7 Things To Look For When Choosing An Applicator Supplier

Investing in a new labelling machine is a significant decision — one that will impact your production line for years to come. Whether you’re buying your first system, replacing outdated equipment, or upgrading to handle increased demand, choosing the right labelling supplier is just as important as selecting the machine itself.

A reputable, experienced supplier can ensure your machine is correctly matched to your needs, installed properly, supported long-term, and capable of growing with your business. So how do you know who to trust?

Here are seven essential things to look for when selecting a labelling machine supplier:

Comprehensive Warranty Coverage

Before you finalise any purchase, make sure your supplier offers a clear and reliable warranty. Most quality suppliers will include a 12-month warranty as standard on new machines — but it’s crucial to check what’s included.

Ask whether the warranty covers parts, labour, and engineer travel. Knowing your machine is backed by a proper support policy will give you peace of mind and help protect your investment from unexpected issues early on.

Service Contracts

A reliable labelling supplier should offer ongoing service contracts that allow you to maintain your equipment for the long term. Routine servicing helps prevent breakdowns and extends the life of your machine — and a good contract should include scheduled visits, discounted parts, and priority support.

Ask suppliers if they tailor service agreements based on your usage and machine type, so you’re not paying for unnecessary extras or missing out on vital support.

Responsive Call-Out Support

Even the best-maintained machines can develop issues. When something goes wrong, fast access to on-site support can mean the difference between a minor delay and a major production halt.

Look for a supplier that offers reliable call-out services and is transparent about response times and availability. Whether it’s troubleshooting, repairs, or hands-on diagnostics, knowing an expert can be dispatched when needed is vital for business continuity.

Qualified Engineers

A call-out service is only as good as the engineers behind it. Choose a supplier with a team of qualified, factory-trained engineers who know the machines inside and out. Ideally, these engineers should be involved from the build stage through to installation and servicing, so they have a full understanding of both the system and your production environment.

At Atwell Labellers, our engineers often oversee every stage of a machine’s life cycle, ensuring a higher level of familiarity and personalised support.

Stocked Spare Parts for Fast Repairs

One of the biggest frustrations in production is waiting days — or even weeks — for a small replacement part. Ask your potential supplier if they maintain a stock of frequently used parts and can dispatch replacements quickly in the event of a breakdown.

It’s also helpful if your supplier provides you with a recommended spare parts list when your machine is delivered, so you can hold key items on site and avoid delays.

On-Site Training for Your Team

Getting the most out of your new machine depends on proper training. A high-quality supplier will offer comprehensive training for your operators and maintenance staff, helping them understand how to run the machine safely, efficiently, and in line with best practices.

Well-trained staff mean fewer mistakes, faster start-up times, and better ROI on your new equipment. Be sure to ask whether training is included in the purchase, or offered as a separate service.

Ongoing Technical Support and Helpline Access

Issues can arise outside of normal business hours, so it’s essential to have access to reliable technical support when you need it. A supplier that offers a dedicated helpline can make a huge difference, providing real-time help from trained technicians who understand your machine.

Whether you need help reconfiguring a setting or diagnosing an unexpected fault, a support helpline ensures you’re not left waiting for answers — keeping your operations running smoothly.

Choose a Supplier That Grows With Your Business

At Atwell Labellers, we know that buying a labelling machine is just the beginning. That’s why we offer full-service support, from warranty and call-outs to training, maintenance, and a dedicated helpline. Our machines are built to last — and so are our customer relationships.

Atwell Labellers offer all these services and more, making us an excellent choice for your new machines. Find out more about our services and support here.