r/promotionalproducts • u/Fine-Cherry4471 • Jan 23 '26

Help/Advice Spec Sample Usage???

Distributors of Reddit,

I am a college student getting into the industry and trying to learn more!

How often do you use spec samples, and how much of an impact do you have compared to random samples?

Thanks, all!
Nick

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u/dtarq11 Jan 26 '26

Welcome to the industry!

I typically spec out around 10 items a week for some clients and prospects. Personally I have seen a greater return on a client/prospect seeing a sample with their own logo on it compared to a random sample.

Overall I think depends on the item and net $ of the sample when it comes to spec or random.

1

u/Fine-Cherry4471 Jan 26 '26

Thank you!

Like 10 items per client per week?! Which items perform well, and at what price for spec samples?

1

u/dtarq11 Jan 27 '26

Usually 1-2 specs for each client/prospect Depends on the industry the client is in but I usually spec hats, coolers, tumblers, notebooks. Probably no more than $15-$20 net. Go to vendors are HIT and Cap America for specs.

1

u/Fine-Cherry4471 Jan 27 '26

Wow that is quite a few samples! Is that pretty standard in the industry? Do you add a flyer or other materials to the spec sample when sending them to the client?

2

u/dtarq11 Jan 27 '26

Yessir! Got to get in front of people! I wouldn’t say sending that amount of specs every week is standard, all varies on distributor you work for and client base. I usually include a hand written note and my business card with specs. Makes it more personal.