How the Linx IJ470 Can Reduce Packaging Costs with Direct Case Coding

Outer case coding might seem like a small part of your production process, but labels, pre-printed boxes, wasted consumables and downtime can quickly add to your operating costs. 

The Linx IJ470 Large Character Inkjet Printer offers a smarter alternative. By printing high-resolution text, graphics and barcodes directly onto outer cases, manufacturers can reduce packaging costs, waste and complexity while keeping production moving. 

5 Ways the IJ470 Can Reduce Your Outer Case Coding Costs

1. Reduce the Cost of Labels 

Labels bring recurring costs, from label rolls and ribbons to storage and print-and-apply maintenance. 

The IJ470 prints directly onto cardboard boxes and outer cases, helping you reduce or even eliminate the need for labels and pre-printed packaging. 

That means fewer consumables to buy, fewer packaging variants to manage and less stock taking up valuable warehouse space. 

2. Waste Less Ink with Linx ReFRESH® 

Why pay for ink that ends up being wasted? 

The IJ470’s ReFRESH® system automatically cleans the print nozzles during operation and recycles the purged ink back into the system for reuse. 

This helps reduce ink waste and refill frequency while maintaining reliable print quality. 

3. Reduce Coding Downtime 

Unexpected coding problems can quickly become expensive when they interrupt production. 

The IJ470 uses oil-based inks with no warm-up required under normal operating conditions, so it’s ready to print when your line is. Its ReFRESH system also helps prevent nozzle blockages that can cause missing prints and unplanned downtime. 

Less waiting. Fewer interruptions. More productive time.

4. Reduce Packaging Waste and Storage 

Different labels and pre-printed cartons can mean shelves full of packaging for individual products. 

With direct printing, product information can be changed digitally at the point of production. This allows manufacturers to use a smaller range of standard packaging rather than stocking multiple pre-printed variants. 

It can help reduce: 

• Obsolete packaging 

• Label backing waste 

• Storage requirements 

• Packaging inventory costs 

5. Print More Information Directly onto the Box 

Saving money doesn’t have to mean compromising on your code. 

With a 70 mm print height and print lengths of up to 2000 mm, the IJ470 can print detailed messages directly onto outer packaging. 

Print text, logos, graphics, barcodes, QR codes and GS1-compliant 2D codes – without needing a label. 

Need even more flexibility? Up to four IJ470 printers can be controlled from a single interface to increase the print area or print on both sides of a carton. 

Direct Case Printing vs Labels and Pre-Printed Boxes

Method	Ongoing consumables	Packaging flexibility	Storage requirements	Variable data
Labels	Labels & ribbons/ink	Good	Label inventory required	Yes
Pre-printed cartons	Packaging inventory	Low	Multiple carton SKUs	Limited
IJ470 direct printing	Ink	High	Standard cartons can be used	Yes

Printing directly onto outer cases can simplify packaging operations by removing separate labelling processes and reducing reliance on pre-printed carton variants. Manufacturers can print product information, barcodes, logos and variable data when the case reaches the production line.

How Much Could You Save by Switching from Labels?

Every production line is different, which is why it’s important to look beyond the initial printer cost and consider the total cost of outer case coding. 

Think about what you’re currently spending on labels, ribbons, pre-printed packaging, storage, waste and maintenance. 

The IJ470 even includes an on-screen cost-per-code function, making it easier to monitor coding costs and compare them with alternatives such as labels.

Is the Linx IJ470 Right for Your Production Line?

If you’re looking to reduce packaging costs, cut waste and simplify your end-of-line coding, switching from labels or pre-printed boxes to direct printing could make a significant difference. 

The Linx IJ470 has been designed to make outer case coding simpler, more reliable and more cost-effective – making printing one less thing to worry about. 

Ready to Rethink Your Outer Case Coding?  

• Request a Print Sample to see the solution in action   
• Download Product Brochure for detailed specifications   
• Talk to an Expert to find the right coding solution for your retail operations