FAQs for Custom Boxes and Custom Packaging
This FAQ covers the most common questions about Packola custom boxes, including materials, printing, ordering, proofs, and production. Whether you are designing your first product box or building a complete packaging program, you will find clear and helpful answers here.
Product Information
What is the difference between white corrugated material and kraft corrugated material?
White Corrugated
White corrugated material is available in Standard White or Premium White. It offers a clean and bright print surface that produces smooth colors and vibrant designs. This material is ideal for full-color artwork and high-contrast graphics.
Kraft Corrugated
Kraft corrugated material has a natural brown color with a subtle texture. It provides an earthy and organic appearance and works well with simple, neutral, or dark-colored artwork. It is commonly used by eco-focused and minimalist brands.
What is the difference between Shipping Boxes, Product Boxes, and Mailer Boxes?
Shipping Boxes
Also referred to as Regular Slotted Containers (RSC).
These durable corrugated boxes are designed for transit, warehousing, and fulfillment. Packaging tape is required for secure closure.
Mailer Boxes
Also known as Roll End Tuck Front (RETF) boxes.
These are popular for e-commerce shipments and subscription kits. They feature locking tabs that secure the box without adhesives and provide a polished unboxing experience.
Product Boxes
Also known as Tuck Top boxes.
These are typically made from cardstock (paperboard) and are used for retail display. They may also be produced in corrugated material for larger or bulkier items. Product boxes are not intended for shipping without protective outer packaging.
Can I print on the inside and outside of the box?
Yes. You may print on the outside only, inside only, both sides, or order a completely blank box.
Can I order custom boxes with no print?
Yes. Select your preferred size and material, then choose the Blank option under Printed Sides.
Is there any tape you recommend for sealing shipping boxes?
Yes. Reinforced water-activated tape is the most secure option. It forms a strong bond with corrugated material and is tamper-evident. Custom water-activated tape is also available for added branding.
Can I customize the size of my box?
Yes. Below are the available interior dimension ranges for each box type:
Product Boxes:
- Length: 0.75" to 30"
- Width: 0.75" to 20"
- Depth: 1.75" to 20"
Mailer Boxes:
- Length: 3" to 25"
- Width: 2" to 25"
- Depth: 1" to 15"
Shipping Boxes:
- Length: 2" to 30"
- Width: 2" to 29"
- Depth: 2.5" to 32"
Note: Dimensions listed are based on the interior of the boxes.
Do you charge extra based on ink coverage or number of colors?
No. Standard CMYK digital printing includes full ink coverage and multiple colors at no additional charge.
Are your boxes food grade or FDA approved?
Yes. Our corrugated boxes use water-based inks that meet USDA FDA 21 CFR guidelines for indirect food contact. These inks contain no UV-reactive chemicals and do not require additional barriers.
Ordering and Payment
How do I order custom boxes?
- Go to the product page.
- Select size, material, printed sides, and quantity.
- Design your artwork using the 3D Design Studio or request a dieline template to upload your own file.
- Add to cart and complete checkout.
Can I order a sample custom box?
Yes. Set the quantity to one to order a single custom sample with your selected size and artwork.
Do you offer discounts on bulk orders?
Yes. Our price calculator displays real-time quantity discounts. Larger quantities reduce the price per box.
How does your price match policy work?
Email a competitor’s quote to info@packola.com. If the specifications match, we will do our best to match the total price, including tax and shipping.
I am a reseller. Can you waive my sales taxes?
Yes. Submit your resale certificate to tax-exempt@packola.com before placing your order. We have limited ability to refund taxes after an order is placed.
Do you charge for plates or dies?
No. There are no plate fees or hidden charges for digital print orders.
How can I reorder?
- Log into My Account.
- Select Orders and Proofs.
- Locate the order you wish to repeat.
- Click Reorder and proceed to checkout.
Do you offer open window boxes?
Yes. Contact boxes@packola.com for custom window structures.
Do you sell blank or printed inserts and trays?
Yes. Custom inserts are available. Email boxes@packola.com for assistance.
Artwork and Files
What is a dieline template?
A dieline is a flat PDF layout that shows cut lines, crease lines, and bleed areas. It ensures your artwork aligns properly on the final box. Adobe Illustrator is recommended for editing dielines.
Can I get a dieline before placing an order?
Yes. Contact our customer service team to request a dieline for your custom size by emailing info@packola.com or calling 1-855-PACKOLA.
Can I design my box on your website?
Yes. Our 3D Design Studio allows you to upload images, add text, create shapes, adjust layouts, and preview your box in 3D before ordering.
Do you review artwork before printing?
Yes. We check technical elements such as alignment, bleed, and resolution. We do not proofread spelling or grammar. Please review your PDF proof carefully before approval.
Will the colors on my screen match the printed box?
Screen colors are RGB, while printing uses CMYK, so some variation is expected. Your monitor calibration can also affect how colors appear. We aim to show colors as accurately as possible in your digital proof.
Do you offer color matching?
No. Exact color matching is not available. CMYK printing may result in slight variation between production runs.
Can I use white ink for printing?
Yes, white ink on kraft corrugated material is available, but it is not offered through the website. White ink is a custom add-on that must be arranged manually. Additional charges apply. Contact info@packola.com or call 1 855 PACKOLA for white ink orders.
Do you provide proofs before production?
Yes. A free PDF proof is provided within 24 business hours. Production begins after approval. If we do not receive approval within three business days, we proceed to avoid delays.
Why can’t you print on the hidden areas of the box?
Hidden areas are reserved for production markings and quality checks. These areas are not visible when the box is assembled.
Can you put a QR code on my box?
Yes. Include it in your artwork or use the built-in QR code tool in the Design Studio.
Production and Printing
What is the standard turnaround time for custom boxes?
Production times range from 8 to 15 business days based on style and quantity.
Rush production is available for orders of 500 units or fewer and typically takes 4 to 8 business days.
Production timelines exclude weekends, holidays, and shipping time.
Where are your products manufactured?
All Packola products are printed in the United States. Orders are routed to the facility best suited to your specifications and location.
Shipping and Delivery
How long does it take to receive my order?
Shipping time depends on location. Most orders arrive within 1 to 6 business days after production. Express shipping options are available.
Do you ship to Canada and US territories?
Yes. We ship to Canada (taxes and duties not included) and offer parcel shipping to Puerto Rico.
Can I use my own shipping account?
Yes. We support UPS and FedEx account billing. Provide your account number, billing ZIP code, and billing address by emailing info@packola.com.
Issues and Support
For project-specific needs or assistance with custom features, email info@packola.com or call 1-855-PACKOLA.