As OEMs and Tier 1 suppliers demand tighter traceability and fewer line-side errors, the importance of accurately labeling loose automotive parts has increased.

If modules end up on the vehicle assembly line with incorrect labeling, it can cause inventory mismatches, traceability issues, or even the installation of incorrect parts.

This is especially relevant when modules are updated in the middle of the supply chain and must be re-identified to reflect new configurations.

What is automated custom labeling?

When Movimento reflashes your modules, we can print a unique label for each unit that includes its updated software part number and original serial number.

Unlike static labels, which are identical and applied to every part regardless of its history, custom labels are specific to each individual unit. OEMs and suppliers often require these labels after reflashing campaigns, as the original labels are no longer accurate.

If you’ve ever done this yourself, you probably used manual processes involving spreadsheets, reference lists, and continual copying and pasting. It’s tedious and boring, not to mention prone to errors.

But there is a better way.

Movimento’s custom labeling process handles all he details automatically, saving you time and hassles.

The problems with manual labeling

We recently worked with an OEM customer who first tried to create their custom labels manually. They hired a contractor to update software part numbers on thousands of modules. The process required scanning a barcode, copying the serial number, and pasting the revised part number into the label printing system.

Completely reliant on human input, this process opened the door to common errors, such as mistyping or pasting incorrect or duplicate numbers. Not only was it slow, but it also introduced significant quality risks.

In fact, the OEM discovered a concerning number of mislabeled parts, which could have led to serious production line issues. Concerned about the speed and accuracy of the manual process, the OEM turned to Movimento for help.

Movimento’s automated labeling solution

To resolve the issue, Movimento deployed our custom labeling solution, which automated the entire labeling process.

Here’s how it worked:

1. 1. A technician scanned the existing barcode on a reflashed module.

1. 1. Movimento’s proprietary custom labeling software read the serial and part numbers, updated the software version as needed, and generated a new label.

1. 1. A Movimento label printer printed the updated label on the spot.

Importantly, Movimento’s Nuvolo cloud software captured all reflashing and labeling activity. No manual editing or data entry was required.

In the end, Movimento’s process eliminated the human error the OEM was experiencing and significantly sped up the labeling process.

35,000 unit custom labeling case study

In another custom labeling campaign, Movimento supported an OEM reflash project for roughly 35,000 modules. These included driver seat modules and other airbag-related components.

Originally, the customer assumed they would need four separate label stations with laptops and staff. However, Movimento’s automated labeling software reduced the need down to a single technician and machine for labeling, significantly cutting labor costs and simplifying the workflow while improving accuracy.

Movimento technicians completed the work using Puma 5 devices, using just a single laptop and printer. At peak efficiency, the Movimento team of 2-5 technicians was able to process up to 2,000 modules per day.

With just this small team, the technicians worked so quickly that the OEM sometimes couldn’t deliver parts to them fast enough to keep up.

Traceability is built in

The value in Movimento’s custom labeling solution isn’t just reducing costs through efficiency; it’s also about providing 100% traceability.

Every scan, label, and print action is logged in Movimento’s Nuvolo cloud platform, where you can view progress and drill down on any specific module you’d like to investigate further. The information tracked includes:

• • Barcode data

• • Timestamps

• • Validation status

For additional peace of mind, customers can add a separate validation station to rescan the part and confirm that the correct label was applied. This ensures traceability for each unique module, right down to the serial number and the time of reflash.

Label sizes and hardware compatibility

Movimento’s standard printers support label sizes ranging from 0.9 x 0.9 inches to 2.4 x 2.4 inches, covering nearly all common module labeling needs. While the base setup is ideal for standard automotive parts, Movimento can also adapt to custom requirements if different materials, printer types, or label sizes are needed.

For most situations, standard contact paper works well for labels. However, if parts require laminated or heat-resistant labels, Movimento software and hardware can be modified to accommodate your specifications.

Speed and setup time

Movimento has designed its custom labeling solution for fast deployment. Once you send your labeling requirements, Movimento engineers can typically program customer-specific labeling on the same day if needed.

The labeling application is a single-file installer that can run on any standard Windows laptop. In emergency situations, this means Movimento can arrive on-site and start labeling parts within 24 hours.

Looking for help with a loose module reflash campaign? Contact us!

For OEMs and Tier 1 suppliers that require traceability and strict quality control in reflashing campaigns. Movimento’s proprietary custom labeling software eliminates manual errors, speeds up throughput, and provides reliable records for every labeled part.

To learn more, or to speak with a Movimento team member about your reflash campaign, contact us!