This guide provides a complete overview of how to set up an efficient and accurate shipping station using the Gelato platform. It includes step-by-step instructions for installing and configuring the necessary software, an overview of required hardware, and a list of best practices to ensure a streamlined packing process with minimal errors.
Setting up the Gelato Packaging Station
To begin using the Gelato packaging station, follow these steps to configure the system and connect your label printer:
Download and Install the Gelato App
Install the Gelato desktop app on the PC designated for your packaging station.
Download the appLog In to the App
Use your Gelato credentials to access the platform.Detect and Load Printers
The app will automatically detect any printers that are already active on the computer.Assign the Correct Printer
Navigate to: Workflow → Configuration → Work Settings
Scroll to the Printers section
Use the dropdown menu to select the appropriate label printer
Click Save
If the label printer does not appear immediately, wait 5–10 minutes to allow the system to refresh. Then log out and log back in. If the printer still does not appear, please contact support.
Once the printer is saved, it is ready for label printing and scanning.
How to Identify the Packaging Station
You can easily confirm which packaging station you're working on by checking directly within the Gelato desktop app:
Go to Workflow → Configuration → Work Settings
At the top of the page, you'll see:
Current version
Machine ID — a unique identifier for this specific station
This is useful for troubleshooting, reporting, and validating which packaging setup is being used — especially in environments with multiple stations.
Required Equipment for the Packaging Station
Ensure your packaging station includes the following equipment to maintain speed, organization, and quality:
PC with monitor (Windows 10 or newer)
4 x 6” thermal label printer (e.g., Zebra)
Branded packaging printer (for inserts and custom labels)
Handheld barcode scanner
Water-activated tape (especially for frame shipments)
Packaging supplies (e.g., boxes, kraft paper)
Organized shelving for supplies and multi-job packages
Spacious packaging table with room for one job at a time
Best Practices for Efficient Packaging
Maintain consistency and accuracy with these essential guidelines:
Keep your packing area clean and free of clutter
Only one job or package should be handled at a time on the packing desk
Complete each scan and pack process without interruption
Each packer should use their own login credentials to ensure accountability and performance tracking
Avoid these common errors:
Do not pre-scan orders without immediately completing packaging
Do not queue multiple orders for scanning
Do not combine separate jobs into a single package; each label must correspond to its own package
How to Use the Packaging Interface
Once your physical packaging station is in place, operators will complete packaging tasks through GelatoConnect. The packaging step can be accessed either from the left-hand menu under "Packaging Station" or directly from the Dispatch Overview.
Operators can manually trigger the packaging step if scanning is not available. A customizable message can appear at this point — for example, prompting the operator to verify the quantity of items in the package. These messages help guide the process and can be tailored to your production needs.
After confirming the message, the operator selects the correct order from a simple preview screen.
Several optional checks can be added to the packaging step:
Weight check using a scale or manual input
Assigning a bin number, which is helpful for print sites using bin locations to organize jobs
Operators input the relevant values and proceed. At the end of this step, they’ll see a preview of the shipping label, job status, and shelf allocation (if applicable).
This workflow is designed to be flexible — each check is optional, and you can decide which ones to enable based on your production setup.
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