Fixed Weight Labeling vs. Catch Weight Labeling

Fixed weight labeling is any labeling process where the label weight is specified before the product even crosses the conveyor scale. The company specifies their weight and the conveyor scale takes a reading to determine if that product is in an appropriate range. If so, it is given a label and sent off to distribution. If not, it can be diverted to a different location.

The ranges can be easily adjusted so that you can fine-tune the amount of product coming through. The system can also track how much is rejected and how much is heading off for distribution.

Each type of product shares the same exact label for product uniformity. The system is capable of handling different products with a pre-identification label, or “license plate”, but the weight per product type will be the same.

While less specific than catch weight, fixed weight labeling systems are capable of tracking your actual output compared to your nominal output so that you can see if you are giving away too much product, allowing you to alter your weight range or processes to improve yields and save money.

Catch weight labeling, is where product is purchased in terms of price per weight unit of the actual known amount in the container.

The product crosses over the conveyor scale and its weight is determined and sent to the labeler which prints a label that is specific to that package.

Each product is labeled with its own unique weight. This system needs to be a little more flexible than the fixed weight labeling just because it involves more changes in the printer and data handling.

Once you choose one of these two, this can determine the necessity of diverts, the type of labels and printer, and the division size needed by your conveyor scale amongst other things.