Case Study: Stop Label-Print Downtime and Replace Click Charges with a 36-Month Flat Fee
Theme
A laser MFP frequently stopped when printing adhesive shipping labels. We switched the operation to an A3 inkjet MFP with low-temperature recording and redesigned the cost model into a 36-month fixed subscription—eliminating both downtime risk and counter (click) charges.
Device
Brother MFC-J6983CDW
A3 compatible, dual high-capacity paper trays plus a multipurpose tray. Print speed: approx. 20 ppm (A4 color) / 22 ppm (A4 mono). Because inkjet does not use a heat fusing unit, it structurally reduces the risk of adhesive softening, bleeding, and contaminating the paper path—an ideal match for heavy label output.
Delivery Information
Customer: Reuse / buy-back and resale operator (logistics-intensive shipping work)
Location: Tokyo, Japan
Stage: Rapid growth (high print volume, strong need to preserve cash flow)
Delivery No.: 25071002
Customer Challenge
The customer relied on a large, well-known brand laser MFP. Due to a high ratio of adhesive label printing, adhesive transfer around the fuser area, paper dust buildup, contamination in the transport path, and sensor fouling caused recurring jams and image defects. Unplanned stoppages directly disrupted shipping operations. In parallel, counter billing became a growing fixed burden as print volume increased. The customer needed a configuration that would not stop on labels, while making operating costs predictable and protecting cash during expansion.
Our Solution and Design Choices
We addressed the issue at its root: heat-fusing laser technology is inherently vulnerable to adhesive labels. Once adhesive contamination circulates internally, cleaning alone often cannot restore stability—even under maintenance contracts. We therefore migrated to a low-temperature inkjet MFP and removed the primary failure mechanism.
Commercially, we delivered it under our Sublow® subscription model: zero upfront cost, ink replenishment included, 36-month term, and bundled support. We also optimized consumable cost by selecting compatible inks under a “stable operation first” policy, and leveraged dedicated shipping-label printer drivers (Yamato Transport / Sagawa) to minimize on-site setup work.
Results / Benefits
Operations became significantly more stable for label output, reducing the probability of shipping interruptions. Monthly cost variability improved by shifting from counter billing to a flat fee. The 36-month term increased management flexibility versus long leasing commitments. Automatic ink replenishment effectively eliminated on-site monitoring and purchasing tasks. Pigment-ink usage improved water resistance, reducing smear risk in shipping environments. Overall, the customer achieved both objectives: less downtime and clearer cost control.
Why SIS Partners
We supply toner powder and key components to remanufactured toner producers, reflecting deep technical knowledge and long-term field experience. We handle OEM, compatible, and overseas-market OEM supplies, enabling the best mix for stable operations and cost optimization. For inkjet, we can also select inks and devices designed to protect printheads and sustain reliable long-term operation. With roughly 30 years of experience—especially in color printing—we help clients avoid “hidden costs” caused by misunderstood maintenance requirements.
Company / Contact
SIS Partners Co., Ltd.
2nd Toto-Sho Building 4F, 1-89 Takasha, Meito-ku, Nagoya, Aichi 465-0095 Japan
TEL: +81-52-753-3782 / FAX: +81-52-753-3783