Batch Printing

Batch printing is the process of generating hundreds to millions of QR codes in bulk and printing them on labels or packaging. When every QR code printed is the same, it is no different from ordinary printing, but when you mass-produce QR codes that contain a different serial number or lot number for each product, variable printing (variable data printing) technology is required.

The batch printing workflow proceeds in the order of data preparation, bulk QR code generation, print data creation, printing, and inspection. In data preparation, you create a list in CSV or Excel of the data (URL, serial number, lot number) to be stored in each QR code. With a QR code generation API, thousands of QR code images can be generated automatically from this list.

Managing print quality is the biggest challenge in batch printing. Because checking each sheet one by one is not realistic, the standard in industrial applications is a system that inspects every unit with an inline scanner after printing and automatically ejects labels that fail to scan. Insufficient DPI, ink bleeding, and an insufficient quiet zone are the main causes of defects.

In terms of cost, variable printing is done on digital presses (inkjet or laser), and the cost per sheet is higher than with offset printing, which requires making plates. However, because no plates need to be made, it can handle small lots, and it offers the flexibility to print different QR codes simply by swapping the data.