Every label is unique
Each data record fills the variable fields anew, whether serial number, batch or individual text.
Variable printing
Variable data labels with numbers and barcodes
Every label carries its own data: serial number, batch, EAN or other barcode, QR or DataMatrix code, combined with a fixed base layout.
Benefits for your application
The key selection benefits at a glance.
Code and plain text from one record
The barcode or 2D code and the readable number beside it come from the same data record and clearly belong together.
Gap-free number sequences
Consecutive numbers run without gaps in the order your downstream processing expects. We agree in advance with you how replacement labels are inserted.
On rolls, fanfold or sheets
The format depends on your printer, dispenser or manual processing.
Product
Variable data labels from Hummel Print
Variable data labels differ from one copy to the next. Logo, notices and design stay the same, while each data record fills the variable fields anew. We supply these labels on rolls, as fanfold or on sheets and manage numbers and variable printing with professional software.
If number ranges, accompanying documents or forms are the focus, coded products are the better solution.
- Format: on rolls, as fanfold or as single sheets in a range of sizes
- Variable content: consecutive numbers, all common barcodes and 2D codes such as EAN, Code 128, QR and DataMatrix, text and images
- Printing: offset, flexo and digital printing for the base layout; we add variable numbers and codes on Domino inkjet systems, and in digital printing both are produced in one pass
- Data: supplied for example as a CSV or Excel file
- Numbers and variable printing managed with professional software
Applications
Typical applications
Consecutive or individual serial numbers
Each label receives a unique number, either consecutive or from a supplied data record. This supports traceability, order picking and the clear assignment to an item.
Variable barcodes and 2D codes
Item, logistics, promotion or identification data is output in machine-readable form. Symbology, code size, contrast and surface follow the scanner that will read the codes later.
Versioned text, images and language versions
One base design takes different names, regions, languages or motifs. Flexible text and image areas keep the appearance stable, even when individual records vary in length.
Planning
Which details determine the data run?
| Customer requirement | What matters for selection | Practical benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Different text or images | Scope, field lengths and shared base layout | Variants stay visually consistent |
| Consecutive numbers | Start, end and required order | Labels fit the downstream process |
| Barcode or 2D code | Symbology, data volume, contrast and scanner | Code size and print area are planned correctly |
| Code plus plain text | Clear assignment of both contents | Staff and systems identify the same object |
| Fixed roll order | Gap-free sequence and position of any replacement labels | Handover to filling or logistics stays predictable |
| Confidential content | Data type, transfer route and required retention | Protection needs become part of the label solution |
Data handover
Data handover without unnecessary friction
A consistently structured data set keeps variable label projects clear. When fields are clearly named, code and plain text belong together and the order is recognisable, many variants can run in one shared layout. A sample data record at the start makes coordination between marketing, production and IT easier.
Code quality
Code quality, sequence and replacement labels
A code has to work in the later process, not just look sharp. ISO/IEC 15415 describes how the print quality of 2D codes is measured, ISO/IEC 15416 that of linear barcodes. The appropriate quality grade and inspection depend on the scanner, surface, code type and environment.
In consecutive series, unusable labels affect the sequence. Depending on downstream processing, a replacement sits at the end of the roll or at a specific position. A clear replacement rule keeps the sequence traceable for filling, logistics or order picking.
Data protection
Data protection and retention
Personal or confidential data needs a protected transfer route, limited access and a deletion rule. Pure item or batch data has lower protection needs than personalised content.
For linking a visible number, chip encoding and radio testing, the page on RFID labels provides specialised guidance.
More products
Related labels
Quality you can verify
Our certifications & partnerships
- EcoVadisSilver rating · Top 15% (September 2026)
- ClimatePartnerClimate contribution available per order
- ISO 9001Quality management
- ISO 14001:2015Environmental management (QAS International) · Certificate no. GMEN1114
- VskE memberlabels association
- FSC® C006747Responsible forestry
- EN 16247-1Energy audit
Contact
Plan variable data labels to suit downstream processing
Send us a sample data record and tell us the code type, sequence, format, material and scanner. We will then quote for labels in which design and variable data work together.
Contact form
We will get back to you within one business day.