FAQs

We can produce great results from jpg/jpeg files, but for best quality we recommend high-resolution images at 300 DPI or higher.

Artwork requirements can vary depending on the printing method.
In general, we accept most types of professional graphic design files. For the best print results, we recommend vector-based files (also known as “draw” files). These are created in programs like Adobe® Illustrator® (our preferred format), CorelDRAW®, and Macromedia FreeHand®. These applications generate mathematically defined shapes, or “objects,” that can be filled and/or outlined with specific spot colors.

We can also work with files generated by AutoCAD® or similar CAD/CAM programs that produce DXF or DWG file types.

For layout-based designs, we accept files from page layout programs that combine vector elements and rasterized images into a single document. Supported programs include Adobe® InDesign®, Adobe® PageMaker®, QuarkXPress®, and Microsoft® Publisher®.

In some cases, we can also accept rasterized (or “paint-type”) files, such as those created in Adobe® Photoshop®, Corel® Paint, or Painter®. These files are composed of pixels and are commonly referred to as bitmap files (though this term is technically a misnomer). Raster images—particularly those from scanners—do not scale as well for label production compared to vector files, especially when resizing is needed.

If you’re submitting a raster file, single-color images at high resolution will yield the best results. We recommend a minimum resolution of 600 DPI. For example, if your label size is 3″ x 4″, your file should be at least 1800 x 2400 pixels.

We recommend submitting artwork created in professional design software such as Adobe Illustrator or InDesign. Files created in word processing or presentation programs may not meet the standards required for high-quality label printing.

You can upload your logo using our Asset Tags Design Online tool to instantly review and proof your labels. For equipment labels and control panel overlays, you’ll be prompted to upload your artwork file on the order details page after selecting your size, material, quantity, and other label specifications.

No. The online quote you receive includes all applicable printing charges—we do not apply hidden fees. However, please note that our production team reviews the artwork for every order to ensure the highest quality output. If your submitted artwork presents any concerns that could affect the final product, we may contact you to discuss adjustments or recommendations to improve the outcome.

Artwork should be uploaded during the ordering process. If you need assistance, our customer support team is available to help.

If your artwork includes text, we recommend using professional design programs like Adobe® Illustrator® (our preferred format) or Macromedia FreeHand®. These programs create vector-based “objects” that ensure crisp, scalable text with accurate color control.

If your label is text only, you can simply enter your text and any layout instructions in the “Special Instructions” box during checkout. No additional artwork is required in this case.

While Microsoft® Publisher is not our preferred design software, we can accept Publisher files under certain conditions. Please do not use the “Pack and Go” feature. Instead, send the original, uncompressed Publisher file.

If your design includes linked graphics (which is generally not recommended in Publisher), please gather all associated images and assets into a single compressed ZIP file before sending.

If your design uses non-standard fonts not included with Publisher, be sure to include the font file with your submission. You can either:

Add the font to the ZIP file containing your Publisher assets, or Upload the font as an additional file via our artwork upload tool, or Include it on your storage media if sending files by mail.

We strongly encourage you to upload your artwork during checkout. This is the fastest and most efficient method—it allows your order to enter production sooner and saves you both time and the cost of mailing physical media.

DPI stands for Dots Per Inch, and it refers to the resolution of an image—either when scanned, displayed on a screen, or printed. It measures how many individual dots of color a device can produce per inch, both horizontally and vertically.

Many images you see on a screen are only 72 DPI, which looks fine on a monitor but is not suitable for high-quality printing. For the best results in label production, your artwork should be created or exported at a minimum of 300 DPI at actual print size. This ensures sharp, clear prints without blurriness or pixelation.

If we identify any issues with your artwork quality, we’ll reach out to you by the next business day after receiving your order to discuss options for improvement. In most cases, we can help enhance your image quickly and often at no additional cost to you.

Raster Artwork is made up of tiny dots (pixels) arranged in a grid:

Low-resolution raster files (e.g., 72 DPI) have larger dots and print with poor quality—often appearing blurry or pixelated.

High-resolution raster files (e.g., 300 DPI or higher) have smaller dots, resulting in sharper images and better print quality.

Common raster file types: JPG, GIF, TIF, BMP, PSD.

Vector Artwork is created using mathematical lines and shapes:

Vector graphics are scalable to any size without losing quality and are always considered high resolution.

Common vector file types: AI, FH, CDR, EPS.

Important: Vector files can sometimes contain embedded raster images. If so, those images must also be high resolution to maintain print quality.

If you’re working with raster files (like JPG, GIF, PSD, TIF, BMP, or Photoshop EPS) or vector files that include placed raster graphics, you can have your artwork professionally converted to a print-ready format through
CopyArtwork.com — starting at just $14.
How it works:

1. Visit: CopyArtwork.com
2. Sign Up or Log In
3. Submit Your Artwork

Recommended Settings:

• Color Scheme: Spot colors (no halftones)
• File Type: Adobe Illustrator (CS)
• Usage: Label Printing
• Upload: Supported file formats listed on their site

Once completed, you’ll receive:

• A vectorized Illustrator file ready for upload with your order
• A JPG preview for visual reference

Turnaround time is typically 24–48 hours.
When your file is ready, simply upload the Illustrator version during checkout.
MaverickLabel.com is not affiliated with CopyArtwork.com. We provide this link as a helpful resource. Clicking below will take you away from our site:

• Converting FAQs
• CopyArtwork.com

For specific products:

Asset Tags can be previewed instantly using our Design Online tool—no proof required.

Equipment Labels and Control Panel Overlays will receive a custom digital proof via email after your order is placed and artwork is submitted.

Proofs are typically sent within 1 business day of receiving print-ready artwork and a confirmed order.

If you request a proof when placing your order, you’ll receive an email with a link to your digital online proof by the next business day.

Please note that proofs are not automatically provided—you must select the proof option during checkout to receive one.

Due to variations in monitor calibration, screen brightness, and display technology, the colors shown in your digital proof may not exactly match the final printed colors.

If precise color matching is critical for your project, please contact our Customer Care team for expert guidance and options to ensure color accuracy.

RGB stands for Red, Green, and Blue—the primary colors of light used in digital screens such as monitors, TVs, cameras, and scanners.

CMYK stands for Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, and Black—the primary pigment colors used in 4-color process printing, also known as full-color label printing.

RGB light combines to create white, while CMYK ink combines to create black.

Because they operate on different color systems, it’s physically impossible for printed materials to perfectly match what you see on your screen.

Most design programs allow you to convert artwork from RGB to CMYK. We recommend making this conversion before submitting your artwork—it gives you full control over how colors appear in print.

Pro tip: When converting to CMYK, colors often appear darker or duller. To compensate:
Lighten your CMYK builds slightly, since printed ink “spreads” a bit and adds more pigment.

4-Color Process Printing (CMYK) is commonly used for full-color labels that include photographic images or detailed color gradients. It works by layering the four subtractive ink colors—Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, and Black—to recreate a wide spectrum of colors.

Spot Color Printing, on the other hand, is ideal for simple designs, text, and logos. It uses pre-mixed inks in specific colors (often Pantone®) and is typically limited to one to three colors per label. Spot color offers superior consistency for solid color areas and exact brand color matching.

The PANTONE® Matching System (PMS) is a standardized color reproduction system used primarily for spot color printing. Each PANTONE® color is assigned a unique code and has a corresponding CMYK equivalent, allowing for consistent color matching across different printers and materials.

To select a PANTONE® color, first determine the exact ink color you need using a PANTONE® Color Formula Guide or an official ink chart. This ensures accurate color results, especially when brand consistency is important.

These terms describe the number of ink colors used in printing, as well as how many colors are printed on the front (face) and back of a printed piece. While some labels and liners can be printed on the back, most labels are printed on the face only. In label printing, “4/0” means four-color (CMYK) printing on the label face and no printing on the back or liner. We do offer liner printing for bumper stickers.

When the artwork on your label extends all the way to the edge with no white border or blank space, it’s called a bleed.

Color separations divide an image into the four basic printing ink colors: cyan, magenta, yellow, and black (CMYK). Each color is printed separately, layer by layer, to create the appearance of a full spectrum of colors.

Halftone images are created using a series of dots, diamonds, squares, or lines arranged in a specific pattern to simulate the appearance of a continuous tone image. This technique is also known as dithering.

That depends on the type of labels being ordered. White can either appear as reverse type, where the material’s natural color (typically white) shows through, or it can be used as a background color on transparent materials. If you’re printing on white material, there is no additional charge for using the color white. However, when printing on clear materials, white ink is considered an extra color and is subject to an additional charge.

To purchase a color guide with over 3,000 process colors and their CMYK screen percentages, please visit Pantone or CDW for more information:

• Pantone®
• CDW

No one can guarantee exact color matching between screen and print—be cautious of anyone who claims otherwise. There are several reasons for this: every monitor is calibrated differently, LCD displays vary in how they present colors, and screens display color through refraction, whereas printed materials show color through reflection. To ensure the colors you see are the ones we print, we strongly recommend requesting a hard-copy proof when placing your order.

In general, we use the following label production methods: digital, flexographic, silk screening, and lithographic. Each method uses a different process for applying ink colors. We offer both CMYK (process color/4-color printing) and spot color printing using the PMS – Pantone® Matching System.

It’s important to note that digital printing and thermal ribbon printing interpret color values based on the capabilities of their specific equipment, which may affect how colors appear. To find out how a particular label type is printed, please refer to the information links provided on the product page.

Digital printing is a modern, plate-free process that allows fast turnaround and variable data capabilities with vibrant, accurate color.

Flexographic printing is a high-speed, rotary method used primarily for long print runs using flexible printing plates.

Silk screening (screen printing) is a method that presses ink through a mesh screen onto the label material. It’s used for specialty inks or textures.

Lithographic printing (commonly referred to as litho) uses a metal printing plate and offers higher production quality for graphics compared to flexography. It is compatible with most label materials and is traditionally preferred for projects requiring high-resolution output, such as CMYK printing.

However, while litho delivers excellent print quality, it does not offer the flexibility of digital printing when it comes to variable data applications—such as personalized or sequential labels.

Variable data printing is a form of digital printing that allows elements such as text, graphics, or images to change from one printed piece to the next—without stopping or slowing down the press. This method is ideal for applications where the overall label design remains consistent but certain details vary.

It’s perfectly suited for varietal wine labels, lot numbers, and product versions that differ by scent, color, flavor, or other unique attributes.

Yes, our website is secure, encrypted, and PCI compliant to ensure the protection of your personal and payment information. We use SSL (Secure Socket Layer) certification from one of the most trusted online processing service providers in the world. Additionally, we are a proud member of the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and meet all BBBOnLine participation requirements, providing you with added peace of mind when placing an order with us.

We recommend ordering online for the fastest service, but you may also contact our customer support for help placing an order.

We accept major credit cards including Visa, MasterCard, American Express, and Discover.

In most cases, we can accommodate changes to your order as long as it has not yet been printed or shipped. Once an order has entered production or has already shipped, we are unable to make any modifications.

If you need to request a change, please contact us as soon as possible by emailing [email protected] or calling 1-800-537-8816.

We will make every effort to match any sample you provide. However, please note that many variables can affect the final print outcome—including differences in color calibration, resolution, and paper types. As a result, the materials or colors you submit may not perfectly match the options we offer.

Upload time depends on your internet speed and file size. Most uploads are completed within seconds to a few minutes.

If your order includes artwork and you’ve uploaded it during checkout, your order will be sent directly into production for either proof or print, depending on the proof option you selected. Once approved, your order will be shipped using your chosen shipping method—typically the next business day, or within up to 10 business days, depending on production timelines.

Our industry-leading production times mean there’s a very limited window to make changes after an order is placed. If you need to make any modifications, please contact CustomerCare as soon as possible to see if adjustments can be made.

Once you have added an order to your shopping cart, you can add as many additional items as you require.

Once your payment is complete, you will receive an email containing your order details and a link to your job. You can share this link with your graphic designer, who will then be able to upload the artwork directly. Please note that production time does not begin until we receive your artwork.

Shipping times will vary depending on the type of labels you order and the shipping method you select. In general:
Stock label orders typically ship the next business day.

Custom printed labels usually ship within 3 to 10 business days.

For the most accurate timeline, please refer to the specific product page or label program details.

For an additional charge, some custom labels have expedited production available including 1, 2 and 3 day options. When available, you can select expedited production when you check out. You can also select all available delivery methods, including Next Day Air, Second Day Air and others. Shipping costs will be based on the service you select.

Yes. Unlike other label suppliers who ship “overruns” of up to 10% and then charge you for their “extra” printing, we ship and bill only the quantity of labels ordered. Should we ship more labels than you ordered, you will not be charged for the additional labels.

1. Sales Tax is applied based on the Ship To address(es) for each order.
2. If your business is tax-exempt, we will refund your sales tax once we have received your tax exemption documentation. To upload your Tax Exemption certificate, login to your account and select Tax Exempt from the drop down menu.
3. If your labels are a component of an item for resale, we will refund your sales tax once you submit your Resale Tax Exemption documents. To upload your Tax Exemption certificate, login to your account and select Tax Exempt from the drop down menu.
4. We store those tax exemption documents in your account so you will not have to resubmit with each order, just once the documents expire.

• Within 24-48 hours (not including Saturday, Sunday, or Holidays) of receipt of your artwork, you will receive an email with proof instructions.
•The email will include a link to your proof and instructions for approving or indicating changes to your proof online.
• If you make changes, a new proof will be prepared and you will be emailed once the revised proof has been posted.
•We will notify you of any charges due to artwork modifications before we start production.
• Once approved, your artwork is immediately sent to production.
•IMPORTANT If you waive a proof by selecting “No Proof” your order will be released to production immediately.
No changes or alterations to your order will be possible. Any changes to or cancellation of a “No Proof” order will be charged for the full price of job. We are not responsible for artwork related errors or color variations in the finished product if you select “No Proof”.

No. Reordering is easy—just log in to your account and select from your past orders to reorder quickly.

Start with an understanding of how the label will be used (the application) and the conditions that will affect the label (temperature, moisture, sunlight, etc,).
1. Determine the size and shape of the label given the application.
2. Based on the conditions, what label stock will meet your needs; paper, vinyl, polyester.
3. What ink colors will you need to use; spot colors, CMYK, foil.
4. What type of numbering or variable information will be needed.
5. What special features do you need (laminate, special adhesive, holographic foil, etc.).

We print labels in every size imaginable, from less than .25″ to well over 1 foot wide. We do offer two ways to select the size for our label: pre-sized “dies” and “digital” sizes. We have the broadest range of die sizes and shapes available. When you use a die, you do not pay a tooling charge to create the shape and size of your label. Our digital label capabilities enable you to create a label of any size or shape without any tooling.

We build this option into our instant quoters. You indicate the number of versions that will be different and you see the pricing instantly. Many of our label products are offered with lot, version and variation changes. Typically, these products are printed digitally, enabling you to price and print multiple variations or versions of a “base design” with different graphics, text and numbering sequences.

UPC Barcodes are issued and controlled by the Uniform Product Code Council. You can contact them at (937) 435-3870 and for a fee they will issue your company a set of numbers which can be used for your product barcode. We can then use this number to produce barcode artwork for your label. QR, Static and Sequential Barcodes can be generated by many software programs. We recommend SystemID for barcoding software and supplies.

When designing a “no label look” label, there are a number of factors that absolutely should be considered. Design, material colors, and the number of ink/printing colors required may all be affected by the decision to use a clear label material. The most commonly used background color in label printing is not clear, but white. When we visualize a color, we do so as it appears on a white background, not a clear background. When choosing colors, the tool used by designers the vast majority of the time is the standard Pantone® Matching System color book; a collection of pigment combinations printed on white backgrounds. The colors we see in this PMS color chart are the result of light refracting through pigments to the white backgrounds on which they are printed. If the background of a label is clear, the light will be refracted substantially from the color of the surface below the label. This will make the label colors look washed out.
Labels can be designed and printed to minimize the effects of using materials with clear backgrounds. Note that some design elements are inappropriate for printing on clear label materials. We operate under the assumption that designers want to see colors chosen come as close to how they appear in a Pantone Matching System (PMS) color book as the printing process will allow.
Clear Material Checklist
• Check the package to ensure that the clear material and adhesive chosen will adhere properly. The shape and texture of the package are factors in choosing a label material and adhesive.
• What is the product in the package and what does the background color for the labels become when the package is in use?
• Precisely what should the label look like when it is on the package? This includes legibility, color, and total visual impact of all printed elements.
• Are the combination of colors and line thickness of copy appropriate considering the background color of the package? Small copy, thin lines, and the LPI (lines per inch) count can drastically affect the background color.
• Have the designer and customer seen ink and material samples consistent with what is being ordered to ensure that what we do will meet their approval?
• Clear label materials are generally slick films. In printing, material slippage, color to color registration, and trapping are considerations.
Artwork must always be compatible with the print process and materials being printed. Flexography is not a print medium that holds “dead register” under any circumstances.
• Be explicit as to what should and shouldn’t be backed with white ink.

Corner radius is the measurement of the amount of curve a corner has, usually expressed in decimal form, the higher the corner radius, the more curve. The corner radius cannot be greater than half the dimension length, for example if you have a 1″ x 1″ square, with a corner radius of .5″, you would actually have a circle. Common corner radiuses are .08″ and .125″.

Die-cut labels have round corners and spacing between each label on the roll.
Butt-cut labels have square corners and no spacing between each label on the roll.

We can print any size and any shape of label that you need, often without extra charges for “tooling”.

Durable labels are built from multiple engineered layers, each designed for performance and longevity:
Face Material (Substrate): This is the topmost layer where your graphics or data are printed. Materials like polyester, vinyl, polycarbonate (Lexan®), PVC, and other industrial synthetics are chosen for their resistance to moisture, heat, abrasion, and chemicals.

Printing Layer: Your design is applied using printing technologies suited to durability—such as digital, screen, or flexographic printing.

Lamination (Optional): A protective film—such as polyester, UV-resistant laminate, or LexSaver®—can be added to shield the design from fading, scratching, or chemical exposure.

Adhesive Layer: The adhesive is tailored to the application surface and environment. Options include permanent, repositionable, high-tack, and cold-temperature adhesives.

Release Liner: This backing layer keeps the label safe until application. Made from silicone-coated film or paper for easy release.

We offer premium synthetic materials designed for rugged applications:
Polyester (PET): Extremely durable, heat- and chemical-resistant. Ideal for asset tags and industrial nameplates.

Vinyl: Flexible and weatherproof, suited for curved or uneven surfaces and outdoor exposure.

Lexan®/Polycarbonate: Used for overlays requiring clarity, texture, and resistance to abrasion or solvents.

PVC & Specialty Films: Used for graphic overlays and equipment tags where durability and clarity are critical.

The most popular synthetic materials include:
White or Metalized Polyester: Clean appearance and rugged durability.

Matte or Gloss Vinyl: Flexible and long-lasting, ideal for curved or textured surfaces.

Lexan®/Polycarbonate: Commonly used for control panels, faceplates, and overlays.

Durable materials come in a variety of thicknesses (measured in mils or microns) and surface textures (matte, gloss, velvet, etc.). For example:
Polyester tags typically range from 2 to 5 mil.

Polycarbonate overlays may range from 5 to 10 mil depending on tactile feedback needs.

For detailed technical specs or application guidance, contact our support team.

We offer performance adhesives engineered for difficult surfaces and harsh environments:
Permanent Adhesive: Ideal for long-term bonding on smooth surfaces.

High-Tack Adhesive: Designed for textured or low-energy surfaces (like powder coatings).

Removable/Repositionable Adhesives: For temporary labels or repositioning during application.

Cold-Temperature Adhesives: Maintain bond strength even in freezing or refrigerated conditions.

Coated Synthetic Stock: Has a smooth, sealed surface that enhances print quality and resists moisture and dirt.

Uncoated Synthetic Stock: Offers a more natural texture and can be ideal for direct thermal or specialty printing needs. Most durable labels use coated synthetics for maximum protection and longevity.

Laminates are protective films (e.g., polyester, LexSaver®, or polycarbonate) that are heat- or pressure-applied. They provide superior resistance to abrasion, UV light, and solvents.

Varnishes are printed coatings that enhance gloss or matte finish but offer less protection than laminates. Use varnishes for aesthetic enhancements and laminates for industrial-grade protection.

For tough environments, choose:
Polyester Labels: Heat-, water-, and abrasion-resistant. Great for equipment, assets, and barcoding.

Vinyl Labels: Flexible and UV-resistant. Perfect for curved surfaces and long-term outdoor exposure.

Laminated or Overlaid Labels: Add polycarbonate or polyester films for extended protection in high-wear settings.

Aggressive Adhesives: Ensure strong bonding to rough, textured, or powder-coated surfaces.

Our shopping cart is designed for easy split/multiple shipping destinations. You can have 3 shipping destinations per item and can even split quantities for multiple orders.

Once your order is shipped you automatically receive an email with complete order information including a link to track your specific order/shipment. Also, status information is always available in “My Account” under Order Status. Just login and review all your orders and even your order history.

All shipping options and costs for your order are available to review as soon as you get your instant online quote. You do not have to place your order to view the actual shipping charges. You finalize your shipping selection at checkout, already knowing what the costs will be for each option. Fedex is our preferred carrier and we pass along our excellent shipping rates to you.

If they apply, yes. If your product(s) are shipped to a destination outside the U.S.A., brokerage fees, import duties, VAT, or any other tariff, levy or fee are not included in the purchase price or the shipping and handling charges. Such fees and taxes are the responsibility of the receiving party. To find out what taxes or fees will be applied to your order, please contact your local tax authority.

100% accurate. The price you receive from our patented UberQuoter® is tied to your order, from cart to shipping. Variations from the instant quoter price can result from changes made to your order specifications or artwork.

Our prices are competitive for two reasons. First, we are an internet-based business. As such, our sales, marketing and order handling expenses are automated, resulting in lower overhead than traditional label printers with expensive systems, catalogs and sales teams. Secondly, many of our label products are digitally printed. Digital printing allows us, at times, to reduce set up costs, eliminate tooling, plate and ink charges and pass the savings on to you.

Because we do not charge any initial set up fees like most printers do, our re-order pricing is not discounted beyond our normal everyday low pricing.

Generally, label cost is determined by quantity, size, material, ink colors and any special features like laminating or numbering.

No, we offer direct-to-customer pricing to keep costs low for everyone. We do not have a reseller or distributor program.

We guarantee your 100% satisfaction with our label products. We stand behind our guarantee by offering you a prompt refund or replacement of your labels. If the product you receive does not meet your expectations, please contact us upon recognizing the error so that we can replace your labels in a timely manner. If your labels have a manufacturing defect please let us know right away. We will identify the problem and rerun a replacement order for you. This guarantee covers the quality of the production and materials and does not cover spelling errors that are entered by the customer.

If you are not 100% satisfied, please contact us at your earliest convenience. We will do our best to ensure that you are 100% satisfied with your labels.For more details, please see our guarantee policy.

You can find a copy of your invoice by accessing the “My Account” section, located at the upper right hand corner of our homepage. You can also sign in to your account by clicking My Account. Just click on the order number to view a specific invoice.

There is a link at the bottom of each web page on our site to our security and privacy policy. Here you will see that we are a Better Business Bureau member and meet all BBB OnLine participation requirements, assuring you that your privacy and email preferences will be respected.

All of our labels are proudly produced in the USA.

If you would like to change the email address and/or password which were used to create your account, you may access your account using your existing user name and password, then select User emails to change your email address. To change your password, go into My Account and click on Edit.