When it comes to product packaging, your label isn’t just a name sticker on a bag or box—it’s your best, silent marketer and salesperson.
A well-designed label can entice customers, build brand trust, and encourage repeat purchases.
However, even small missteps in label design or execution can drive potential buyers away and impact your bottom line.
In this article, we’ll uncover common label mistakes that cost businesses sales and share actionable tips to avoid them.
The Label Mistakes You Can’t Afford to Ignore
1. Unreadable Fonts
Customers make purchasing decisions in seconds, and if your label is hard to read, you’ve already lost them.
Fonts that are too small, overly decorative, or poorly contrasted against the background can confuse shoppers.
How to Fix It:
- Prioritize readability: Use simple, clean fonts like sans-serif styles for key information.
- Test sizes: Print prototypes to ensure text is legible from a distance.
- Check contrast: Pair dark fonts with light backgrounds (or vice versa) for maximum clarity.
2. Overcrowded Design
Trying to cram too much information onto your label can overwhelm customers.
Instead of focusing on your product’s unique benefits, they’re left sorting through visual clutter.
How to Fix It:
- Embrace white space: A clean design guides the eye and emphasizes key details.
- Prioritize content: Highlight your product’s name, unique selling points, and essential information.
- Use QR codes: Include secondary details like ingredient lists or usage tips digitally.
3. Inaccurate or Misleading Claims
Customers value honesty, and misleading claims can damage trust.
Whether it’s an exaggerated benefit or omitted allergens, inaccuracies can lead to dissatisfied customers or even legal consequences.
How to Fix It:
- Fact-check everything: Ensure all claims are backed by data.
- Be transparent: Clearly state essential details, such as ingredients and certifications.
- Review regulations: Follow labeling laws specific to your industry and region.
4. Ignoring Target Audience Preferences
Your custom packaging should speak directly to your ideal customer. Using “crumpets” instead of “cream sandwiches” on your custom cookie bags is a disconnect if you are selling to the US market.
A design that appeals to eco-conscious millennials may not resonate with luxury-focused buyers.
How to Fix It:
- Understand your audience: Research your customers’ preferences, values, and buying habits.
- Tailor visuals: Match your design’s tone to their expectations (e.g., minimalist for modern buyers, ornate for luxury seekers).
- A/B test designs: Gather feedback before launching.
5. Low-Quality Printing
A label that peels, smudges, or fades screams “low effort” and can turn customers away.
Quality issues may also cause critical information to become unreadable.
How to Fix It:
- Choose durable materials: Opt for waterproof or scratch-resistant options when needed.
- Work with professionals: Use a reputable printer to ensure sharp images and vibrant colors.
- Test durability: Simulate handling conditions to spot weaknesses.
6. Lack of Branding Consistency
Your label is a key touchpoint for reinforcing your brand identity. Inconsistent colors, logos, or typography create confusion and dilute your brand’s impact.
How to Fix It:
- Create a style guide: Outline fonts, colors, and design rules for all packaging.
- Use templates: Ensure all designs follow a cohesive layout.
- Audit regularly: Periodically review packaging to maintain alignment with branding.
7. Failure to Highlight Key Benefits
If your label doesn’t immediately convey why your product is worth buying, customers may pass it over.
Focusing solely on aesthetics without communicating value is a missed opportunity.
How to Fix It:
- Spotlight USPs: Clearly display your product’s unique selling points (e.g., “Organic,” “Low-Calorie”).
- Use compelling visuals: Incorporate images or icons that reinforce benefits.
- Simplify messaging: Use concise, impactful language.
Bonus Tips for Effective Label Design
- Incorporate eco-friendly elements: Use recyclable materials or eco-certifications to appeal to sustainability-conscious buyers.
- Leverage sensory appeal: Add textured finishes, metallic accents, or embossed details for a premium feel. For example, use images of chips exploding with ingredients instead of just using plain text on your custom snack bags to help drive more sales.
- Keep evolving: Monitor trends and competitor designs to stay ahead.
Conclusion
Your product’s custom packaging is more than a design—it’s a tool for driving sales and building customer loyalty.
By avoiding common mistakes and prioritizing clarity, honesty, and audience alignment, you can create labels that captivate and convert.
Start auditing your labels today to ensure they’re working for, not against, your business.
