Whenever you order custom stickers online for your marketing campaigns, business swag, giveaways or products, quality is crucial. You want to make sure the stickers you receive look sharp, last long and represent your brand well. However, with so many online print shops to choose from it can be difficult to determine who will deliver high quality results before your order even ships.
To avoid frustration and wasted money, here are 10 important quality measures you should check with any vendor before hitting the checkout button on your sticker order. Over the years of working with both large format and custom sticker printing companies, these have proven the most telling indicators of whether you’ll receive sticker products you can feel confident using as part of your branding efforts.
1. Material Options
One of the first things to check when ordering stickers online is what types of materials are available. A good sticker printing company should offer a variety of options such as vinyl, paper, and clear or frosted material. Different materials have different advantages depending on your specific needs. For example, vinyl stickers are durable and waterproof making them great for outdoor use, while paper stickers are better suited for indoor applications. Clear or frosted stickers give a more modern and professional look to your design. Make sure the vendor you choose has the material options that will best suit your intended use.
2. Printer Technology
The type of printer used by the print shop can greatly affect the quality of your stickers. Look for vendors that use high quality printing technology such as digital or offset printers. These produce sharper and more vibrant images compared to traditional screen printing methods.
3. Custom Die Cutting
Die cutting is the process of using a specialized machine to cut stickers into various shapes and sizes. This allows for more creative and unique designs, but not all sticker vendors offer this service. If you want custom shaped stickers, make sure the vendor has die cutting capabilities.
4. Image Resolution
The resolution of your sticker image is important in ensuring a high quality print. It’s recommended to use images with at least 300 DPI (dots per inch) for the best results. Some vendors may offer a lower resolution option for cheaper prices, but this will result in a lower quality print. Always make sure your images are high resolution for the best looking stickers.
5. Proofing Process
Before placing a large sticker order, it’s important to see a proof of what the final product will look like. This gives you the opportunity to catch any mistakes or make changes to ensure your stickers come out exactly as you envision them. A good vendor should have a clear and efficient proofing process, allowing you to review and approve your stickers before they go into production.
6. Pantone Color Matching
If color accuracy is important to your brand, make sure the sticker printing company offers Pantone color matching. This ensures that your sticker colors will be consistent throughout your order and match any specific Pantone colors in your design. It’s a great way to maintain brand consistency and make sure your stickers accurately represent your company’s colors.
7. Finishing Options
https://bsfives.com/In addition to material options, it’s important to check if the vendor offers various finishing options for your stickers. This can include gloss or matte coatings, as well as different types of lamination such as UV or scratch resistant coating. These finishing options not only enhance the appearance of your stickers but also add durability and longevity.
8. Shipping Methods
When ordering stickers online, it’s important to consider shipping times and methods. Make sure the vendor offers reliable shipping options that will get your stickers to you in a timely manner. You should also check if they offer expedited or international shipping if you need your stickers quickly or are located outside of their standard shipping area.
9. Customer Reviews
One of the best ways to gauge the quality of a sticker printing company is by reading customer reviews. Look for reviews on their website, as well as third-party review sites like Trustpilot or Google. This will give you insight into other customers’ experiences with the vendor and can help you make an informed decision.
10. Samples or Test Prints
If possible, it’s always a good idea to request samples or test prints from the sticker printing company before placing a large order. This will allow you to physically see and feel the quality of their stickers and determine if they meet your standards. Some vendors may offer free samples, while others may charge a small fee. Either way, it’s worth the investment to ensure you’re getting high quality stickers.
Conclusion
By considering these 10 quality measures before ordering stickers online, you can save yourself from disappointment and wasted money. Take the time to research and ask questions about each of these factors with any vendor you are considering. Remember, your stickers represent your brand, so it’s important to choose a high quality printing company that will deliver results you can be proud of. With these measures in mind, you can confidently hit the checkout button on your sticker order and look forward to receiving top-notch stickers that will make a lasting impression. So, before selecting any vendor for your sticker printing needs, make sure to check all these factors to ensure you’re getting the best quality stickers for your brand.