Abstract: A method for shortening the processing time on creating shaped label stacks. Between a strip pack cross-cutter and a die-cutting device in the region of a conveying section, the strip packs cut by way of the strip pack cross-cutter into stack packs are transferred and then die-cut in the die-cutting device into shaped label stacks. Two or more stack packs are layered on one another in the region of the conveying section and the layered stack packs are die-cut into shaped label stacks, for increasing the die-cutting output. The layered, die-cut stacks can then be divided again into shaped label stacks that can be managed and banded.

Abstract: In the punching of a stack (7) of sheet-like articles, especially labels made from paper or paperboard, with a punching knife (4), a punching ram (3) which can be moved to the punching knife (4) and a counter-pressure plunger (5) which is guided through the punching knife (4), the punching knife (4) and the counter-pressure plunger (5) are arranged on the carriage (10) which can be moved towards and away from the punching ram (3). As a result, a receiving apparatus (26) which can be moved laterally towards and away from the punching area can remove the ready-punched stack (21) and at the same time a new stack (7) of precut sheets can be presented to the punching ram (3).