Label Type: Variable Data Printing
Every label different, printed inline, verified
Serial numbers, lot codes, dates, and unique 2D codes printed into each label as the web runs, not stamped on afterward. One clean inline step instead of a separate coder, with every barcode graded to ANSI/ISO. Made in NJ since 1986.
One inline step instead of a second machine
Variable data printing puts each label's unique data down with the artwork, in the same pass, at the same quality. There is no after-the-fact ink-jet coder, no hand stamp, no smearing, and no way for the printed number to disagree with the number inside the barcode.
The range runs from simple lot-and-date printing on food and supplement labels to full unit-level serialization: a GS1 DataMatrix encoding lot, expiration, and a unique serial per unit. On compliance-critical work we scan and grade every variable barcode before the labels ship.
The variable layer
What can change from one label to the next
Tap each marker. Every one of these fields can carry a different value on every label in the run, while the rest of the design stays fixed. That is the whole point of variable data printing.
Sequential serial number
A different number on every label, incremented inline as the web runs: 000001, 000002, 000003. It is the backbone of unit-level traceability, warranty registration, and anti-counterfeiting, and it prints at full press quality instead of being stamped on afterward.
All of it prints in one inline pass and is graded before it ships. How variable data printing works →
Where it is required
Pick the program, see how we run it
Different programs demand different codes and different proof. Choose one to see what varies and how CLS handles it, tied to what we actually run: inline printing, ANSI/ISO grading, and 100% inline verification on serialized work.
Supplement & OTC serialization
Supplement, OTC, and personal care programs increasingly carry a unique serial number alongside lot and expiration data, often in a GS1 DataMatrix. We print those data elements inline and grade every 2D code to ANSI/ISO, with 100% inline verification available on serialized runs so no ungraded code ships.
What varies per label
- Serial number, per unit
- GS1 DataMatrix, re-encoded each label
- Lot number
- Expiration date
How we run itPrinted inline in one pass · GS1 DataMatrix with NDC, lot, exp and serial · 100% inline verification available · ANSI/ISO grading
Logistics & SSCC
Cartons and pallets each need a unique license plate. We print GS1-128 barcodes carrying variable Application Identifier content (lot, quantity, dates) and sequential SSCC-18 codes, one per pallet, for EDI and ASN environments. Codes are verified before the pallet leaves the floor.
What varies per label
- SSCC-18, one per pallet
- GS1-128 with variable AIs
- Lot & quantity
- Ship-to routing
How we run itSequential SSCC per pallet · GS1-128 Application Identifiers · barcode verification across the run
Unique codes & promotions
Give every unit its own QR or alphanumeric code for sweepstakes entries, loyalty, product authentication, or anti-diversion tracking. Each code links to a unique identity and prints at full quality, so it scans on the first try from a phone camera.
What varies per label
- Unique QR per label
- One-time promo / PIN codes
- Serialized authentication IDs
- Regional campaign variants
How we run itIndividual QR and 2D codes · unique per label · digital versioning with no plate change
Asset & work-in-process
Sequential asset tags and work-in-process labels that stay readable on the plant floor. We pair variable numbering and barcodes with durable face stocks and adhesives, and grade the barcodes so scanners still read them years later, not only on day one.
What varies per label
- Sequential asset numbers
- 1D or 2D barcodes
- WIP / routing stage
- Durable stock + adhesive match
How we run itVariable numbering plus barcode · durable construction · ANSI/ISO grading
Variable data printing FAQ
What is variable data printing for labels?
Variable data printing (VDP) is a process where unique information — serial numbers, lot numbers, expiration dates, unique barcodes — is printed on each label in a run without stopping the press. Every label can be different while the static design stays consistent. It is used for pharmaceutical serialization, GS1 compliance, and product traceability.
Can you print a unique barcode on every label?
Yes. We print unique codes on every label in a run: sequential serial numbers, GS1 DataMatrix carrying NDC, lot, expiration and serial, unique QR codes, and sequential SSCC-18 pallet codes. We grade barcode quality across the run so codes meet the ANSI/ISO grade your program requires.
What data can vary from label to label?
Sequential serial numbers, lot and batch codes, expiration and date codes, unique 2D barcodes and QR codes, ship-to names and addresses, and version or regional variants. Any field can change label to label while the rest of the design holds constant, all printed inline in one pass.
What file formats do you accept for variable data?
We accept CSV, Excel (.xlsx), and delimited text files. For serialization with GS1 Application Identifier encoding or custom formatting rules, our prepress team sets up the data structure with you before production so the encoded codes match your human-readable text.
Do you offer 100% barcode verification on variable data runs?
Yes. On serialized runs, we offer 100% inline barcode verification with ANSI/ISO grading, confirming every barcode meets the minimum grade required by your retailer, healthcare system, or regulatory program before the labels leave our New Jersey plant.
How is variable data printing different from applying a separate date coder?
A separate ink-jet coder or hand stamp adds the variable data after the label is printed, which risks smearing, mismatched codes, and an extra production step. Variable data printing prints the serial, lot, date, and barcode inline with the artwork, so the human-readable text and the encoded barcode always carry the same value.
Send us your data file and label specs
Share the fields that need to vary and how you want them encoded. We will confirm compatibility, set up the data structure, and quote your run.