Guide to Custom Boxes For Your Product
**everything in this article is my own opinion. I have not been sponsored or compensated in anyway for these thoughts, recommendations and opinions.
The single most “asked’ question of my time in the subscription box business was, “Where do you get boxes printed?”. And since, I am planning to launch the digital version of my “Subscription Box Masterclass” soon, I figured I would give you all a taste.
This blog post is for those of you who will continue to ask, or are curious about getting started in custom packaging + boxes.
Different Types of Printing
Before I hop into the different printers, I first want to introduce you to the different types of printing so that you understand pricing:
Lithographic printing (plate printing) (MORE EXPENSIVE STARTUP, SMALLER COST PER BOX): Plate printing Is when your design is created on a “plate”, which looks like your an embossed stamp, but with heavy metal . This old school way of printing, can be much described like how we talk about “how cars used to be made”, or how “photographs used to be taken”. I’d have to say that it certainly doesn't get any better in print quality. It is absolutely gorgeous. However, the cost to create such a complex piece is very expensive and can run somewhere between $500-$1,000.
Digital Printing (NO EXPENSIVE STARTUP, LARGER COST PER BOX): Digital Printing is when your design is printed on a piece of cardboard, much like a desktop “inkjet printer”. The cardboard is cut and then slid into a huge inkjet printer. Think of your home printer, but on steroids. While depending on the printer that is used or the cardboard that is utilized for the box, the quality is still relatively good. However, because of its convenience and print processes, it has a prettier penny per box.
Plate vs. Digital Printing Pricing Here’s what both of these processes looked like for my business (these are real numbers). My box was a 11 ½ x 8 x 3. I did start off with the lithographic printing because I wanted my cost of reprints to be very, very low. It made sense to me and for my business, but I will always suggest you do what is best for your pockets.
** Denotes the cost of the printer I would have used, but see my explanation below.
Alright now that we got that out of the way, if you're considering digital boxes because of little start up costs - keep reading. If you're not interested, you can contact my favorites at Custom Boxes Now.
Recommended Printers for Digital Boxes
I have had my run around the block and here are the THREE printers that are good for entrepreneurs on a budget:
Packlane: https://packlane.com/
Brand In Color: http://brandincolor.com/
Packwire: https://www.packwire.com/en_us
Price Comparison of Digital Box Printers For the sake of who has the cheapest pricing for the same size box, here are the numbers for the companies boxes that were closest to my 11 ½ x 8 x 3 box:
all boxes and printers are not created equallyNOW, let this be heard and hear loud and clear,. I’ve personally used both Brand In Color and Packlane and they both have pro’s and cons. However, I highly recommend that you email them and ask for samples to be shipped to you so that you can make the choice that is best for you.
Service Benefits of Digital Box Printers Here are some other things I like about each company:
So, there you have it. These are my comprehensive thoughts on each brand that I hope will allow you to make an informed decision about choosing your box printer and provider.
Alternatives to Digital Box Printing
..and for those who don’t necessarily need boxes (and are just being extra), not only do some of these printers have additional items that you can use for custom shipping option, but you can also check out sites like:
Well, that's all for now.
If you’re in the subscription box business and want access to my e-course. Contact me and let me know!
**everything in this article is my own opinion. I have not been sponsored or compensated in anyway for these thoughts, recommendations and opinions.