Background
Georg Utz is a global manufacturer or reusable plastic containers, pallets and custom packaging solutions serving industries such as automotive, pharmaceutical and warehousing. The company specializes in both injection-molded and thermoformed products designed to optimize handling, transport and automation processes.
When a major automotive supplier required a labeling solution capable of withstanding harsh production environments, Mike See, Industry Manager at Georg Utz, led the search for a partner who could deliver a durable, long-lasting label. He turned to Metalcraft, an Iowa-based manufacturer of barcode labels and RFID tags, to help design and produce a solution that met the customer’s performance and traceability needs.
Challenge
The customer needed a robust labeling system to track thermoformed trays as they moved through automated production lines. Each tray carried multiple parts and required two identical labels – one on each side – to ensure consistent scanning during loading and unloading. These labels played a vital role in a closed loop tracking system, recording when trays entered and exited automation lines to verify part counts and support process control.
To achieve this, several key challenges had to be addressed. The labels needed to bond securely to the ABS plastic trays Georg Utz produced and withstand repeated handling and prolonged use. They also had to perform reliably in high-temperature environments, reaching up to 150°F during factory operations and transport.
In addition, the customer required color-coded labels to distinguish part types easily, and each label had to include a unique data matrix barcode and sequence number for long-term traceability across the program’s lifecycle.
Solution
Metalcraft collaborated closely with Utz’s team to identify materials, adhesives and printing processes that would meet the customer’s durability and performance needs.
To simplify part identification on the production floor, Metalcraft provided multiple label colors to align with specific part types. According to See, Metalcraft also maintained the serial number history for future reorders and ensured fast, reliable communication throughout the production process.
“Metalcraft guided us through the process and helped us choose the right label for our customer’s needs. The communication was excellent and the entire process was easy and efficient,” he said.
Result
The system performed flawlessly in the field, leading to repeat orders and high customer satisfaction. As Mike See noted, “Everything went smoothly from start to finish. The Metalcraft team was responsive and delivered exactly what we needed – on time.”
Looking Ahead
As traceability and accountability become increasingly important tin automotive and general manufacturing, Georg Utz sees growing demand for durable identification solutions that integrate directly into returnable packaging systems.
“Five or six years ago, it was case-by-case,” See noted. “Now customers expect it. They want to know where their trays are and how they’re used throughout the supply chain.
By partnering with Metalcraft, Georg Utz continues to deliver packaging solutions that combine durability and data – helping manufacturers improve efficiency, visibility and control across their operations.