Choosing a Flag Supplier: 7 Questions to Ask Before You Buy

Not all flag suppliers are created equal. Whether you need a single hand flag for a community event or a full set of display banners for your business, asking the right questions upfront can save you money, time, and disappointment.

Here are the seven questions every customer should ask a custom flag supplier before placing an order.

1. What Materials Do You Offer?

A good supplier should offer a range of materials suited to different applications. At minimum, they should carry:

• 100% polyester for everyday outdoor use
• Heavy-duty cotton for ceremonial and indoor display
• Hand flags for events and promotions
• Display banners for large-format advertising

If a supplier only offers one material, they may not have the right option for your specific needs. At Impact Flags, we stock all of the above and help you choose the right one for your purpose.

2. What Printing Method Do You Use?

The printing method directly affects colour quality and longevity. Dye sublimation is the gold standard for custom flags — it produces permanent, vibrant colours that won't crack or peel. Cheaper suppliers may use lower-quality printing that fades quickly.

Ask specifically: "Do you use dye sublimation?" If the answer is no, your flag's colours may not last.

3. Do You Use UV-Resistant Inks?

This is critical in Australia. Our UV levels are among the highest in the world, and standard inks will fade rapidly. UV-resistant inks are formulated to hold their colour longer under harsh sun exposure.

At Impact Flags, every flag is printed with UV-resistant inks as standard — not an expensive add-on.

4. Can You Help With Artwork?

Many customers have a general idea but no print-ready artwork. A good supplier should offer artwork support — either working with your existing designs or helping you create something from scratch.

We offer free artwork support on every order. Bring your own design or let us help you create one — there's no extra charge.

5. What Sizes Are Available?

Flags come in a wide range of sizes, from small hand flags to large display banners. Your supplier should be able to recommend the right size for your application:

• Hand flags: 300mm × 200mm for events and promotions
• Standard flags: 900mm × 600mm for flagpoles
• Display banners: Up to several metres wide for business frontage

If a supplier only offers one or two sizes, you may end up with a flag that's too small or too large for your needs.

6. What's the Turnaround Time?

If you need a flag for a specific event, turnaround time matters. Ask how long production takes and whether rush orders are available. A reliable supplier should give you a clear, honest timeline — not vague promises.

7. Can I See Examples of Your Work?

A supplier confident in their quality will have a gallery of previous work. Look for:

• Colour vibrancy and consistency
• Clean edges and finishing
• Variety of designs and applications
• Real-world installations, not just studio shots

You can view our gallery to see examples of our custom flags and banners in action.

Common Problems to Avoid

Fading After a Few Weeks

If a flag fades within weeks of outdoor display, the supplier used low-quality inks without UV protection. Always ask about UV-resistant inks.

Fraying at the Edges

Poor finishing — lack of reinforced stitching or hemming — leads to rapid fraying. Quality flags should have properly finished edges.

Colours Don't Match the Design

Cheap printing can produce washed-out or inaccurate colours. Dye sublimation ensures the colours match your digital design.

No Support After Purchase

A good supplier stands behind their product. If there's an issue with your flag, they should be reachable and willing to help.

Why Choose Impact Flags?

We're a Perth-based business that started with a simple goal: quality flags without the premium price tag. We partner with a trusted production company, offer free artwork support, use UV-resistant inks on every flag, and help you choose the right material for Australian conditions.

Get a free quote — no obligation, no pressure, just honest advice and quality flags.