Folding Carton Checklist

If you are packaging a food product, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, or accessories, you will more often than not use a folding carton. A folding carton is a box that is made of paperboard. It can be printed, laminated, die cut, folded and glued. Sounds simple, but the spectrum of possibilities is wide – from minimalist design to elaborate construction, from functional to eye-catching creative.

Our experts at Phillips Graphic Finishing work with customers at every stage of the design and production process to ensure that their vision, budget, and timeline are all in sync. If you are in need of folded carton packaging, our checklist below will help you get started.

Work from the Inside Out

The most important part of any folded carton project is what is inside. The weight and size of the product being packaged inform the thickness of the cardstock. The quality, fragility, and value of the product inform the style and dimensions of the box, and if additional support, such as foam, will need to be incorporated. The brand identity of the product line will inform how the box is finished – from foil stamping to labels and sleeves.

Selecting a folding carton design that reflects your product can become an overwhelming process. Considering the following factors early on will help relieve some pressure and narrow down choices.

Factors That Influence Design

Before you engage with a printer or finishing partner, answer these questions to help put your vision on paper.

     How fragile or delicate is the product?

     Are you looking to wow end users?

     Will there be a printed design or logo on the inside of the box?

     How high end is the product you are packaging?

     What is the expected shelf life, in other words, how long do you expect the product to remain inside the packaging before it is opened?

     Do you want to explore design treatments such as soft touch, embossing or foil stamping?

     Does the packaging require foam padding or other support?

     Are you picturing a traditional folding carton or a unique structure?

Factors That Influence Price

Once you have a vision, answer these questions to create budget parameters. That way, you and your finishing partner can get the most for your dollars. Many factors that influence design above will also impact price.

    What is the order quantity?

     Will the box be thrown away by the user immediately, or used to house the product for an extended period of time?

     How much does the product weigh that will be inside the box?

     Will the carton be snapped together, scored, folded?

     Will the cartons ship flat to you, or would you like them to arrive assembled?

     Will the assembly require adhesive or friction?

     Will the packaging serve as a self-mailer?

     Is this a one-time project or do you plan to re-order?

The goal of the folding carton is to present a product in the most effective way for the end user. It needs to grab their attention, create interest, withstand the environments it will be in before use (transit, stocking, shelving), and most importantly, protect the product. The packaging you choose will influence a purchase decision and serve as the beginning of the product experience for the user.

Creating your product packaging should be an exciting and enjoyable process. Phillips Graphic Finishing can assist in the design, finishing, and fulfillment of your folding carton project. Contact us today to get started.