F.E.D. Label
About Us
Who We Are
F.E.D. Label Company has been family owned and locally operated in Soddy-Daisy, Tennessee since 1985 — and in that time, we’ve built our reputation one job at a time. We specialize in custom label printing using both flexographic and digital technology, giving us the range to handle high-volume production runs and short-run orders alike. Every customer works directly with our experienced team, from the first quote to final delivery. No call centers, no runaround — just knowledgeable people who take your project personally.
Our Values
Nearly four decades in business has taught us what matters most: quality you can count on, service that feels personal, and a team that takes pride in the work. We’ve stayed locally owned and family operated because we believe businesses — and the people behind them — deserve a print partner who’s genuinely invested in their success. We don’t cut corners, we don’t outsource our accountability, and we don’t treat any job as too small to deserve our full attention. That’s been true since 1985, and it isn’t changing.
Equipment & Facilitiess
We run both a flexographic press and a digital label press out of our Soddy-Daisy facility, which means we’re not locked into one approach when a job comes in. The flexo press is what we reach for on higher-volume runs — it’s built for consistency, handles Pantone color matching, and prints on just about any substrate you’d need for a label application. The digital press is a newer addition and it’s changed what we can offer smaller customers — no plates, faster setup, and no large minimums. Most jobs never leave the building; we handle finishing in-house as well, including lamination, perforation, and roll or sheet converting.
Our Approach
Our process starts with a conversation, not an automated form. Whether you’re requesting a quote, submitting artwork, or following up on a job in production, you’re communicating directly with the people responsible for your order. Before anything goes to press, every file goes through a prepress review — we check for common issues like low resolution, incorrect color modes, and insufficient bleed so they don’t become problems after the fact. A digital proof is provided for every job, and production doesn’t start until you’ve signed off in writing. It’s a level of care and communication that’s hard to come by at a high-volume commercial shop, and it’s something we’ve never been willing to cut corners on.
Why Trust Us
Local Ownership & Personal Service
As a locally owned, family business, we’re invested in your success. You’ll work directly with our team from first conversation to final delivery — no call centers, no runaround.
Decades of Print Knowledge
Our team brings years of hands-on experience in flexographic and digital label printing to every job. Whether you’re a first-time customer or a seasoned buyer, we’ll guide you through the process and make sure your project is done right.
Flexographic & Digital Under One Roof
From medium to high-volume flexographic label runs to short-run digital printing, we have the equipment and expertise to handle label jobs of any size. No need to shop around — we can do it all.
Quality You Can See
We hold every label printing project to the same high standard, regardless of size or budget. Rigorous prepress review, careful color management, and experienced hands at every stage mean you get exactly what you ordered.
FAQ
What is the difference between flexogrpahic printing and digital printing?
Flexographic (flexo) printing uses polymer plates to transfer ink onto paper or label stock, making it ideal for high-volume label runs where color consistency and Pantone matching are critical — such as product labels, packaging labels, and large commercial orders. Digital label printing bypasses plates entirely, printing directly from your digital file. This makes it faster and more cost-effective for short-run labels, proofs, and variable data printing.
How do I know which printing method is right for my label project?
For large-quantity orders requiring Pantone color matching or specialty inks, flexographic printing is typically the better fit. If you need short-run labels, a quick turnaround, or variable data, our digital label press is the right choice. Our team is happy to help you determine the best option for your specific project.
Can you match colors exactly between the two methods?
Color output can vary between flexo and digital printing due to differences in ink systems. Flexographic printing supports Pantone (PMS) spot colors for precise color matching, while digital printing operates within a CMYK color space. Our team can advise on the best approach for color-critical label jobs.
What file formats do you accept for label printing?
We prefer PDF and AI files but can also work with SVG and other vector formats. Files should be submitted in CMYK color mode for most print work, or include Pantone color callouts for jobs requiring spot colors.
What resolution should my label artwork be?
All artwork should be provided at a minimum of 300 DPI at the final print size. Low-resolution files — including images pulled from websites — will not reproduce clearly and may cause production delays while files are corrected.
Do I need to include bleed and safe zones?
Yes. We require a minimum of 0.0625″ bleed on all sides for any design that extends to the edge of the finished label. Keep critical content such as text and logos at least 0.125″ inside the trim line to avoid cutoff during finishing.
Can your team help prepare or fix my files?
Our prepress team can perform basic file checks and minor corrections on label artwork. For significant design work or file rebuilds, we offer prepress services at an hourly rate. We’ll always communicate any issues before proceeding.
What is your standard turnaround time for label printing?
Standard turnaround for most flexographic label jobs is 7–10 business days after proof approval. Digital label printing jobs typically turn around in 3–5 business days. Turnaround may vary depending on order complexity, quantity, and current production volume.
When does my turnaround time begin?
Production begins once your order is placed and your proof has been approved in writing. Delays in proof approval will affect your final delivery date.
Do you offer rush or expedited label printing?
Rush production is available on select jobs, subject to current capacity. Please contact us before placing your order to confirm availability. Rush fees may apply.
How do I place a label printing order?
You can submit a quote request through our website, email our team directly, or call us during business hours. We’ll review your project details and respond promptly with pricing and next steps.
Will I receive a proof before my job goes to press?
Yes. We provide a digital proof for all label orders prior to production. For color-critical jobs that will be digitally printed, a physical, a physical press proof is available upon request and may involve an additional fee and lead time. Production does not begin until written proof approval is received.
Do you have order minimums for label printing?
Order minimums vary by product and printing method. Our digital label press was added specifically to accommodate short runs with no large minimum requirements — making it a great option for small businesses, startups, and personal label projects. Contact us for specifics on your project type.
Do you offer delivery or shipping for label orders?
Yes. We offer local delivery in the Chattanooga and surrounding area, as well as nationwide shipping. Shipping costs are calculated based on order size, weight, and destination, and can be included in your quote.