How to Understand Set-up Fees and Tape Charges

We know it’s easy to get confused by the various set-up fees and tape charges for different apparel decorating methods and we want to make your ordering experience as simple and stress-free as possible. That being said, here’s a quick, user-friendly explanation for each type of fee.

Set-up Fees


What is a set-up fee?

The set-up fee is the initial charge for having an imprint plate or screen created in order to print your design on a particular product. The design can then be saved on file for later use on reorders.


How does it vary, depending on decoration methods?

For screen printing, the set-up fee is equal to the screen charge, which is the fee incurred each time a new screen is created to print your design. Since a new screen must be created for each individual color, that fee is charged per color for screen printing in one location. However, if your product of choice includes a full-color imprint, only one set-up is necessary for a multiple color design in one location. Your account representative will help you decide which decorating method is the best option for both your design and your budget.


What is the set-up fee at Promotions Now?

There is a one-time set-up fee of $39 per color and location for basic screen printing and a one-time $39 set-up fee per location for full-color digital, debossing, laser, sublimation or full-color heat transfer printing.


Is there a set-up for every order?

Our one-time charge policy means that the set-up fee is only necessary when your design must be recreated for a different product or a change in your artwork, so there will be no set-up fees for repeat orders.

Tape Charges


What is a tape charge?

A tape charge, also referred to as a digitizing fee, is the charge that is incurred when your logo or artwork is programmed and readied for embroidery. You might find that at some places this charge is dependent on the number of stitches in your design or the overall complexity of it, but at Promotions Now we prefer to keep it simple.


What is the tape charge at Promotions Now?

Our tape charge is a one-time fee of $39 for all embroidery orders that are less than 24 pieces. If you place an order for more than 24 pieces, the tape charge is free.


Is there a tape charge for every order?

Our one-time charge policy only requires a new tape charge when your design must be re-digitized for a different product or a change in your artwork. This means there will be no tape charges for repeat orders.

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