Ordering custom packaging from overseas manufacturers—especially from China—can offer exceptional quality, competitive pricing, and large-scale production capacity. However, to avoid delays, mismatches, and unexpected costs, brands must follow a well-defined checklist before placing an order.
This guide from Kardboards outlines every critical detail you should confirm before sending your purchase order to an international packaging supplier.
1. Confirm Exact Box Specifications
Before placing an order, ensure every technical detail is clearly defined:
- Box Type — corrugated, folding carton, rigid box, mailer box, insert box
- Material — Kraft, duplex board, CCNB, corrugated flutes (E, B, C, BC)
- Dimensions — confirm inside dimensions (L×W×H)
- Printing — CMYK, PMS, hot foil, embossing, Spot UV
- Finishing — matte/gloss lamination, soft-touch, varnish
- Insert Type — EVA, foam, molded pulp, cardboard
Tip: Always request a supplier’s dieline template before finalizing your artwork to avoid fit/size issues.
2. Request Samples Before Mass Production
Sampling is essential for checking color accuracy, material strength, structure, and finishing.
- Digital samples for artwork review
- White sample for structure and size testing
- Printed pre-production sample (PPS) for final approval
Kardboards recommends approving a PPS for all luxury and high-volume projects.
3. Understand MOQs (Minimum Order Quantities)
Manufacturers have MOQs based on materials, printing plates, and machine setup. Typical MOQs:
- Folding cartons: 1,000–3,000 pcs
- Rigid boxes: 500–1,000 pcs
- Corrugated boxes: 500+ pcs
4. Clarify Pricing Structure
International suppliers offer layered pricing based on:
- Material cost and thickness
- Color count (CMYK vs. PMS)
- Finishing type
- Insert complexity
- Quantity tiers
Always ask for a breakdown to compare multiple suppliers accurately.
5. Confirm Shipping Terms and Costs
Shipping can significantly impact your final cost. Discuss:
- Shipping method: sea freight, air freight, express
- Incoterms: EXW, FOB, CIF, DDP
- Packaging for transport: pallets vs. cartons
- Estimated transit time
6. Verify Production Timeline
Typical timelines:
- Dieline & prep: 1–3 days
- Sampling: 5–12 days
- Production: 12–25 days
- Shipping: 7–40 days depending on mode
Confirm deadlines during peak seasons (November–January).
7. Quality Control & Inspection
Inspection ensures your boxes meet specifications. Check:
- Material weight (gsm) and thickness
- Print clarity and color accuracy
- Structural integrity
- Consistency across large batches
Many buyers hire a third-party inspector in China for added assurance.
8. Approve Final Artwork & Dielines
Ensure the artwork is placed on a precise dieline and approved officially:
- Check bleed and safe margins
- Confirm color profiles
- Ensure barcodes/QR codes scan correctly
- Verify logo positions and alignment
Pro Tip: Never approve artwork files via screenshots—always verify the actual vector/PDF file on the final dieline.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most important step when ordering packaging overseas?
The most important step is confirming exact specifications and approving pre-production samples to avoid errors in mass production.
How can I reduce shipping costs?
Ordering in bulk, using sea freight, and optimizing box dimensions can significantly reduce logistics expenses.
Should I request samples before mass production?
Yes. Samples ensure accuracy in size, print quality, materials, and construction—especially for luxury or custom-fit packaging.
What Incoterms should I choose?
FOB is most common for overseas packaging orders, but DDP is ideal for beginners who prefer door-to-door delivery.
