- Label Material Types
- Resource Center
- How To Order
- Art Specs
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Graphic Design Services
- Samples
- Thank You
- Why Choose Lightning Labels
×
Quantity cannot be less than 50 per version
Frequently Asked Questions
Digital Printing
Why should I use your company for custom printed labels and stickers rather than a “normal” print shop?
This is a very complex question and the answer is long enough to justify its own page — see Digital Advantage Basically, if you need relatively small quantities, have multiple designs, or want to manage your cash flow while getting the best quality possible...
What does four color process mean?
Four color process describes the printing process used today to print the full color you see in magazines, newspapers, brochures and labels. Basically, a color image is separated into the four primary colors: Cyan, Magenta, Yellow and Black (known as...
Why are there no plate charges?
Lightning Labels is an all-digital label print shop. This means there are no plates involved in our printing process. Instead of using plates to transfer the image onto the paper, our press uses advanced laser technology to transfer the images directly...
Can you print gold or silver ink?
We are unable to print metallic inks; however, we can often achieve a similar effect by combining the right colors with the right materials. For example, many customers have discovered that using yellow ink on our Chrome BOPP material produces a close...
Printing Basics
What is the minimum number of labels I need to order?
50 labels for each version of artwork. However, you can mix and match quantities in the same order (e.g., 50 of label A and 150 of label B), while still gaining the benefits of combining multiple designs in the same run.
Is there a minimum order value?
Yes, there is a minimum order value of $250 per item per every order.
What kind of materials can you print on?
We carry over a dozen labeling materials for you to choose from, including several eco-friendly materials such as BioStone, Recycled Kraft and Recycled Vellum . Our most popular material is White BOPP (a polypropylene label stock that is water-resistant...
What is the difference between BOPP and Lip Balm BOPP?
Our BOPP and Lip Balm BOPP materials have the same face stock properties; they are both water and oil resistant. Our lip balm BOPP material has a more aggressive adhesive than BOPP and is ideal for use on containers 1” or less in diameter.
What standard sizes do you have?
Keep in mind that we do not carry "pre-cut" labels — everything we print is custom produced and die-cut after it is printed. We have a large and ever-expanding selection of die sizes. They are viewable via our Online Quoter. Just select the shape you...
What are the lamination options?
Labels generally look better and are more durable with a laminate. A laminate can give your label a gloss or matte finish and it provides a protective layer between the ink on your label and the outside world.
We offer the following lamination options...
Will my custom labels come on rolls or on sheets?
By default, our labels are produced on rolls with standard 3" cores. This lets you choose whether or not to apply your labels by machine or by hand. We also have the ability to produce labels on sheets.
What is the difference between PET and paper liners?
PET or polyethylene terephthalate, is a thin clear polymer material used in many products and industry applications, including pressure sensitive product label films and liners. PET liners are stronger, thinner, and lighter; there less waste in...
I've never had to produce labels before - where do I start?
Feel free to download and print our white paper, "An Introduction to Product Labeling". It should answer many of your questions.
Ordering
What if I am not satisfied with my order?
At Lightning Labels, we strive to provide you with the best possible printing experience. If you are not 100% satisfied with your order, please contact a customer service representative within 30 days of receiving your order. We will work with you to...
What is a credit card pre-authorization?
An Authorization hold (card authorization, preauthorization, or preauth) is the practice within the banking industry of authorizing electronic transactions done with a debit card or credit card. A credit card pre-authorization is much like any other ...
Why is my credit card charged an additional $50?
In accordance with standard eCommerce practices, your credit card will be pre-authorized for the quoted amount plus $50 to cover any change request associated with art work, production and/or shipping fees. If no change is made the fee is not charged...
Turnaround Time
What is your delivery time for my labels?
We ship most label and sticker printing jobs in just 48-72 hours following proof approval. Some orders — especially highly custom orders that need extra attention — may take more time to process. We ship via FedEx.
Are you able to rush my order?
Yes! Talk to your account manager if you need your order expedited. Rush orders are shipped within 2 business days, post-proof approval.
Proofing
What type of proof will I receive?
This is one of the beauties of digital printing — we have two options for proofing. If your job is color-critical, or you’d like to see the "real thing" before committing to a production run, we offer one free set of press proofs. Shipping charges apply...
How much does a press proof cost?
With each order we offer one free press proof, your only cost is the shipping charge. Press proof shipping charges are as follows: $15 for ground delivery, $25 for two-day delivery and $35 for priority delivery. Additional press proofs are $50 each plus...
Artwork
How do I prepare my artwork for printing?
Our Art Specs page provides all the information you need to prepare your files for digital printing. Still have questions? You can email us anytime at [email protected].
Can you make changes to my artwork files?
Yes. Any artwork changes requested will be charged a minimum of $30.00 or $75.00 per hour depending on the time required to make the requested changes. An additional $5.00 charge will be added to each version that is modified during this time. Changes...
What are "unwind directions" and how do they affect me?
Unwind directions dictate how the rolls of labels are produced so that the labels are facing in the right direction on the roll at the time of application. It is usually only important to specify an unwind direction when the labels are going to be machine...
Capabilities
Do you offer variable label printing?
Yes we have the ability to print variable images and text from one label to the next to create a personalized experience. We also offer consecutive numbering and barcodes for additional customization. Click here to learn more.
Do you offer label design services?
Yes, our expert graphic designers can help you create professional, eye-catching custom product labels that will make your creation stand out against competing products on a retail shelf. Contact us for a free quote.
What is Hot Stamping?
Hot stamping is a process which uses heat and pressure to infuse product labels with real foil imprints. We offer six premium materials which are ideal for hot stamping. Printed press proofs are available and additional fees will apply. Most hot stamp...
What is Embossing?
Embossed labels involve raised designs on your product packaging. We offer six premium materials which are ideal for embossing. Printed press proofs are available and additional fees will apply. Most embossed label orders ship within 7 to 14 business...
Pricing
Do you offer wholesale pricing for distributors?
Yes we make it easy for distributors, resellers, graphic designers, agencies and print brokers to offer high quality custom labels and stickers to their clients. We offer preferred pricing, blind shipping and dedicated account management. Click here ...
Shipping
Do you offer free shipping?
We offer free ground shipping in the United States and Canada for orders placed online.