One of the keys to a successful labeling project is to ask the right questions at the beginning of the project. This is the perfect time to surface potential problems and decide what trade-offs you need to make to achieve the results you want.

Here are essential questions you need to ask:

What type of surface will your label be applied to?

Some containers may have curved or rough surfaces. Flexible containers can cause peeling and label separation. If you’re buying low-cost containers, they may have seams or uneven surfaces that can affect label application. Also consider the conditions at the time of label application. Some containers are filled with hot or cold ingredients; ambient humidity and condensation can also cause label adhesion problems.

What environmental factors will the label be exposed to? What conditions will the container encounter throughout its life cycle?

• Will the container spend most of its useful life in refrigerated conditions (frozen foods, for example)?
• Will it be exposed to water and high humidity (shampoo and conditioner, for example)?
• Will it be used in a harsh or corrosive environment (industrial applications and safety labels, for example)?

Should your labeling be paper or film?

Paper labels are inexpensive, which makes them ideal for low-cost, high-volume products. But they can be easily damaged. Film offers superior durability, thermal stability, the tear resistance, chemical resistance and strength, but tends to be a bit more expensive than paper. Another big advantage of film is that you can print on it using a variety of inks and application methods, and can topcoat it to further enhance its characteristics.

Will there be printing on it?

Digital and flexographic printing technologies give you a lot of flexibility to do variable data, art and image printing on labels. Applications include personalization, inventory control, private labeling and brand protection.

What’s more important? Cost or performance?

Label application usually involves making trade-offs between speed, print quality and cost. Make sure you understand the options available to you and the pros and cons of each.

When you’re discussing label printing solutions with your converter, keep in mind that low cost is usually not the best option. It usually involves a significant compromise in label quality, durability, color consistency and other unacceptable trade-offs. That, in turn, can damage customer perceptions of your brand.

To help you make your next labeling project a success, download our new eGuide, How to Create the Perfect Label: The 5 Most Important Questions to Ask.