Custom labels influence how a customer feels about your product and your brand reputation. This means choosing the right label printing partner isn’t just about price or speed. You need a team that understands your priorities and knows how to support your growth.
So, how do you know you’re working with the right label printer? Here are six questions to ask yourself before committing:
1. Does their prepress team work collaboratively?
The best prepress teams apply their technical expertise to help creative teams understand how artwork will translate once it’s on press. They can flag when certain effects won’t reproduce as expected, recommend adjustments to achieve the desired look, and ensure that design intent is carried through to the finished label.
2. How do they ensure consistent quality across SKUs and reorders?
Nothing kills brand trust faster than inconsistency. Your printer should have color management systems, press checks, and data-driven processes that ensure your labels are consistent.
3. Are they responsive and easy to reach?
When your brand is on the line, it’s important to be able to speak with a customer service representative who is in-house, knows your project, and works closely with the production team. You want a partner who responds to questions quickly and keeps projects moving.
4. Do their capabilities match your needs?
Not every printer specializes in every format. Ensure they have experience with the type of label you need, and the materials and embellishments your design calls for. The best way to know for sure is to ask to see samples of similar work they’ve done in your industry.
5. Are they scalable and flexible as you grow?
As your product line expands, your printer should be able to scale with you, whether that means running more SKUs, adding embellishments, or offering warehouse programs. Flexibility matters, especially when testing new products or experiencing rapid growth. It’s a good sign if they ask questions about your long-term plans, not just your first order.
6. Do they act like a vendor or a partner?
A good label printer should act like an extension of your team. They collaborate with your designers, help engineers find compatible materials, and make suggestions for improvement, because they understand that your success is their success.
Choosing the Right Partner for Custom Labels
At Steinhauser, we believe the label printing process should feel collaborative, not complicated. Whether you need technical guidance, faster turnarounds, or consistent quality across every SKU, we’re here to make sure your custom labels work as hard as your product does. With over 900 years of combined printing experience, our team is here for you at every turn.