7 Custom Label Mistakes That Could Be Hurting Your New Brand’s Success

Custom labels are more than decoration—they’re an opportunity to tell your brand’s story, communicate value, and establish trust. 

But even small errors in label design can undermine all these efforts, especially for new brands. 

Here are the seven most common mistakes brands make with custom labels and how to avoid them.

1. Overloading the Label with Information

While it’s tempting to fit as much information as possible, a cluttered label can confuse customers and dilute your brand message. 

Too much text or design can overwhelm customers, making it harder for them to see what your product is about.

• Solution: Prioritize the essentials. Stick to key details that help customers make a quick, informed decision. Keep your design clean and use whitespace strategically to keep the label from feeling cramped.

2. Choosing the Wrong Font Style and Size

Fonts are one of the first things people notice, and the wrong font can send mixed messages. This falls under one of the most common yet costly errors in printing packaging.

Using hard-to-read or overly stylized fonts can reduce readability, especially if your font size is too small.

• Font Selection Tips: Choose fonts that align with your brand identity, whether that’s modern, classic, or playful. 

Make sure they’re legible at a glance and ask your artist to outline fonts so they print clearly.

For critical information like product names and ingredients, ensure the font size is readable.

3. Ignoring Compliance and Regulatory Standards

Certain industries have specific regulations for labeling—especially food, health, and beauty. 

Failing to meet these standards not only risks fines but can also damage customer trust.

• Compliance Checklist: Familiarize yourself with industry-specific regulations for labeling. Include necessary information like ingredients, allergens, or expiration dates. Being transparent and thorough is key to building customer confidence.

4. Poor Color Choices that Clash or Fade

The colors on your label should reflect your brand and be consistent with your other packaging elements. 

But some colors can be hard to read or may fade over time, reducing the effectiveness of your branding.

• Color Strategy: Test colors for readability and longevity. Avoid clashing combinations that make text hard to read, and consider using UV-resistant inks to prevent fading.

5. Using Low-Quality Label Materials

Low-quality materials can make your product look cheap and untrustworthy, especially if the label peels, smudges, or fades quickly. 

The quality of your label reflects the quality of your product.

• Quality Materials: Choose durable materials like waterproof or oil-resistant labels if needed. 

High-quality paper and finishes like custom embossing can give your brand a premium feel and make customers feel more confident in their purchase.

6. Overlooking Brand Consistency

Your label is a part of your brand’s visual identity, and inconsistency can dilute your message. 

Using different fonts, colors, or label sizes across products can make your brand look unprofessional.

• Brand Cohesion Tips: Create a style guide for your labels, including specific fonts, colors, and layout guidelines. 

Consistency makes your products instantly recognizable and strengthens your brand’s presence.

7. Forgetting to Optimize for Your Target Audience

Every aspect of your label should appeal to your target audience’s preferences and values. 

For instance, a minimalist design might appeal to eco-conscious consumers, while a bold, colorful label might resonate more with younger audiences.

• Audience Insights: Research your target market and design your labels with their preferences in mind. 

Make sure your language, design elements, and even materials reflect what matters to them.

Conclusion: Labels That Tell Your Brand’s Story

A well-designed label is essential for any new brand’s success. Avoid these common mistakes, and instead focus on clarity, consistency, and quality. 

When your labels effectively communicate your brand’s values and message, they’ll not only look great but also help build trust and loyalty with your customers. 

By perfecting your custom labels, you’ll set a solid foundation for your brand to thrive.