Use Vector Files When Possible
For most custom logo products, suppliers prefer vector artwork because it can be resized without losing sharpness. Common useful formats include AI, EPS, SVG, PDF, and sometimes CDR depending on the supplier software.
Low-resolution JPG or screenshot files may be acceptable for early discussion, but they are usually not enough for final production. Blurry or flattened files can create rough edges, wrong line thickness, or incorrect colors.
Send Logo Instructions With the File
Artwork files should not be sent without placement instructions. Buyers should specify logo size, position, orientation, color count, print area, and whether the logo should be centered, aligned to an edge, repeated, wrapped, engraved, embroidered, woven, or printed on packaging.
If there are several logo versions, name the final version clearly. Suppliers should not have to guess whether they should use a color logo, one-color logo, reversed logo, icon-only mark, or full brand lockup.
Match File Type to Decoration Method
Different decoration methods need different artwork preparation. Screen printing may need separated colors. Embroidery may need digitizing. Laser engraving may need clean line art. UV printing may need high-resolution color artwork. Heat transfer may need print-ready files with correct size and bleed.
Buyers do not need to know every technical detail, but they should ask the supplier what file type is required for the chosen process and whether any setup or digitizing fee applies.
Prepare Packaging and Label Files Separately
Packaging artwork should be treated as a separate production item. Retail boxes, hang tags, insert cards, care labels, warning labels, barcode labels, and carton marks may each need different files and dimensions.
For packaging dielines, buyers should confirm cut line, fold line, bleed, safe area, barcode area, material, finish, and language requirements. A packaging file that looks good on screen may fail if it does not match the physical dieline.
Control Brand Colors
If color accuracy matters, buyers should provide Pantone references, approved color swatches, or previous product references. Suppliers should confirm whether the production method can match the color exactly or only approximately.
Color may look different on plastic, fabric, metal, ceramic, paper, silicone, and coated surfaces. Buyers should approve a sample when the logo color or product color is part of the brand standard.
Approve Proofs Before Production
A digital proof helps catch size, placement, spelling, and layout errors before a sample is made. For important orders, the buyer should also approve a physical sample that shows the actual decoration method.
After proof approval, any artwork change should be treated as a controlled change. The buyer should confirm whether it affects sample time, tooling, setup cost, print plate, packaging proof, or production lead time.