What is the Difference Between Hang Tags and Labels

What is the Difference Between Hang Tags and Labels

In today’s competitive market, product packaging plays a significant role in standing out for your brand. Packaging has the power to break or make your brand. Well-designed packaging helps to drive sales and create a strong first impression on buyers. When it comes to product packaging and branding, the small details often make the biggest impact. This is where custom hang tags and custom labels come in. "Hang tags are attached to products with string or ribbon and often provide additional information like pricing or product details, while labels are directly affixed to the product or packaging and typically display key information such as brand name, instructions, or ingredients. Both serve different branding and informational purposes." Brands have the choice to select between hang tags and labels following their product needs. How to decide which better suits your products? This blog is an ultimate guide for you. It will dive deep into the differences between hang tags and labels. Let’s dig into the details without any further ado.

What Are Custom Hang Tags?

Hang tags are separate pieces of material. They are usually made from cardstock, kraft paper, plastic, or fabric. They are attached to a product with a string, ribbon, or pin. Typically, they are removable. The common uses of custom hang tags include clothing and fashion accessories, luxury items, and handmade or artisan products. Here are the key features of hang tags:

  • They are not permanently affixed.
  • They are attached externally.
  • Hang tags offer enough space for branding and storytelling.
  • They can include barcodes, price, brand message, or care instructions.

What are Custom Labels?

Custom labels are directly affixed to the product. They are attached either by adhesive, sewing, or printing and are permanent. They are essential for product identification, brand name, size, composition, or legal information. They are used on bottles or jars to showcase product ingredients, directions, expiry dates, and regulatory information. Their key features are as follows:

  • Custom labels are permanently attached.
  • They are less decorative and smaller.
  • They are manufactured using paper, woven fabric, or synthetic materials.
  • They offer product details such as size, origin, or ingredients.

Key Differences Between Custom Hang Tags Vs Custom Labels

Here are the key differences that distinguish hang tags from custom labels. After reading the table below, you will be able to choose which best suits your products and branding goals:

Features   Hang Tags  Labels
Attachment Hung or tied onto the product Sewn, printed, or glued
Removability Easy to remove Permanent
Purpose Branding, storytelling, and marketing Functional, compliance
Design space Larger, offering more space for customization Compact and small
Material Cardstock, plastic, kraft Woven, paper, vinyl,  synthetic
Cost High costs due to materials and printing Cost-effective, especially in bulk

Factors to Consider When Choosing Between Hang Tags and Labels

The following factors are needed to consider when deciding between custom hang tags and labels:

Product Type

Each product is unique. Some products are well-suited to hang tags, while others are well-suited to labels. The product’s type, material, size, and usage determine the suitability of hang tags and labels. For example, hang tags are suitable for garments, accessories, and luxury items. They offer enough space for product and branding details.  The label might be a better option if you are packing skincare bottles, food containers, and tech devices. Thus, your choice will be based on the type of product that you are packaging.

Branding

Secondly, you need to consider your branding requirements.  Labels are small but an ideal choice to display your brand logo, typography, and slogans. On the other hand, hang tags offer more space for creative design and brand storytelling.  Usually, hang tags are best to add a luxury and eco-conscious feel to packaging. While labels give a professional and minimal feel.

Product Information

Next, brands must be clear about what information they want to include on packaging.  Hang tags can provide much more information than labels. You must have clarity regarding the information you need to display and how important it is. Labels are essential to include product ingredients, expiration dates, care instructions, or country of origin. Hang tags are best for pricing, QR codes, or seasonal promotions.

Cost

Further, the budget also plays a pivotal role, especially when you have bulk orders. Hang tags often cost more due to thick material, high finishing costs, and attachment. Usually, labels are an economical choice when printed in large volumes. First of all, consider your budget and decide which option is best suited to your products.

Must Read: What is difference between Stickers vs Labels 

Conclusion

To sum up, both custom hang tags and labels are excellent ways to add information and elevate product visual presentation. Labels are useful and provide important details, while hang tags help your brand stand out and look more eye-catching. Hopefully, after reading this blog, you will be able to make an informed choice between custom hang tags and custom labels. Are you planning to customize hang tags or labels? Don’t look beyond ICustomBoxes. For queries or concerns, you can contact us at any time. 

iCustomBoxes
iCustomBoxes
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iCustomBoxes is a specialized print and packaging company based in the USA. We offer error-free printing, free design support, and unlimited customization. Start your printing journey with us, and we will customize the packaging in your preferred material, style, color, and size.