How to Save Money Printing Custom Labels

Have you ever received a quote for a label or otherbe on a catalog cover offering a special discount? If
printed material and thought, "Wow, I never imagined itthe conditions are not extreme, most labels can be
would be so expensive." As a label printingprinted on an inexpensive standard paper stock. If the
professional, I am often faced with questions aboutlabel will be exposed to harsh conditions, it will be
price, and many times there are more cost effectivenecessary to produce it on a vinyl or polyester stock
options available but customers either don't knowwith lamination for added protection. It does tend to be
about it, or printers are unwilling to recommend lessexpensive to print on a heavy-duty stock, but in most
expensive methods. That ends today! This article willcases, it is well worth it because the label's lifespan will
examine a few tried and true cost saving measuresbe greatly increased. For non-extreme use, stick with a
you can incorporate when gathering pricing for yourstandard paper stock.
custom labels.Copy Changes
Size Does MatterIf you need a variety of labels with different graphics
Size plays an important role for a few reasons.or text, use the same size and ink color for each label.
Generally, the larger the label, the more expensive theWhile it might not be as exciting, it will save you a lot of
finished product will be. If you are flexible, try to use themoney because a printer will be able to run the labels
smallest size possible to communicate your message.together, resulting in a reduced cost per thousand. Also,
Even a small change in size can affect price, especiallyif you have a variety of changes for a four-color
when printing large volumes. Also, use standard sizesprocess printing job, make sure the changes are all in
when possible. Standard sizes run more frequently, soblack ink, as the black plate is easiest to change and
printers tend to offer them at a reduced cost overmany printers do not charge for black ink changes.
custom sizes. Always ask if there is a standard sizePrice Breaks & Quantities
close to your desired size. The slight size change canPrice breaks and quantities do play an important role in
save you a lot of money.term of price. It may actually cost less to print 5,000
Inkslabels instead of 4,000 labels because the cost per
Do you really need to print four-color process? Ithousand for 5,000 labels is less. In addition, instead of
know...you have a great design that you have put lotsplacing orders monthly in small volumes, print higher
of time and energy into, but you quickly realize printingquantities and store the labels. This will result in a lower
the labels may require you to take out a secondcost per thousand and overall savings. Also, some
mortgage. So what to do? The obvious answer isprinters will print large quantities, store the labels and
make the label one or two colors, especially if it is aship them to you as needed. Always ask a printer
"throw-away" label with a short lifespan. Also, usewhere their price breaks are and get a quote for the
standard inks when possible. It is expensive to matchclosest price break to your desired quantity.
pantone colors or create custom colors, and mostPrinting labels can be an economical way to enhance
printers offer standard ink colors at no additionala product, advertise a promotion, correct an error,
charge.relay important information, and much more. Don't be
How Will the Label be Used?afraid to ask printers questions and negotiate price,
Another factor is how the label will be used. Will theand of course, consult with a variety of printers to
label be in harsh environments and exposed to water,make sure the price you are getting is fair and
extreme temperatures or other solvents? Will the labelreasonable.