Key Takeaways:
- Take advantage of large-volume discounts.
- Always ask for a digital proof before printing to avoid costly reprints.
- Choose the label material based on the packaging’s intended use — not the price alone.
- Use smaller, standard-shaped labels, if possible.
- Ask your professional supplier about ways to reduce the cost without compromising quality.
Labels play a key role in your brand's visual identity, helping customers recognize and remember your brand. They also display key details, warnings, and other information, some of which are legally mandated, to allow people to understand the products they are buying.
As a business owner, you might be looking for ways to save money on product labels without having to skimp on quality or making unnecessary compromises that may harm your brand's reputation. With careful planning, this is possible.
1. Order in Bulk
Printing service providers typically offer discounts for large orders, effectively reducing the price per label. You can also enjoy lower shipping costs when buying in bulk.
But before you click the "buy" button, you must first assess whether large-volume orders are suitable for you. If you don't change your products (or ingredients) frequently, or you have no plans of revamping your packaging in the foreseeable future, buying in bulk is likely a viable option. However, you still need to figure out the optimum quantity to avoid wastage or too much inventory.
If you need large-volume labels, consider roll labels because they typically cost less than sheets. Plus, they are more suitable for mass labeling.
2. Ask for a Digital Proof
Whether you need small or large quantities, it's ideal to ask for digital proofs before printing because they allow you to check for errors and make changes if necessary. This helps minimize the risk of expensive reprints and delays.
48HourPrint offers a free PDF proof of your label design that you need to review and approve before production begins.
3. Choose the Right Material
Paper is one of the most popular materials used for printing product labels because of its versatility, affordability, and ease of customization – for instance, you can add laminations if you want to give them a certain degree of water resistance. However, it won't make them fully waterproof.
Paper labels are often cheaper than those made from BOPP and vinyl, but price shouldn't be the only deciding factor when printing your product labels. The most ideal material depends on how the packaging will be used and what conditions and elements it will be exposed to (e.g., moisture, oil, heat, or low temperatures).
Most Common Product Label Materials
| Paper | BOPP | Vinyl | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Usage | Great for general indoor label applications Can be used for water bottles when gloss or matte lamination is added |
Safe for food and medical products Ideal for products that require refrigeration Suitable for containers with curved or complex shapes |
Ideal for products requiring strong adhesion and robust performance Best suited for outdoor applications Suitable for containers with a flat surface or a less complex shape |
| Features | Can be glossy, matte, or textured, depending on the type and lamination Not designed to withstand prolonged exposure to moisture, although adding a gloss or matte lamination can make it more resistant to water and oil |
Tear-proof, waterproof, and oil-resistant Available in various types, e.g., Clear BOPP, Rainbow Holographic BOPP, and Silver Metallic BOPP |
The thickest and most durable material for labels Highly resistant to water, extreme temperatures, and UV rays |
4. Consider Using Smaller Labels
If you don't need a big label or can reduce the amount of text and the size of graphics, then minimizing label size can help you cut costs. However, it should still look proportionate to the product's dimensions and also meet regulatory requirements. For example, food labels must adhere to the US FDA regulations, which state the correct format and required information.
5. Choose a Longer Turnaround Time
Choosing longer turnaround times often leads to bigger savings because it allows professional printers to optimize their production schedule and group orders with similar specifications, minimizing material waste and setup time. This efficiency even leads to bigger savings if you opt for larger print runs.
6. Ask for Professional Advice
Ask your print service provider about other possible ways to save money on product labels. For example, they may recommend certain laminations or printing labels onto rolls, instead of onto sheets, especially when you need to label a large volume of products.
Not every option mentioned here applies to your situation, but it is still worth discussing with your provider to see what other ideas might help you with your cost-cutting measures.
Frequently Asked Questions About Label Pricing
Is it cheaper to buy labels or print your own?
If you only need a few labels occasionally, DIY printing may be a viable option. However, most home printers cannot handle waterproof, heat-resistant, and textured materials or apply special laminations. For businesses that need high-quality product labels, buying from a reputable print service provider is more cost-effective because they can help you avoid errors (and expensive reprints) and they offer more customization options.
What are the factors that affect the price of product labels?
The size, shape, type of material, special finishes, and turnaround times can affect the printing cost.
Can I reduce the cost of label printing by using colors sparingly?
It does not make any difference in price if you choose a two- or full-color design.
A professional print service provider like 48HourPrint can help you enjoy huge savings, especially in large print runs. Feel free to contact us for additional details.
Our online printing services have no hidden charges. When you use our "Printing Cost Calculator," you get to see the final price. If the quantity or size you want is not listed on our website, you can get a free custom quote here.
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