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A Product Label Checklist to Run Before You Go to Print
Mistakes on labels are costly to fix once printed. A practical pre-print checklist for design, information, proofs and production for product labels.
A label is a small space that does a lot of work. It carries your brand, tells people what is inside and often has to include information that’s required by law. Mistakes become expensive once thousands are printed. This checklist helps you catch them first.
In this article
This is a general guide and not legal advice. Requirements depend on the product and the market, so check the latest guidance from the relevant authority, for example the Food Standards Agency for food or Trading Standards for general consumer products.
Design
- Brand. Is the logo the right version, at the right size, with clear space?
- Hierarchy. Do the brand, product name and key benefit read in order?
- Variants. Can flavours, scents or sizes be told apart at a glance?
- Readability. Is text large enough, with enough contrast, on the real material?
- Colour. Have colours been checked on the actual label stock?
Information
- Product name and description
- Quantity or weight
- Ingredients, materials or composition, where relevant
- Warnings and safety information, where required
- Batch or date codes
- Business name and contact details
- Recycling information
- Barcodes and codes that need to scan
Not every product needs all of these, and some need more. Build a list for your product with the relevant authority’s guidance in hand.
Layout and space
- Is there room for all required information, in a legible size?
- Does the layout leave space for batch codes or stickers?
- Are important elements kept clear of folds, edges and seams?
Production
- Material. Paper, film or another material, and the finish. Check it suits the product, for example moisture or oil.
- Adhesive. Will it stick to the surface and survive storage?
- Print method and quantity. Ask your printer about proofs and minimum runs.
- Colour matching. Ask for a physical proof.
- Tolerances. Labels move slightly on production lines. Leave a margin.
Proofing
- Proofread every word aloud, then ask someone else to do it.
- Check numbers, dates and spellings twice.
- Check that barcodes scan.
- Get sign-off from everyone who needs to approve, in writing.
- Keep a record of the approved version.
Make it work online too
Labels are photographed for websites and social media. Check that the front of the pack reads well as a small image. See packaging that stands out on the shelf and as a thumbnail.
Where to learn more
Our packaging design brief template and packaging design process cover the steps around labels, and our guides to food and drink packaging and candle and home fragrance packaging look at specific categories. For help, see our packaging design agency London page or book a free brand consultation.
