Frequently Asked Questions

Do you offer free design services?

Yes completely free. Send us your logo, brand colours, and any design ideas, and our professional design team will create custom artwork at no charge. We'll provide flat and 3D mockups so you can see exactly how your box will look. You get unlimited revisions until you're completely happy. No design experience needed on your end.

What if I already have my own design/artwork?

Perfect. We accept artwork in PSD, PDF, AI (Adobe Illustrator), or EPS formats. Minimum 300dpi resolution for best print quality. We'll review your files and let you know if any adjustments are needed to ensure perfect printing. If your files need tweaking (colour correction, bleed adjustment, etc.), we'll do that for free.

How do I see what my box will look like before ordering?

We create free digital proofs with both flat layouts and 3D mockups. The flat view shows your design unfolded (so you can see printing placement), and the 3D mockup shows the assembled box from multiple angles. This gives you complete confidence in how your box will look before we print a single one. You can request as many revisions as needed.

Can I print full-colour photos or complex designs?

Absolutely. We print in ultra-high-resolution CMYK (4-colour process), which means we can reproduce full-colour photographs, gradients, detailed illustrations, and complex artwork with exceptional clarity. We carefully choose premium materials and inks to ensure your designs look stunning.

What file formats do you need?

We prefer PSD, PDF, AI (Adobe Illustrator), or EPS files at minimum 300dpi resolution. Vector files (AI, EPS) are ideal for logos and text. If you only have JPG or PNG, that's okay send them over and we'll assess if they're high enough quality for printing. If not, we can often recreate your design from scratch.

Can I print on the inside of the box?

Yes. Inside printing is perfect for unboxing experiences, instructions, brand messaging, or thank-you notes. Inside printing typically adds 10-20% to your box cost depending on coverage area and colours. Many brands use inside printing to create a premium unboxing experience that customers share on social media.

Do you offer special finishes like foil stamping or embossing?

Yes. We offer: Foil stamping (gold, silver, rose gold, holographic), Embossing (raised texture), Debossing (recessed texture), Spot UV (glossy highlights), Soft-touch lamination (velvety feel), Gloss/matte lamination, and Metallic inks. These premium finishes add luxury appeal and typically increase box cost by 15-40% depending on complexity.

What materials are your boxes made from?

We use several materials depending on box type and purpose:

• Corrugated cardboard (E-flute, B-flute): Shipping boxes, mailer boxes, postal boxes. Lightweight but strong.
• Folding boxboard (300-450gsm): Retail boxes, candle boxes, cosmetic boxes, food boxes. Smooth printing surface.
• Kraft card (280-400gsm): Eco-friendly brown boxes, natural aesthetic.
• Greyboard/chipboard (1000-2000gsm): Rigid luxury boxes, gift boxes. Heavy, premium feel.
• White card (250-450gsm): Standard printing, bright white finish.

Not sure which material? Tell us what you're packaging and we'll recommend the best option for protection, aesthetics, and budget.

Are your boxes food safe?

Yes. We offer food-grade cardboard and food-safe inks that comply with UK FSA (Food Standards Agency) regulations. Our food packaging is suitable for direct food contact including baked goods, chocolates, confectionery, dry foods, and more. We can provide food-safety certification documentation if required for your retailers or regulatory compliance.

How strong are your boxes? Will they protect my products?

Our boxes are designed to protect products during shipping and retail display. Corrugated boxes (mailer boxes, postal boxes) feature fluted layers that absorb impacts and resist crushing. Rigid boxes use thick greyboard for maximum protection. We'll recommend the appropriate material thickness based on your product's weight, fragility, and shipping requirements. For extra protection, we can add internal dividers, foam inserts, or padding.

What's the difference between cardboard weights (gsm)?

GSM (grams per square metre) measures cardboard thickness/weight. Higher GSM = thicker, stronger card:

• 250-300gsm: Lightweight boxes for small, light items (tissue paper boxes, small cosmetic boxes)
• 350-400gsm: Standard weight for most products (candle boxes, soap boxes, retail packaging)
• 450-600gsm: Heavy-duty boxes for heavier products or premium feel
• 1000-2000gsm: Rigid boxes (greyboard/chipboard) for luxury packaging

We'll recommend the appropriate GSM based on your product weight and desired quality level.

Do you have quality control? How do I know boxes will arrive perfect?

Yes. We're ISO 9001:2015 certified, which means we follow strict quality management systems. Our quality control team inspects every print run before shipping. We check: print colour accuracy, cutting precision, structural integrity, and assembly quality. If any boxes don't meet our standards, they're rejected and reprinted. We've been manufacturing packaging for 15+ years serving 8,500+ UK businesses quality is non-negotiable.

Can boxes get damaged during shipping?

We pack all boxes securely for shipping using protective materials and sturdy outer cartons. Damage during transit is very rare. If boxes arrive damaged due to courier mishandling, contact us immediately with photos and we'll arrange replacement boxes at no cost to you. Your boxes are our responsibility until they reach you safely.

How long does delivery take?

7-10 business days from final approval of artwork and specifications. This includes production time and UK delivery. For rush orders, we offer 4-day or 6-day production (small additional fee). International orders take 10-15 business days due to customs clearance. We'll provide tracking information once your order ships.

Is UK shipping really free?

Yes — 100% free. We include free UK mainland delivery on every single order, whether you're ordering 10 boxes or 10,000 boxes. No minimum order for free shipping. No hidden delivery fees. This applies to England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland (some remote Scottish Highlands locations may require a small surcharge — we'll let you know upfront).

Do you ship internationally?

Yes. We ship to Europe, USA, Canada, Australia, and most international destinations. International shipping costs vary by destination, order size, and weight. Contact us with your location and order details for a shipping quote. Note that international orders may be subject to import duties/taxes in your country (your responsibility).

Can I track my order?

Yes. Once your order ships, we'll email you a tracking number so you can monitor delivery progress in real-time. You'll know exactly when your boxes will arrive. For large orders, we may split shipments across multiple deliveries and provide tracking for each.

What if I need boxes delivered to multiple locations?

No problem. We can split shipments to different UK addresses if needed (for example, warehouse + retail store locations). Let us know your requirements when ordering and we'll arrange multiple deliveries. Additional delivery fees may apply for multi-location shipping.

How are boxes packaged for shipping?

Your custom boxes are packed flat (where applicable) or nested (for rigid boxes) in sturdy outer cartons with protective wrapping. Flat packing saves space and reduces shipping costs. Most boxes can be easily assembled in seconds once received. We include assembly instructions if needed.

Are your boxes recyclable?

Yes 100% recyclable. All our corrugated cardboard and folding boxboard is fully recyclable through UK kerbside recycling collections. Our boxes are made from 90% recycled waste paper or recovered paper. Even boxes with printing, lamination, or foiling can be recycled (the recycling process separates inks and coatings from paper fibres).

Are your boxes biodegradable or compostable?

Yes 100% biodegradable. Cardboard naturally biodegrades within 2-3 months in commercial composting conditions. Our kraft boxes and uncoated cardboard can even be home composted. Laminated boxes take longer to break down but are still biodegradable over time (6-12 months).

Do you offer FSC certified materials?

Yes. We offer FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) and PEFC certified cardboard from sustainably managed forests. FSC certification guarantees that the wood pulp used to make your boxes comes from responsibly managed forests. If you want FSC certification, request it in your quote and we'll include the FSC logo on your boxes and provide chain-of-custody documentation.

What about plastic-based packaging alternatives?

We strongly advocate for paper-based packaging over plastic. Since April 2026, the UK Plastic Packaging Tax increased to £228.82 per tonne for packaging with less than 30% recycled plastic content. Cardboard boxes avoid this tax entirely, reduce your carbon footprint (paper production uses 60% less energy than plastic), and give consumers the eco-friendly packaging they increasingly demand.

How much recycled content is in your boxes?

Our corrugated cardboard contains 90% recycled content. Our kraft liner paper comes from managed, sustainable softwood forests. Pre-printed grades (black board, blue board) contain 27% recycled content minimum. All manufacturing waste goes back to paper recyclers — nothing goes to landfill.

Do you use eco-friendly inks?

Yes. We use water-based and vegetable-based inks that are non-toxic and have minimal environmental impact compared to petroleum-based inks. These inks don't affect recyclability and are safer for food-contact packaging.

Can I add "recyclable" or sustainability messaging to my boxes?

Absolutely. Many brands print recycling symbols, disposal instructions, or sustainability statements on their boxes. We can add "100% Recyclable," "FSC Certified," "Made from Recycled Materials," or custom eco-messaging to your design at no extra cost. This helps educate consumers and reinforces your brand's environmental commitment.

Can you make custom sizes and shapes?

Yes any size, any shape. We manufacture fully custom boxes to your exact dimensions. Common box styles include: tuck-end, auto-lock bottom, crash-lock, gable, pillow, sleeve, drawer, window boxes, and many more. If you can describe it or sketch it, we can make it. Custom shapes require a die (cutting tool) which typically costs £85-250 depending on complexity.

What's the smallest/largest box you can make?

Smallest: Approximately 40mm × 40mm × 20mm (small enough for jewellery, USB drives, samples)
Largest: Up to 1200mm × 800mm × 600mm for corrugated boxes (large shipping boxes, display packaging)

If you need something outside these ranges, contact us we may be able to accommodate special requirements.

Can you add windows, handles, or special features?

Yes. We can add:

• Clear PET windows (to showcase products)
• Die-cut handles (for carrying)
• Magnetic closures (premium snap-shut lids)
• Ribbon pulls (drawer-style boxes)
• Internal dividers (separate multiple items)
• Foam inserts (extra protection)
• Business card slots
• Perforated tear strips (easy opening)

These features typically add 10-30% to box cost depending on complexity.

How do I measure box dimensions correctly?

Box dimensions are always measured as Length × Width × Height of the internal space (the area your product will occupy). Measure in millimetres for precision. If you're unsure, send us your product dimensions and we'll calculate the ideal box size with appropriate clearance for easy packing.

Can I print barcodes, QR codes, or variable data?

Yes. We can print barcodes (EAN, UPC, etc.) and QR codes on your boxes. For variable data (unique codes, serial numbers, batch numbers on each box), we offer digital printing which allows for customisation of individual boxes within a single print run. Contact us for variable data pricing.

What's the difference between digital and offset printing?

Digital printing: Best for smaller quantities (10-500 boxes). Lower setup costs, faster turnaround, allows for variable data. Slightly higher per-unit cost.

Offset printing: Best for larger quantities (500+ boxes). Higher setup costs but lower per-unit cost at volume. Best colour accuracy and print quality for large runs.

We'll automatically recommend the most cost-effective printing method for your quantity.

Do you work with small businesses and startups?

Absolutely. In fact, that's our speciality. Our no-minimum-order policy was created specifically for small businesses, startups, Etsy sellers, and solo entrepreneurs who don't have the budget for 10,000-unit orders. Whether you're launching your first product or you're an established brand, we treat every customer with the same level of service and quality.

Can I set up a trade account for regular orders?

Yes. For businesses placing regular orders, we offer trade accounts with net-30 payment terms (subject to credit approval), dedicated account managers, priority production scheduling, and additional volume discounts. Contact us to discuss account setup.

Do you offer wholesale pricing?

Our pricing is already highly competitive and decreases with volume. For very large orders (10,000+ boxes) or ongoing partnerships, contact us directly we can often offer additional wholesale pricing that isn't listed on our standard price tiers.

Can you white-label boxes for my clients?

Yes. We work with design agencies, brand consultants, and resellers who want to provide packaging to their clients under their own brand. We can ship directly to your clients with your branding on the packaging, invoices customised to your specifications, and complete confidentiality. Contact us to discuss white-label partnerships.

Are you ISO certified?

Yes ISO 9001:2015 certified. This internationally recognised certification proves we maintain strict quality management systems, consistent processes, and continuous improvement practices. We can provide ISO certification documentation if required for your supply chain compliance or tender applications.

How long have you been in business?

15+ years. We've been manufacturing custom packaging since 2008 and have served over 8,500 UK businesses ranging from solo entrepreneurs to major retailers. We've produced over 2.3 million boxes and have deep expertise across all packaging types and industries.

Still Have Questions?

We're here to help. Our packaging experts respond within 2 hours during business hours.