MRP, Batch and Expiry Printing on Packs: Methods in Nepal
Quick answer: MRP, batch number and expiry date change more often than your artwork, so most packs print them in a second step: a reserved panel coded by inkjet, thermal transfer or laser; a printed label or sticker applied to the pack; or a hot-stamped code. Print only the fixed information (brand, ingredients, producer details) in the main artwork and leave a clean, flat area for the variable data.
"MRP printing machine" is a rising query in the Nepal Google Trends data (about +200%). It points to a real need: Nepal's Department of Commerce says producers must put price, batch number, weight and expiry on a permanent label. See MRP printing on packaging in Nepal and product label requirements. This guide covers how to print them.
What counts as "variable data"
- Maximum retail price (MRP), including taxes
- Batch or lot number
- Manufacture date and expiry or use-by date
- Weight or quantity, when it changes by pack
- Barcodes or QR codes that identify the pack
The methods compared
| Method | How it works | Good for | Watch for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pre-printed in the artwork | Printed with the rest of the design | Fixed MRP, product weight | Any change means reprinting the whole run |
| Blank panel plus inkjet coder | A coder sprays the date and batch on a clean area | Cartons, bags, bottles at production speed | Needs a flat, uncoated panel and a coder |
| Thermal transfer overprinter | Heated ribbon transfers ink onto film or labels | Flexible packaging, film | Matches film and ribbon type |
| Laser coder | A laser marks the surface | Some cartons, cans, bottles | Substrate must accept laser marking |
| Hot stamp coder | A heated type or plate presses a code | Cartons and bags, simple codes | Fixed character sets |
| MRP sticker | A printed label applied after packing | Variable price points, imported goods | Must be permanent and not cover other required text |
| Label with variable data | Digital or flexo press prints batch data on each label | Bottles, jars, boxes | Needs data file and number sequencing |
How to plan the pack for coding
- Choose the coding method first, because it decides the panel.
- Leave a clear area on the dieline for the code, with margin around it. Mark it on the artwork.
- Avoid gloss varnish or lamination on that panel unless the coder is tested on it. Ink may smudge.
- Specify the character height and format (for example dd/mm/yyyy) so there is room.
- Test on a finished pack before the full run.
See custom packaging boxes and artwork file prep.
Printed labels with variable data
Where the variable data goes on a label, a digital press can print a different batch number or MRP on each label from a data file. Give the printer the data in a spreadsheet and state the numbering sequence. See sticker printing prices and digital printing.
Who is responsible
Under the Consumer Protection Act, 2075, label content is the producer's or importer's duty. A printer or coder prints what you approve. Check the Department of Commerce notice: producers must keep a permanent label with price, batch number, weight and expiry clearly visible, and sellers must not sell above the MRP.
Checklist
- Coding method chosen (pre-print, inkjet, thermal transfer, laser, hot stamp or sticker)
- Reserved panel marked on the dieline, flat and uncoated
- Character height, date format and position agreed
- MRP stated as including all taxes
- Batch and date data supplied for variable label printing
- Sample coded on the real pack and checked for smudging
- Final proof signed off by the person responsible for compliance
Frequently asked questions
Can I print the MRP on the box and change the date with a stamp?
Yes. Print the fixed MRP in the artwork if it will not change, and stamp or code the batch and date in a reserved panel.
What is the difference between inkjet and thermal transfer coding?
Inkjet sprays ink onto the surface. Thermal transfer uses a heated ribbon, usually on film or labels. Choose by pack material.
Should the MRP be on a removable sticker?
The notice calls for a permanent label. A sticker should be permanent and must not hide other required text.
Can Thankyooou supply the coding machine?
No. Thankyooou's confirmed services are printing, packaging, product labels, branded products and corporate gifting. Ask whether variable-data labels are available for your project: send your brief.
Related guides
Sources
- Notice on MRP and labels, 26 Chaitra 2082 BS — Department of Commerce, Supplies and Consumer Protection — producer duty: price, batch number, weight and expiry on a permanent label.
- Consumer Protection Act, 2075 — Nepal Law Commission — Section 6 label content.
- Google Trends, Nepal, "printing", exported 11 November 2026 — "mrp printing machine" among rising queries.