Whether your label needs are simple or complex, finding the best solution is more complicated than meets the eye. From art preparation and materials to printing and logistics, a quality label supplier will save you time, money and frustration. Here are the most important factors to consider when evaluating an existing or new label supplier:
1. Experience
When you hire a seasoned and knowledgeable label supplier, you can be confident in their recommendations.
Look for a company with a long legacy and a solid reputation; chances are they know a thing or two about the industry. Also, don’t expect suppliers to be a one-size-fits-all solution. Inquire about their specialties. Medical and healthcare label solutions differ from household product label needs.
An experienced team will not only give you advice on ideal materials for your unique requirements but will also have the production know-how and equipment necessary to deliver the best results. When issues arise, a team of experts should be there to anticipate problems, resolve them swiftly and proactively communicate with you along the way.
2. Customer service
Regardless of your order or company size, you deserve superior customer service from consultation to delivery. Often, suppliers tout exceptional customer service but fall flat when it matters most.
Having a dedicated contact and direct access to a decision maker, rather than a customer service center of inexperienced representatives, goes a long way toward effective consultation, communication and problem resolution.
While responsiveness and thoroughness are critical, you also need guidance. Selecting the perfect label for your needs can be overwhelming, but with the proper assistance and line of questioning, you can choose the best labels, sizes, colors, adhesives, and inks to make your project a success.
3. Product integrity
You need a partner that takes pride in not only their recommendations and service but also their product. It is common for suppliers to sacrifice quality for bottom line by downgrading or using low-quality materials like remnant cuts.
Beware of inconsistencies from one order to the next, as this is usually a sign that the supplier replaced a product component to improve their margins. If your adhesive seems less effective, it likely is.
A quality supplier considers the long-term needs and value of their customers and doesn’t make shortsighted decisions that impact the integrity of their product. If you are working with a team dedicated to finding the best label for your custom project, they will guarantee your satisfaction all the way down to the product they use.
4. Innovation
From cured inks to UV coatings to color application and design, label suppliers need to innovate and educate themselves on the ever-changing solutions available. Many suppliers or online label services rely on outdated techniques, equipment and materials, which limit customization, slow production, and impact product quality and agility.
Ask your supplier when they purchased their production equipment. Cutting-edge equipment is crucial; it produces higher quality results, cuts lead times and reduces material and labor waste. This innovation minimizes supplier costs, which trickle down to the consumer. Sounds like a win-win!
Finding a trusted label supplier can be challenging, but can make all the difference to your business. Contact T&L Graphic Systems to find the best custom label solutions to meet your needs. We are here to help!