What Is Label Proofing & How to Manage It

If you're part of the labeling process, you know how crucial it is to make sure your labels are error-free and comply with regulations. One crucial step in getting your packaging approved is label proofing.

But what is label proofing? And how can you manage it effectively? In this guide, we show you the ins and outs of label proofing, errors to watch out for, and more.

We also introduce you to Mox, an impressive software solution that simplifies the label-proofing process. With Mox, you'll be able to streamline your workflow, reduce errors, increase collaboration among team members, and speed up the approval process.

Types of Packaging & Labeling Errors

While label proofing is essential to ensuring that your packaging meets regulatory requirements, it can also be a complex process with potential errors that are easy to miss. These errors can result in costly mistakes, delays in production, and even regulatory fines.

Here are some of the most common types of packaging and labeling errors:

• Spelling and grammar mistakes
• Incorrect or missing information (such as nutrition facts, ingredients, or allergen information)
• Inaccurate barcode, QR code, or SKU information
• Inconsistent labeling across product lines or packaging sizes
• Incorrect labeling of product quantity or weight
• Misaligned or missing labels

These errors can be worsened by team members' lack of collaboration and communication. With information spread across emails, ensuring everyone is on the same page and providing consistent feedback across label proofs can be difficult. This is where a label-proofing workflow comes in.

Label-Proofing Workflows

Label-proofing involves multiple steps and stakeholders and can often be complex and time-consuming. However, an efficient workflow can help ensure that packaging and labels are accurate and compliant. 

Here's an overview of the label-proofing workflow, broken down into key steps and stakeholders:

1. Request for label proof: The request for label proof is typically initiated by the packaging or regulatory team.
2. Label creation: The design team creates the label using design software and includes all required elements, such as nutrition facts, ingredients, and barcode information.
3. First review: The packaging team reviews the label to ensure it meets all regulatory requirements and internal guidelines.
4. Second review: The regulatory team reviews the label again to ensure compliance with all relevant regulations.
5. Final approval: Once the label has been reviewed and any necessary changes have been made, it's sent for final approval by the appropriate stakeholders.

Key stakeholders involved in the label-proofing workflow include packaging, regulatory, design, and any other relevant teams or departments within the organization. Efficient collaboration and communication among these stakeholders are essential to a successful label-proofing process.

Mox can be used across all teams involved in the label-proofing process, providing a centralized platform for collaboration and feedback. This can streamline workflows, reduce errors, and improve overall efficiency.

What to Review on a Package Label

While the specific elements will vary depending on the product and regulations, there are some key areas to review. Let's break down the main elements to consider when reviewing a package label.

Package Design & Graphics

When it comes to the package design and graphics, be sure to check for:

• Consistency with brand standards
• Readability and legibility of text
• Accuracy of colors and images
• Appropriateness of font and size
• Clarity of messaging and branding

Mox helps you review each of these packaging design elements in one place. Use the PDF markup and annotation tool to leave feedback on labels and designs. Or, use the 3D product visualizer to see your brand come to life. 

Barcodes & Text

And when it comes to barcodes and text, check for:

• Barcode accuracy and scannability
• Compliance with GS1 standards
• Legibility and accuracy of the text, including nutrition information, ingredient lists, and claims
• Compliance with local regulations regarding language and product claims

By carefully reviewing these elements, you can ensure that your package label effectively communicates your brand and product to consumers while adhering to regulatory requirements.

How to Proof Digital Labels & Assets With Mox

Mox is an artwork approval platform designed to simplify the label-proofing workflow. By using Mox, you can avoid the challenges of manual proofing, such as errors and delays, and enjoy a more streamlined and efficient label-proofing process.

Here are six steps to follow to use Mox to proof digital labels and assets.

1. Establish Your Workflow

Establishing your workflow in Mox is the first step to optimizing your label-proofing process. Mox's project management feature allows you to define the steps required for approval and assign tasks to the appropriate team members, ensuring everyone is aligned on the review process.

This feature also helps prevent anything from falling through the cracks, reducing the chance of errors in the approval process.

2. Review and Comment in Real Time With Collaborators

Mox's digital proofing feature enables you to upload label artwork and share it with collaborators for real-time review and feedback. This feature improves collaboration by enabling everyone to see changes and comments in real-time. It also provides consistent and actionable feedback that ensures accuracy.

3. Check Colors & Artwork Layers

Mox's digital asset management feature simplifies checking colors and artwork layers. The software includes tools such as ink density and the ability to turn layers on and off. Mox also keeps a record of all changes, so you have full visibility into the proofing process.

4. Check Fonts & Barcodes

With tools such as a built-in barcode reader and font type check capabilities, Mox's digital proofing feature makes it easy to check fonts and barcodes. These essential elements must be reviewed carefully to ensure accuracy and compliance.

5. Compare Versions & Review Changes

Mox's digital proofing feature allows you to compare versions of the label and review changes made to the artwork. This feature ensures that all changes have been properly incorporated and that nothing has been missed during the approval process.

6. Save and Share Approved Files

Once the label has been approved, Mox makes saving and sharing the approved files easy. The software offers a variety of file formats, including PDF, JPG, PNG, and TIFF, making it easy to share the approved label with other team members or vendors for printing.

With Mox, you can ensure that the approved label is shared with the appropriate parties quickly and efficiently, reducing the time it takes to approve packaging.

Start Your Mox 30-Day Free Trial Today!

When it comes to labeling products, label proofing is an essential step that prevents costly mistakes and legal issues. However, having a well-defined workflow for reviewing critical aspects of package labels is important to make the most of this process.

Thankfully, Mox offers a robust solution that simplifies the label-proofing process and enhances collaboration among team members.

With Mox, you can establish an efficient workflow, delegate tasks to the appropriate team members, review and provide feedback on labels in real-time, check artwork layers, fonts, and barcodes for accuracy, compare versions and changes, and store and share approved files.

Mox is a valuable tool for packaging managers and team members who want to ensure their labeling processes are precise and streamlined. To improve your own proofing process, try Mox for free today!