Silkscreened Label Processing Begins with the Distributor

Successful silkscreened label projects start with the order taking process.

Silkscreened labels have proven to be a distributor favorite throughout the years. The roles that distributors play in the production of these high-quality labels are many, and remain increasingly important when it comes to creating a product that customers will be pleased with.

According to Bruce Turner, purchasing manager for Adcraft Decals, Independence, Ohio, "The role of the distributor in the processing of an order is crucial. It is important that every detail is attended to so that the customer's wishes are met," he explained

Barry Smith, director of sales for Tapecon, Buffalo, N.Y., agreed that it is the distributor's responsibility to provide the specifics of the customer's request. "The distributor provides us with information on the use of the product, the quantity needed, the size and shape of the product and the due date," he explained. "At that point, we are able to process the job."

In addition to helping manufacturers meet customers' needs, Turner said that it is important that distributors remain "cooperative and patient" throughout the fulfillment of an order. "The ordering process requires a lot of time and communication. Communication is the key to making the process run as smoothly as possible," he said.

With this in mind, Turner, Smith and Brent Burnett, digital production manager of Roeda Signs & ScreenTech, South Holland, Ill., described the extensive and sometimes complicated process that is required for the successful completion of silkscreened label orders.

Knowing the production process—as described by Turner, Smith and Burnett—can help distributors be thorough and detail-oriented when initially taking an order.

To begin the process, the manufacturer's sales and design teams determine usage and application criteria. Based upon these criteria, the customer is given a price quote. The customer then issues a purchase order or verbal request and submits artwork. The design team uses the artwork and application criteria to design the final art.