The Supply Chain Implementation Series, Guide #1: Using Industry-Compliant Bar Codes

[ Appendix 1 ] [ Appendix 2 ] [ Appendix 3 ] [ Appendix 4 ] [ Appendix 5 ] [ Appendix 6 ] [ Appendix 7 ] [ Appendix 8 ] [ Appendix 9 ] [ Appendix 10 ]

Appendix 2: FUNCTIONAL SPECIFICATION and REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL for Bar Code Label Provider

We are exploring two options that will enable us to apply U.P.C. bar code labels to our products.  One option is to purchase preprinted U.P.C. product identification labels, and the other is to print them ourselves.  Sample layouts are provided.  The information needed for each label can be provided in a comma-delimited file.  It will contain four fields: the (U.P.C.) number, a description, a catalog number, and the quantity to be printed.  This can be sent to software that controls a printer, or it can be e-mailed to a supplier of preprinted labels.

If we are buying preprinted labels, we would like the labels sent to us within 24 hours of the order, via an overnight delivery carrier.  The carrier must provide a tracker number for the shipment.  The status of the shipment must be available through the tracker number via the Internet.  On the day of shipment, the label provider will send an e-mail providing the tracker number and notification of the shipment.

In general, we are interested in butt-cut labels on an easy release liner.  The labels will be applied to corrugated liner board, chip board, and card stock.  Item labels will use the U.P.C. symbology; SCC-14 and SSCC-18 will use EAN/UCC-128 symbology.  Caution: EAN/UCC-128 is different from plain Code 128.

Item labels

Type One

Medium item label. U.P.C.-A (100%), 2” wide x 1.5” high.  One line for catalog number (20 characters) and description (20 characters).  All in 10 point type.

Type Two

Small product ID label for package above unit level.  SCC-14, EAN/UCC-128 2.5” wide x 1.25” high. One line for catalog number (20 characters) and description (20 characters).  All in 10 point type.

Type Three

Medium shipment ID label using SSCC-18 format.  Sometimes called “License plate.”  EAN/UCC-128, 4” wide x 1.75” high.  This is most frequently used with an advanced shipping notice (ASN) 856.  These will be sequentially numbered.

Response to Our RFP

Please include the following items in your response to us:

• State your experience with the label adhesive as it relates to the materials identified above.

• If you supply preprinted labels, briefly explain your quality testing procedures, and provide certification and test results, if available.

• If you provide printing equipment, provide a statement about print quality and any simple procedures.

• How do you intend to handle problem labels that you may have sold to us?  Do you have someone on staff to whom we can refer a complaint from our customer?  Will you bear the cost of replacement shipment(s)?  How quickly will you replace problem labels?  What is your limit of liability for fines that may result from poor-quality labels?

• If you have any cost-saving suggestions, like minor changes to label size so that standard size labels can be used, please include them in your response.

• Please include the name and phone number of your contact person.

Please provide a quote for the following:

Preprinted Labels

• The cost for different size labels in the following quantities: 50, 100, 150, 200, 250, 500, 750, 1,000

• The cost of a label dispenser to handle all sizes identified.  Indicate if you supply this or where we can obtain one.

• Any set-up or handling fees

• Estimated delivery charges

• The total net cost of an order.

Printer Equipment

• Cost of a thermal transfer printer capable of providing the various label sizes.  Please explain loading, maintenance, quality, and operational features.  Please quote a low-, medium- and high- duty cycle printer and explain throughput for each.

  • We expect to produce about _______ labels per week of all types combined.

• Software to control the printer and produce the labels.

• Any cost for you to provide label formats or other programming, so the printer is “plug and play”

• The cost of label stock and the number of labels (per various sizes) per roll

• The cost of thermal ribbon and the number of labels (per various sizes) per roll

• The cost of any maintenance items (like head cleaner)

• Repair costs or contracts

• Set up or other support services

• Delivery costs

Would you like free software or help with your compliance program?  Call Quad II at (215) 489-1722.

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