Skip to main content
The Apparel Lab
Service · Promotional Items

Custom Promotional Items & Branded Merch

Go beyond apparel with branded merchandise that gets used and remembered. From trade show giveaways to employee onboarding kits, we source, brand, and deliver promotional items that represent your business well.

Get a Quote
+ Best For

Where this method shines

  • Trade show and event giveaways
  • Employee onboarding and welcome kits
  • Client appreciation and holiday gifts
  • Safety and compliance kit programs
  • Brand awareness campaigns
  • Bundled kits with apparel + promo items
— Not Ideal For

When to consider another method

  • Ultra-low-budget orders (quality promo items have real costs)
  • Extremely short timelines under 5 business days (most items need production lead time)
  • Products requiring FDA/medical certification
  • Items you need in quantities under 25 (some products have higher minimums)
/ Sec.02Pricing Drivers

What affects your price.

We quote every project individually. These are the variables that move the number.

  • 01Product selection (drinkware, tech, bags, and writing instruments vary widely)
  • 02Decoration method (screen print, pad print, laser engrave, full-color digital)
  • 03Quantity (per-unit cost decreases significantly at volume breakpoints)
  • 04Number of imprint colors and locations
  • 05Packaging (individual polybag, gift box, or custom kit assembly)
  • 06Kitting (bundling multiple items adds assembly and packaging costs)
/ Sec.03Process

Quote to delivery.

  1. 01Step

    Tell Us About Your Project

    Share your goals, budget range, audience, and timeline. We'll recommend the best products for your needs.

  2. 02Step

    Product Selection & Proof

    We source samples if needed, prepare digital proofs with your logo on the selected products, and get your approval.

  3. 03Step

    Production & Branding

    Your items are produced and branded using the best decoration method for each product: screen print, pad print, laser engrave, or digital print.

  4. 04Step

    Kitting & Delivery

    Items are assembled into kits if applicable, quality-checked, and shipped to your location or drop-shipped to multiple addresses.

/ Sec.04Lead Times

Turnaround.

After proof approval. Rush always subject to capacity.

TierStandard
10–15 business days after proof approval
TierRush
5–7 business days (limited product selection)
/ Sec.05File Specs

Artwork & files.

  • Vector files (AI, EPS, PDF) strongly preferred for most promo decoration methods
  • High-resolution PNG (300+ DPI) accepted for full-color digital printing
  • Logo should be clean and readable at small sizes (pens, keychains)
  • Provide PMS color codes for consistent branding across products
  • Simplified versions of complex logos may be needed for small imprint areas
/ Sec.06Catalog

Popular products for this method.

  • / 01

    Drinkware

    Tumblers, mugs, water bottles, and koozies. Laser-engraved or full-color.

  • / 02

    Bags & Totes

    Canvas totes, drawstring bags, laptop sleeves, and backpacks.

  • / 03

    Writing Instruments

    Pens, stylus pens, and markers, the #1 most-kept promo item.

  • / 04

    Tech Accessories

    Chargers, phone stands, webcam covers, and USB drives.

  • / 05

    Notebooks & Padfolios

    Branded journals, notepads, and professional padfolios.

  • / 06

    Custom Kits

    Onboarding boxes, trade show bags, safety kits, fully assembled and branded.

/ Sec.07FAQ

Common questions.

What's the minimum order for promotional items?

Minimums vary by product, typically 25–50 pieces for most items. Some premium items have higher minimums. We'll confirm when you request a quote.

Can you assemble custom kits?

Yes. Kitting is one of our specialties. We source, brand, and assemble multi-item kits (onboarding, trade show, safety, appreciation) and can ship to one location or drop-ship individually.

How far in advance should I order?

For standard orders, plan 2–3 weeks from approval to delivery. For large events or custom kits, 4–6 weeks is recommended. Rush options are available for many products.

Can I see a sample before committing?

Yes. We can provide unbranded stock samples for most products so you can evaluate quality before placing a full order. Sample costs may apply but are often credited toward your order.

Do you offer eco-friendly promotional items?

Yes. We carry a growing selection of sustainable products including bamboo, recycled materials, and reusable alternatives. Let us know if sustainability is a priority for your project.

Can you combine apparel and promo items in one order?

Absolutely. This is where we add the most value. We can bundle branded apparel with promotional items into cohesive kits, all produced and shipped together.

What decoration methods are used for promo items?

It depends on the product: screen print and pad print for plastics and fabrics, laser engraving for metal and glass, full-color digital for complex artwork, and debossing for leather goods.

Can you drop-ship to multiple addresses?

Yes. We support multi-address drop shipping for kits and individual items. Shipping fees apply per destination.

Ready to start your project?

Free, no-obligation quote, returned quickly.