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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...
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 ...
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...
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...
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...
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 . ...
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...
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 ...
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...
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...
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 ...
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 ...
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...
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...
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...
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. We ship via UPS.
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 ...
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 ...
Artwork
How do I prepare my artwork for printing?
Our Art Specs page provides all the information you need to prepare your files...
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...
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...
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...
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 ...
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 ...
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...
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...
Shipping
Do you offer free shipping?
We offer free ground shipping in the United States and Canada for orders placed online.