How much do custom lanyards cost?

Custom lanyards have become an increasingly popular promotional item for businesses, schools, and organizations. Not only are they practical for holding identification cards or keys, but they also serve as a walking advertisement for the organization. However, one of the questions that often arises when considering custom lanyards is, "How much do they cost?" In this article, we will explore the factors that determine the cost of custom lanyards and provide an estimate of the cost.

Material

The material of the lanyard is one of the most significant factors in determining the cost. There are various materials available, such as polyester, nylon, satin, and eco-friendly materials. Polyester is the most commonly used material as it is durable, cost-effective, and comes in a wide range of colors. Nylon is another popular option due to its softness and shiny finish. Satin lanyards are typically used for special events or occasions as they have a luxurious feel. Eco-friendly materials such as bamboo and recycled material are also becoming increasingly popular due to their sustainability. The cost of the lanyard will vary depending on the material chosen, with polyester being the most affordable and eco-friendly materials being the most expensive.

Printing Method

The printing method used to customize the lanyard is another significant factor in determining the cost. There are various printing methods available, such as screen printing, dye-sublimation, and heat transfer. Screen printing is the most commonly used method, where ink is pressed onto the surface of the lanyard through a stencil. This method is cost-effective for simple designs and logos with fewer colors. Dye-sublimation is a printing method where the design is printed onto a transfer paper and then transferred onto the lanyard using heat and pressure. This method is ideal for complex designs or logos with multiple colors. Heat transfer is a method similar to dye-sublimation, but the design is printed onto a vinyl material and then transferred onto the lanyard using heat and pressure. The printing method used will affect the cost of the lanyard, with screen printing being the most affordable and dye-sublimation being the most expensive.

Attachment

The attachment used to hold the ID card or keys is another factor that affects the cost of the lanyard. There are various attachments available, such as bulldog clips, swivel hooks, and badge reels. Bulldog clips are the most commonly used attachment as they are durable and easy to use. Swivel hooks are ideal for events where the ID card needs to be easily removed from the lanyard. Badge reels are retractable and are ideal for use in hospitals or other settings where the ID card needs to be frequently swiped. The attachment chosen will affect the cost of the lanyard, with bulldog clips being the most affordable and badge reels being the most expensive.

Quantity

The quantity of lanyards ordered is another factor that affects the cost. The more lanyards ordered, the lower the cost per unit. Most manufacturers offer bulk discounts, with the price per lanyard decreasing as the quantity ordered increases. It is essential to consider the intended use of the lanyards and the number of people who will be using them when determining the quantity to order.

Design

The design of the lanyard is another factor that affects the cost. A simple design with one or two colors will be less expensive than a complex design with multiple colors. It is important to consider the intended use of the lanyard and the message that needs to be conveyed when designing the lanyard. A well-designed lanyard can help to promote the organization and increase brand awareness.

Estimating the Cost

Based on the factors discussed above, the cost of a custom lanyard can range from $0.50 to $5.00 per unit. A polyester lanyard with a simple one-color design and a bulldog clip attachment will be the most affordable, with a cost of approximately $0.50 to $1.00 per unit. A nylon lanyard with a complex multi-color design and a badge reel attachment will be the most expensive, with a cost of approximately $4.00 to $5.00 per unit. The quantity ordered will also affect the cost, with bulk orders resulting in a lower cost per unit.

Conclusion

Custom lanyards are a practical and effective promotional item that can help to increase brand awareness and promote the organization. The cost of a custom lanyard will depend on the material, printing method, attachment, quantity, and design. It is important to consider the intended use of the lanyard and the message that needs to be conveyed when designing the lanyard. By understanding the factors that affect the cost of custom lanyards, organizations can make an informed decision when ordering lanyards for their employees, customers, or members.