makers in manufacturing may include titles such as:
- Operations Managers
- Warehouse Managers
- Logistics Managers
- Safety Managers
With this in mind, it’s important to consider the priorities of these roles. Manufacturing is focused on improving efficiency, minimizing waste and optimizing production. Providing solutions such as flexible bulk pricing on labels, fast turnaround time and expert guidance can help set you apart as a go-to label distributor.
When you can learn to speak their language and demonstrate that you understand their challenges, customers in any industry are much more likely to trust you with their business.
Different areas of a manufacturing facility use different types of labels. Knowing who uses what and where can give you valuable insight on your manufacturing customer's label needs. Be sure to ask about the following areas or functions:
- Receiving
- Component Manufacturing
- Assembly
- Packaging
- Shipping
- Maintenance
- Tool Room
- Quality Control
In a busy warehouse or on the production floor, keeping track of materials, parts and finished goods is essential for manufacturing teams. Errors or inaccuracies can result in costly losses, production delays and even safety risks.
While plain black and white barcode labels are standard, make sure your manufacturing customers also know the value of today’s label solutions, such as:
- RFID labels connect physical parts and inventory to digital systems, ensuring fast and accurate identification, tracking and traceability to the original source.
- Color-coded barcode labels offer an intuitive way to manage inventory, streamlining operations and reducing errors.
- Linerless labels reduce waste and improve sustainability, which can add up to major cost savings on frequently used labels.
In the manufacturing cycle, labels can be exposed to a wide range of harsh conditions, from high heat or extreme cold to constant abrasion to exposure to water, grease, chemicals and solvents.
When you’re selling to a manufacturing customer, the value of investing in durable, industrial-grade labels designed specifically for these unique conditions can’t be overstated.
General Data is proud to offer industrial-grade manufacturing labels engineered to perform under pressure, with the ability to withstand:
- heat and cold
- humidity, ice, rain, snow and wind
- moisture
- salt water
- water immersion
- chemicals and solvents
- oil, grease and industrial lubricants
- UV exposure
- abrasion and rough handling
When subpar labels are exposed to these conditions, they’re likely to fail. Investing in high-performing, industrial-grade manufacturing labels is an investment in reliability, productivity and long-term value.
Beyond boosting efficiency, manufacturing labels are essential tools for workplace safety and regulatory compliance. Clear, legible and easy-to-understand labeling helps manufacturers meet industry standards, communicate hazards and ensure the proper and safe handling of materials throughout the supply chain.
When you’re selling labels to manufacturing companies, emphasize how the right labels can be used for:
- Compliance Labeling - For example, chemical drum labels must be clearly labeled and BS-5609 compliant with the Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labeling of Chemicals (GHS). To avoid violations and fines, it’s well worth choosing a label provider who is skilled and educated in GHS regulations.
- Hazard Communication - Color-coded warning labels help prevent accidents by clearly identifying risks in the manufacturing environment, such as equipment, hazardous materials or even restricted areas.
- Facility Security - Printed ID badges are critical for distinguishing staff members from visitors, vendors and guests. Ordering bulk ID labels to then print on-demand is a smart way to protect the people, products and sensitive processes inside a manufacturing facility.
In industrial settings, safety is paramount. By demonstrating how labels directly support compliance requirements and protect workers, you’ll position yourself as a trusted label partner who understands the pressures your manufacturing customers are facing.