What are Hang Tags?

A hang tag is a small card or label attached to a product, typically clothing or accessories, that provides important information about the item. According to Merriam-Webster, a hang tag is "a tag attached to an article of merchandise giving information about its material and proper care." These tags are designed to hang from the product using a string, thread, or plastic attachment, rather than being adhesive labels.

The primary purpose of hang tags is to convey essential details about the product to customers, such as size, color, fabric composition, care instructions, and pricing. They serve as a convenient way to communicate key product specifications and branding elements at the point of sale. Hang tags are commonly used in the retail industry, particularly for apparel, jewelry, and other consumer goods.

Traditional Uses of Hang Tags

Hang tags have been traditionally used in the retail industry to convey important product information to customers. One of the primary purposes of hang tags is to display pricing. Retailers often attach hang tags with the price prominently displayed, making it easy for customers to identify the cost of an item.

In addition to pricing, hang tags serve as a valuable means of communicating product details. They may include the size, color, material composition, and other specifications relevant to the item. This information aids customers in making informed purchasing decisions and understanding the product they are considering. 

Care instructions are another crucial element frequently found on hang tags, particularly for clothing and textile products. These tags provide guidance on how to properly wash, dry, and maintain the item, ensuring longevity and preserving its quality. By including care instructions, brands help customers keep their purchases in optimal condition.

Benefits of Custom Printed Hang Tags

Custom printed hang tags offer numerous benefits for brands and retailers beyond just displaying pricing information. They serve as a powerful branding tool that can catch customers' attention, convey important product details, and leave a lasting impression.

First, custom hang tags allow you to reinforce your brand identity and image. By incorporating your logo, color scheme, and unique design elements, hang tags become an extension of your brand's visual language. This consistent branding helps build recognition and familiarity with customers. As noted by Silk Cards, "A custom hang tag design can help set your product apart from the competition and create a cohesive, professional brand image."

Moreover, creatively designed hang tags have a way of capturing shoppers' attention and interest. Bold colors, unique shapes, and tactile finishes like embossing or foil stamping make your products stand out on crowded retail displays. NEWSPRINT explains that "custom hang tags can draw focus to your brand and product in ways that generic tags simply can't."

Finally, hang tags provide valuable real estate to convey detailed product information to customers. This includes materials and care instructions, size and color details, as well as space to highlight special features or promotions. As Xpres Labels states, "Hang tags are a great way to instruct your customers to take care of the products." Well-designed hang tags ensure customers have all the information they need.

Essential Hang Tag Information

Hang tags serve as a canvas for conveying crucial product details to customers. Here are some key elements to include on your hang tags:

Size, color, and material information: Clearly state the product's size, color variations, and materials used. This helps shoppers make informed purchasing decisions.

Branding and logos: Incorporate your brand name, logo, and tagline to reinforce brand recognition and identity.

Barcodes and QR codes: Include barcodes or QR codes to streamline inventory tracking and enable customers to easily access additional product information online.

Pricing: Prominently display the product's price to eliminate any confusion at the point of sale.

Care instructions: Provide clear care and washing instructions to help customers properly maintain the product's quality and longevity.

Hang Tag Materials

When it comes to hang tag materials, there are several options to choose from, each with its own advantages. Paper is one of the most commonly used materials due to its affordability and eco-friendliness. As stated on ClothingTags.cn, "Paper is the most commonly used material for hang tags because it is cheap, environmentally friendly, and easier to print on." Paper hang tags can range from coated paper to Kraft paper and paperboard.

Plastic is another popular choice for hang tags, offering durability and resistance to moisture and tearing. Plastic hang tags can be made from various materials like PVC, polypropylene, or polyester. According to Charles Ma on LinkedIn, "Plastic hang tags are waterproof, durable, and can be printed in full color."

Cardboard is a sturdy and cost-effective option for hang tags, especially for heavier items or products that require extra support. Cardboard hang tags can be made from single or double-faced cardboard and can be finished with various coatings or laminates for added protection.

Hang Tag Finishes

The finish of a hang tag can greatly impact its appearance and durability. Common finishes include:

Glossy: A glossy finish provides a shiny, vibrant look that makes colors pop. It creates an upscale, premium feel. However, glossy surfaces can show fingerprints and smudges more easily. 

Matte: A matte or uncoated finish has a more subtle, understated appearance. It reduces glare and is more resistant to smudges and scuffs, making it a practical choice for hang tags.

Textured: Textured finishes like linen or felt create an interesting tactile experience. They can convey a natural, earthy, or luxurious vibe depending on the material.

Foil Stamping: Adding foil accents through a stamping process produces a metallic shine that attracts attention. Foil stamping is an elegant way to highlight text or design elements.

Embossing: Embossing raises portions of the design from the surface, creating a three-dimensional, sculpted effect. It adds visual depth and a premium look and feel.

Making Hang Tags Stand Out

To make your hang tags truly eye-catching and memorable, consider incorporating bold, vibrant designs that instantly grab attention. Bright colors, striking patterns, and dimensional shapes can all help your hang tags pop on the retail floor. Don't be afraid to get creative with unique shapes like circles, triangles, or even custom die-cut designs inspired by your brand or product.

Embellishments like ribbons, tassels, or textured materials can also elevate a hang tag's visual appeal. For example, a luxurious velvet ribbon or a metallic foil accent can convey a premium, high-end aesthetic. These thoughtful touches add an artisanal, handcrafted quality that customers appreciate.

Ultimately, investing in high-quality materials and finishes is key to creating hang tags that look professional and reinforce your brand identity. Consider techniques like embossing, debossing, or foil stamping to create a tactile, dimensional effect that entices customers to pick up and examine your products more closely.

Hang Tags for Marketing

Beyond conveying essential product details, hang tags present a valuable marketing opportunity for brands and retailers. Prominently displayed hang tags can catch customers' eyes and promote special offers, discounts, or new product launches. Integrating elements like bold text, dollar signs, percentage discounts, and eye-catching graphics can instantly communicate a sale or promotion.

Hang tags also allow brands to include QR codes that customers can scan with their smartphones, instantly accessing additional product information, videos, or exclusive digital content. This interactive element enhances the shopping experience and provides a bridge between physical products and digital marketing.

Branded Hang Tag Examples

Well-designed hang tags can elevate a brand's image and make products more appealing to customers. Top brands invest in creative, eye-catching hang tag designs that communicate their brand identity. For example:

Skivvies, a chic underwear brand, uses simple yet bold hang tags with a playful font and pops of color. Vanilla Collective has elegant hang tags with a vintage-inspired design featuring floral illustrations. These branded hang tags complement the products while providing key details like size and materials.

Successful brands understand that hang tags are an important branding touchpoint. Creative hang tag designs help products stand out on crowded retail shelves and convey a brand's unique personality and style.

Custom Hang Tag Printing

When it comes to ordering custom-printed hang tags, working with a reputable printer is essential. Many printing companies, such as Greener Printer, offer a wide range of customization options for hang tags, including size, material, finish, and decorative elements like eyelets, tassels, and ribbons.

The ordering process typically involves uploading your design or providing detailed specifications for the printer to create a proof for your approval. Reputable printers, like 48HourPrint, offer quick turnaround times, often within 48 hours or two business days, ensuring you receive your custom hang tags promptly.

When selecting a printer, consider factors such as pricing, quality, and customer service. Companies like HangTagsCo specialize in custom printed hang tags and can provide guidance on materials, finishes, and design elements to make your tags stand out and effectively represent your brand.