Abstract: Method for the operation of packaging machines and packaging machine. In packaging machines for the manufacture of cigarette packs (10) in particular, interruptions in operation are often unavoidable, in order to change the type of pack, but also, for example, on account of the end of a workshift. In the case of interruptions in operation of this kind, the packaging machine is emptied. For this purpose, members and assemblies are coordinated with one another and controlled in such a way that, after the operating phase "emptying" has been initiated, a last pack content, in particular a cigarette group (11) is identified and is transferred completely through the packaging machine. After this cigarette group (11) has passed through individual members, the latter are switched off, in particular a tin foil assembly (20), a paper assembly (23) and a revenue-seal appliance (29) in the region of a drying turret (26).

Abstract: Cigarette packs (20) are often provided with a (tax) label (26) which extends across an end face (23) and adjoining pack faces. The process of attaching the label (26) has to be integrated into the complex flow of production. For this purpose, the label (26) is held ready in front of a mouthpiece opening (inserting opening 32) in a transverse plane, such that the label is folded round the pack (20) in a U-shaped manner when the pack passes through the mouthpiece opening. The packs (20) are transported in tight arrangement, such that the end face (23) of one pack (20) abuts the bottom (35) face of another pack (20) being in front. The label (26) is thus "clamped" between two adjacent packs (20) and therewith additonally fixed in position.