Reviewed: 6 September 2026

Quick answer: Direct inkjet coding may reduce the use of pre-printed or adhesive labels in selected carton-marking workflows, but it is not automatically cheaper for every business. The correct comparison includes equipment, ink, labels, labour, changeovers, rework, maintenance and the suitability of the actual packaging material.

This guide explains how Malaysian and Singaporean warehouses can evaluate a wide-format handheld printer such as the BENTSAI B85 using a practical cost comparison.

1. Start with the information you need to print

Define the required content before comparing costs:

• batch or lot number;
• manufacturing or expiry date;
• product name, grade or internal code;
• barcode or QR code;
• destination or warehouse reference;
• logo or handling instruction.

Confirm the required print height, number of lines, scan distance and frequency of data changes. Large artwork and logistics labels may have different requirements from a simple batch code.

2. Calculate the current label workflow

Record the full monthly cost rather than only the label price:

• blank or pre-printed labels and printer ribbons;
• desktop label-printer and maintenance costs;
• staff time for printing, peeling and applying labels;
• stockholding for different label sizes or designs;
• misapplied labels, reprints and obsolete stock;
• downtime during label or ribbon changes.

3. Calculate the proposed direct-printing workflow

Include:

• printer, accessories and suitable cartridges;
• estimated ink consumption based on the actual design;
• operator time, training and setup;
• sample testing and approval;
• cleaning, storage and replacement items;
• rework if a code is incorrect or the surface is unsuitable.

Ink usage depends on print coverage, resolution, density and content. A test using the intended design gives a more useful estimate than a general cartridge-yield claim.

4. When direct carton printing may fit

Direct printing may be worth evaluating when:

• the same carton surface can accept a compatible ink;
• codes or artwork change frequently;
• operators currently spend substantial time applying labels;
• large text is needed for warehouse identification;
• items are too large or awkward for a fixed printing station.

The BENTSAI B85 is a wide-format handheld TIJ printer with a stated maximum print height of up to 92 mm. Actual output, coverage and workflow suitability depend on the selected configuration, file, ink, material and operating method.

5. When labels may still be the better option

Labels may remain preferable when:

• the packaging surface cannot produce an acceptable direct print;
• a removable, replaceable or pre-approved label is required;
• the information must be applied over existing artwork;
• shipment labels require a specific media size or carrier format;
• the volume is too low to justify a new workflow;
• the customer’s internal or contractual process specifies labels.

A hybrid workflow is also possible: direct printing for repeated carton information and labels for shipment-specific data.

6. Test before calculating savings

Coated cartons, plastic crates, timber, metal and other surfaces behave differently. Dust, oil, moisture, surface treatment, printing distance and handling can affect drying and adhesion.

Use the actual carton or object to verify readability, adhesion, barcode scanning and rub resistance. Then compare cost per usable print, not merely the theoretical cost per impression.

A simple decision worksheet

1. Measure current monthly label, ribbon and labour costs.
2. Count changeovers, reprints and obsolete label stock.
3. Prepare the real print file and packaging sample.
4. Run a B85 sample test with a potentially suitable ink.
5. Estimate cartridge usage using the approved design.
6. Compare equipment and operating costs over a realistic period.
7. Include training, downtime, rework and replacement items.
8. Approve the workflow only when print quality and economics are acceptable.

Frequently asked questions

Will the B85 eliminate all labels?
No. It may replace selected labels or pre-printed markings, while other labels may remain necessary.

Does direct printing guarantee lower cost?
No. Savings depend on volume, design, labour, ink usage, material compatibility and the existing workflow.

Is direct inkjet printing permanent or waterproof?
Do not assume so. Performance depends on the ink, surface and exposure conditions and must be tested.

Can the B85 print on every carton, plastic or metal surface?
No universal compatibility should be claimed. Test the exact material, including any coating or contamination.

What should I send PTS for an evaluation?
Provide the actual sample, print file, target print size, monthly quantity, current label cost and expected handling conditions.

Explore the BENTSAI B85

View the BENTSAI B85 wide-format handheld inkjet printer, our Carton & Secondary Packaging Coding Solutions and Warehouse & Logistics Coding Solutions.

PTS Technology Sdn Bhd is the exclusive authorised distributor for BENTSAI handheld inkjet printers in Malaysia. The exclusive scope refers specifically to handheld printers.

For a sample evaluation, visit www.ptstsb.com or contact PTS on WhatsApp.

This guide provides general application and cost-planning information. Actual results and costs depend on the customer’s material, design, workflow and operating conditions.