The Importance of Container Label Designs

Container labels are an essential part of any product packaging. They provide important information about the product, such as the product name, ingredients, and contact information for the manufacturer. They can also be used to promote the product and create a memorable brand experience. In this article, we share the benefits of labels, design tips, best practices, common mistakes, and even trends we expect to see in 2024. 

Benefits of Labels for Container Decorations

Most businesses start their custom container decoration process with labels instead of other container decoration methods. Custom labels can be generated in low batches and at a small scale, and don’t require fancy technology. But as beauty companies outgrow their simple setup, bottle decorators like MepcoDeco can decorate hundreds or even thousands of bottles quickly and at an affordable rate. Here are more reasons why you should consider labels for your next container decorating project. 

• Labels are versatile. They can be used in a variety of containers, including glass, plastic, metal, and cardboard. There are also countless different paper and plastic bases to pick from, shiny holographic to old word paper effects. Other decoration methods, such as printing or stamping, may not be compatible with all types of containers. With labels, you can recreate the look of hot stamping / gold foil or screen printing with different label ink and sticker pairings. 

• Labels are more durable. They can withstand wear and tear, such as being rubbed or scratched. Other decoration methods, such as painting, may not be as durable.

• Labels are easier to change. If you need to change the information on your container, you can simply replace the label. The design is printed on the labels, and then the labels are adhered to your container. You don’t have to worry about destroying countless containers or waiting for them to sell out before implementing any brand or label changes. Other decoration methods, such as printing or stamping, may cost more to change.

• Labels are more cost-effective. They are a relatively inexpensive way to decorate containers. The set-up fees are lower and so are the minimum order quantities. Other decoration methods, such as printing or stamping, may have higher setup and per-item costs. 

How to Create Effective Container Label Designs

When creating container labels, it’s tempting to just grab a pencil and start sketching. However, we find that the best designs come from a little bit of brainstorming. By knowing all the points you need to check off, you can take a holistic approach to the design. You are also less likely to forget any key details in your design. With that, we recommend that you keep the following factors in mind:

• Target audience: Who is your target audience? What kind of information do they need to know about your product? What voice would you use to speak with them? 

• Product type: What type of product are you labeling? The design of your label should be appropriate for the type of product. 

• Brand identity: Your container labels should be consistent with your brand identity. This includes using the same colors, fonts, and imagery that you use in your other marketing materials.

• Message: There is limited space on the product, so be sure that the main message you want to convey is highlighted. You can link back to your website or provide a pamphlet for additional product details. 

• Sector Guidelines: Keep in mind that some products have labeling rules and restrictions that should be followed. Some sectors include food (with full ingredient lists), alcohol (ABV), and healthcare products (active ingredients). 

The purpose of custom container labels 

Not that you have the brand identity in mind, but the next step to designing an effective container label is to fully understand the purpose. Where and how the product will be sold are important considerations that may affect the colors and finishes you pick. Some of the top goals for a label design are: 

• Increase brand awareness. The label is the first thing customers see when they engage with your product. The brand name or logo to must stand out, so customers are reminded of your brand each time they use the product. 

• Improve product visibility. On today’s retail store shelves, it’s easy now more than ever to get lost in the noise. A standout design that’s true to your brand can help catch a customer’s attention. 

• Boost sales. High-quality materials, clear printing, and attention to detail in the label design can convey a sense of premium quality and justify higher price points.

• Communicate important information. Labels that concisely and accurately communicate product benefits, features, and ingredients build trust and help customers make informed decisions.

• Community Building: Labels can incorporate social media handles and hashtags, QR codes, or calls to action to encourage customer engagement and build a community around the brand.

Tips for Designing Custom Container Labels

Having designed quite a few labels over the last 30 years, here are our top tips for designing custom container labels:

• Use high-quality images and graphics. Nothing ruins a label design faster than blurry designs. Not only does it look cheap, customers are not able to read any of the information you’re providing. When working with MepcoDeco to decorate your containers, we consult with you to ensure the label designs you provide will translate nicely to the container. 

• Keep your text clear and concise. Resist the temptation to fill out each space with text. We recommend working with a designer to achieve a balance of information and space. 

• Use a font that is easy to read. It's important to use easy-to-read fonts on labels because people are more likely to read and understand the information on the label if the font is easy to read. Some of the most popular fonts for labels include Arial, Helvetica, and Times New Roman. When choosing a font for a label, it's also important to consider the color of the font. The font should contrast with the background color so that it is easy to read.

• Use contrasting colors to make your text stand out. There’s nothing worse than printing a label, and then seeing that it’s practically impossible to read. This is especially true when your label contains important details such as warnings or instructions. 

• Keep your design simple and uncluttered. Focus on the main message of your label, then complete the design with messaging and text that help deliver the message. This is the case where less is more. 

The Future of Container Label Designs

As technology advances, we can expect to see more innovative and creative label designs. Some of the trends that we can expect to see in the future include:

• The use of augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) to create interactive labels.

• The use of RFID tags to track products and provide consumers with information about their products.

• The use of biodegradable and recyclable materials for labels.

These trends are all designed to make container labels more engaging and informative for consumers. As a result, we can expect to see container labels playing an increasingly important role in the marketing and sales of products.

Looking to customize container labels for your brand? Contact us for a quote on your next project.