7 Labeling and Packaging Mistakes That Cause Rejections

Every product that reaches the market must meet strict labeling and packaging standards to ensure compliance, safety, and consumer trust. Whether you’re selling electronics, food products, pharmaceuticals, or consumer goods, accurate labeling and secure packaging are essential for customs clearance, regulatory approval, and customer satisfaction.

However, even minor labeling and packaging mistakes can lead to serious consequences. Many businesses experience product rejections, shipment delays, or even legal penalties due to overlooked errors. Customs authorities and regulatory agencies worldwide enforce strict guidelines, and failure to comply can result in goods being detained, returned, or outright banned from sale.

Beyond regulatory risks, poor packaging can cause physical damage during transit, reducing product quality and increasing returns. Misleading or missing product information can also erode customer trust and lead to costly recalls. To help businesses avoid these pitfalls, we’ll explore seven common labeling and packaging mistakes that often result in product rejections.

Mistake 1. Incorrect or Missing Product Information

One of the most common reasons for product rejections is incorrect or missing information on labels. Every product label serves a critical purpose—it provides essential details that help consumers, regulatory bodies, and retailers understand what the product is, how to use it, and whether it meets compliance standards. A single mistake in labeling can result in shipment delays, customs rejections, or even legal action.

Why Accurate Labeling Matters

For a product to be legally sold, its labeling must be accurate, complete, and compliant with the relevant regulations in the target market. Some of the key details that must be clearly stated on a label include:

Product name – The official or commonly recognized name of the product.
Ingredients or materials – For food, cosmetics, or pharmaceuticals, listing all ingredients is required to inform consumers and prevent allergic reactions.
Net weight or volume – Many regions, including the U.S., EU, and China, require precise weight and volume details.
Manufacturer details – Including the company’s name, address, and contact information.
Instructions for use – Especially critical for electronics, chemicals, and pharmaceuticals to ensure consumer safety.
Storage conditions – Certain products, such as perishable goods and medical supplies, require specific temperature and handling instructions.

If any of these details are missing, incorrect, or misleading, the product can be rejected by customs authorities or regulatory agencies, preventing it from entering the market.

Ensuring Compliance with Industry Standards

Different industries have specific labeling requirements, and failing to adhere to these regulations can cause major compliance issues. Some of the most well-known regulatory bodies include:

FDA (U.S. Food and Drug Administration) – Enforces strict labeling laws for food, drugs, and medical devices in the U.S.
EU Regulations (CE Marking, REACH, CLP, etc.) – Governs product labeling standards across European markets.
ISO (International Organization for Standardization) – Provides global labeling standards for industrial products, chemicals, and safety compliance.
GS1 Standards – Governs barcode accuracy to ensure products can be correctly identified across international supply chains.

To avoid costly errors and product rejections, businesses must ensure their product labels comply with all regulatory requirements in their target markets. Regular compliance checks, professional translation services, and expert quality control inspections can help prevent mistakes before products are shipped.

By prioritizing accurate and compliant labeling, companies can avoid unnecessary risks and ensure their products reach consumers without disruption.

Mistake 2: Non-Compliance with Regulatory Requirements

Regulatory compliance is one of the most critical factors in product labeling and packaging. Every country has strict requirements regarding product safety, consumer information, and environmental impact. Failing to meet these standards can lead to customs rejections, product recalls, and legal penalties—significantly affecting a company’s reputation and bottom line.

Key Global Compliance Standards

Different markets enforce specific labeling regulations, and businesses must stay updated on these requirements to avoid compliance failures. Here are some of the most important global labeling and packaging regulations:

CE Marking (European Economic Area) – Products sold in the EU must carry the CE mark, indicating compliance with health, safety, and environmental protection standards.
FDA Labeling Regulations (United States) – The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) sets strict labeling rules for food, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and medical devices. Non-compliance can lead to product bans and recalls.
RoHS (Restriction of Hazardous Substances Directive, EU) – Ensures that electrical and electronic products do not contain hazardous substances like lead, mercury, or cadmium.
REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorization, and Restriction of Chemicals, EU) – Requires manufacturers to register and disclose chemicals used in their products, ensuring consumer safety.
CLP (Classification, Labeling, and Packaging, EU) – Establishes standards for the classification and labeling of hazardous chemicals to protect consumers and workers.
Prop 65 (California, U.S.) – Requires businesses to provide clear warnings if products contain chemicals known to cause cancer, birth defects, or reproductive harm.
GHS (Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labeling of Chemicals) – A worldwide system that standardizes hazard symbols, warning labels, and safety data sheets for chemical products.

Common Labeling Compliance Errors

Many companies fail to comply with regulatory standards due to errors in safety labels, warning symbols, and mandatory information. Some of the most frequent mistakes include:

Missing or Incorrect Safety Symbols – Certain industries require hazard symbols (e.g., flammable, toxic, corrosive), and missing these icons can lead to immediate rejection.
Failure to List Ingredients and Materials – In sectors like food, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals, labels must clearly display all ingredients and active substances.
Incorrect Language Requirements – Many countries require product labels to be in multiple languages. For example, Canada mandates English and French labeling for most consumer goods.
Improper Use of CE or FDA Marks – Some companies wrongly apply CE or FDA logos without actually meeting the required standards—leading to legal consequences and recalls.
Non-Compliant Warning Labels – Failing to include mandatory allergy warnings, age restrictions, or safety instructions can result in product bans.
Barcode and Tracking Code Issues – Retailers and customs officials often rely on barcodes and QR codes for product verification. If the codes are missing or unreadable, shipments may be delayed or rejected.

Mistake 3: Poor Print Quality and Illegible Labels

Even if a product label contains the correct information, poor print quality can still lead to rejections at customs, compliance failures, and lost sales. Illegible labels make it difficult for consumers, retailers, and regulatory authorities to verify product details, increasing the risk of non-compliance and supply chain disruptions.

The Risks of Low-Quality Printing

Many companies overlook the importance of high-resolution printing, assuming that as long as the information is present, it will be accepted. However, labels that are blurry, faded, or smudged can result in:

Shipment Rejections – Customs officials may reject poorly printed labels if barcodes, product details, or safety warnings are not readable.
Retailer Refusals – Major retailers have strict labeling requirements and may refuse products if labels fail scanning tests or do not meet branding standards.
Consumer Confusion – Smudged or faded labels can make it difficult for consumers to read critical information like ingredients, usage instructions, or expiration dates.

Why Durable, Smudge-Proof Labels Matter

A high-quality label must remain intact and legible throughout the product’s lifecycle—from manufacturing to distribution and retail shelves. Labels must be able to withstand:

Heat and Humidity – Products exposed to high temperatures or moisture, such as food, beverages, and pharmaceuticals, require heat-resistant and waterproof labels.
Friction and Handling – Labels on industrial equipment, electronics, and shipping cartons must resist scratching, peeling, and fading.
Chemical Exposure – Household cleaners, cosmetics, and automotive products need solvent-resistant printing to maintain clarity despite contact with liquids or chemicals.

By prioritizing high-quality, durable labels, businesses can prevent costly compliance issues, rejected shipments, and customer dissatisfaction, ensuring smooth market entry and long-term success.

Mistake 4: Incorrect Barcode and Serial Number Formatting

Barcodes, QR codes, and serial numbers play a critical role in supply chain management, product tracking, and inventory control. When these elements are misformatted, unreadable, or incorrectly placed, they can cause shipping delays, customs rejections, and retailer refusals. Ensuring barcode accuracy and compliance with GS1 standards is essential for seamless logistics and product traceability.

The Role of Barcodes, QR Codes, and Tracking Numbers in Supply Chain Management

Barcodes and tracking numbers serve multiple essential functions in product distribution:

Inventory Management – Warehouses and retailers rely on scannable barcodes to track product quantities and locations.
Retail Checkout and Sales Tracking – Point-of-sale (POS) systems require accurate barcodes to process transactions. Misformatted or unreadable codes can lead to checkout errors and sales disruptions.
Customs Clearance and Regulatory Compliance – Many countries require GS1-compliant barcodes for product classification. Incorrectly formatted barcodes can result in import/export delays.
Counterfeit Prevention and Product Authentication – Unique serial numbers and QR codes help verify product authenticity, especially in industries like electronics, pharmaceuticals, and luxury goods.
Returns and Warranty Claims – Manufacturers use serial numbers to track warranty periods and handle product returns efficiently.

Common Barcode Mistakes That Lead to Rejections

Businesses frequently overlook barcode accuracy, leading to supply chain disruptions and regulatory issues. The most common barcode mistakes include:

Wrong Barcode Format – Different industries and retailers require specific barcode types (e.g., UPC, EAN, Code 128, Data Matrix). Using the wrong format can make the product unsellable.
Incorrect Barcode Placement – Barcodes must be positioned in a scannable location. Placing them on curved surfaces, folds, or seams can make them difficult to read.
Unreadable or Low-Quality Printing – Barcodes that are too small, blurry, or smudged can become unreadable. Poor print quality can lead to scanning failures at warehouses, customs, and retail checkouts.
Duplicate or Missing Serial Numbers – Products should have unique serial numbers for proper tracking. Duplicate or missing numbers can lead to inventory confusion and compliance violations.
Non-Compliance with GS1 Standards – The GS1 system sets global barcode formatting guidelines. If a barcode does not meet GS1 specifications, retailers and logistics providers may reject the shipment.

Ensuring Compliance with GS1 Standards for Barcode Accuracy

To avoid barcode-related issues, companies must follow GS1 barcode guidelines and perform quality control checks before distributing products. Key best practices include:

Choose the Correct Barcode Type – Use the appropriate barcode format for the industry and region. For example, UPC barcodes are standard in North America, while EAN codes are used internationally.
Follow Size and Placement Guidelines – GS1 recommends barcodes to be at least 32 mm wide and 19 mm high with clear quiet zones (blank space around the barcode) to ensure optimal scanability.
Test Print Quality – Use high-resolution printers and verify barcode readability under different lighting conditions and scanner types.
Verify Data Accuracy – Ensure that all serial numbers, GTINs (Global Trade Item Numbers), and product codes are accurate and properly encoded.
Perform Barcode Audits – Regularly inspect barcodes using scanning equipment to detect formatting issues before shipment.

By implementing proper barcode management practices, businesses can prevent supply chain disruptions, ensure smooth customs clearance, and maintain compliance with retailer requirements.

Mistake 5: Inadequate Packaging Protection

Proper packaging is essential for protecting products during transit, storage, and handling. Insufficient packaging can lead to damaged goods, increased return rates, and customer dissatisfaction, ultimately resulting in financial losses and reputational damage. Ensuring that packaging meets industry, logistics, and retailer requirements is crucial to preventing product rejections and ensuring compliance.

The Risks of Damaged Goods Due to Poor Packaging

Products face multiple hazards throughout the supply chain, from factory handling to final delivery. If packaging is not properly designed to withstand external forces, the risk of product damage increases significantly.

Fragile Items – Glassware, electronics, and delicate components require shock-absorbent packaging to prevent breakage.
Perishable Goods – Food, pharmaceuticals, and temperature-sensitive products need insulated and temperature-controlled packaging to maintain freshness and safety.
Heavy or Bulky Products – Large machinery, industrial equipment, and heavy goods must be secured with reinforced packaging to avoid damage during shipping.

By using protective packaging strategies, companies can minimize damages, reduce returns, and improve overall customer satisfaction.

Ensuring that packaging aligns with logistics and retailer specifications helps businesses avoid unnecessary rejections, reduces supply chain disruptions, and enhances product marketability.

Mistake 6: Missing or Incorrect Expiration Dates

Expiration dates play a crucial role in product safety, compliance, and consumer trust. Failing to properly label expiration dates—or using incorrect formatting—can result in regulatory rejections, product recalls, and supply chain disruptions. Businesses must ensure that expiration dates are clearly visible, accurately formatted, and compliant with industry standards to avoid legal and financial consequences.

How Incorrect Shelf-Life Labeling Leads to Regulatory Rejection

Regulatory authorities across various industries enforce strict guidelines on expiration date labeling to protect consumers and ensure product integrity. If a product has missing, smudged, or misleading date information, it risks being rejected at customs, pulled from shelves, or even recalled.

Common issues with expiration date labeling include:

Omitted Expiration Dates – Some manufacturers fail to include an expiration date, assuming it is unnecessary for certain products. However, most industries require a clearly defined shelf-life to comply with global safety regulations.
Illegible or Faded Printing – Poor print quality can make expiration dates unreadable, leading to customer complaints and regulatory action.
Mislabeled or Incorrect Dates – A misprinted expiration date can cause early disposal of products or, worse, the sale of expired goods, leading to legal penalties and reputational damage.

Regulatory agencies such as the FDA (U.S.), EFSA (EU), and CFDA (China) mandate accurate expiration date labeling, especially for food, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and medical devices. Products that do not meet these standards may face import bans, hefty fines, and loss of market access.

The Importance of Clear Date Formatting (DD/MM/YYYY vs. MM/DD/YYYY)

One of the most overlooked issues in labeling is date format inconsistency. Different regions follow different conventions, which can lead to confusion and incorrect product usage.

U.S. Standard: MM/DD/YYYY (Month/Day/Year)
European & International Standard: DD/MM/YYYY (Day/Month/Year)
ISO 8601 Standard: YYYY-MM-DD (Year-Month-Day)

A product labeled 06/07/2025 could mean July 6, 2025 (U.S.) or June 7, 2025 (EU), depending on the market. Such inconsistencies can confuse retailers and consumers, leading to accidental early disposal or expired product consumption.

To ensure clarity:

Use an internationally recognized format such as YYYY-MM-DD when selling globally.
Include additional labeling cues such as “EXP” (Expiration Date) or “Best Before” to avoid misinterpretation.
Use high-quality printing methods that ensure expiration dates remain visible throughout the product’s shelf life.

Industry-Specific Expiration Date Regulations for Food, Pharmaceuticals, and Cosmetics

Different industries have unique requirements for shelf-life labeling to maintain safety and compliance.

1. Food Industry

“Best Before” vs. “Use By” Dates – “Best Before” refers to quality, while “Use By” indicates safety. Mislabeling these can result in consumer confusion and regulatory action.
Storage Instructions – Some regulations require temperature and handling information alongside expiration dates.

2. Pharmaceuticals & Medical Devices

The FDA and EMA (European Medicines Agency) mandate that expiration dates be clearly visible and backed by stability testing to ensure medication efficacy.
Products missing expiration dates can face immediate recalls or rejection at customs.

3. Cosmetics & Personal Care

Many countries require “Period After Opening” (PAO) symbols alongside expiration dates to inform consumers about safe usage timeframes.
In the EU, cosmetic products with a shelf life of less than 30 months must display a clear expiration date.

By ensuring accurate and compliant expiration date labeling, businesses can avoid product rejections, enhance consumer trust, and maintain seamless global distribution.

Mistake 7: Failure to Use Multilingual Labeling

Expanding into global markets requires more than just meeting basic packaging and labeling requirements. Many regions enforce strict multilingual labeling regulations to ensure consumers can understand product information, safety instructions, and legal disclaimers in their native languages. Failing to comply can result in product rejections, import bans, legal penalties, and lost sales opportunities.

Markets That Require Multiple Languages on Product Packaging

Several countries mandate that product labels, safety instructions, and compliance information be available in multiple languages to accommodate diverse consumer bases.

European Union (EU): Depending on the country, labels must be in one or more official EU languages. For example, Belgium requires French, Dutch, and German, while Spain may require both Spanish and regional languages like Catalan.
Canada: All consumer products must feature both English and French under the Consumer Packaging and Labelling Act.
Middle East: Countries like Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Egypt require Arabic labeling alongside English or other regional languages.
Asia-Pacific: China, Japan, and South Korea mandate labeling in their official languages, with specific requirements for food, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals.

Exporters must research local regulations to ensure that products meet language compliance laws before shipment.

Proper labeling and packaging are more than just aesthetic concerns—they are essential for regulatory compliance, supply chain efficiency, and customer trust. The seven common mistakes we covered can lead to shipment rejections, legal penalties, and lost revenue, making it crucial for businesses to stay vigilant and proactive.

To succeed in the highly regulated global marketplace, businesses must take a proactive approach to labeling and packaging compliance. This includes:

Conducting regular quality control checks to identify errors before products reach distributors.
Staying updated with changing regulatory requirements in different markets.
Using high-quality materials and printing to ensure labels remain durable and readable.
Working with industry experts to navigate complex compliance standards and avoid costly mistakes.

Ensure Compliance with ECQA’s Expert Inspection Services

At ECQA, we specialize in third-party inspection and compliance services to help businesses avoid costly labeling and packaging errors. Our team ensures your products meet global standards, industry regulations, and retailer requirements, reducing the risk of customs rejections and supply chain disruptions.

Our Services Include:

Label and Packaging Compliance Inspections
Regulatory Audits for International Markets
Pre-Shipment Inspections to Prevent Errors
Customized Compliance Solutions for Your Industry