5 Factors to Know Before Buying Custom Packaging Boxes

by Marie Be

Author | Updated Date: 11/22/2025

📦 TL;DR: Don’t Order Custom Packaging Until You Read This!

Buying custom packaging boxes? Don’t make a costly mistake. Here are the 5 must-know factors before placing your order:

Material Matters – Choose cardboard, corrugated, Kraft, or rigid based on strength, sustainability, and brand image.
Size is Everything – Oversized boxes waste money; undersized ones damage products. Measure correctly.
Design = Branding – Your packaging is your first impression. Invest in custom prints, clear logos, and sleek finishes.
Know Your Budget – Understand what drives cost: size, print, material, finishes, and quantity.
Pick the Right Supplier – Not all box companies are equal. Look for quality, speed, support, and real customisation.

Want to save money, avoid returns, and build a memorable brand? Choose packaging smartly from the start.

👉 Get a Free Custom Packaging Quote Now

Your Box is a Business Tool: Don’t Underestimate Its Power

Custom packaging isn’t just a protective shell around your product — it’s your brand’s first handshake with the customer. From influencing shipping costs to shaping customer perception, your box can either elevate your business or cost you sales. With growing competition across e-commerce and retail, small mistakes in packaging can lead to big losses. In this guide, we’ll walk you through 5 essential factors to consider before placing your custom packaging order.

Your Pre-Order Checklist: 5 Must-Consider Packaging Factors

Before you finalise your custom packaging order, use this essential checklist to ensure you get boxes that protect your product, fit your budget, and elevate your brand.

1. Material Quality and Durability

Your box is only as strong as the material it’s made from.

Cardboard is ideal for lightweight retail products and cosmetics.
Corrugated board suits heavy or fragile items that need shock absorption.
Kraft offers eco-friendly appeal and a natural, rustic look.
Rigid boxes are perfect for luxury and high-end branding.

Choosing the right material reduces returns, protects your product in transit, and leaves a lasting impression. If your audience values sustainability, opt for recyclable materials and soy-based inks to reduce environmental impact and boost your green credibility.

Learn more: Packaging Materials Guide: Types, Benefits & Uses →

✅ Packaging Tip: Match material strength to the fragility and weight of your product — it prevents damage and saves money long-term.

2. Proper Size and Dimensions

Too big, and you’re paying for air. Too small, and you risk crushing your product.

Getting the size right means:

Lower courier charges (smaller dimensional weight)
Less need for void-fill or padding
A tighter, more polished presentation

Measure your product’s length, width, and height — then allow a small margin for ease of packing. Custom sizes are worth the investment, especially for subscription boxes, electronics, glassware, and cosmetics.

Learn more: Box Sizes And Dimensions Explained →

✅ Packaging Tip: Always test with a prototype to ensure the box fits perfectly before placing a large order.

3. Branding, Printing, and Design

Packaging is your brand’s silent salesperson.

Custom printing options include:

CMYK for full-colour printing
PMS for colour accuracy across batches
Foil stamping, embossing, and spot UV for high-end finishes

Your logo placement, font consistency, and overall layout influence how customers perceive your brand. A minimalist, clean design works well for wellness and beauty, while bold graphics stand out for retail or promotional packaging.

Learn more: Mastering Packaging Design →

✅ Packaging Tip: Stick to 2–3 brand colours, keep typography legible, and ensure your logo is visible from multiple angles.

4. Your Budget and Cost Breakdown

Many factors affect the cost of custom packaging:

Material and thickness
Box style (e.g., tuck end, mailer, rigid)
Dimensions
Printing type (1-colour vs full-colour)
Finishing touches
Order quantity

Bulk orders can dramatically reduce your cost per unit. But don’t compromise on quality to save pennies — low-quality packaging can lead to higher return rates.

✅ Packaging Tip: Request a breakdown from your supplier — see where you can scale up smartly or trim unnecessary features.

5. Choosing the Right Packaging Supplier

Your supplier should be more than just a box printer — they should be your packaging partner.

Look for a packaging company that offers:

Material and size customisation
Design support and file proofing
Reliable production times
Competitive pricing
Excellent support for revisions or reorders

At Buy Packaging Boxes, we provide fully custom box sizes, professional printing, and quick UK-based support for businesses across all industries — whether you’re just starting out or scaling fast.

✅ Packaging Tip: Ask for a sample before finalising large orders — a reputable supplier will always offer one.

Bonus Factor – Eco-Friendly Packaging Options

Sustainability is no longer optional — it’s expected. Eco-friendly custom packaging options include:

Recyclable cardboard or Kraft stock
Biodegradable inserts
Soy- or water-based inks
Minimal ink designs to reduce waste

Consumers are more likely to choose brands that show environmental responsibility. Plus, sustainable packaging is often lighter — which also reduces shipping costs.

Ready to Order? Ask Yourself These 5 Questions First.

Before you place your next packaging order, ask yourself:

Is the material strong enough?
Are the dimensions accurate?
Does the design align with my brand?
Am I staying within budget without sacrificing quality?
Can my supplier support my growth?

Making the right packaging decisions from the start means fewer returns, stronger branding, and a better experience for your customers.

Need Custom Packaging That Works for Your Brand?

Whether you need eco-friendly boxes or high-end rigid packaging, we’ve got you covered. Fast UK delivery, free design support, low MOQs.

Request a Free Quote

Quick Answers on Custom Packaging for Your Business

What is the best material for custom packaging boxes?

Cardboard is great for general use, corrugated for shipping, Kraft for eco-friendly branding, and rigid board for luxury packaging.

How do I measure my product for a custom box?

Use a ruler or digital caliper to measure the length, width, and height of your product. Leave a small buffer space for ease of packing.

Are custom boxes more expensive than standard boxes?

Yes, initially — but they reduce waste, protect better, and offer stronger branding returns, making them more cost-effective over time.

How does printing affect the cost of custom packaging?

More colours, specialty finishes, or high-end printing methods like foil or embossing increase costs, while simple CMYK printing is budget-friendly.

Can I order custom packaging in small quantities?

Yes! Many suppliers, including BuyPackagingBoxes.co.uk, offer low MOQs to support startups and small batch runs.