6 Label Specs that Get You a Faster Quote Every Time

Submitted an RFQ for printed labels, and now you’re waiting? You’re not alone. Gaps between request and response are one of the most common frustrations in label procurement.

The delay usually isn’t the printer. It’s missing information on the front end. The right label specs up front help you get faster quotes with fewer back-and-forth. The result? Smoother, faster production for your team.

Key Takeaways

• Most quote delays are caused by missing specs, not the printer’s turnaround time.
• Six key specs will move nearly any label RFQ faster: dimensions, material, adhesive, print specs, quantity/run size, and application method.
• Artwork readiness, die specs, and end-use environment details can make or break your timeline.
• T&L Graphics works to eliminate back-and-forth from the start and catches issues early with in-house art and plate-making teams

Why Label Quotes Stall

Label quotes need exact inputs on all label specs to ensure price accuracy. There’s no room for estimation, especially when your labels need to meet very specific parameters.

Every missing spec and detail will generate a question that comes back on your plate. You fire off an answer, and another question comes back. For busy operations and packaging teams, those delays can add up fast and cost your team valuable time. 

But of course, the thought of changing vendors can be daunting. After all, properly printed labels are a must. Some must meet certain adhesive requirements and dimensions. Trying to find someone reliable is no small task.

Fortunately, at T&L Graphics, we help our customers know exactly the specs we need up front so we can eliminate as much of the back-and-forth as possible. It enables us to get your labels sooner, so your team can get to work.

There are a few little tricks that can make your quotes move faster through any system. Here’s what you should include on a label RFQ to ensure the process is quick and hassle-free. 

The 6 Specs That Move Label Quotes Faster

There are six label specifications that can really help you get a quote quickly. While some of these may seem obvious, double-checking that all the information is there in your RFQ can help your label printer turn around your order much faster. 

1. Label Dimensions

Your label printer needs to know the exact size of the label you need along with roll orientation if applicable. Approximations don’t work in something as small as labels that can be measured in fractions of an inch. 

2. Label Materials

What substrate do you want to use for your labels? Paper? Poly?  It can help to know all of the environments your labels will face. 

If you aren’t sure what material you need for durable labels, give us a call. Our representatives are happy to talk to you about the best label for your needs. 

3. Adhesive Requirements

Some applications are easy, but some not so much and a label that won’t stay put is useless. Is it permanent or removable?  Is it a cold environment?  Does it need repositionability?  What type of surface is it being applied to?  Will it be exposed to chemicals?   Any and all information is useful to make the right adhesive selection.  

There are adhesive options for most any situation and getting it right is a make-or-break factor for every label. 

4. Print Specifications

Your label may be carefully selected as part of your branding. Or perhaps you need certain colors to comply with industry requirements. The print specifications should tell your label printer all of these details. 

For example, what are the PMS or CMYK numbers for your preferred colors, and how many colors will your label require? Are you looking for any special finishes such as gloss, matte, foil, or embossing? Each of these details should be included in your label RFQ.

5. Quantity and Run Size

The quantity and run size may seem like obvious details, but they can be one of those little things that get skipped over (and cause more of the dreaded back-and-forth). Indicate the total quantity of labels you will need and if it’s a one-time run or if it’s a recurring order (and the frequency). In many cases, you’ll find that if a converter knows upfront that it’s a frequently recurring order, pricing will be better.

6. Application Method

For many operations, labeling might be part of their automation line. It’s important to note whether the labels will be hand-applied or machine-applied. If the labels are part of your automated system, you may need to talk over the specific equipment compatibility before your label order is finalized. 

Other Label RFQ Slow-Downs

There are a few other common issues that crop up and delay label printing. For example, artwork that isn’t print-ready. You can see here the specifications for artwork at T&L Graphics. Make sure you’ve put it in the right type of file with the right level of resolution for your project. 

Another issue is when there isn’t a die specification or when the requester assumes that the label will fit a standard shape. There are many different options, including custom die-cuts, so it’s always important to share your expectations and the final shape you’re looking for. Some packaging, for example, requires custom-shaped labels for a perfect fit. 

The last factor that slows down labels is if the end-use environment is unclear. The best, most beautifully printed labels out there won’t be worth it if they crumble and disintegrate at the first sign of moisture. 

Similarly, labels that will face outdoor exposure or freezer exposure may require laminates or UV protection to keep them looking their best. 

How T&L Makes Printing Labels Easier

At T&L Graphics, we know you dread the back-and-forth as much as we do, and we take steps to make sure that your order comes through as quickly and specifically as possible. That said, our in-house art department and plate-making teams catch issues early, which helps us resolve them much faster than some of our competitors.

After nearly 40 years of serving industrial and packaging clients across the Midwest, we know what it takes to make a reliable, functional, even beautiful label. For our customers, the consistency and reliability have made a huge difference. 

Fast turnaround on your next label RFQ begins with your first email. Request a quote right away and let us help you find the ideal label for your project. 

Make sure your labels are perfect with our FREE guide: The 5 Most Important Questions to Ask When Buying Labels. Download the guide now!