DIY or Don’t, Should you Print your own Product Labels?
In today’s world of DIY projects, start-ups, and home-based businesses, it’s tempting to think that you can save money by printing your own product labels. While it may seem like a good idea in theory, the reality is that DIY product labels often fall short when compared to professionally printed product labels.
Quality Concerns
One of the main reasons why DIY product labels fall short is that they lack the quality and consistency that come with professional printing. When you print your own labels, you’re limited by the quality of your printer and the materials you have on hand. This can result in labels that are low resolution and blurry, poorly or unevenly cut, have smudged ink, and are generally inconsistent in color from one production run to another.
In contrast, professionally printed product labels are printed on high-quality materials and with advanced printing technologies that produce crisp, clear, and consistent labels every time.
Shelf Appeal
Another disadvantage of DIY product labels is that they lack the professional look and feel that comes with professionally printed labels. In today’s competitive marketplace, it’s important to have product labels that look polished and visually appealing to potential customers. When a customer sees two products on the shelf, the quality of the label will signal to them the quality of the product inside the packaging. You know your product is a 10, why not display it like one?
Durability
Moreover, DIY product labels are often less durable than professionally printed labels. This is because DIY labels are typically printed on materials that aren’t designed to withstand the wear and tear of daily use. This is because they are typically not laminated or varnished, making them more vulnerable to environments like refrigerators, coolers, shipping containers, high moisture areas like bathrooms, and being frequently handled by customers. This can result in labels that peel, fade, or become damaged over time. In contrast, professionally printed labels are made with materials that are designed to withstand the elements, such as moisture, heat, and cold, ensuring that your product labels look great and stay intact for longer.
Comparative Advantage
When it comes to the comparative advantage of professionally printed product labels, it’s clear that they offer a number of benefits over DIY labels. By investing in professionally printed labels, you can ensure that your products stand out on store shelves, convey the right message to customers, and withstand the rigors of daily use.
The best and highest use of your time as a product manufacturer is creating more of your product. When you choose to print labels instead, valuable time and energy is spent on labels rather than on your product. Why would you want to have fewer products and okay labels, when you could have more products and fantastic labels?
While it may be tempting to cut corners and print your own product labels, the reality is that DIY labels are often not as good as professionally printed labels. By investing in professionally printed labels, you can take advantage of the quality, consistency, and durability that come with advanced printing technologies and high-quality materials. There comes a time for each manufacturer when both the real cost and the opportunity cost of giving in house resources to label printing is more than the cost to outsource. So why settle for DIY labels when you can have professionally printed labels that help your products shine?