Custom Packaging Sample Process
From dieline to bulk production in five steps. Sample lead time 5–10 working days depending on structure, foil and material. Paid pre-production samples so buyers can verify Pantone, foil, magnet strength, seal integrity and print quality before mass order.
Step 1 — Dieline Drafting
We draft a die-cut line based on box dimensions, closure type and product weight. For magnetic boxes we plan magnet position and strength; for mailer boxes we plan the crash-lock or self-lock structure; for pouches we plan the seal width and valve position.
Step 2 — Artwork Sign-Off
Buyer supplies artwork (AI / PDF / PSD) or we design based on brief. Prepress verifies bleed, CMYK, Pantone, foil zones, embossing and barcode. Digital PDF proof sent for buyer sign-off before any physical work.
Step 3 — Digital Proof
A digital calibrated print proof is produced on target material. This is included in the sample cost. For 5,000+ PCS offset jobs a wet proof can be added on request.
Step 4 — Pre-Production Sample
Paid pre-production sample: 1–3 units of the actual custom design with real Pantone, foil, magnet, insert tray and finishing. Sample lead time:
- Standard boxes (mailer, folding carton): 5–7 working days
- Rigid magnetic boxes with foil / insert tray: 7–10 working days
- Stand-up pouches / coffee bags with valve: 7–10 working days
- Pharma serialized boxes with GS1 DataMatrix: 10–14 working days
Sample cost is refundable or credited against the bulk order for qualified buyers (agreed on RFQ).
Step 5 — Bulk Production
Once sample is signed off, we schedule bulk production. Typical bulk lead time:
- Standard boxes 500–5,000 PCS: 12–18 working days
- Magnetic gift boxes 500–2,000 SETS: 18–25 working days
- Pouches 5,000–50,000 PCS: 15–22 working days
- Pharma serialized cartons: 20–30 working days plus serialization data preparation
Sample & Production Lead Time Matrix
| Product line | Sample lead time | Bulk lead time |
|---|---|---|
| Standard boxes (mailer, folding carton) | 5–7 working days | 12–18 working days (500–5,000 PCS) |
| Rigid magnetic boxes with foil / insert tray | 7–10 working days | 18–25 working days (500–2,000 SETS) |
| Stand-up pouches / coffee bags with valve | 7–10 working days | 15–22 working days (5,000–50,000 PCS) |
| Pharma serialized boxes (GS1 DataMatrix) | 10–14 working days | 20–30 working days plus serialization data preparation |
Sample Process FAQ
How long does a custom packaging sample take?
Sample lead time is 5–7 working days for standard boxes, 7–10 working days for rigid magnetic boxes and stand-up pouches, and 10–14 working days for pharma serialized boxes with GS1 DataMatrix, depending on structure, foil and material.
Is the pre-production sample paid?
Yes, pre-production samples are paid. The sample cost is refundable or credited against the bulk order for qualified buyers (agreed on RFQ). Digital proofs and dieline checks are included in the sample cost.
How long is bulk production after sample approval?
Bulk production takes 12–18 working days for standard boxes, 18–25 working days for magnetic gift boxes, 15–22 working days for pouches and 20–30 working days for pharma serialized cartons, plus serialization data preparation.
What is the MOQ for samples?
Samples are produced as 1–3 units before MOQ so buyers can verify Pantone, foil, magnet strength, seal integrity and print quality. Bulk orders start from 500 PCS per SKU.
What information is needed for a sample quote?
Product type, dimensions, quantity per SKU, artwork or design brief, Pantone color reference, foil or finishing preference, and shipping country with Incoterm (FOB / CIF / DDP).
What You Need to Provide for a Quote
- Product type (box / bag / pouch / label)
- Dimensions (L × W × H in mm or inch)
- Quantity per SKU
- Artwork or a design brief
- Pantone color reference (if any)
- Foil color / finishing preference
- Shipping country and Incoterm (FOB / CIF / DDP)
MOQ 500 PCS · Fast Factory Quote
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