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How to Order Custom Tote Bags: A Step-by-Step Guide

Elaine A |

Introduction

We are coming with an incredible offer for you. Imagine having a new employee who can handle your marketing for a lifetime, is affordable, eco-friendly, and works perfectly with your brand identity. Sounds unbelievable, right? If that’s so, allow us to introduce your new hire: custom tote bags.

Custom tote bags are the ultimate promotional item, offering multiple uses for both you and your customers. By choosing a design that reflects your brand identity or priorities, you can effectively market your business. And do not forget the free promote your customers will give you, just by walking with the logo printed custom tote bag they own.

So, how can you order custom tote bags, and where should you begin? In this article, we'll walk you through the step-by-step process of creating an order for custom bags. Let’s dive in!

Step 1: Understanding Custom Bag Design

Custom tote bags can be manufactured in various ways, and you should choose the method based on your design and the desired bag quality. For example, you will obviously want a custom beach bag to be waterproof, whereas a custom gift bag should have an appealing aesthetic. This way you can select the proper printing method that is perfectly designed for your needs.

Let's explore four ways to customize your custom bags. The first and most popular technique is screen printing. Screen printing is a heat-coded process that applies the colors of the design without damaging the material of the custom backpack. You can layer multiple colors and achieve high-quality results with screen printing.

The second method is digital printing (DTG). While screen printing limits the number of colors, DTG allows for unlimited colors in a single design. However, keep in mind that the durability may be less than other printing methods.

Embroidery is another option for decorating your custom bag tags. If you want a design with a handmade vibe and special look, embroidery is the way to go. You can order your bag with an embroidery design customization option and let the stitches enhance your custom bag. This durable option is also suitable for custom bag toss boards.

The final method is all-over printing, which allows you to create custom tote bags that are made-to-measure. This printing technique is especially used for special occasions and parties. These custom backpacks can showcase your brand identity from edge to edge with their eye-catching design.

For custom bags plastic, you will need to explore different customization methods. These techniques, however, cover the customization of tote bags. Now, let's move on to the materials.

Step 2: Choosing the Right Materials for Your Tote Bags

The material of your custom bags influences many factors, so you should consider several aspects before making a decision. For instance, if you need custom bag toss boards, opt for a more sturdy option. If you're a sports club owner seeking custom drawstring bags, choose a more functional tote bag.

Another crucial factor is whether the materials are eco-friendly or biodegradable. Environmental care is a significant concern today, and as a company, you can demonstrate your commitment through material selection. Instead of choosing custom bags plastic, consider custom bags paper or custom reusable bags.

Below are various bag materials you can select from based on your needs or brand identity:

  • Tote bags
  • Custom Drawstring bags
  • Custom Beach bags
  • Drawstring backpacks
  • Clear bags
  • Messenger bags
  • Lunch containers and custom cooler bags
  • Custom Duffel bags

Step 3: Designing Custom Tote Bags

Remember that your design reflects your priorities and brand identity. A well-crafted design increases the likelihood that customers will use the custom bags, so aim for relatable and aesthetically pleasing designs.

A simple idea for designing a promotional custom tote bag is to use your company logo. While it may not be as eye-catching as other designs, using just your logo is always an option. You could also include motivational quotes, cute illustrations, or slogans that embody your brand’s spirit. Additionally, since custom backpacks have two sides, you can place information such as your phone number, address, or website link on the back of your design.

The large area on custom bags gives you flexibility in placing your design as you desire. After selecting your design and bag, consider the placement, size, and colors you want to work with. For example, if you choose a custom duffel bag, the imprint area will be smaller than on other tote bags, so base your decision on these criteria.

Step 4: Set a Budget

Once you have ensured that your decision-making criteria are met, you can move forward to actually placing an order. After confirming that your choices align with your needs and brand goals, it's time to consider your budget. Since you are investing in this marketing and promotional technique, careful budget planning is essential to keep everything on track.

Let’s be realistic: budget is what separates the dream world from reality. Your goal should be to get as close as possible to your ideal marketing strategy. Here are some tips to help you save money when ordering custom tote bags:

  • You can collaborate with designated designers working for bag sellers. For example, Totebagfactory’s customization team offers budget-saving options, such as converting your design into less colored versions to reduce costs. You can contact their customer service for custom backpacks.
  • Looking for custom tote bags in bulk is another way to save money. At ToteBagFactory, all prices are wholesale, but we also offer additional discounts for bulk purchases. If you’re searching for budget-friendly custom bag tags, visit our website to explore your options.
  • Conducting thorough research on printing services and bag choices can also help you save money. As you browse through custom tote bags selling sites, you’ll encounter various options with different price points. Finding the best deals is possible with a bit of searching. Additionally, you can ask customer service for suggestions based on your budget.

By using these tips, we hope you can find ways to save money. We understand that budgeting can be frustrating at times, but your money and time are valuable.

Step 5: Additional Packaging Options

Up until now, we have discussed the numerous benefits custom tote bags bring to your company and the importance of making informed decisions when selecting details. Custom drawstring bags that authentically capture your brand identity will undoubtedly support your marketing efforts. Therefore, it's essential to consider their packaging options as well.

Typically, custom bags are shipped in cardboard or corrugated cardboards in bulk. While there is a minimal risk of damage during shipping, especially with classic cotton or canvas tote bags, the possibility is so low it can often be overlooked. However, for more delicate options like custom mylar bags or custom gift bags, additional packaging options should be considered.

The cost of custom packaging for tote bags generally ranges from $0.50 to $5 per unit, depending on the material and complexity. Custom baling, which involves compressing and securing bags for easier handling and transportation, usually costs between $2 to $10 per bale based on the size and type of materials used. Therefore, thorough research into the materials and methods can significantly aid your decision-making process.

Step 6: Installation and Wrapping Services

Since this is the ultimate guide on how to order custom tote bags, we thought it essential to include information on installation and wrapping services, as they will impact your budgeting as well. Keep in mind that your location and the factory's location will affect the pricing for these services. If you order from a provider that includes all of these services in the original price, you won’t need to worry about additional costs. However, we still wanted to cover this topic to prevent any unexpected payments.

The cost of installing custom tote bags can depend on the type of installation process. Whether the bags are shipped by plane, minibus, or ship can be a determining factor. Approximate installation prices for custom bags range from $50 to $200 per installation, depending on the size and design of the setup.

Additionally, if you are shipping these tote bags by plane and want extra security, you can request an additional layer of protection for your boxes. Airport wrapping services generally cost between $10 and $20 per box. This added wrapping protects your order from damage, theft, and tampering during transit. As the saying goes, better safe than sorry!

Step 7: Shipping and Customs

Shipping for a large order might be free with some tote bag suppliers. However, if you are dealing with international shipping and customs, it's essential to research these topics carefully. You wouldn’t want your tote bag order to come after a special party or do not want to be embarrassed by the mistake of a shipping company. Discussing the possible shipping details is a must for you, as the shipping process and security measures will vary depending on the destination country, the country of origin, and the specific contents of the shipment.

Custom authorities usually do not follow a single algorithm; instead, they randomly open packages for safety reasons. However, once again, the sender’s country and the destination country might be on a high-risk list. Hence, you can ensure that all your shipping documents are accurate and comply with your country’s regulations. This can help minimize the chances of your packages being opened and delayed. 

Conclusion

This detailed guide explains the various processes involved in ordering custom bags step-by-step. From a careful selection of materials to finalizing an eye-catching design that represents your brand identity, this guide helps you confidently navigate all possibilities and place an order.

We hope that, even as an international customer, you feel welcomed to order from ToteBagFactory safely using our comprehensive guidelines. We wish you happy shopping!

Your Questions Answered

How to make custom bags?

First you need to choose the perfect fitting material and bag style you need. Then you can design a logo, slogan or illustration that you think would fit your brand or organization. Simply click on the “Add Logo” option on the ToteBagFactory website, and confirm your design details.

How to make custom bags for business?

For custom business tote bags, first you need to define your brand identity and design requirements. Once you have completed your design, you can talk with our customization department to finalize your tote bag print design. You can also order samples to be sure about the placements, before setting a big order.

How much do custom tote bags cost?

Custom tote bags vary depending on factors like quantity, design complexity and materials. These prices can range from $2 to $4 per bag generally. You can talk with the customization department to make sure of your design choices.

How much is custom packaging?

The cost of custom packaging depends on various conditions such as type, material, quantity, design. Therefore, within these scopes the packaging can range from a few cents to 10 dollars. 

How often do customs open packages?

Custom inspections vary by country and package content. Generally, they conduct random package opens based on certain criteria (such as suspicious contents or value items). There is no fixed frequency, but packages are more likely to be inspected if they are international.