What is a label die?

What is a die & why do I need to pay for a new one?

In printing terms, a die is a blade that has been formed into a specific shape or pattern for cutting paper or other substrates.

Most label jobs require the use of a die to cut the labels to size and shape, while not cutting through the label lining underneath. Whilst most label printing companies have a large library of 'existing' dies that can be used for generic sizes or shapes, if you require an irregular shape or a non-standard size, you may be asked to pay for the cost of a new die.

How much do label dies cost?

Dies used for label printing are generally divided into two categories: flatbed dies and rotary dies. Flatbed dies are usually used in flat sheet printing processes like letterpress and offset printing, and rotary dies are used in roll-fed printing processes.

If your labels are supplied on rolls, then they will have been manufactured using a roll-fed printing process. The price range for a flatbed die would usually be between $80 & $200. The price range for a rotary die would usually be between $150 and $600.

The smaller a label shape is the higher the die cost will be, as small shapes are repeated more times on the die layout. For example, if a printing press can print 250mm wide and your shape is 100mm x 100mm, the manufacturer may use a die that is 2 repeats across and 2 repeats around (4 up). If your shape is 50mm x 50mm, the same manufacturer would use a die that is 4 repeats across and 4 repeats around (8 up). The 8 up layout requires considerably more blade (or rule) than the 4 up shape and is therefore more expensive.

Do I need to pay for it on every order?

It would be unusual to be expected to pay for a new die on every order. Dies are not considered to be a consumable product so all label manufacturers should have a system for storing dies for use on repeat orders. If your label is the same size and shape as ordered previously, the manufacturer will have the die in storage so they will not incur any new die charges on a repeat order.

There may be very select circumstances where extra thick or abrasive materials are used that accelerate die wear, or where print quantities are very high (tens of millions per order) where the customer is required to pay for a new die charge on every order, but this would be rare.

Does a die wear out?

Yes, dies become blunt with use and require sharpening or (more likely) replacing. In most instances a label printer will not expect you to pay for a replacement die as most quoting systems would include a very small charge per metre of material to cover for the cost of a replacement die.

If I pay for the die, do I own it, or is it owned by the printing company?

This can vary from manufacturer to manufacturer so should always be clarified prior to placing an order. However in most instances the manufacturer would retain ownership of the die as they order it off a die maker to the exact specifications to suit their printing press which usually means another manufacturer could not use the same die.

If you have concerns or questions about die charges from your label supplier, reach out to Cohesion Labels today. Our experience, transparency and expertise in label printing mean we give honest advice. We make it as easy as possible to order labels. In fact, our philosophy is to make it as easy as possible for Australian businesses to do business.


Cohesion Labels is a local Australian label manufacturer you can trust. We might be almost 100 years old, but we’re young at heart! As one of Australia’s most experienced label producers, we combine a history that stretches back to 1925 with the industry’s most modern and innovative mindset. Get in touch with us for a quote - We'd love to see how we could make labelling easy for you!