Short answer: to get an accurate quote for custom boxes, send the manufacturer eight things: what the product is and its exact size, the box style, the material or feel you want, the quantity (ideally two or three quantity options), the printing, the finishes, any insert, and your delivery city and deadline. Add your logo or artwork if you have it. With this information a manufacturer can price the job once, instead of going back and forth with questions, and you can compare quotes like for like.
The quote checklist
| # | What to send | Example | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Product and its size | 100 ml perfume bottle, 6 x 4 x 12 cm, plus cap | Sets the inside size of the box and the insert |
| 2 | Box style | Magnetic flap, lift-off lid, drawer, tuck-end carton | Each style uses different materials and labour |
| 3 | Material or feel | Rigid box in black textured paper; or printed folding carton | Board and paper are a large part of the cost |
| 4 | Quantity | 500 / 1,000 / 2,000 pcs | Unit price falls as quantity rises; options show you where |
| 5 | Printing | Logo only; full colour outside; printing inside too | Number of colours and printed areas changes setup and cost |
| 6 | Finishes | Gold foil logo, embossing, matte lamination | Each finish is an extra process |
| 7 | Insert | Foam insert for one bottle; card divider for three jars | Inserts are cut to your product |
| 8 | Delivery and deadline | Dubai, needed by 15 January | Decides whether the timeline is realistic |
How to measure your product correctly
- Measure the product itself, not its current packaging: length, width and height in millimetres or centimetres.
- Include anything that sticks out, such as a perfume cap, pump or handle.
- For sets, list every item and how you want them arranged.
- If possible, send or bring a physical sample. It is the surest way to get a perfect fit.
Artwork: what files to send
- Logo: a vector file (AI, EPS, SVG or a vector PDF) is best. A small JPG from a website usually is not sharp enough for printing or foil.
- Brand colours: Pantone references if you have them, so the colour can be matched.
- Full designs: if you already have a design, send it as a print-ready PDF. If not, ask whether the manufacturer will place your logo on the dieline for you.
Questions to ask in the quote
- Is a sample or prototype available before bulk production, and how long does it take?
- What is included in the price: printing, finishes, inserts, delivery?
- How long does production take after the sample is approved?
- How will the boxes be packed for delivery?
Frequently asked questions
Can I get a quote without a design?
Yes. A quote mainly depends on size, style, materials, finishes and quantity. The design can be finalised later, but tell the manufacturer roughly how much printing you expect.
Why do quotes for “the same box” vary so much?
Usually because the boxes are not actually the same: board thickness, paper, number of finishes, insert type and quantity all change the price. Sending the same checklist to every supplier makes quotes comparable.
Should I ask for several quantities?
Yes. Asking for two or three quantities shows how the unit price changes and helps you choose the best value for your budget and storage space.
Summary
Send the product size, box style, material, quantities, printing, finishes, insert and deadline, plus your logo as a vector file. With this information you will get a faster, more accurate quote that you can compare fairly.
Ready for a quote? Send these details through our quote form or on WhatsApp at +971 58 881 3323. You are also welcome to visit our showroom in Al Qusais Industrial Area 5, Dubai, to see real box samples before deciding.
