Top Things to Know Before Choosing a Label Printing Service

Have you ever purchased a product with no labels on it? In the bustling market, your brand’s product label is a voice that speaks loudly about the brand’s goals. Whether you’re selling food products or technical equipment, picking the right label will set your brand apart from competitors, gain trust, and build authority among your audience. In the journey of setting yourself as an authoritative brand, choosing the best label printing company is crucial. Are you looking for a food label maker? If yes, then this guide is just for you. In this blog, we’ll guide you through everything you need to know before choosing a label printing service, especially if you’re in the food and beverage industry.

1. Understand Your Product Needs

Before you even start comparing label printing services, take a good look at your product. Is it a frozen item? A bottle of juice? A snack pack? Each type of product will need a different kind of label.

For example:

  • Cold items need moisture-resistant labels.
  • Hot-fill products require labels that can withstand high temperatures.
  • Glass jars often use custom stickers that must be durable and waterproof.

Knowing your product’s requirements helps you narrow down the right kind of label material, adhesive, and design.

2. Check for Industry Experience

Choosing the best label printing company isn’t just about who offers the cheapest price. It’s about who understands your industry. A printer specialising in food and beverage labels will know how to meet health regulations, suggest food-safe materials, and advise on in-shelf appeal.

At Stars Labels, for instance, their experience in food label maker services ensures you’re not just getting a label, you’re getting a professional partner who understands your packaging needs.

3. Quality Matters 

Let’s be honest—no one wants a peeling or fading label. A label that falls off, smudges, or fades over time can hurt your brand image and even create confusion for the consumer.

When reviewing label printing services, ask for samples. Look at:

  • Print clarity
  • Color vibrancy
  • Durability
  • Finish options (matte, gloss, soft-touch, etc.)

Also, don’t be afraid to test their custom stickers on your actual product packaging. This step is often overlooked but can save you a lot of trouble down the line.

4. Printing Technology and Customization Options

Not all label printers are created equal. Some companies still use outdated technology, which can limit your label design options or impact turnaround time.

Look for companies that offer:

  • Digital and flexographic printing
  • A wide range of finishes and materials
  • Die-cut shapes for custom stickers
  • Eco-friendly printing options 

Digital printing is especially helpful for small businesses or brands that need multiple versions of a label. It allows for short runs, quick changes, and even versioning (such as seasonal flavours).

5. Food Safety Compliance is a Must

Food packaging has strict labelling requirements. From nutritional information to allergen warnings and expiry dates, your label must meet regulatory standards.

Ensure your food label maker is familiar with both local and international compliance guidelines. Ask questions like:

  • Are the materials FDA-approved for food contact?
  • Will the ink run if it comes in contact with moisture?
  • Can they handle variable data printing for batch numbers and barcodes?

This is one area where working with an experienced label provider can give you peace of mind.

6. Turnaround Time and Reliability

If you’re constantly facing delays in your label deliveries, it can disrupt your entire production line. That’s why you should always ask about average turnaround times.

Some helpful questions to ask:

  • How long does it take from design approval to delivery?
  • Do they offer rush orders?
  • What happens if there’s a delay—do they have a customer service team in place?

A truly best label printing company won’t just take your order and disappear, they’ll be there to support you through every step of the process.

7. Ability to Scale with You

Maybe you’re a startup now, printing just 1000 labels a month. But what happens when your brand grows, and you need 100,000?

Choose a label printing partner that can grow with you. That means they should have scalable production facilities, bulk order discounts, and experience working with brands of all sizes.

Many brands begin with custom stickers and later transition to roll-fed labels, shrink sleeves, or multi-layer designs. Your label provider should be ready to take that journey with you.

8. Cost Transparency

Price matters—but be careful of hidden charges. Some printers might lure you in with low rates, only to tack on fees for plates, dies, setup, and changes.

Look for a label service that provides you with transparent, itemised quotes. It’s even better if they offer online quote tools or live support to explain the pricing.

9. Design Support

Not everyone has an in-house designer. And sometimes, you need a second opinion to polish your label before it hits the shelves.

Some label companies offer in-house design services or label pre-checks to make sure your artwork is print-ready. These extra touches demonstrate that the company values the overall appearance of your product, not just the transaction.

Stars Labels, for example, works closely with food brands to ensure designs not only meet aesthetic goals but also function well on packaging and under different conditions.

10. Customer Support and Flexibility

Finally, don’t underestimate the power of great customer service. Whether you’re placing your first order or scaling up production, having someone who listens, understands, and responds quickly can make a huge difference.

Ask:

  • Do they assign a dedicated account manager?
  • Is their support available via phone, email, or chat?
  • Can they handle urgent changes or last-minute design tweaks?

A company that’s easy to work with often becomes more than a vendor, it becomes a long-term partner in your brand’s success.

Conclusion

Choosing the right label printing service isn’t just about printing pretty labels. It’s about finding a partner that helps your product shine, stays on top of quality, and supports your business goals. Whether you’re just launching your first product or scaling up your operations, keep these top things in mind: 

  • Know your product needs
  • Prioritize food safety and quality
  • Seek customization and flexibility
  • Choose someone who can grow with you

And most importantly, look for a company that sees your success as their own.

At Stars Labels, we specialize in bringing your packaging vision to life, whether it’s through eye-catching custom stickers, durable product labels, or full-service support from design to delivery. As a trusted food label maker, we’re here to help your brand leave a lasting impression on every shelf.

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