Custom Folding Cartons

Will my sample folding carton match the bulk order?

Yes, and more closely than most suppliers can offer. Most factories proof on a digital printer, which can drift from the final result. We print your sample on the same production press that runs the bulk order, so the sample you approve matches the production result, with only minor batch variation. That accuracy means our sample fee runs a little higher than others, and we think it's worth it: you see what you're getting before committing to a full run.

What sizes do folding cartons come in?

Folding cartons are made to your product's exact dimensions, so there are no fixed sizes. You set the size in the design tool to fit your product, whether that's a small supplement box, a cosmetics carton, or a larger retail box.

What paperboard do you use for folding cartons?

Our standard board is 18pt SBS, a bright, smooth white paperboard that prints cleanly and suits most retail products. For heavier products or a more substantial feel, we also offer 20pt and 24pt SBS. If you're not sure which caliper fits your product, we can recommend one based on its size and weight.

What lamination options do you offer on folding cartons?

Lamination is a thin film over the printed board that sets the surface feel and protects the print. Matte gives a smooth, low-glare finish, and Gloss gives a shiny, vibrant finish.

What is the minimum order quantity for custom folding cartons?

Our minimum order starts at 100 units, suitable for first launches, market tests, and small-batch lines, with wholesale and bulk pricing as volumes grow. Larger quantities lower your unit cost, and you can see the savings at each tier as you configure your order.

What is a folding carton?

A folding carton is a printed paperboard box that ships flat and folds up for assembly, also called a paperboard box or custom product box. It's a lightweight, cost-effective way to package and brand retail products like cosmetics, supplements, candles, tea, and food (as an outer box). Every panel gives you a clean printed surface for strong shelf presence.

What happens if my folding cartons arrive damaged or incorrect?

If your order arrives damaged, defective, or doesn't match the approved proof, contact us within 24h of delivery and we'll review it and make it right.

What factors affect the price of custom folding cartons?

Price is determined by box size, board caliper (18pt, 20pt, or 24pt SBS), order quantity, single or double-sided printing, lamination and finishing, box style, and shipping speed. Larger quantities lower the unit cost, while heavier board and added finishes increase it. The landed price updates live as you configure your order so there are no surprises.

What box styles do you offer?

Our standard style is a tuck-end box, which closes with tuck flaps and gives you clean panels for branding. Lock-bottom and other structural styles are also available. If you need a specific style, contact us and we'll set it up.

How long does production and shipping take for folding cartons?

Standard production takes 7 to 12 business days after proof approval. Shipping time then depends on the tier you choose: Express is the fastest at around one week, with Priority, Standard, and Economy available at lower cost and longer transit times. Exact timelines are shown as you configure your order.

How closely does the 3D preview match the finished box?

The 3D preview is a true-to-spec representation of your board, size, finishes, and artwork, and it's a reliable guide for making decisions. Small differences in color and finish can still appear on the printed box, which is why ordering a custom sample is the best way to confirm the exact look and feel before a full production run.

How accurate are the printed colors on custom folding cartons?

We match your colors to spec using CMYK and Pantone references, so your brand colors print consistently across runs. Screens and physical print can still differ slightly, so if exact color accuracy is critical, a custom sample is the best way to confirm results before a full order.

Folding carton vs rigid box: which should I choose?

Choose a folding carton for a lightweight, cost-effective printed box that ships flat and works well for most retail and shelf display. Choose a rigid box for a sturdier, more premium, heavier-duty presentation. Many brands use folding cartons for everyday lines and rigid boxes for flagship or gift packaging.

Can I see what my folding carton looks like before ordering?

Yes. The 3D preview shows your actual box with your selected board, size, finishes, and artwork applied, so you can rotate it and review the finished look before you commit.

Can I reorder the same custom folding carton design later?

Yes. Your approved designs are saved to your account, so you can reorder in one click without rebuilding or re-proofing. Repeat runs follow your locked specs and artwork, and pricing reflects the quantity and options you choose for the new run.

Can I put food directly inside a folding carton?

No. Folding cartons are not for direct food contact. We recommend them as secondary (outer) packaging around a product that's already in its own primary pack. If your product touches the packaging directly, use our flexible packaging (pouches) to hold the food, then a folding carton as the printed outer box.

Can I print on both the outside and inside of the box?

Yes. You can print single-sided (outside only) or fully double-sided, with full-color printing on both the outside and the inside of the box. Double-sided means the entire inside surface can be printed too, not just a small graphic, so the box stays on-brand the moment it's opened.

Can I order a sample folding carton before placing a full order?

Yes. A custom sample is made with the same board, printing, and finishes as your final order, so you can check the real box before committing to a full run. It arrives in about two weeks, and you also receive 10 white-background product photos around Day 10, so you can start marketing before the sample even arrives.

Can I design my folding carton without a dieline?

Yes. You can use the design tool to build your box structure and configure your options before uploading artwork. If you already have a dieline or finished artwork, you can upload it directly. The tool is built so you can move forward without needing to understand every technical file requirement first.

Can I add finishing touches like Spot UV, hot foil, or embossing?

Yes. On top of lamination, you can add finishing details that make specific areas stand out: Spot UV for glossy highlights on selected areas like your logo, Hot Foil for a metallic shine, and Emboss for a raised, tactile effect. These are visual enhancements and don't change the box structure.

Can I add a custom insert to my folding carton?

Yes. We can make a custom insert to hold and protect your product inside the carton and give it a more finished presentation. Inserts are made to order, so contact us and we'll set one up for your product.