Identify the correction for each stock variant
Provide the existing label and the approved replacement artwork together. Mark the information to be covered and anything that must remain readable. Give product and language variants separate references, including the quantity of each. State whether the task is a correction, additional information or a market-specific change. Avoid using an unmarked artwork file as the only instruction for where the replacement should go.
Approve artwork before discussing application
Name the version, approval owner and intended stock. Check the required text, product references and printed identifiers through your own approval process. If artwork is still provisional, say so and identify the decisions outstanding. The packing team needs an instruction it can apply consistently, while the responsible product or brand owner establishes whether that instruction is appropriate for the product and intended market.
Assess placement on the real pack
Use representative stock to show orientation, coverage, clearance from seams and the relationship with other labels or pack features. A flat proof does not show how an overlay behaves on a curved bottle or flexible pouch. Discuss the surface, application conditions and handling expected after rework. Agree a sample that makes the position and finish clear, including what happens if old print shows through.
Keep identifiers readable and verifiable
Identify barcodes, batch information and other printed data that the overlay affects. If a replacement barcode is included, supply the intended data and checking requirement. Readability, correct encoded data and a specified print-quality verification are different matters. Ask which checks are proposed and how results will be recorded. Do not treat a single scan or a visually tidy label as proof of every customer requirement.
Control revisions and release quantities
Keep old and new label versions distinguishable while the job is scoped and run. Name who can approve a deviation or revised position, and identify which units it applies to. Reconcile received stock, completed rework, samples, rejects and remaining labels. Before release, retain the approved reference and any agreed checking record so repeat enquiries can identify the exact label version and application used.
Information to include in your enquiry
- Existing and replacement artwork together
- Product and language variants
- Information covered and retained
- Position and orientation on a real pack
- Identifier and adhesion checking requirements
- Approved revision and release contact
Send the information you have and identify any details still awaiting confirmation. The team can review the outline and explain what else is needed to assess the actual project.
Discuss this requirementTurn the brief into clear decisions
| Planning point | Record to supply | Decision to settle |
|---|---|---|
| Original label | Marked copy of existing print | What is covered and what stays visible? |
| Replacement | Approved artwork revision | Who owns the wording approval? |
| Placement | Annotated representative pack | Are seams and other features clear? |
| Checks | Agreed visual, data or adhesion scope | Which results must be recorded? |
| Release | Stock counts and version record | Which units received this revision? |
Common questions
What is the difference between relabelling and overlabelling?
Relabelling is a broader term for changing labels on stock. Overlabelling normally adds a label over existing information. Describe whether the old label remains, is removed or is partly covered so the actual work can be assessed.
Can an overlabel correct information on existing packaging?
An approved overlay may be a practical rework route, subject to the pack, label and intended-use requirements. The product owner should approve the correction and confirm what must remain visible before the application task is agreed.
Will any adhesive work on my product packaging?
Assess the specified label and adhesive on representative packaging under the intended application and handling conditions. Identify the surface and relevant storage conditions. Suitability should be confirmed for the actual combination.