An exact label quote needs eleven pieces of information: size and shape, quantity per version and number of versions, material (or the container and conditions so the printer can propose one), finishes, colours, how the label is applied with roll data (winding direction, core, outer diameter, labels per roll), variable data, artwork format and delivery. Missing items are the main reason quotes from different printers cannot be compared.
- Quote per version: 10,000 labels in one design and 10,000 split across ten designs are different jobs.
- Describe the container and conditions; let the printer propose the material and adhesive.
- For machine application, winding direction, core and outer diameter are not optional.
- Send vector artwork with the die line on its own layer.
- Send the same specification to every supplier you compare.
The checklist
| Item | What to give | Why the printer needs it |
|---|---|---|
| Size and shape | Width × height in mm; rectangle, oval or custom shape | Decides the die-cutting tool and how many labels fit across the web. |
| Quantities | Total quantity and quantity per version; expected reorders | Set-up and waste are spread over the run; versions add changeovers. |
| Container and surface | Glass, PET, HDPE, metal, cardboard; flat, curved or squeezable | Decides the facestock and adhesive. |
| Conditions | Ambient, chilled, frozen, ice bucket, humid, oil or chemical contact | Some materials and adhesives fail in cold, wet or oily conditions. |
| Material preference | Paper, textured paper, film, transparent, metallised, or open | Changes cost and look; a printer can propose options. |
| Finishes | Hot foil, screen varnish, embossing, tactile varnish, lamination | Each finish adds a pass or a tool. |
| Colours | Brand colour references and any physical master sample | Colour is measured against a target; a reference avoids guesswork. |
| Application | By hand or by machine; applicator model if known | Machine application needs an exact roll specification. |
| Roll data | Winding direction, core diameter, maximum outer diameter, labels per roll | A wrong roll stops the line. |
| Variable data | What changes on each label: numbers, batch, dates, QR codes | Decides the workflow and the data file format. |
| Artwork and delivery | Vector PDF with the die line on a separate layer; delivery address and date | Avoids redraws and plans production. |
Why quantity per version matters
Two orders of 10,000 labels can have very different prices. One design printed 10,000 times has one set-up. Ten designs of 1,000 each, such as ten wines or ten fragrances, have ten. Digital printing reduces the cost of switching between versions, which is why short runs, vintages, languages and limited editions are usually printed digitally. Always state the number of versions and the quantity of each.
Roll data for automatic labelling machines
If your labels are applied by a machine, the roll must match it. Ask your production team or the applicator's manual for:
- Winding direction: which edge of the label comes off the roll first, and whether labels face out or in. Printers usually refer to a standard set of numbered winding positions; a photo of a current roll on the machine is the safest reference.
- Core diameter: the inner diameter of the cardboard core.
- Maximum outer diameter: the largest roll the unwinder accepts.
- Labels per roll or maximum roll length, and the gap between labels if the machine requires a specific one.
Artwork that saves a round of corrections
- Vector PDF with fonts outlined or embedded.
- The die line drawn on its own layer or as a named spot colour, not merged into the artwork.
- Each finish (foil, varnish, relief, white) on its own layer or spot colour.
- Bleed beyond the die line, and important text kept away from the edge.
- Images at a resolution suited to the printed size.
Getting an indicative price first
If you only need an order of magnitude, UltraPixel's price page gives an indicative 'from' price from a photo or file of your current label and a quantity. The final quote is confirmed after checking the specification above. For a full quote, use the quote request form and attach your artwork.
Frequently asked questions
Why are label quotes from different printers so different?
Usually because they are quoting different specifications: another material, fewer finishes, a different roll format or a different number of versions. Send every supplier the same checklist.
Do I need to choose the label material myself?
No. Describe the container, surface and conditions of use and ask the printer to propose material and adhesive, then test samples.
What is winding direction?
It describes how the labels sit on the roll: which edge comes off first and whether the printed side faces out or in. Automatic applicators need the right one to work.
Which file format should I send?
A vector PDF, with the die line and each finish on separate layers or spot colours.