Proofreading sample packaging is one of the most important finishing touches before your product reaches the market. It’s the last chance to catch and correct errors, ensuring that what customers see reflects your brand’s commitment to quality. If even a single mistake slips through, it can damage your credibility and leave customers questioning whether or not they can trust your product. In some industries, incorrect or missing details on labels could result in your product being recalled. Taking the time to carefully proofread your folding cartons demonstrates your dedication to delivering a reputable product.
What to Look For When Proofreading Product Packaging
When proofreading product packaging, it’s important to focus on every detail. From branding consistency to legal compliance, every component of your packaging should be accurate and adhere to regulations. This process prevents costly mistakes and allows you to present a product that instills confidence in your customers.
Layout
Review the overall layout of the package. Be sure customers can quickly recognize what the product is and what benefits it offers. Look over the hierarchy on the packaging to make sure each copy element—such as brand name, product flavor or type, and ingredients—is the right font size, is located in the correct spot, and is spaced appropriately.
Consistency
Every brand has its own style guide, which details distinguishable visual components like logo, color palette, typography, and iconography used in marketing materials. Ensure that each element is correctly represented on your packaging.
Typos and Grammar
Use grammar and spellcheck tools when proofreading text to ensure packaging is accurate and have multiple reviewers look over the text before committing to the final design. If your product is launching in multiple markets, review proofs for regional- and country-specific spelling. For example, there are spelling and punctuation differences in English depending on what country you’re selling your product in, such as the United States, Canada, or the United Kingdom.
Images
Logos, icons, and other graphics should be the correct version, size, and color. All images should should be high-quality and not blurry.
Labels
All labels and unique identifiers like barcodes should feature the correct information and numbers. If your package has an item number, double-check it’s accurate. Any misprinted information or unscannable codes could cause your product to be recalled.
Contrast
There should be a distinct contrast between background, images, and text. Make sure font weight and size are correct and the background and font colors are different enough the text is easily readable.
Proofreading Tips
As mentioned, it’s a good idea to use digital proofing software to analyze and highlight potential errors. Hire professional proofreaders and have multiple who are familiar with your brand’s style guide and grammar conventions review the packaging as well. Compare files side by side and use proofreading strategies like reading out loud, as well as reading backwards, to catch mistakes. These tips make it harder for your brain to fill in gaps or correct mistakes automatically.