Buyers who request quotes for HF (high frequency) printing often get very different figures from two suppliers. Usually the quotes rest on different assumptions: one lists the mold separately while the other spreads it across the unit price, or one assumes a single colour while the other prices two layers. This guide explains what drives HF printing cost and what information to prepare so quotes can be compared fairly. It gives no prices, because the price comes from the combination of the variables below.
The main cost drivers
- Mold: In HF printing the logo is produced with a metal mold that forms the relief and the cutting edge in one step. Mold cost depends on the size of the design, its level of detail and the number of relief levels. It is usually a one-off cost per design and can be reused when the same logo is reordered at the same size. A change in logo size or linework means a new mold.
- Quantity: The mold, machine setup and sampling work are fixed costs. On a small order they are spread over a few pieces; on a large order, over many. That is why the unit price tends to fall as quantity rises.
- Material: TPU or PVC film, film thickness, surface finish (matte, gloss, metallic) and custom colours all change the material cost. The adhesive backing and the carrier film are part of the same set. See the Premium TPU film page for finish and colour options.
- Colours and layers: Multi-colour designs are usually built as layers. Each extra layer adds material, alignment work and another press step.
- Size and placement: A large badge means fewer pieces per press cycle. Very small text and fine lines can raise both mold work and the risk of rejects.
- Application method: Will the badge be delivered as a separate piece, or welded directly onto a cut garment panel? Working on cut panels adds handling and positioning steps.
- Samples and testing: The number of sample rounds and any wash, rub or yellowing tests you require add to the total.
What to prepare before asking for a quote
- A vector logo file (AI, EPS or PDF) and the exact size in millimetres.
- Colour references (for example Pantone codes) and the finish you want: matte, gloss or metallic.
- Order quantity and how often you expect to reorder. This tells the supplier how many orders the mold cost will be spread over.
- Fabric type, elastane content and where the badge sits on the garment.
- Application method: separate badge or direct welding?
- Target wash temperature, number of cycles and your brand’s material specification, for example whether PVC is restricted.
- How many samples you need and which tests are part of approval.
Comparing quotes
Compare total cost, not just the unit price. Check whether the mold is listed separately, whether samples are included, which film and thickness were assumed and how many colours were priced. Sending the same written brief to every supplier makes it clear where the differences come from. For the technical background, read what HF printing is, and see the HF printing service page for scope.
Related solutions
This article was summarised and commented on by the LTS Frekans editorial team, drawing on the source article.
