Creating good packaging is almost as important as making a product itself. Not only is packaging a critical factor in influencing purchase decisions, but it also helps create a lasting impression with customers. Because packaging is so essential to a product’s success, it’s crucial to request packaging samples from your supplier during the design process. Sample packaging serves as a valuable prototype you can alter accordingly until perfected. Whether you’re working on a redesign or creating packaging for a brand-new product, requesting box samples along the way ensures you achieve the exact look and feel you want for your product.
Reasons to Order Custom Packaging Sample
Sample packaging can be either structural or production-grade. A structural packaging prototype would be a blank folding carton, while a production-grade sample box includes the full design.
Testing Materials
Paperboard packaging might seem like a relatively simple material. However, there are actually many types of paperboard available to choose from. Paperboard grades have varying thicknesses and are made of different materials, such as recycled newspapers or virgin wood pulp. Some paperboards also feature coatings to create a stronger barrier against contaminants. All of these factors likely guide which type of paperboard you want for your custom packaging. Structural packaging prototypes allow you to review and test these materials for sustainability and durability.
See How Your Product Looks Packaged
Structural box samples are especially important if you have a couple of different folding carton styles in mind for your product. Request samples of different styles with proper dimensions and fill them with your product. You should also test the style’s functionality, such as closures, seals, and compartments.
Review Packaging Design
Production-grade custom packaging samples show you exactly what the current version of your packaging looks like and what it will look like during bulk print jobs. That means all dimensions are accounted for, finishings are added, and designs are printed exactly as planned. As you review this sample, assess how this version stands up to your ideal design. This is the time to share changes with your manufacturing partner. These may include color-matching adjustments, logo resizing, or shifting around design elements.
Check For Printing Errors
After ordering a production-grade packaging prototype, review all labels, product information, and marketing messages. Carefully proofread for misprints or grammatical errors. All blunders are bad for a product, regardless of what industry your product is for. You don’t want to recall your product due to mislabeled or misprinted information and have to correct a full order with the same mistake.
When to Order Sample Packaging
You’re a first-time customer
Even if you’ve worked on several packaging designs for other products before, it’s important to request a sample from your new manufacturer to gauge their work.
You’re ordering large quantities
If you have a big order, it can be costly to fix even a small mistake across an entire SKU. Plus, correcting mistakes at this scale means it will take longer to bring your product to shelves.
You’re struggling to visualize your packaging
It can be difficult to get a clear picture of your design without actually seeing a physical representation. Sample packaging gives you a better perspective. This is also great for involving leadership who aren’t as familiar with the packaging process.
You’re unsure about the packaging fit
If you’re not confident about the dimensions or the functionality of a folding carton, having a sample is essential.