The Most Common Label Printing Mistakes and How to Choose the Right Label

Choosing the wrong material, using incorrect dimensions, submitting low-resolution artwork and selecting an unsuitable adhesive can cause serious label printing problems. Discover the most common mistakes and learn what to check before ordering custom labels.

The Most Common Label Printing Mistakes

A label is not simply a printed item that displays the name and contents of a product. It is an important part of the packaging that directly affects brand appearance, product credibility and the customer’s purchasing decision.

A professionally produced label can make a product look more reliable and valuable, while a poorly prepared label can negatively affect the perception of the brand.

Even a small mistake during the label printing process can cause problems such as:

• Labels not adhering properly to the product
• Blurry, faded or low-quality printing
• Text that is difficult to read
• Barcodes or QR codes that cannot be scanned
• Labels damaged by water, moisture or oil
• Misaligned designs caused by cutting errors
• Ordering too many or too few labels

For this reason, details such as dimensions, material, design, adhesive type and intended use should be determined correctly before placing a label order.

In this guide, we explain the most common label printing mistakes and the important points you should consider to avoid them.

1. Choosing a Material Without Considering the Intended Use

One of the most common label printing mistakes is selecting a label material without considering the environment in which the product will be used.

Not every label material has the same properties. A paper label that works well in a dry environment may quickly become damaged when applied to packaging exposed to water or moisture.

For example:

• Coated paper labels are suitable for dry indoor environments.
• Opaque PP labels offer greater resistance to water and moisture.
• Clear PP labels provide an attractive appearance on glass and transparent packaging.
• Kraft labels are commonly preferred for natural and boutique products.
• Thermal labels are used for barcode, pricing and shipping applications.

Before ordering labels, the following questions should be answered:

• Which product will the label be applied to?
• Will the product be stored in a refrigerator?
• Will the label come into contact with water, oil or moisture?
• Will the product be used indoors or outdoors?
• Is the packaging made of glass, plastic, metal, cardboard or kraft material?

These details form the basis of choosing the correct label material.

2. Estimating Label Dimensions Without Measuring

Choosing label dimensions by eye is one of the most common causes of problems after printing.

When a label is too large, it may overlap, wrinkle or form air bubbles on the packaging. When it is too small, product information may become difficult to read and the design may lose its visual impact.

To determine the correct dimensions:

1. Measure the width and height of the application area.
2. Consider the curvature of bottles, jars and other rounded packaging.
3. Leave sufficient space around lids, edges and packaging joints.
4. Test the design on the actual product with a paper sample.

For round bottles, the circumference of the product should be measured accurately. Labels that overlap excessively or leave an unwanted gap can create an unprofessional appearance.

When you are unsure about the correct label size, sharing photographs and packaging measurements with the label manufacturer can help prevent errors.

3. Using Low-Resolution Images and Logos

Logos downloaded from the internet or sent through messaging applications may appear blurry and pixelated when printed.

An image that looks acceptable on a screen may not produce the same result in print because screen and print resolution requirements are different.

The following file formats are generally preferred for label design:

• AI
• PDF
• EPS
• SVG
• High-resolution PNG
• High-resolution TIFF

Logos and text should preferably be prepared in vector format. Vector files can be enlarged or reduced without losing quality.

Images included in print files should generally have a resolution of at least 300 DPI.

Screenshots, compressed messaging app images and social media profile pictures may not be suitable for professional label printing.

4. Ignoring the Difference Between RGB and CMYK

Computers, smartphones and tablets use the RGB colour system. Most printing machines use the CMYK colour system.

RGB colours may appear brighter and more vivid on a screen. When a design is converted to CMYK, some colours may look different.

Differences are especially noticeable in colours such as:

• Bright blue
• Neon green
• Vivid orange
• Fuchsia
• Purple shades
• Very bright red

Before sending a label design to print, it should be checked in CMYK colour mode.

When your brand uses a specific colour that must remain consistent, you should provide the relevant colour code to the manufacturer. However, the appearance of a colour may also be affected by the printing material, surface finish and printing method.

The same colour can appear different on clear PP, kraft paper and white coated paper.

5. Not Adding Bleed and Safe Margins

Labels are cut to their final dimensions after printing. Minor cutting tolerances may occur during production.

When the background ends exactly at the cutting line, unwanted white edges may appear. To prevent this, the design should include bleed.

The main design areas are:

Cutting line

The final boundary where the label will be cut.

Bleed area

The area where the background colour or image extends beyond the cutting line.

Safe area

The area inside the cutting line where important elements such as text, logos and barcodes should be positioned.

Important text and logos should not be placed too close to the edge. Otherwise, letters or design elements may be damaged during cutting.

6. Using Text That Is Too Small

Trying to fit too much information on a label often results in text that is too small to read.

Text that appears readable on a computer screen may become difficult to read on a small printed label. Ingredients, instructions and contact details should always be checked at the actual print size.

When using small text:

• Avoid extremely thin fonts.
• Ensure sufficient contrast between the text and background.
• Do not use light-coloured text on a light background.
• Use short, organised information instead of long paragraphs.
• Avoid placing letters too close together.

Not every piece of information needs to have the same size. A visual hierarchy should be created between the brand name, product name, product features and legal information.

7. Preparing Barcodes and QR Codes Incorrectly

Barcodes and QR codes should be printed at an appropriate size and with sufficient contrast.

Making a barcode too small, stretching it or modifying its proportions can cause scanning problems.

When using a barcode:

• Do not distort its proportions.
• Leave sufficient clear space around it.
• Use a dark barcode on a light background where possible.
• Do not place patterns or images over it.
• Check the barcode number before printing.

When using a QR code:

• Do not make it too small.
• Make sure the linked page is active.
• Test it with several mobile devices.
• Leave clear space around the code.
• Avoid complex backgrounds.

Barcodes and QR codes should be tested with different devices before production begins.

8. Choosing the Wrong Adhesive

High-quality printing alone is not enough. The label must also adhere correctly to the application surface.

Glass, cardboard, plastic, metal and textured surfaces may require different adhesive properties.

Factors that affect label adhesion include:

• Whether the surface is smooth or textured
• Surface cleanliness
• Oil or dust on the packaging
• Low temperatures
• Humidity
• Product temperature during application
• Packaging flexibility

The application surface should be clean, dry and free from dust before the label is attached.

Standard adhesive may not be suitable for products stored in refrigerators, freezers or humid environments. An adhesive designed for low temperatures or moisture should be selected where necessary.

9. Ignoring the Shape of Bottles and Jars

Bottles, jars and containers do not always have completely flat surfaces.

Applying a large label to a tapered, curved or oval surface may cause wrinkling and air bubbles.

This is especially important for:

• Cosmetic bottles
• Sauce bottles
• Jars
• Candle containers
• Cleaning products
• Beverage packaging

The label dimensions should be based on the flattest section of the packaging.

For highly curved surfaces, a smaller label or a different cutting shape may provide better results.

Testing the dimensions on empty packaging before production reduces the risk of errors.

10. Adding Too Much Information to the Label

Too much information can make the design look crowded and confusing.

When customers first see the product, they should easily understand:

• The brand name
• The product name
• The main product feature
• The quantity, weight or volume
• Essential usage information

Additional details may be placed on the back label or on a second label.

Placing every piece of information on the front label can reduce the visibility of the brand and product name.

Whitespace is important in label design. You do not need to fill every available area with text or images.

A simple, organised and readable design often looks more professional.

11. Approving the Design Without Checking Spelling and Information

Once the labels have been printed, spelling mistakes cannot be corrected. Incorrect labels usually need to be produced again.

The following information should be checked carefully before approval:

• Brand name
• Product name
• Ingredients
• Weight or volume
• Manufacturer information
• Contact details
• Website address
• Social media username
• Barcode number
• QR code destination
• Usage and storage instructions
• Any legally required information

The final check should not be completed only by the designer. When possible, another person should also review the label.

Telephone numbers, website addresses and social media details should be checked individually.

12. Ordering a Large Quantity Without Testing a Sample

When using a new design, material or packaging type, ordering a large quantity without testing can be risky.

A design may look attractive on a screen but appear different on the actual product.

A sample or low-quantity production run allows you to check:

• Label dimensions
• Printed colours
• Text readability
• Adhesive performance
• Material compatibility
• Barcode and QR code readability
• Cutting shape
• Overall packaging appearance

For new products and brands, starting with quantities such as 300, 500 or 1000 labels provides an opportunity to test the design.

After making the necessary improvements, larger production quantities can be ordered.

13. Choosing Labels Based Only on Price

The cheapest label is not always the correct option for every product.

A paper label may be sufficient for a dry product package. However, a more durable material may be needed for products exposed to water, oil or moisture.

Incorrectly selected labels may:

• Peel away from the product
• Tear
• Lose colour
• Experience ink smudging
• Wrinkle
• Make the product appear low quality

When evaluating label costs, you should consider not only the unit price but also durability and performance.

The correct material may appear slightly more expensive at first, but it can provide better results throughout the product’s sales and storage period.

14. Ignoring Label Storage Conditions

Printed labels should be stored under suitable conditions before use.

Label rolls and sheets should be kept away from:

• Direct sunlight
• Excessive heat
• High humidity
• Dusty environments
• Water sources
• Chemicals

Labels should be stored in a clean, dry environment at approximately room temperature.

Roll labels should not be crushed, printed surfaces should not be scratched and adhesive areas should be protected from contamination.

Labels stored incorrectly for long periods may lose adhesive performance and print quality.

15. Calculating the Order Quantity Incorrectly

Calculating the required number of labels only according to the current number of products may not be sufficient.

Additional labels may be needed for:

• Incorrect applications
• Packaging changes
• Sample products
• Damaged labels
• Promotional and campaign products

For example, ordering exactly 500 labels for 500 products may leave no spare labels for application errors or replacements.

However, ordering too many labels for a product whose design will soon change may also create unnecessary inventory.

The order quantity should be determined by considering sales speed, product variety and the expected life of the design.

Label Printing Order Checklist

Use the following checklist before placing a label printing order:

• Has the application surface been identified?
• Will the product be exposed to water, moisture or oil?
• Have the label dimensions been tested on the actual packaging?
• Has the correct material been selected?
• Is the design file high resolution?
• Have the colours been prepared for printing?
• Have bleed and safe margins been added?
• Is the text large enough to read?
• Have the barcode and QR code been tested?
• Are the telephone number, website and social media details correct?
• Has the correct order quantity been calculated?
• Has the final design been carefully approved?

Following these steps can significantly reduce the risk of problems after printing.

Which Label Material Should You Choose?

The correct label material should be selected according to the product’s intended use.

Coated paper labels

Suitable for products used in dry conditions, boxes, packages, pricing labels and general product information.

Opaque PP labels

Suitable for products requiring greater resistance to water, moisture and wear. Commonly used for cosmetics, cleaning products and food packaging.

Clear PP labels

Suitable for glass, transparent plastic and modern packaging where a clean, almost label-free appearance is desired.

Kraft labels

Suitable for natural, organic, handmade and boutique product packaging.

Thermal labels

Suitable for barcode, pricing, shelf, shipping, warehouse and logistics applications.

When choosing a label material, consider both appearance and environmental conditions.

How Can You Achieve Professional Label Printing Results?

Professional label printing requires design, material and production to be evaluated together.

For a successful result:

1. Measure the product packaging accurately.
2. Explain the environment in which the label will be used.
3. Select the correct material and adhesive.
4. Prepare the design according to printing requirements.
5. Check all text and product information.
6. Test the barcode and QR code.
7. Use a low-quantity test production when necessary.
8. Carefully approve the final design before printing.

The more detailed the information provided to the label manufacturer, the easier it will be to produce the correct label.

Label Solutions for Your Products with YAYEX Label

YAYEX Label provides label options suitable for your packaging, intended use and design requirements.

Depending on your needs, the following products may be available:

• Coated paper labels
• Opaque PP labels
• Clear PP labels
• Kraft labels
• Barcode labels
• Logo stickers
• Product information labels
• Packaging labels
• Custom-sized and custom-cut labels

Low-quantity label printing options such as 300, 500 and 1000 pieces may also be available for new brands, boutique businesses, e-commerce sellers and trial production projects.

Completed labels can be securely delivered to all 81 provinces of Turkey.

Request a Label Printing Quote

When ordering labels, it is important to prepare the dimensions, material, intended use and design file correctly.

To avoid unnecessary cost and time caused by selecting the wrong label, you can share the following information with us:

• Label dimensions
• Required quantity
• Product on which the label will be used
• Packaging surface
• Usage and storage conditions
• Preferred material
• Design file or logo
• Custom cutting requirements

Contact YAYEX Label through our contact page to request a quotation for durable, professional labels designed for your product.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most common label printing mistake?

The most common mistakes include choosing the wrong material, using incorrect dimensions, submitting low-resolution artwork, using text that is too small and failing to check the information before printing.

How should label dimensions be determined?

Measure the width and height of the application area. For curved surfaces such as bottles and jars, consider the section where the label can adhere smoothly.

Which file format should be used for label designs?

Vector formats such as PDF, AI, EPS or SVG are preferred. Any photographs or other images should be high resolution.

Which material should be used for water-resistant labels?

Plastic-based materials such as opaque PP and clear PP can be preferred for products exposed to water and moisture.

Why does a barcode fail to scan?

A barcode may not scan when it is too small, distorted, printed with insufficient contrast, produced at low quality or placed without sufficient clear space around it.

Should I request a sample before printing?

When using a new product, package, dimension or material, ordering a sample or a low-quantity test run is recommended. This allows you to check the appearance and adhesive performance of the label on the actual product.