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Custom Packaging 101: Everything a Small Business Should Know Before Ordering

For many small businesses, ordering custom packaging for the first time can feel overwhelming.

Questions like:

  • “What box style do I need?”
  • “How many should I order?”
  • “Why do prices change with quantity?”
  • “What files do I need to provide?”

At Pro Custom Box, we work with startups and growing brands every day. This guide breaks down everything you should know before placing your first custom packaging order, in plain language.

📦 1. Start With the Right Box Type

Not all boxes are the same. Choosing the wrong style can increase cost and shipping issues.

Common box types:

  • Mailer boxes– great for e-commerce and unboxing
  • Shipping boxes (RSC)– ideal for protection and bulk shipping
  • Folding cartons– retail and lightweight products
  • Rigid boxes– premium, luxury presentation

👉 Tip: Always choose the box based on product weight, delivery method, and customer experience.

📏 2. Box Size Matters More Than You Think

Oversized boxes:

  • Increase shipping costs
  • Require extra fillers
  • Look unprofessional

Undersized boxes:

  • Damage products
  • Cause returns

At Pro Custom Box, we help you right-size your packaging so it:
✔ fits the product perfectly
✔ reduces dimensional weight charges
✔ saves money on shipping

🎨 3. Understand Printing & Design Basics

You don’t need to be a designer to order custom packaging.

Here’s what helps:

  • Your logo (high resolution)
  • Brand colors
  • Any text or messaging you want on the box

Our design team can:
✔ prepare dielines
✔ adjust artwork for print
✔ suggest cost-effective layouts

No artwork? No problem — we help from scratch.

💰 4. Quantity Directly Affects Price

Custom packaging has setup costs. That’s why:

  • 1,000 boxes cost much less per unit than 100
  • Ordering slightly more can save significantly

We always provide multiple quantity options so you can choose what fits your budget and storage capacity.

🌱 5. Consider Materials & Sustainability

Many small businesses want eco-friendly packaging — but don’t want it to look cheap.

Popular options include:

  • Kraft boxes
  • Recyclable corrugated board
  • Minimal ink coverage
  • Right-sized packaging to reduce waste

We help you balance sustainability, cost, and appearance.

🚚 6. Think About Shipping & Storage

Before ordering, ask yourself:

  • Where will I store these boxes?
  • How fast do I need them?
  • Will I reorder the same design again?

Pro Custom Box keeps your dielines and artwork on file — making reorders faster and more affordable.

🎯 Final Advice for First-Time Buyers

Custom packaging doesn’t have to be complicated.

If you remember just three things:
✔ choose the right size
✔ order smart quantities
✔ work with an experienced supplier

—you’ll avoid most mistakes first-time buyers make.

📞 Ready to Order Custom Packaging With Confidence?

Let our team guide you step by step.

👉 Visit www.procustombox.com
👉 Request a free consultation & quote

Pro Custom Box — Customized for your brand. Priced for value. Shipped free.