Crestline, a provider of custom imprinted promotional products and corporate gifts, offers a free sample program for customers seeking to evaluate items before placing an order. The company provides these samples at no cost, covering both product and shipping expenses up to a specified limit. In addition to samples, Crestline markets a wide range of low-cost promotional items and giveaways designed for trade shows, corporate events, and marketing campaigns. These offers are primarily targeted at businesses and organizations looking to customize products with their logos or branding.
Free Sample Program Details
Crestline provides free samples to assist customers in reviewing product quality and appearance prior to purchasing. According to the company’s official website, samples are available to existing customers and non-customers alike, though the process and limitations differ between the two groups.
For existing customers, Crestline offers free samples with a value of up to $20, which includes the cost of the products and shipping. This offer is valid for registered customers within a twelve-month period. Existing customers are instructed to reach out to their designated Account Manager to request samples.
For individuals or businesses that are not yet registered customers, Crestline allows sample requests through an online form or by calling a toll-free number, 1-866-488-4975. Upon receiving a request, a Crestline Account Manager will contact the requester to assist with the sample process. It is noted that sample products may include a pre-imprinted logo, and specific product colors may not be available for selection. The company does not specify which brands or product categories are available as samples, but their inventory includes a variety of promotional items.
Eligibility and Request Process
The eligibility requirements for Crestline’s free sample program are straightforward:
- Existing Customers: Must be registered with Crestline and can request samples by contacting their Account Manager.
- Non-Customers: Must complete an online sample request form or call the provided phone number to initiate the process.
Once a request is submitted, a representative will follow up to discuss the available options and finalize the sample delivery. The process is designed to be low-friction, with no mention of complex forms, purchase requirements, or membership fees.
Product Categories and Promotional Giveaways
Crestline’s inventory includes a broad selection of promotional products suitable for trade shows, conferences, corporate gifting, and brand marketing. While the free sample program does not specify exact product categories, the company’s website highlights several types of items that are likely available for sampling or purchase.
Trade Show Giveaways Under $1
Crestline offers a selection of promotional items priced under $1, making them ideal for high-volume distribution at trade shows and events. Examples include:
- Lip balms
- Pens
- Reusable cups
These items can be customized with a company’s logo, colors, and name, ensuring brand visibility and recall. The company emphasizes that these affordable giveaways are both unique and functional, helping businesses leave a lasting impression without exceeding their budgets.
Corporate Gifts Under $5 and $10
In addition to sub-$1 items, Crestline provides more substantial corporate gifts in the under $5 and under $10 categories. These products are suitable for client appreciation, employee rewards, or event souvenirs. The availability of these items is confirmed on the company’s website, though specific product names are not listed in the provided source material.
Apparel and Wearable Swag
Crestline’s branded apparel items are highlighted as effective giveaway ideas for businesses seeking to increase brand exposure. Customizable options include:
- Baseball caps
- Messenger bags
- T-shirts
- Sunglasses
- Fleece jackets
- Winter gloves
These wearable items allow recipients to display the company’s logo in everyday settings, extending the reach of promotional campaigns beyond the initial point of contact.
Edible Promotional Items
Crestline also offers edible promotional giveaways, which are described as a popular choice for trade shows and conferences. Examples mentioned include:
- Gourmet cookies
- Snack trays
- Chocolate bars
- Candy tins
- Peanuts
These consumable items provide an immediate benefit to recipients and are noted for creating positive associations with the brand long after the event has concluded.
Customization and Branding Capabilities
A key feature of Crestline’s offerings is the ability to customize products with a company’s logo or design. The company provides free art services to assist customers in creating or refining their imprint designs. Experienced graphic designers are available to ensure that logos are optimized for each specific product, taking into account factors such as size, color, and placement.
For businesses without an existing logo, Crestline’s design team can help create a new design from scratch. This service is included at no additional cost, making it accessible for small businesses or startups looking to establish a brand identity.
Online Store Management
Crestline offers a free service to build custom online stores for corporate swag. These stores can be exclusive to employees or clients, providing a centralized platform for distributing branded merchandise. The online store solution is designed to simplify the management of promotional product orders and distribution.
Compliance and Quality Assurance
Crestline emphasizes that its product manufacturers monitor supply chains and use third-party laboratories to ensure compliance with applicable regulations, including:
- Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act (CPSIA)
- Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulations
- Federal Communications Commission (FCC) rules
- State-specific regulations
In select cases, California Proposition 65 requires warning labels on products or packaging shipped to and used in California. Customers are notified prior to production if such labels are necessary, and product substitutes may be offered if desired.
The company guarantees that custom imprinted items will be delivered exactly as approved in the proof, free from material defects. If an issue arises, Crestline’s resolutions team is tasked with making it right. However, because products are customized, returns are generally not accepted outside of material defects.
Customer Reviews and Feedback
Crestline’s trade show swag items have received positive feedback from customers. Sample reviews highlight satisfaction with product quality, affordability, and impact at events:
- “Love the shades (Cruise Retro Sunglasses)! These are a hit at tradeshows and conferences – highly recommend!” – Laura, CA
- “It (Flavored Lip Balm) was a big hit at our trade show and the quality was really good! I have previous experiences where the lip balms were very grainy feelings and these were nice and creamy feeling!” – Maya, NJ
- “I had been looking for a tumbler that was good quality that was not going to break the bank to give out at an upcoming event. All that I had found were too expensive. These (Polar Insulated) tumblers are perfect! They were not expensive, but had great quality and used by almost everyone at our event. Dishwasher safe, these are sure to be a hit” – Stacey, CO
- “Everyone at the conference loved the wooden planter (Wooden Planter Block). We got so many compliments for having such a creative and unusual company giveaway.” – Torie, NY
These testimonials suggest that Crestline’s products are well-received in professional settings and contribute to successful marketing efforts.
Limitations and Considerations
While Crestline’s free sample program offers clear benefits, there are some limitations to be aware of:
- Sample Availability: Specific product colors may not be selectable for samples.
- Pre-Imprinted Logos: Samples may include a pre-imprinted logo, which may not reflect the final custom design.
- Customization Constraints: Due to the customized nature of products, returns are generally not accepted outside of material defects.
- Geographic Restrictions: The source material does not specify any geographic restrictions for sample requests or product shipping, though compliance with state regulations (e.g., California Proposition 65) is noted.
Prospective customers should contact Crestline directly to confirm current sample availability, product options, and any applicable restrictions.
Conclusion
Crestline provides a structured free sample program that allows businesses to evaluate promotional products before committing to a purchase. The program is available to both existing and new customers, with samples valued up to $20 inclusive of shipping. In addition to samples, Crestline offers a diverse selection of low-cost promotional items, including trade show giveaways, corporate gifts, apparel, and edible treats, all customizable with company branding. The company supports customers with free design services and custom online store solutions, while maintaining compliance with regulatory standards. Positive customer reviews underscore the effectiveness of these products in professional marketing contexts. For businesses seeking to enhance brand visibility through promotional merchandise, Crestline’s offerings represent a practical and accessible option.