FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions About Industrial Labels, Nameplates & Metalphoto®
Whether you’re ordering durable equipment labels, Metalphoto® nameplates, barcode labels, asset tags, or custom identification products, these FAQs answer many of the most common questions our customers ask. If you don’t see your question here, contact our team for assistance.
FAQ SUMMARY
- Typical lead time: 10-15 business days
- Metalphoto outdoor life: 30 years
- Barcode and UID labels available
- ISO 9001:2015 certified
- Samples available upon request
Ordering & Pricing
How quickly can I receive my order?
Our standard production lead time is typically 10-15 business days. Depending on material selection, order quantity, and production requirements, expedited manufacturing may be available. Contact us to discuss your timeline.
How much does a custom sticker or label cost?
Pricing varies based on several factors. To provide an accurate quote, we typically need:
- Material type
- Label dimensions
- Quantity required
Additional factors such as printing method, colors, adhesives, and special finishes may also affect pricing. Once material, size, and quantity details are provided, our team can prepare a quote.
How do I get a quote?
Requesting a quote is easy. Visit our Quote Request Page and provide details about your project, including material, size, quantity, application environment, and artwork requirements.
Can I get a shipping estimate before ordering?
Shipping costs depend on multiple variables, including:
- Product weight
- Package dimensions
- Delivery destination
- Shipping method
Because these factors are finalized during production, shipping costs are generally determined closer to the shipping stage.
Artwork, Samples & New Customer Information
What artwork files and purchase order information do you require?
To ensure a smooth production process, customers should follow our artwork and purchase order requirements. Please refer to our Artwork & PO Requirements Sheet for complete specifications, accepted file formats, and submission guidelines.
Can I receive samples before placing an order?
Yes. We can provide a pre-printed sample pack upon request so you can evaluate material options, print quality, and product durability.
How do I become a new customer?
To establish an account with STRYKER, complete our New Customer Forms. Once submitted, our team will review your information and guide you through the ordering process.
Contact our team directly to see if your needs fit our abilities!
Materials, Durability & Performance
How long do adhesives last?
Our standard adhesives are rated for approximately two years of shelf life when stored under recommended environmental conditions.
Which materials offer the highest corrosion resistance?
For harsh environments, the most corrosion-resistant options are typically:
These materials are widely used in military, aerospace, marine, oil and gas, and heavy industrial applications.
How long does Metalphoto® last outdoors?
Metalphoto® photographic anodized aluminum is rated for 30+ years of outdoor durability, making it an excellent choice for long-term equipment identification and asset tracking applications.
Is Metalphoto® made with ink or paint?
Neither. Metalphoto® images are permanently sealed within the anodized aluminum layer rather than being printed on the surface with ink or paint. This process provides exceptional durability and resistance to abrasion, chemicals, UV exposure, and environmental conditions.
What is the difference between Metalphoto® and engraved nameplates?
Both materials provide durable identification, but they use different manufacturing methods.
- Metalphoto® embeds images within anodized aluminum.
- Engraving physically removes material from a substrate to create text and graphics.
The best option depends on your environment, durability requirements, and budget.
Does Metalphoto® come in colors?
Standard Metalphoto® products feature a black image on a silver aluminum background.
Additional finishing and color options may include:
- Red
- Yellow
- Blue
- Green
- Purple
- Orange
We can also provide surface finishes that simulate:
- Gold
- Brass
- Copper
What colors can you print?
We can print virtually any color required by your design for digitally-printed products such as:
- Polycarbonate labels
- Vinyl labels
- Finished metal products
- Plastic nameplates
What is the largest size you can print?
Our maximum print sizes vary by material:
- Rigid Materials (Metal & Plastic)
- Up to 48" x 96"
- Flexible Materials (Vinyl)
- Up to 48" wide with virtually unlimited length
- Metalphoto®
- Standard: 20" x 24"
- Extended size upon request: 20" x 40"
Barcodes, UID Labels & Compliance
Can you produce barcode labels?
Yes. We can manufacture barcode labels using customer-supplied data and specifications.
Can you create UID labels?
Yes. We produce UID (Unique Identification) labels used for military, aerospace, and asset management applications using customer-supplied data and specifications.
Do your materials meet MIL-SPEC requirements?
Metalphoto® anodized aluminum is produced to meet numerous military and government specifications. Please visit our Metalphoto® page for specific standards and compliance information or contact our team regarding your application requirements.
Are you CMMC certified?
Our organization is currently in the process of obtaining Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC). Contact our team for the latest certification status and anticipated completion timeline.
Quality, Inspection & Documentation
Can you provide a Certificate of Conformance (CoC)?
Yes. Certificates of Conformance are available upon request and can be included with your order documentation.
What inspection and quality standards do you follow?
STRYKER operates under an ISO 9001:2015-certified quality management system that governs our manufacturing and inspection processes.
What if my order arrives with an issue?
If you identify any defects, discrepancies, or shipping damage, please notify our team within 72 hours of receipt so we can review the issue and determine the appropriate resolution.
Label Selection & Application
How do you determine the best adhesive for my application?
Tell us about the surface, operating conditions, and intended application environment, and our team will recommend an adhesive solution suited to your requirements.
Our team evaluates factors such as:
- Surface material
- Temperature exposure
- Moisture conditions
- Chemical exposure
- Outdoor versus indoor use
- Expected lifespan
Provide details about your application environment, and we'll recommend the most suitable adhesive.
How do I apply a pressure-sensitive label?
For best results:
- Clean the application surface thoroughly.
- Ensure the surface is completely dry.
- Remove the adhesive liner.
- Position the label carefully.
- Apply pressure from the center outward.
- Use a credit card or similar flat tool to remove air bubbles, particularly on thin materials.
How do I apply a die-cut vinyl label?
Please refer to our Die-Cut Vinyl Label Application Guide for detailed installation instructions and best practices.
Industries We Serve
What industries does STRYKER serve?
We manufacture durable identification products for demanding industries, including:
- Military and defense
- Aerospace
- Marine
- Oil and gas
- Heavy equipment manufacturing
- Industrial manufacturing
Our products are designed to withstand challenging environments where durability, traceability, and long-term identification are critical.
Still Have Questions?
Our team can help you select the right material, adhesive, printing method, and identification solution for your application.