Numerous companies that specialise in promotional merchandise offer free samples of their products to prospective clients. These sample programmes are designed to showcase the quality of materials, printing techniques, and product ranges available for business branding. While many of these programmes are targeted at businesses, some companies are willing to send samples to individuals who demonstrate an interest in their products. The process for obtaining these samples varies by company, with some requiring a phone call, others an online form, and some imposing specific eligibility criteria regarding business status or sample limits.
National Pen Company Sample Programmes
National Pen is a prominent company frequently mentioned in relation to free pen samples. The company has been in business for over 60 years and manufactures many of its promotional products in the USA. They offer a range of promotional items, including pens and keychains, which can be customised with business logos or text.
Requesting Samples from National Pen
There are conflicting reports regarding the specific method of requesting samples from National Pen, based on the provided source material. * Phone Requests: One source suggests that customers should call 1-866-900-7367 to request free promotional samples. It is noted that this request can only be made once, so customers should select the custom product they are most likely to promote. * Online Form Requests: Another source indicates that customers can visit the National Pen site, indicate their choice of sample (such as a Flashlight Keychain, Flashlight Pen, or Custom Laser Engraved Paragon Pen), and fill out a form to receive the sample in the mail. * Eligibility: Sources confirm that these offers are valid for residents of the USA. Some sources specify that the offers are directed at businesses in the US.
Other Companies Offering Free Pen Samples
Beyond National Pen, several other companies and websites are mentioned as sources for free pen samples. These range from large promotional product distributors to niche suppliers.
General Promotional Product Distributors
- Pens.com: This company offers free samples valid for businesses in the US. Customers can fill out a form to receive one pen, or they can call 1-866-900-7367 to request up to two samples.
- 4pens.com: This site directs customers to call 1-888-884-7367 or email to request free samples. These samples are offered to "qualified customers," specifically qualifying businesses and organisations. The samples include standard imprints to demonstrate the quality of the imprinting process. There is a limit of one free sample request per business until an order is placed. The company reserves the right to refuse samples due to high online fraud.
- Marco Promos: This company allows customers to request samples by specific pen brands, including Sharpies, Pilot, Uniball, BIC, and PaperMate. Customers can visit the brand page, click "Get a Free Sample," and window-shop. Marco Promos can send up to 5 pens to businesses and professional institutions.
- Myron: A major promotional products company that provides free samples to businesses. Customers can add up to three items priced under $10 to their cart and select the 'sample' option during checkout. Samples are sent either blank or with a random imprint. This company primarily serves businesses.
Niche and Specific Use Suppliers
- JailPens.com: This company specialises in pens with all-plastic builds and water-based non-toxic ink, ideal for correctional facilities. They offer free samples via email at [email protected] or by calling 1.800.833.6231. Customers may request up to 5 samples within a 90-day period, provided the samples are under $7. Other items cannot be sampled.
- Eco Promotional Products: For those seeking environmentally friendly pens, this company offers up to $10 in free samples (shipping included). Customers need to pick a pen, hit "Request a Sample," and create an account to complete the process.
- SchoolhouseSupplies.org: This is a resource specifically for teachers in eligible school districts around Portland, Oregon. It provides a variety of free school supplies through the Free Store for Teachers programme.
General Information on Free Pen Samples
Eligibility and Restrictions
The availability of free pen samples often depends on the customer's status and location. * Business Focus: Many programmes are designed strictly for businesses and organisations. Companies like 4pens.com, National Pen (in some instances), and Myron explicitly state that samples are for qualified businesses. * Location: Several offers, particularly those from National Pen and Pens.com, are restricted to residents of the USA. * Limits: To manage costs and distribution, companies usually impose limits. Common limits include one sample per business (until an order is placed), up to two samples per customer, or a monetary cap such as $10 worth of samples.
The Sampling Process
The process for obtaining samples varies: 1. Phone Calls: Some companies prefer customers to call a dedicated number (e.g., 1-866-900-7367 for National Pen/Pens.com). 2. Online Forms: Others require filling out a form on their website, often requesting business name, address, and phone number. 3. Email: A few, like JailPens.com, accept sample requests via email. 4. Shopping Cart: Some, like Myron, allow customers to add items to a cart and select a sample option at checkout.
Timing and Expectations
- Delivery: Customers should expect patience, as free pen samples typically arrive within 2 to 8 weeks.
- Promotional Periods: Free samples are a major part of the business model for these companies, as it allows potential customers to see the quality before placing a large order. Promotions may coincide with specific times of the year, such as back-to-school season, holidays, or special days like National Ballpoint Pen Day.
- Imprinting: Samples usually include standard imprints or random imprints to show the quality of the printing process. Requests for specific sample colours may be honoured when possible.
Conclusion
Obtaining free promotional pen samples is a viable way for businesses and interested individuals to assess product quality. The primary companies mentioned, such as National Pen and various promotional product distributors, offer structured sample programmes. However, access is often governed by specific rules, including business verification, geographic location (primarily the USA), and strict limits on the number or value of samples. Interested parties should carefully review the requirements of each company and be prepared for varying request methods, from phone calls to online forms.