To ensure that trays can be correctly identified and used, clear labeling is essential. Depending on the application, quantity, and process requirements, different methods can be used, such as permanent engraving or flexible labels. In this article, you will learn which tray labeling methods are available, when each method makes sense, and how labeling can already be incorporated into the tray design using formary’s 3D Tray Generator.
Simon Andreß
Updated on September 30, 2026
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Tray labeling is a unique inscription or marking applied to plastic trays. Among other things, it enables:
Depending on the requirements, different methods are used: from permanent engravings that are incorporated directly into the thermoforming tool and transferred to the tray during plastic thermoforming, to flexible labels or colored strips.
Engraved markings are particularly suitable for reusable trays, ESD-protected workpiece carriers, automation trays, and applications with high requirements for cleaning resistance and reliable operation. Other methods, such as labels or color strips, are often sufficient and more cost-effective when requirements are lower.
Not every application requires permanent engraving. The choice of the appropriate method depends on the operating conditions, quantity, and process requirements of the project.
Depending on the material, quantity, budget, and area of application, various labeling methods can be considered.
| Tray labeling method | How it works | Advantages | Disadvantages | Suitable for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Laser engraving | Material removal or color change caused by a laser beam | permanent, contactless, precise, no tooling required | investment for large series, material-dependent | series production, barcodes, fine lettering |
| Embossing | Mechanical pressure creates an indentation | cost-effective for large series, very robust | tooling costs, limited level of detail | large series, simple lettering/logos |
| Hot stamping | Hot foil is pressed into the material | high contrast, easy to read | less durable than engraving | medium-sized series, high readability |
| Color strips | Colored plastic layer | simple, cost-effective | no alphanumeric information | sorting, visual differentiation |
| Labels | A label is applied | flexible, can be added later | may detach | single-use applications, low stress |
For applications with high requirements for durability and process reliability, laser engraving is particularly common because it is flexible, precise, and permanent. It is suitable for plastics such as ABS, PC, PET-G, PP, or PS, and produces clearly legible codes, text, or logos without contact with the component.
The type of labeling depends on the intended application. Typical content includes:
Serial numbers, part IDs, project numbers, or customer identifiers enable unique assignment and traceability.
Machine-readable codes enable automated data capture in ERP, WMS, or MES systems. They support inventory management, order picking, and process control.
Company logos or brand marks create recognition value and document ownership of reusable trays.
Labels such as “Component A,” “Batch 2026-03,” or “ESD-protected” facilitate visual identification and reduce the risk of mix-ups.
Safety notices such as “Max. stacking height 5,” “Not for food use,” or “Store in dry conditions only” can be engraved directly onto the tray.
Information such as production date, material identification, or recycling codes supports quality assurance and the circular economy.
Tray labeling should be considered from an early stage. The reason: early planning during tray design saves costs, avoids rework, and ensures that the labeling is technically feasible and remains permanently legible.
Before designing the tray, clarify:
The 3D Tray Generator from formary makes it possible to identify suitable areas for labeling during the configuration process. Important factors include:
Discuss with formary which labeling method is best suited to your material, quantity, and requirements. formary coordinates the post-processing and checks technical feasibility and costs.
For critical applications, a test run using sample trays is worthwhile. This allows you to check readability, durability, and process integration before series production.
In automated production and logistics processes, tray labeling is important for process reliability and efficiency.
Barcodes or QR codes enable fast, error-free identification by scanners, cameras, or RFID readers. This reduces manual data entry and prevents mix-ups.
Permanent markings support WMS systems in tracking trays, components, and inventory. Storage locations, movements, and inventory changes are documented automatically.
In production lines, tray labels control assembly, inspection, or packaging processes. Correctly assigning components to the appropriate trays prevents errors and optimizes throughput times.
Unique serial numbers enable complete traceability across production, warehousing, and supply chains. This is particularly relevant in regulated industries such as medical technology, automotive, or electronics.
For reusable trays, tray labeling makes it easier to manage circulating inventory, cleaning and maintenance cycles, and return logistics.
ESD trays and cleanroom trays have special labeling requirements.
Stickers or labels can detach and cause electrostatic charging. Engravings are permanent, do not affect conductivity, and meet ESD requirements without additional risk.
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No particles or contamination may be generated in cleanrooms. Laser engraving is contactless and does not create deposits. After engraving, the tray can be cleaned and used without concern.
Trays for medical applications must be sterilizable, resistant to cleaning, and traceable. Engravings meet these requirements and remain legible even after hundreds of cleaning and sterilization cycles.
The unit and tooling costs involved in labeling trays depend on factors such as the method, quantity, complexity, and post-processing effort.
The one-time setup costs are low because no tooling is required. Depending on the size and complexity, the cost per unit ranges from a few cents to a few euros. For large series, the unit costs decrease significantly.
The tooling costs for an embossing die are higher, but the unit costs are very low for large series. Embossing becomes worthwhile from quantities of several thousand trays.
Medium unit and tooling costs. Suitable for medium-sized series with high readability requirements.
Color strips and labels involve the lowest investment costs. They are particularly suitable for single-use applications or low quantities but do not provide permanent or alphanumeric labeling.
Permanent markings such as engravings quickly pay for themselves if they eliminate manual labeling, label reordering, mix-ups, or process disruptions. Particularly for reusable trays, the investment pays off over the service life of the trays.
For tray labels to function reliably in practice, proper planning is essential. The following common mistakes should be avoided:
If labeling is only added after the tray has been manufactured, problems with positioning, readability, or costs can arise. Plan the labeling as part of the tray design using the 3D Tray Generator.
Labels on heavily curved, mechanically stressed, or poorly accessible surfaces are difficult to read or wear quickly. Choose flat, clearly visible areas.
Barcodes or text that are too small cannot be reliably scanned or read. Observe the minimum requirements of the scanner systems being used.
Not every method is suitable for every application. For example, a label applied to an ESD tray that is frequently cleaned will not remain permanently attached. Choose the method according to the material, level of stress, and intended service life.
If trays are automatically detected, labels must be positioned at defined locations. Clarify the requirements with the automation engineering team at an early stage.
Well-planned tray labeling forms the basis for traceability, automation, and process reliability in plastic trays. The most suitable method depends on your project. For single-use applications, labels or color strips are often sufficient, while automated, cleanroom-related, or reusable applications benefit from permanent engravings.
The key is to take labeling into account early in the tray design process. formary’s 3D Tray Generator helps you plan suitable labeling areas, check their technical feasibility, and integrate them into production.
Tray labeling refers to the unique inscription or marking of a plastic tray, for example by means of engraving, embossing, hot stamping, color strips, or labels. It enables identification, traceability, inventory management, and automated detection in production and logistics processes.
