Variable Data Print

What is Variable Data Printing?

Variable Data Printing (VDP) lets you create a batch of stickers where specific information changes from one sticker to the next, while the overall design stays the same.

Think unique QR codes, barcodes, serial numbers, names, text, numbers or even images. You choose what should change, and we keep the rest consistent throughout the print run.

Best for:

QR codes, barcodes, serial numbers, EAN codes, names, product IDs, table numbers, race numbers, event badges and other projects where every sticker needs its own unique information.

VDP can be used for anything from product labels and promotions to events and industrial applications.

How it works:

Every VDP print run starts with one base design. The sticker size, shape, material, colors and overall layout stay the same, while your chosen variable elements change.

You can include several variable elements on the same sticker. For example, each sticker could have its own name, number and QR code. The content can change, but each variable element needs to stay in the same position throughout the print run.

Need several different base designs? That's possible too, but each design requires a separate production setup and comes with an additional setup fee.

QR codes:

We can generate standard square QR codes from the URLs you provide.

For custom QR codes with rounded corners, custom shapes or a logo in the center, you'll need to provide the finished QR code files yourself. We recommend keeping QR codes at least 1.5 cm wide for reliable scanning.

Materials:

VDP works with most of our sticker materials, giving you plenty of options for your project.

Back paper print is available with selected materials including vinyl, holographic, transparent, mirror and Pixie Dust. Variable data can only be printed on the front of the sticker, so the back paper design needs to stay the same throughout the print run.

We generally don't recommend combining VDP with epoxy stickers, especially for numbered projects, as the epoxy process can affect the sequence.

Preparing your order:

Provide one finished base artwork that shows exactly where each variable element should appear. We prefer vector PDF files, but high-resolution files at 300 dpi also work.

For sequential numbers, simply tell us the starting and ending numbers and how you'd like them formatted.

For names, text, random numbers, QR codes, barcodes or other unique data, send us an Excel or spreadsheet file with one sticker per row. If several elements change, place each variable in its own column.

Variable images are possible too. Just make sure the image filenames match the corresponding rows in your spreadsheet.

Order value & pricing:

VDP orders have a minimum order value of $150 excluding VAT.

A handling fee also applies because every project requires additional setup and processing. The final cost depends on your project, including quantity, materials and the number of production setups needed.

You'll always receive a complete quote before anything goes to print.

Ready to get started?

Send us your design, quantity, preferred material and the type of variable data you'd like to use. We'll review your project and help you find the right setup.

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