A multi-purpose labeling system can include a conveyor, a visual analysis module, and a labeling assembly. The conveyor can move an object in a first direction. The visual analysis module can include an optical sensor directed toward the conveyor to generate image data depicting the object. The labeling assembly can be spaced from the conveyor in a second direction and include a printer, a labeling module, and an alignment assembly. The printer can print a label based on the image data, and the labeling module can have a labeling plate for receiving the label. The alignment assembly can include a lateral-motion module, a vertical-motion module, and a rotary module for moving the labeling module along or about the first, the second, and a third direction, and can place the labeling plate adjacent to an object surface.

The present invention provides systems and methods of applying labels to shipping items, such as parcels, packages, or envelopes, in an automated fashion while the shipping items move along a conveyor. The systems and methods of the present invention include use of a uniquely designed label printing and applicator assembly having multi-axis label application capabilities, specifically the ability to move in 4-axes relative to a given shipping item when applying a label thereto. The systems and methods of the present invention further utilize a vision system to collect data of a given shipping item, including, but not limited to, physical dimensions of the item, orientation and skew of the item along the conveyor, and identification of any existing labels and/or indicia on the item. Such data is used by the label printing and applicator assembly to accurately place a given label in desired location on a given shipping item.

A container processing system for processing a container. The container processing system includes a conveyor that transports the container toward a set location. A container positioner positions the container in the set location. A first container sensor detects a height of the container when the container is in the set location. A second container sensor detects a length of the container when the container is in the set location. A third container sensor detects a width of the container when the container is in the set location.