A method for applying labels comprising providing a system for applying the labels, supplying at least one label, guiding a cable or conduit to the labeling system with at least one guide roller, providing a label applicator for applying the label to the cable or conduit, guiding a moving cable or conduit using the at least one guide roller, providing at least one tamping device, providing a tamping pad with the at least one tamping device, applying at least one label to at least one portion of the cable or conduit with the at least one tamping device, providing at least one guide shoe assembly; and pressing the at least one label against the at least one portion of the cable or conduit using the at least one guide shoe assembly.