5 Key Questions to Ask Your Supplier Before Buying Custom Paperboard Boxes

These days, custom paperboard boxes do more than just protecting the product. They use in different industries and could be customized in the way you want. With unlimited add-ons and customizations, custom printed paperboard packaging plays an important role in branding.

When you buy any type of packaging boxes from reliable supplier, asking the right questions can save you time and money. In this blog post, we are going to discuss 5 key questions that you should ask your supplier before ordering paperboard packaging. Keep reading!

Questions to Ask Before Buying Custom Paperboard Boxes

What are your MOQs & Lead Times?

MOQs refers to minimum order quantities. Before you set your way for customized designs and finishes for paperboard boxes, it is good to know your supplier’s MOQs and lead times. For small businesses, higher MOQs can be big challenge especially if they are testing the market or managing tight budgets.

Ask your supplier about:

• Minimum order quantities.
• Is there any flexibility for smaller orders?
• What is an average lead time for standard order?
• Lead times for customized orders.
• Rush order options.

By asking these questions beforehand, you could easily manage your marketing campaigns and product launches.

What Customization Options Do You Offer?

One of the primary reasons to go for customized packaging is the ability to customize boxes according to your brand identity. Not all the suppliers offer same level or range of customization options so it would be good to ask your supplier:

• Printing methods
• Finishing touches
• Special features
• Structural & stylish designs

When you would ask these questions, it’s quite easy to know what works best & what not? Moreover, it would help you get an idea about budget requirements.

Can You Provide Samples and a Material Breakdown?

Before making arrangements to a larger order, it’s good to request few samples. With samples, you could easily determine the material quality, print clarity, structural integrity, and overall feel. Ask your supplier:

• Can you provide a physical or digital prototype?
• How long will it take to get a sample?
• What is the thickness and weight of a material?
• Is it recyclable or non-recyclable?

Answers to these questions will easily get you an idea about material quality & other details.

What Are Your Pricing Structures and Payment Terms?

Unexpected costs are no longer beneficial for brands. So it’s good to ask your supplier these questions.

• Is the pricing per box or per unit weight?
• Are there discounts or volume orders or not?
• Are there set-up or die-cut charges?
• What are the shipping costs?

Also clear payment terms by asking these questions.

• Which payment options are available?
• Do they need a deposit?
• What is the payment schedule?

Clear answers of these questions will save you from unexpected costs and helps you manage your cash flow accordingly.

How Do You Handle Quality Control and Returns?

Even with the best packaging suppliers, there are chances of misprints, damaged boxes, or inconsistent finishes. In this way, it’s best to ask them how do you handle quality control & returns? Ask these questions.

• What quality controls you strictly follow for mass production?
• Are there final inspections before shipping?
• What happens if there’s a defect or damage?

Knowing answers to these questions, you feel more secure and confident to your order.

Final Words!

Custom paperboard boxes are more than custom packaging boxes. Not only they secure your product from any damage but also comes with unlimited customizations to enhance overall appeal. We at Kolaxo Print manufactures customized cardboard boxes without compromising on quality. Behind our success, there are customers who trust on us. Our prices are market-competitive, low MOQs, unlimited customizations and unmatched customer support. We deliver what we promise.