A swing ticket is a removable tag attached to a product, usually a printed card hung from string, ribbon or another fastener. Also called a swing tag or hang tag, it can carry your brand name, price, size and other information that helps a shopper choose an item.
On clothing, a swing ticket adds information at the point of sale and is usually removed before the garment is worn. It has a different role from a sewn-in brand label or a care label that the owner can refer to later.
What are swing tickets used for?
A useful swing ticket does three jobs:
- Introduces your brand. Your logo, colours and choice of card help the product feel part of a recognisable range.
- Helps the shopper. Product details, sizing and pricing can answer questions without someone needing to find a member of staff.
- Supports the retailer. An agreed product reference, barcode or space for a shop's own sticker can help staff identify and sell the right item.
Swing tickets work on clothing, accessories, gifts and handmade goods. A maker selling at a craft fair may need a different layout from a clothing brand supplying several shops. Start with how the item will be sold, then decide what the ticket needs to do.
Swing tickets for retail: plan the practical details first
Before finalising the design, ask your retailer what information and sticker space they need. Do not assume every shop uses the same barcode, price label or security system.
Think about the product on its rail, shelf or display. Can shoppers find the ticket, read the important details and turn it over? Can staff reach and scan any barcode without removing the tag? Keep the attachment clear of the information and check that it will not mark or distort the product.
What information can go on a swing ticket?
Give the most useful information enough space before adding extra messages. A simple front-and-back layout often makes this easier.
| Part of the ticket | Possible content |
|---|---|
| Brand identity | Your name, logo and a short message that fits the product. |
| Product details | Item name, style reference, colour or size where relevant. |
| Retail information | Agreed pricing, barcode or space for the retailer's own label. |
| Optional next step | A website, social handle or QR code with a clear reason to use it. |
These are layout suggestions, not a universal list of requirements. Keep claims about the product accurate and avoid filling every available space. For clothing information that needs separate planning, see our UK and EU clothing-labelling guide.
How to choose your swing-ticket design
1. Choose the card and finish
The surface affects how the tag looks and feels alongside your product. Our swing-tag range includes these options:
| Option | Appearance |
|---|---|
| Kraft swing tags | Natural brown card for a warm, understated look. |
| Gloss swing tags | A shiny surface for a polished presentation. |
| Silk swing tags | Smooth, low-sheen coated card; the name describes the finish, not silk fabric. |
| Recycled pulp swing tags | A textured appearance from recycled paper fibres. |
Check the individual product page for sizes, quantities and attachment choices. If you are comparing finishes, a physical sample can help you judge the surface and feel more easily than a photograph.
2. Allow room for the shape, hole and attachment
A small tag may suit a delicate accessory, while a larger format can hold more product information. Sketch the layout at its intended size before choosing. Keep important text clear of the punched hole, edges and any folds.
String, ribbon, eyelets and other fasteners contribute to the finished appearance. Check what is included with your selected option, how it will attach to the product and whether any bespoke shape or finish needs a separate quote.
3. Make the artwork easy to read
Use a clear order: brand first, useful product information next, then any optional message. Check small text at actual print size and use the artwork template or specification agreed for your chosen format.
If you include a retail barcode, preserve the clear space around it and keep it away from holes, folds and trimming edges. Confirm the retailer's barcode requirements before printing. For a website QR code, check the destination and test a printed example at the intended size. A code on a screen is not a complete check of the finished tag.
4. Check the ticket on the actual product
Try the proposed position and cord length on a representative item. Look at it as a customer would: on display, in the hand and alongside your other packaging. Check that the ticket stays readable and the fastener suits the fabric or product.
Common swing-ticket questions
Are swing tickets, swing tags and hang tags the same thing?
Yes. These names commonly describe the removable tag attached to clothing or another retail product. Specify the card, size, printing and attachment when ordering so the terminology does not leave the details unclear.
Does every swing ticket need a barcode?
It depends on how the product will be sold. Ask your retailer or sales partner which code or sticker space they require. A craft-fair price tag and a tag for a retailer's checkout system can have different needs.
Can I use swing tickets for handmade products?
Yes. They can identify the maker, show a price or product reference and add a short story to gifts, accessories and handmade ranges. Choose the amount of information and attachment to suit the item.
Plan your custom swing tickets
Browse our custom swing tags or explore our label sample packs. For help with a bespoke size, shape, finish or attachment, contact GB Labels with your product details and artwork.
Thanks for reading!
Pete
