Promotional Products Frequently Asked Questions

Welcome to Bagwell Promotions! Choosing the right promotional products for your business or organization can be a challenging task. With over 45 years of experience in the industry, we’ve helped thousands of clients select effective promotional items that showcase their brand and leave a lasting impression.

We’ve compiled this Promotional Products Frequently Asked Questions list to simplify your decision-making process. Whether new to branded merchandise or a seasoned marketer, you’ll find answers to common concerns here.

If your question is not answered here, don’t hesitate to get in touch with Bagwell Promotions.

🎯 General Industry Overview of the Promotional Products Industry

Answers to Promotional Products Frequently Asked Questions of the Promotional Products Industry

Q: What are promotional products?

A: Promotional products are items imprinted with a company’s name, logo, or message, used to promote a brand, event, or cause. Common examples include pens, tote bags, mugs, T-shirts, and calendars.

Q: What is the purpose of using promotional products?

A: Promotional products build brand awareness, enhance customer loyalty, promote events or launches, and provide a cost-effective marketing solution with long-lasting impressions.

Q: How does the promotional products industry work?

A: Manufacturers produce blank items. Distributors like Bagwell Promotions coordinate customization—adding logos or messaging—and collaborate with clients to select products that align with their audience and goals.

Q: How big is the promotional products industry?

A: The promotional products industry is a multi-billion-dollar sector in the United States alone, serving businesses, nonprofits, government agencies, schools, and more.

Q: What types of organizations use promotional products?

A: Almost everyone! Corporations, schools, hospitals, government agencies, trade shows, sports teams, religious organizations, charities, and political campaigns all use promotional items.

🛍️ Types of Promotional Products

Q: What are the most popular promotional products?

A: The most popular items include pens, T-shirts, drinkware (mugs, tumblers), bags, tech accessories (USB drives, power banks), and desk items like calendars and notepads.

Q: Do you offer eco-friendly promotional products?

A: Yes, Bagwell Promotions offers a wide selection of eco-friendly items made from recycled, biodegradable, or sustainable materials.

Q: Are there promotional items for specific industries?

A: Absolutely. For example, healthcare-themed items for clinics, tech gadgets for IT companies, and educational tools for schools.

🎨 Customization & Design

Q: How are logos printed on promotional items?

A: Common imprint methods (sometimes referred to as decoration) include screen printing, pad printing, embroidery, laser engraving, heat transfer, and digital printing. This varies by product. Sometimes more than one type of decoration can be used. For example, often ink pens can be engraved or pad printed, and shirts can be embroidered or screen printed. Your promotional product representative can help you decide which is best for you.

Q: Can I see a proof before my order is produced?

A: Yes, Bagwell Promotions provides a virtual proof for your approval before production begins, along with the color of the product and the imprint. You are responsible for verifying the evidence and ensuring its accuracy. If you waive a proof because of time constraints or for other reasons, you take full responsibility if there are errors.

See more on our Policy and Procedure Page

Q: What file format is needed for logo printing?

A: Vector files (AI, EPS, PDF) are ideal, but high-resolution JPEG or PNG files may be acceptable for some products. If you are unsure, please send us what you have, and we will review it to determine if it will work. We do have a whole graphics staff that can clean up or create your artwork.

That may require additional charges. Please note that the higher the quality of the artwork you send us, the better the imprint we can produce. If the file appears jagged or out of focus, it will probably not reproduce well.

Q: Can I use more than one color in my imprint?

A: Yes, but it depends on the item and imprint method. Some items support full-color digital printing, while others may incur an additional charge for extra colors. If you have a full-color logo, we can generally source a supplier that can reproduce it.   With over 499,898 Advertising Promotional Products from 4,112 Suppliers, we typically have a factory that can produce your promotional item to your specifications.

More Promotional Products Frequently Asked Questions

 Ordering & Lead Times

Q: How do I find information on a specific product?

A: We have over 499,898 different products on our website. You can find information on each one by visiting the Product Information Page for that specific product. To see the particular product, you can click through on any page to a summary of products by following links usually marked as “More Information or Order (a specific item).

Or, you can enter a keyword search in the top right corner of any page marked, “What Are You Looking For?” You may see several items. However, when you click on any specific item, you will be on the Product Information Page. You should see a product description and a ten-digit item code, such as  Item # FVNJG-OEBSY.

Below that, you will find information on pricing, imprint sizes, and additional details. You can place an order directly from that page or request further information by following the buttons at the bottom of that page.

Can I Get A Specific PMS® Color?

A PMS® (Pantone Matching System) color is a numbering system used by printers and the promotional product industry to give you the closest match to the color you want.

Because we use different vendors and factories for production, a “purple” cup may differ from a “purple” key chain. If you must match the color, it is best to discuss this with your customer service representative. Some of our suppliers can provide a very close PMS® match, but the best option may be full-color digital printing. Contact Customer Service for details.

You can see a list of PMS® colors here.

More information on the PMS® color matching system, or find ordering information for your personal PMS Color book.

See also” Marketing With Color” for a blog post on the current colors used in marketing.

Q: What is the minimum order quantity?

A: Minimums vary by product, but most start around 100 units. If you need less than the minimum quantity, some of our suppliers will offer a reduced rate with a minimum order charge. You will find minimum order requirements on the Product Information Page.

Q: What is the typical turnaround time?

A: Standard production time is 7–10 business days after artwork approval. Rush service may be available. This information is available on the Product Information Page.

Q: Can I place a rush order?

A: Yes, while our standard production times vary by product and supplier, typically ranging from 7 to 10 days, many items are eligible for rush service with expedited shipping and processing, often at an additional fee.

This requires us to contact one of our factories to ensure we can meet your requirements. The best way to obtain information on this is to complete a Quote Request Form. That form is here at https://bagwellpromotions.com/get-a-quote/. This service is provided free of charge, with no obligation. Please note that most of our factories operate from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, so we may not be able to provide an immediate answer to your urgent question.

Do you have Made In The USA Promotional Products?

Yes. That is especially important for many businesses, given the possibility of tariffs on imports from China.

While some of our products are produced and decorated overseas, most of the promotional products on our website are imprinted in the United States. We recognize that many people want 100% USA-made promotional Products, and we have a large selection of those items. See What Does “Made In USA” Mean?

We also have products that are produced in a Union Shop, if that is a requirement.

However, despite our best efforts, some promotional items are unavailable as USA-made. Please let us know if you have specific needs, and we will work hard to find a solution.

Q: Is it possible to get samples before placing a large order?

A: Yes, Bagwell Promotions offers samples for most of its products. Some are free; others may have a small fee. Once you are on the Product Information Page, look for the Request Info Button. Send your request there. We will contact you if there is a charge. Please provide a shipping address. Generally, we ship UPS or FedEx, so a physical address is preferred over a P.O. Box.

💰 Pricing & Payment

Q: How are promotional products priced?

A: Pricing is based on quantity, imprint method, number of colors, item complexity, and shipping location. Volume discounts apply.

Q: Do you charge setup fees?

A: Most products have a setup fee for imprinting. This covers preparing equipment for custom printing. It’s often waived for repeat orders. Information on setup charges is available on the Product Information Page.

Q: What payment methods are accepted?

A: Bagwell Promotions accepts major credit cards and checks. Purchase orders require pre-approval.

🌎 Shipping & Delivery

Q: Do you ship internationally?

A: Yes, Bagwell Promotions can arrange international shipping. Customs fees and delivery times vary by country.

Q: Can I ship my order to multiple locations?

A: Yes, split shipping is available. This is sometimes called “drop shipping,” and Fees may apply depending on the number of locations.

Q: How is shipping calculated?

Shipping is based on weight, dimensions, destination, and carrier rates (e.g., UPS, FedEx). We always quote the most reasonable shipping, but we can provide rush shipment if you need an order on a specific date. We are unable to provide shipping information when you place your order; however, we will confirm this with you in a confirmation email. Your credit card will not be charged until you approve the shipping quote. In some cases, we can use your shipping address instead of your shipping number if you prefer. Please provide us with specific shipping instructions when you place your order.

More Promotional Products Frequently Asked Questions

✅ Customer Satisfaction & Policies

Q: What if I’m not satisfied with my order?

A: Bagwell Promotions stands behind its products. If there is a mistake or defect, they will work with you to resolve the issue through a reprint or refund, depending on the situation.

Q: What is your return policy on custom items?

A: Because items are customized, returns are only accepted for defects or errors caused by Bagwell Promotions or their vendors. You are responsible for verifying the proof we send.

Q: Can I reorder an item with the same logo later?

A: Yes, reorders are easy. Most of our suppliers retain artwork on file for one year. Some longer. If your artwork is on file, setup fees are generally either reduced or, in some cases, may be waived.

📈 Marketing & Strategic Use

Q: How do promotional products compare to other marketing methods?

A: They offer a tangible, long-lasting brand touchpoint. Studies show they create more positive brand impressions and have a lower cost-per-impression than traditional advertising.

Q: When is the best time to use promotional products?

A: Product launches, grand openings, trade shows, holidays, employee appreciation events, fundraisers, and school activities are all significant occasions.

Q: How do I choose the right product for my campaign?

A: Consider your audience, goals, budget, and distribution method. For example, tech items are great for young professionals, while magnets or pens are ideal for broad outreach.

📚 Education & Resources

Q: Do you offer assistance in selecting promotional products?

A: Yes, Bagwell Promotions offers expert guidance and can recommend products based on your goals, audience, and budget.

Q: Is there a catalog or online store I can browse?

A: Yes, the Bagwell Promotions website includes an extensive searchable catalog and seasonal recommendations.

The best way to find information on a specific product is to use the online catalog. You can access the catalog from any page on our website. In the top right-hand corner, you will see a box labeled “Quick Product Search” or “What Are You Looking For?” Enter a product description, such as ‘Red Coffee Cups’. That takes you to a page with multiple options. Click on an item to view its specific details on the Product Information Page.

👷‍♂️ Specialty Services

Q: Do you offer fulfillment services?
A: Yes, Bagwell Promotions can handle fulfillment, packaging, and direct shipping to recipients.

Q: Can I personalize items with individual names?
A: Yes, many items can be individually personalized, great for awards, recognition, or employee gifts.

Q: Do you support fundraisers or nonprofits?
A: Absolutely! Special pricing, campaign consulting, and low-cost giveaway options are available for eligible organizations.

Still have questions? Check out our Promotional Products Frequently Asked Questions.

We’re here to help! If your question wasn’t answered in our Promotional Products Frequently Asked Questions, don’t hesitate to contact our friendly team of promotional product specialists.

Let Bagwell Promotions help you leave a lasting impression—one promotional item at a time.

For More Ways To Promote Your Business Or Nonprofit, See The Marketing Resource Blog.

Promotional Products Frequently Asked Questions