End-tab vs. top-tab — what’s the difference?

End-tab folders show the tab on the long side and are used on open-shelf systems; top-tab folders show the tab along the top edge and are designed for drawer filing.

When should I choose classification folders?

Choose classification folders when you need built-in dividers and 2-prong fasteners to separate sections within one file—ideal for medical charts, legal matters, and case files.

Letter or legal size — how do I pick?

Letter (8.5\" × 11\") fits standard documents; legal (8.5\" × 14\") fits longer forms. Match the folder to both your documents and storage equipment.

What tab and material options are available?

Tabs include full-cut, 1/2-cut, or 1/3-cut (assorted positions). Materials range from 11-pt to 18-pt manila, with optional reinforced (2-ply) tabs for added durability.

Can I add fasteners, pockets, or expansion?

Yes—add 2\" bonded fasteners (various positions), pockets/jackets, and expansion gussets (e.g., 3/4\" to 2\"+). Check each product’s options for capacity and placement.

Do you offer volume pricing or custom printing?

We offer bulk price breaks and custom printing (logos, lines, colors). Call (800) 810-3453 for a quote.

What safety labels should I look for on school and early‑childhood items?

For children’s products, look for CPSIA compliance and a Children’s Product Certificate (CPC). Art materials should be labeled to ASTM D‑4236; many also carry ACMI’s “AP” (non‑toxic) or “CL” seals. These help confirm proper cautionary labeling and third‑party testing where required.

How do I pick classroom furniture across grade levels?

Favor adjustable‑height desks/tables and seating tested to ANSI/BIFMA X6.1 for educational use. Check manufacturer grade/height charts; adjustable ranges let you cover multiple grades with one model and simplify purchasing and spares.

What’s the best way to organize supplies and centers?

Use latching, stackable bins (clear for quick ID; colors for zones/subjects). Add label holders on bins and shelves, and keep a posted color key so students can reset the room independently.

How do I choose learning games and manipulatives by age?

Match to the stated age/grade band and learning goals (fine motor, numeracy, literacy). For early childhood, prioritize oversized pieces, wipe‑clean surfaces, and non‑toxic finishes.

What should I consider in a charging/tech cart?

Count devices and case sizes; verify slot width/height, cable management, ventilation, and locking doors. If devices support fast‑charge (e.g., USB‑C PD), confirm the cart’s power specs and total charging wattage.

Do you support school POs, bulk pricing, or custom printing?

Yes—volume pricing and custom imprinting (school name, mascot, subject headers) are available. Call (800) 810‑3453.

Sheet vs. roll labels — what’s the difference?

Sheet labels (letter-size) run through laser/inkjet printers; roll labels feed through thermal or dedicated label printers.

Permanent or removable adhesive?

Permanent adhesives are best for long-term filing; removable adhesives peel away cleanly from most surfaces for temporary notes or re-use.

Will these labels work in my printer?

Check each item’s spec for “laser,” “inkjet,” or “thermal.” Avoid running inkjet-only sheets through a laser printer.

How do I match the label size to folder tabs or binder spines?

Measure the printable area of your tab or spine and match to the label’s width/height. If unsure, choose a slightly smaller label for clean alignment.

Can I get preprinted sequences or color bars?

Yes—choose preprinted sets (A-Z, 0-9, months) or request custom colors/text to match your filing system.

Do you have templates?

We provide size specifications and many customers use common label templates. If you need help aligning, call (800) 810-3453.

What do 5-, 8-, 10-, or 12-tab sets mean?

That’s the number of tabs per set. More tabs provide finer organization; fewer tabs give larger, easier-to-read tabs.

Paper vs. poly — which should I choose?

Paper (often with Mylar-reinforced tabs) is economical and easy to write on; poly resists tears and moisture for heavy use and frequent handling.

Are the tabs printable?

Some tabs are hand-write only; others are laser/inkjet printable. Check each product for “printable” support and printer compatibility.

Will they fit my binder?

Choose letter (8.5\" × 11\") for most 3-ring binders or legal (8.5\" × 14\") for longer documents. Many options are pre-punched for standard rings.

Can I mix preprinted and blank tabs?

Yes—use a preprinted core set and add blank or custom tabs for sections unique to your workflow.

Do you make custom tab sets?

Yes—tab titles, colors, and sheet stock can be customized. Call (800) 810-3453.

Which whiteboard surface should I choose?

Melamine is economical but can ghost with heavy use. Porcelain/ceramic‑steel is more durable and magnetic. Glass resists stains/ghosting and looks premium; magnetic models work best with high‑power (rare‑earth) magnets. Check the product surface and magnet compatibility before you buy.

Are glass boards magnetic?

Only if they’re steel‑backed—and even then you’ll typically need rare‑earth (neodymium) magnets because the glass thickness reduces holding power. Many brands sell “glass‑board magnets” specifically for this use.

What should I look for in an outdoor enclosed bulletin board?

Weather‑resistant frame and gaskets, lockable tempered‑glass or acrylic doors, and a sealed backer (cork or magnetic). Look for a published water‑resistance spec (e.g., IP rating) and mounting that standoffs the wall to reduce moisture.

Acrylic vs. polycarbonate barriers—what’s the difference?

Polycarbonate is far more impact‑resistant (tough, less likely to crack) but scratches more easily without a hard‑coat. Acrylic has excellent clarity and better scratch resistance, and is generally lower cost. Choose based on impact risk vs. optics and budget.

How do I size receptacles and match the correct liners?

For rectangular cans: bag width ≈ can length + can width; bag height ≈ can height + (1/4 × bag width) + 4\" overhang. For round cans, use diameter × π for circumference and match capacity (e.g., 5–7 gal under‑desk; larger for common areas).

Do you offer bulk pricing or custom printing?

Yes—volume price breaks and custom imprinting (logos, room names, calendars) are available. Call (800) 810‑3453.

What ball sizes should I choose by sport and age?

Basketball: Size 7 (29.5\") for men (HS/college/pro); Size 6 (28.5\") for women and many youth; Size 5 (27.5\") for younger players. Soccer: Size 5 for ages 13+; Size 4 for ~8–12; Size 3 for U9 and under. Volleyball (indoor): Regulation circumference ~65–67 cm and weight ~260–280 g; lighter training balls are common for younger age groups. Always confirm your league’s rulebook.

How do we keep portable soccer goals safe from tip‑over?

Always anchor or counter‑weight portable goals (stakes/augers outdoors; weights on turf), remove nets when idle, and store goals where kids can’t climb on them. Inspect hardware regularly and follow posted warning labels.

What padding should we use around courts and posts?

Use wall and structural padding that meets ASTM F2440 for indoor impact protection; choose UV‑resistant, weatherable covers for outdoor posts and rails. Pad high‑impact zones behind hoops and along baselines/sidelines.

Indoor vs. outdoor gear—what’s the difference?

Outdoor equipment uses weather‑resistant coatings, galvanized/powder‑coated metals, UV‑stable netting and vinyls, and bases or ground sleeves designed for wind and security. Indoor gear prioritizes floor protection and clearance rules.

Can you number or logo our team equipment?

Yes—custom numbering/logos and bulk league orders are available for many products (balls, pads, signage). Call (800) 810‑3453 for a quote.

Do you offer bundled packages for programs?

We can build sport‑specific bundles (practice + game‑day) with volume pricing to match your age groups and season length.

Do you offer free shipping?

Yes—free ground shipping on orders of $99+.

What are your shipping rates?

Labels-only orders under $35 ship for $6.95. All other orders ship for a flat $12.95.

Do you offer bulk discounts?

Yes—volume pricing is available on many items. Contact us for a quote or large-order assistance.

Do you accept purchase orders (POs)?

Yes—we accept POs from schools and businesses. If you need terms or documentation, please reach out.

Where can I read your full Shipping and Return policies?

See our Shipping Policy and Return Policy pages for complete details.

How can I contact you?

Call (800) 810-3453 or use our Contact Us form.

Smead

Smead Alpha labels bring clarity and consistency to alphabetical filing systems, featuring bold letters and bright color bars that make file identification quick and accurate. They help reduce errors and keep records neatly arranged across drawers, shelves, and cabinets.

Use Smead Alpha labels on end-tab or top-tab folders, and pair them with year or numeric labels to create a complete color-coded filing system that supports organized, easy-to-navigate records management.

Enjoy bulk pricing and free shipping on orders over $99 (contiguous US; exclusions apply).