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Buying guide · Updated October 2026 · By the OfficeRated team
Numbering Machines: A Buying Guide
Raffle tickets, invoices, checks and carbonless forms often need a unique sequential number on every sheet. A numbering machine feeds the sheets and prints the numbers, and many also perforate or score in the same pass.
The quick rule: match the numbering speed and sheet size to your jobs, then check how many numbers per sheet and how many carbonless parts the head can crash-number.
What to look for
- Numbering head. Electric or pneumatic heads press a numbering wheel onto the sheet. Check the digits, drop zeros and repeat settings.
- Numbers per sheet. How many number positions one pass can print; a second head doubles it on some machines.
- Carbonless forms. Crash numbering prints through every part of a carbonless set; makers state the maximum number of parts.
- Speed. Sheets per hour for numbering, and separately for perforating or scoring.
- Feed. Top-friction and bottom-friction feeders handle different stocks; check the paper weight range.
- Ink. Self-inking cartridges avoid re-inking; makers state impressions per cartridge.
Models in the catalog
The numbering machines catalog lists 2 current models with manufacturer specifications, sources and photos: Count (2). Brands are listed alphabetically.
We don't name a “best” model or rank brands. The right machine depends on your volume, stock and space, so filter the catalog on the specs above. We don't list prices; most of these machines are sold through authorized dealers.