Buying a flag in Poland – price and what affects the cost

The price of a flag can vary widely: a small printed flag for a staff costs a fraction of a large flag sewn from strips for a tall flagpole. This guide describes the factors that determine the price of a flag in Poland, and consumer rights when buying. It does not give actual prices, because they vary between sellers and change over time. The size of flag for a flagpole is shown by the flag size calculator.

What affects the price of a flag

Size and price

Size has the greatest effect on the price. Polish makers offer flags for flagpoles in sizes including 70 × 112 cm, 100 × 160 cm, 125 × 200 cm and 150 × 240 cm. Larger flags, for very tall flagpoles, are usually made to order. A flag that is too large for the flagpole costs more and also puts more load on the flagpole. Choosing the size is described in the guide to flag sizes.

Fabric, make-up and price

Flags for flagpoles are most often made of polyester. Heavier and UV-resistant fabrics cost more but keep their colours longer. A printed flag is usually cheaper; its colour on the back is slightly lighter. A sewn flag made from a white and a red strip has the same saturated colours on both sides and lasts longer, but takes more work to make.

The finishing determines how long the flag lasts: a reinforced hoist and a double-stitched fly edge delay fraying. Flags for flagpoles usually have a rope with snap hooks or eyelets, and flags for staffs a sleeve.

Proportions, colours and price

Under annex 3 to the Act on the emblem, colours and anthem, the flag of Poland has the proportions 5:8, and its colours are set out in annex 2. Cheaper flags in the proportions used in other countries, for example 90 × 150 cm, are also sold. In the booklet “Duma i szacunek”, the National Security Bureau points out that one's flag should have the correct proportions. Many makers state in the flag's description whether it is made in the 5:8 proportion.

Custom flags and price

Flags with a municipal coat of arms, a company logo or an inscription are made to order, which raises the price, especially for single flags. According to the Bureau's guidance, no inscriptions or graphics are placed on the state flag. Local government flags are described in the guide to flag types.

Costs over time

The cost of using a flag also depends on how long it lasts. A flag flying permanently on a flagpole fades and frays faster than a flag flown only on holidays. According to the Bureau, a faded or torn flag is replaced with a new one. Care of the flag is described in the guide to flagpole maintenance.

Price, VAT and consumer rights

• VAT: Flags are subject to the standard tax rate, which under article 146ef of the Act on goods and services tax is currently 23%. Prices for consumers include the tax.
• Returns when buying online: Under article 27 of the Consumer Rights Act, a consumer may withdraw from a distance contract within 14 days without giving a reason. Article 38(1)(3) excludes this right for goods made to the consumer's specifications, such as a flag with custom printing.
• Lack of conformity: Under article 43c, the trader is liable for a lack of conformity of the goods with the contract that existed at delivery and became apparent within two years. The consumer may demand repair or replacement (article 43d) and, in certain cases, a price reduction or withdrawal from the contract (article 43e).
• Guarantee: A guarantee is voluntary. Under article 577 of the Civil Code, its terms are set out in the guarantee statement.

A flag is often bought together with a flagpole. The factors that affect the price of a flagpole are described in the guide to buying a flagpole.