Packaging FAQs

This is a tough question to answer – it all depends on your needs. Obviously, new labels may require tooling and proofing which can delay production. We try not to focus on mandated “lead time” estimates – instead we listen to our customer’s needs and find ways to exceed them. Give one of our CSR’s a call and tell us what lead time you need!

Simple type-setting and layout artwork is available in-house for a very reasonable hourly rate. For more complex design, we can recommend several talented outside design artists to you.

We accept Visa and Mastercard. Our credit application form can be found here.

Please submit a qualified re-sale certificate. Our accounting department will make sure that you are not taxed on qualifying items.  Click here to download and submit the Resale Certificate.

“Proof” is a term for a preview document, electronic or physical, that allows the customer to see what their label will look like. Electronic Proofing involves electronically providing the customer with a computer file that can be printed or previewed on-screen. Electronic proofs should not be used for color. Physical Epson proofs are inkjet print-outs that show the customer a representation of the label. Press Proofs are actually printed on the production press (typically digital). Electronic and Epson inkjet proofs are provided free of charge. Press proofs are charged to the customer.

Flexo and hot stamp printing require physical “plates” that are made for each color printed. It is a one-time charge that does not recur unless the artwork changes. Cutting Dies are metal tools that cut the labels out of the web. They are laser-machined from steel, and the cost is a one-time charge for purchasing a tool for your die size / shape. Magnetic Dies (Mag Die) cost much less, and are often used with Digital Printed Labels.

Regardless the order quantity, we must perform the same process in setting up a label press. Flexo labels require that each station be inked, plates mounted, dies placed in the press, and materials loaded. This process can take hours, during which no good labels are produced. These setup costs are spread (amortized) over the quantity of labels. So an order for 1,000 flexo 6-color labels would cost nearly as much as an order for 2,000 – because the setup costs were the same.

Varnishes are liquids that are printed using a print station. The liquid is cured (or dried) on top of the printing –protecting it from both contamination and scuffing. Laminations are clear film materials that are applied to the label surface. They form a more durable protection to the printed label surface. Neither one is “better”, although laminations are a more durable and scuff resistant solution.

Due to the extensive set-up and start-up waste involved with label printing, exact usage is difficult to estimate. To protect against unexpected waste levels, we always aim to produce at least 10% above a customer’s requested quantity. The industry-standard is +/- 10% as an acceptable order variation. If you require exact counts only, or “no unders”, please contact your Customer Service Representative for revised pricing to account for that requirement.