This invention relates to the process and the devices (23, 230) for applying print marks along the conveying direction by printing elements (70, 170) on the articles (21, 210.1, 210.2; 90) conveyed in a predetermined conveyor speed of the tobacco processing industry, in particular wrapping strips (21, 210.1, 210.2), preferably cigarette paper strips or a rod-shaped smoking article (90). The method is realized by reduction of a relative speed between the printing elements (70, 170) and the articles (21, 210.1, 210.2; 90) to be printed in the printing process along the conveying direction. The invention relates to a machine in the tobacco processing industry, in particular cigarette rod forming machine or a filter installing machine.