In an effort to promote transparency and consumer empowerment, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has introduced new broadband labeling regulations. These rules, effective in 2024, require internet service providers (ISPs) to display comprehensive and easy-to-understand labels at the point of sale, similar to nutrition labels on food products. This initiative aims to provide consumers with clear information on broadband services, allowing them to make informed decisions and compare different offerings more effectively.
Summary of the Regulations
The new FCC regulations mandate that ISPs include detailed information on broadband labels, covering aspects such as:
- Pricing: Base monthly costs, fees, and introductory rates.
- Speeds: Typical upload and download speeds.
- Data Allowances: Information on data caps and any overage charges.
- Service Terms: Changes in service terms after introductory periods.
- Network Management: Links to information about network management practices and privacy policies.
These labels must be prominently displayed both online and in physical stores. The regulations apply to both wired and wireless broadband services. Large ISPs (with over 100,000 customers) were required to comply by April 10, 2024, while smaller ISPs have until October 10, 2024. Additionally, from October 2024, the labels must be machine-readable to facilitate data aggregation by third parties, potentially aiding in the development of comparison tools for consumers.
Implications for Manufacturers
These regulations have significant implications for manufacturers involved in label printing, packaging artwork, and label design. The requirements necessitate updates to product labeling, ensuring compliance with the new standards. Manufacturers must integrate these changes into their label templates, artwork designs, and packaging labels, ensuring all information is accurate and accessible.
Compliance Plan
Plan of Action for Manufacturers:
1. Assess Current Labels: Review existing labels and identify changes needed to meet FCC requirements.
2. Update Label Templates: Modify label templates to include all necessary information as per the new regulations.
3. Implement Changes: Use advanced label management systems and artwork management software to implement the required changes.
4. Test for Compliance: Ensure that the updated labels comply with FCC standards and are machine-readable.
5. Deploy and Monitor: Roll out the new labels across all points of sale and continuously monitor for compliance and accuracy.
How Kallik Can Help
Kallik’s Veraciti software offers a robust solution for manufacturers needing to comply with these new regulations. Veraciti can make changes to 10,000 labels in as little as 14 days, a process that typically takes six months with other software. This efficiency is achieved through our innovative automation tools and AI-backed technology, making us the only labeling and artwork software provider to offer such advanced capabilities.
Benefits of Using Kallik’s Veraciti:
- Automated Updates: Quickly update and print labels to meet regulatory requirements.
- AI-Backed Efficiency: Leverage AI to streamline label design and approval processes.
- Comprehensive Management: Manage all aspects of artwork design, label creation, and packaging artwork with our integrated label management software.
- Sustainable Labels: Support for eco-friendly labels and sustainable labeling practices.
- Real-Time Compliance: Ensure real-time compliance with ongoing regulatory changes using our advanced label manager and artwork management software.
By choosing Kallik, manufacturers can not only achieve compliance swiftly but also enhance their overall labeling processes, ensuring accuracy, efficiency, and sustainability. Our software for making labels and artwork approval software are designed to simplify complex labeling requirements, making us the go-to solution for all your labeling needs.
Speak to one of our labeling and artwork experts to learn more about how Veraciti™ can help your business thrive in a rapidly changing regulatory environment. Get in touch today at enquiries@kallik.com or call +44 (0) 1827 318100.