What Is In-Tray Labeling?
If you’re packing produce into trays or open boxes, you probably need a fast and precise labeling solution. That’s where in-tray labeling comes in. It applies labels directly to each fruit placed in a box or tray.
This method keeps your product consistently labeled without removing the product from the Tray/box. And it does all of that without relying on manual labeling.
In-tray labeling is made for high-volume, high-efficiency packing lines.
How In-Tray Labeling Works
Your tray moves down the conveyor and passes through your check weigher or inspection station prior to labeling. Our MOTOHEAD® FX Tray labeler will then choose one of many pre-configured patters stores in your HMI touch screen, and set the label applicators in motion to label that specific pattern. The labeled are then typically applied in the center of each fruit at speeds of up to 3,000+ boxes/hour.
Using LABELPAC’s MOTOHEAD FX Tray Labeler you can print variable data on demand.
Or you can use pre-printed labels for SKUs that rarely change.
Either way, the applicator adjusts for different tray formats automatically to be labeled.
Real-World Example: A High-Speed Tray Line
Imagine your pack line runs 3,000 Tray Boxes of Beef Tomatoes an hour.
Each tomato needs a label on it which may include a barcode, and lot number.
Hand labeling just won’t keep up, plus you need several workers just to hand apply them which is very costly.
With a MOTOHEAD FX Tray labeling system in place, each tomato is automatically labeled as the boxes pass through the line.
You don’t slow down the line, in fact you increase the speed and throughput double or more.
You don’t have inconsistent label presentation on your product.
You don’t need several people manually applying stickers.
Key Benefits of Automating This Process
Here’s what you gain when switching to in-tray labeling:
- Throughput increases to 3000+ Trays/Hour with one designated operator
- Consistent label positioning on each product
- Reduced human error
- Less downtime for label changes
- Lower operational labor costs
- Improved presentation for buyers and retailers
It’s not just about the label.
It’s about controlling the entire packaging experience and making your process more efficient.
Final Thoughts: Is In-Tray Labeling Right for You?
If you’re labeling apples, tomatoes or other fruit in a box Tray pattern and shipping those boxes directly to your buyers, this setup makes a lot of sense. It gives you flexibility, speed, and professional results. This also scales with your line as you grow.
If you need help matching a system to your tray formats, comparing pricing, or estimating ROI, LABELPAC can walk you through it.
In-tray labeling may be the small shift that delivers a big impact on your produce line.
