Ordering labels in the wrong size is one of the most common — and most avoidable — mistakes in custom label printing. Whether you’re labeling bottles, jars, tubes, or boxes, accurate measurements ensure your label fits perfectly and looks professional. Here’s how to measure for each container type.
Measuring Cylindrical Containers (Bottles, Jars, Cans)
Width (wrap-around direction): Wrap a flexible measuring tape or a strip of paper around the container at the point where the label will sit. Mark where the strip meets, then measure the marked length flat. This is the maximum width your label can be. For a full-wrap label, subtract about 1/16″ to 1/8″ to leave a small gap where the label ends meet (or add 1/4″ for an overlap if desired).
Height: Measure the vertical space available for the label — from the bottom of the desired label area to the top. Account for the container’s taper or curve. If the container tapers significantly, measure the circumference at both the top and bottom of the label area to determine if a standard rectangular label will sit flat or if you need a tapered shape.
Measuring Flat Surfaces (Boxes, Bags, Pouches)
Flat surface labels are simpler. Measure the available area on the face where the label will be applied, then choose a label size that leaves an appropriate margin on all sides. A label that fills the entire surface looks intentional; a label that’s slightly too small looks like an afterthought.
Measuring Tubes and Tapered Containers
Squeeze tubes and tapered containers require careful measurement because the diameter changes along the length. Measure the circumference at the widest point of the label area and at the narrowest point. If the difference is significant, a standard rectangular label may wrinkle or lift — consider a tapered or custom-shaped label instead.
Pro Tips
Always measure the actual production container, not a prototype or a similar container from another brand. Verify measurements with a second person or a digital caliper for critical applications. And when in doubt, order printed samples applied to your actual container before committing to a full production run.
Need help figuring out the right size? Contact our team — we help customers with sizing every day.
