The selection of a custom box manufacturer not only impacts packaging. It impacts product safety, product release dates, shipping expenses, and customer perceptions of your brand. The packaging manufacturer you select can result in misprinted runs, missed deadlines, and boxes that collapse during transit. Whether you’re ordering 500 boxes or 50,000, here are some things you should look into before you make your decision. It’s written by the folks at Custom Boxes Manufacturer based on the questions we get from customers most often.

The significance of picking a manufacturer

A box manufacturing company is responsible for managing the quality of the material, print accuracy, structural design, and delivery. If any one is weak, it will be revealed in your customer’s hands. Packaging manufacturers are frequently reordered for years, and changing suppliers further down the road is a time-consuming process, as well as a redesign process and a brand consistency issue.

Over the years, certain standards have come to light as key factors in selecting a custom packaging supplier.

• Material range: A good custom packaging supplier will be able to provide you with cardboard, corrugated, rigid, and kraft options, so that you are not restricted to using one packaging material for all products.
• Printing support: Look for assistance with dielines, size, and inserts, and not just printing.
• Quality control in print: Inquire about Pantone colour match and whether they provide a print sample (or proof) before going into full production.
• Low minimums: startups require a minimum order quantity that is low, and expanding brands require a wholesale box manufacturer that won’t fall behind on quality when the order quantity increases.
• Communication is key: named contact and quick turnaround are more important than a large catalogue.
• Transparent pricing: quotes must include material, printing, finishing, and shipping costs.

Red Flags to Watch For

• No proofing prior to production.
• Answers that are not specific regarding the strength of the board or material specifications
• Quotes that vary widely from what was approved
• No samples or previous work to reference
• That promises an unrealistic turnaround without asking about your specifications or requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What does a custom box manufacturer do?

A: A custom box manufacturer creates and develops boxes that are specifically tailored to the needs of a product when it comes to materials, dimensions, and brand.

Q: What’s the difference between a packaging manufacturer and a packaging supplier?

A: The manufacturer can make the boxes, and the supplier can resell or outsource the boxes. Manufacturers typically provide greater customization as well as quality control.

Q: How to find out whether a manufacturer can take wholesale orders?

A: Inquire about production volumes, price breaks, and whether quality control is used on all production runs.

Q: I want to order a large quantity, do I need to ask for samples first?

A: Yes. Samples are used to test fit, print quality, and material durability before an order is placed for a full run.

Choose a manufacturer that can answer these questions:

When looking at packaging partners, use this checklist on all suppliers, including us, From mailer boxes for mailing to high-quality cosmetic boxes for retail use, Custom Boxes Manufacturer offers design assistance and flexible quantities.

Please provide sales@customboxesmanufacturer.com with the dimensions, quantity, and packaging goals of your product so we can send you a detailed, itemized quote.