Top 5 Mistakes to Avoid in Bulk Sticker Orders
Ordering custom stickers in bulk can save you money and help streamline your branding efforts. However, without careful planning, it’s easy to make costly mistakes. To help you avoid these common pitfalls, we’ve rounded up the top five mistakes to steer clear of when placing your bulk sticker orders.
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1. Miscalculating Quantity
One of the most common mistakes is ordering too few or too many stickers. Underestimating quantity can leave you without enough materials for your campaigns, forcing last-minute reorders that cost extra in rush fees and shipping. Conversely, overestimating can leave you with surplus inventory that sits unused.
Tip: Before ordering, clearly define your sticker use—whether it’s promotional giveaways, product labels, or packaging—and forecast realistic quantities to match your needs.
2. Poor File Preparation
Bulk sticker production demands high-quality graphics files. Sending in low-resolution or improperly formatted designs is a major pitfall, often resulting in blurry, pixelated prints or delayed production.
Tip: Always submit designs in vector format (.AI, .EPS) or high-resolution raster images (300 DPI in .PNG or .PDF). If you're unsure, consult with your printing provider for guidance.
3. Ignoring Proofing Steps
Skipping or rushing through the proofing stage might seem like a time-saver, but it's risky. A tiny error in your final design—like misspelled words or incorrect colors—can become a significant issue across hundreds of stickers.
Tip: Always carefully review digital and physical proofs provided by your sticker supplier. Taking this extra step ensures accuracy and saves you from costly reprints.
4. Choosing the Wrong Material
Selecting the incorrect sticker material can result in stickers that fade, peel, or simply fail to meet your project's requirements. The material that’s perfect for short-term promotional stickers might not suit labels intended for outdoor use or long-term packaging.
Tip: Clearly define your sticker’s purpose and usage conditions (indoor vs. outdoor, short-term vs. long-term) and discuss these with your sticker provider to choose the ideal material.
5. Neglecting Lead Times
Bulk orders naturally take longer to produce than small batches. Not factoring in proper lead times can lead to missed deadlines or costly rush charges.
Tip: Plan your order timeline in advance, allowing enough lead time to comfortably accommodate production, proofing, and shipping. Communicate your deadlines upfront with your sticker provider.
Avoiding these common bulk sticker ordering mistakes can save you money, time, and unnecessary headaches. By carefully planning your quantities, meticulously preparing design files, thoroughly proofing your artwork, selecting the right materials, and respecting lead times, you'll ensure your bulk order process is smooth and cost-effective.
Ready to place your bulk order? Reach out to The Potato Club today for expert guidance and seamless sticker printing solutions.