Got Questions?
frequently asked questions
General
How do you determine your minimum order quantities?
The minimum order quantity we require varies based on the product and its customization needs. For specific MOQ details of a particular product, please contact our product experts or refer to our MOQ list available online.
We aim to fulfill orders of all sizes to meet the diverse needs of our clients, so feel free to get in touch with us.
What is custom packaging and how does it benefit businesses?
Custom packaging is packaging designed specifically for a brand's product and dimensions. It improves brand recognition, protection, and customer experience.
Is it possible to order less than the required minimum order quantity?
While we encourage our valued customers to respect our minimum order quantities to control setup costs effectively, we are open to considering smaller orders as per request.
We are committed to meeting our customers' unique demands.
How do I choose the right custom packaging supplier?
Evaluate material quality, customization options, MOQs, turnaround time, pricing, and sustainability practices.
Are your products environmentally friendly?
Yes, all our paper-based packaging solutions are fully recyclable. We are committed to offering sustainable packaging options.
Our product specialists are available to assist you in finding eco-friendly alternatives that meet your specific needs.
What does it mean that Paking Duck is a "one-stop shop"?
It means you stop juggling vendors.
Boxes, pouches, bottles, jars, tins, stickers, labels, tissue paper, packing paper, poly mailers, freight. All from us. One point of contact, one production timeline, one invoice. That's the whole pitch.
Most brands piece their packaging together across 4 or 5 suppliers, then spend half their time playing project manager between all of them. We've worked with over 1,000 brands and the ones who consolidate with us always say the same thing: they wish they'd done it sooner. Less coordination, fewer surprises, and one team that's accountable from concept through delivery.
What is your typical production timeframe
Our production timeline usually spans between 10 to 30 business days, depending on factors like packaging type, order volume, and seasonal variations. Note that custom packaging with more intricate customizations may take a bit longer.
Keep in mind that all provided timelines are estimates and may change without prior notice due to fluctuating order volumes and other variables. You can check our estimated turnaround times for each product line on our website.
Where are your manufacturing facilities?
Southern China. We run production through our own facilities and dedicated factory partners in Fuzhou, Shenzhen, and Guangzhou, with a team on the ground managing everything.
That means we're not sending specs overseas and hoping for the best. Our people are in the factories overseeing quoting, sampling, and QC in person. We handle DDP shipping straight to your door (or your 3PL), so you don't have to think about freight, customs, or any of that.
The equipment matters too. Our production facilities run printing and finishing machines imported from Germany and Japan. That's how we hit the quality that brands like Madhappy, Tower 28, and Venus et Fleur expect on every run.
What does custom package mean in product packaging?
A custom package is packaging tailored to specific product needs, branding, and logistics requirements rather than standard stock packaging.
Who are the leading custom packaging suppliers?
Leading suppliers specialize in branded boxes, flexible packaging, and sustainable materials with global fulfillment.
What are custom packaging supplies?
They include boxes, mailers, inserts, labels, and protective materials customized with branding and dimensions.
Where can businesses buy custom packaging supply?
From specialized manufacturers, online packaging platforms, and wholesale distributors.
What do customized packaging suppliers offer?
They offer packaging design, material selection, printing, prototyping, and scalable manufacturing.
File Prep & Design Requirements
Why do I need to use CMYK instead of RGB for print?
CMYK is the standard color mode for print because it reflects how inks are physically mixed on press (Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, Black). Packaging is printed using ink, not light—so, so CMYK ensures predictable, accurate color output. RGB files are designed for screens and rely on light; when converted to CMYK, they often shift in color (neons dull, blues turn purple, brights lose intensity).
Submitting CMYK files helps avoid issues during production.
How do I set up bleed and safe zones correctly?
Bleed is the extra area (typically 3mm or 0.125” on all sides) added beyond the final trim size to ensure no white edges appear after cutting. Safe zones are margins inside the trim where all critical text and logos should stay. Keeping key artwork within safe zones prevents important elements from being cut off due to minor trimming variations.
What is the minimum font size and line weight for clear printing?
For print clarity:
• Minimum font size: 6 pt (8 pt recommended for small packaging)
• Minimum line weight: 0.25 pt (0.5 pt recommended)
Special finishes require extra care:
• Foil stamping & embossing: Avoid thin fonts and fine details; use bolder typefaces
• Small labels: Increase font size and contrast for legibility
Which file formats are accepted for print, and why?
Accepted formats:
• .AI (Adobe Illustrator)
• .PDF (print-ready, outlined fonts)
• .EPS
These formats preserve vector data, layers, and color accuracy. JPGs, PNGs, PowerPoint, or Word files are not suitable because they are raster-based, compress image data, and can cause quality loss, scaling issues, and color inaccuracies.
Packaging and Material Considerations
What materials do you manufacture in?
Pretty much everything.
Paper (cardstock, corrugated, chipboard, kraft), plastic (PET, HDPE, PP, bioplastics), glass (jars, bottles, vials, droppers), and metal (tin containers, aluminum). If your product needs packaging, we've probably made something like it before.
We also handle all the finishes that make packaging feel worth keeping: foil stamping, embossing, soft-touch lamination, spot UV, custom die cuts, Pantone matching. The stuff that turns a box into an experience (and gets you those unboxing videos).
If you don't see it listed here, ask anyway. What's on our site is honestly just the starting point.
What is flexible pouch packaging used for?
Flexible pouch packaging is used for food, cosmetics, and supplements due to its lightweight design, resealability, cost efficiency, and shelf appeal.
What are the benefits of flexible pouches packaging?
Benefits include lower shipping costs, sustainability, convenience, and extended shelf life.
What is cosmetic packaging and why is it important for beauty brands?
Cosmetic packaging refers to containers and boxes used for beauty and personal care products. It protects products, ensures compliance, enhances brand perception, and influences purchasing decisions.
What are current cosmetic packaging trends?
Trends include sustainable materials, refillable packaging, minimalist designs, and smart packaging.
What type of box is best for cosmetic packaging?
Rigid boxes and folding cartons are best due to durability, customization, and premium appearance.
Where can I buy wholesale cosmetics packaging?
From bulk manufacturers and distributors offering bottles, jars, tubes, and boxes.
How do I choose the right material for my product packaging?
• Paperboard: Lightweight, cost-effective, ideal for retail packaging
• Corrugated: Durable, best for shipping and heavier items
• Rigid boxes: Premium look and feel, used for luxury products
• PET: Clear, rigid plastic
• HDPE: Durable, opaque plastic, often used for bottles
Material choice affects cost, durability, sustainability, and brand perception.
What industries use flexible packaging pouches?
Industries include food, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, pet food, and supplements.
What print finishes are available, and how do they differ?
• Gloss: Shiny, vibrant colors
• Matte: Smooth, muted, modern look
• Soft-touch: Velvet-like feel, premium finish
• Spot UV: High-gloss coating on specific areas
• Foil stamping: Metallic or colored foil for logos/text
• Emboss/Deboss: Raised or recessed designs for tactile impact
Visual references are highly recommended when choosing finishes.
What is a dieline, and why is it important in packaging design?
A dieline is a technical drawing that shows the flat layout of your packaging, including cut lines, fold lines, glue flaps, and creases. It allows you to visualize how the final structure will assemble and ensures artwork aligns correctly once folded and glued.
When should I use digital, offset, or flexo printing?
• Digital: Best for low quantities, fast turnaround, variable data
• Offset: Ideal for medium to large runs with high color accuracy
• Flexo: Used for very high volumes, especially corrugated packaging
Choosing the right method balances quality, quantity, and budget.
What are the best materials for custom jewelry packaging?
The best materials include rigid boxes with foam inserts, velvet-lined boxes, kraft paper options, and eco-friendly materials.
What is cosmetic box packaging used for?
It protects and presents beauty products while conveying brand identity and regulatory information.
Why is box packaging important for cosmetics?
It protects products, communicates branding, and ensures labeling compliance.
What materials are used for cosmetic packaging boxes?
Common materials include cardboard, paperboard, rigid board, and recycled materials.
What is wholesale cosmetic packaging?
It refers to purchasing beauty packaging components in bulk at discounted prices.
How do cosmetics packaging boxes affect brand perception?
High-quality boxes increase perceived value, trust, and customer experience.
What is a flexible packaging pouch?
It is a lightweight, sealed packaging format used for liquids, powders, and solids.
Production & Timeline Management
What is your minimum order quantity (MOQ)?
Lower than you'd expect.
Boxes and insert cards start at 2,500 units. Poly mailers and pouches run 5,000-10,000. Glass and custom bottles sit higher, 50,000-10,000, because mold tooling gets expensive below that.Send us your project details and we'll give you an exact MOQ and quote. No back-and-forth guessing games.
What do our lead times include, and why might delays occur?
Lead times typically include:
1. File review & prepress
2. Sampling (if required)
3. Mass production
4. Quality control inspections
5. Packing & shipping
Delays usually occur when approvals or files are incomplete.
How can I request a sample or prototype?
We provide three types of sampling options, depending on your needs:
• Digital mockups – Visual previews only, useful for checking layout and design before production.
• Structural samples – Physical samples that show the packaging’s size and shape, without final print finishes.
• Production samples – Full prototypes using final materials, printing, and finishes, giving you the closest look at the finished product.
Each option comes with different costs and timelines, which vary based on complexity and level of detail.
Customer Support & Communication
How do we communicate, and what response times should you expect?
• Typical response time: within 1 business day
• Time zone differences and public holidays (especially in China) may affect replies
• Preferred channels: Email, Slack, and WhatsApp
What happens if there’s a print error?
We follow a structured quality control process. If an issue arises:
• Clients should submit clear photos and details within the claim window
• We investigate the root cause
• Solutions are provided based on responsibility and severity
What is a production hold, and how can you avoid it?
A production hold means manufacturing is paused due to missing or incorrect information. Common reasons include:
• Unapproved artwork
• Incorrect file setup
• Missing payment or confirmations
Quick approvals and accurate files help prevent delays.
What does our quality control process check before shipping?
We conduct multiple checkpoints to ensure consistency and reliability:
• Material inspection
• Color and print alignment
• Structural accuracy
• Quantity checks
Shipping & Logistics
What shipping terms do we use, and what do they mean?
We commonly work with three international shipping terms:
• EXW (Ex Works) – The buyer arranges all logistics starting from the factory.
• FOB (Free on Board) – The factory delivers goods to the port; the buyer manages shipping from there.
• DDP (Delivered Duty Paid) – All shipping, duties, and taxes are included, with delivery to the buyer’s door.
Understanding these terms helps you anticipate responsibilities and avoid unexpected costs.
How do box sizes and volumetric weight affect shipping costs?
Shipping costs are based on whichever is greater: actual weight or volumetric weight. Large, lightweight boxes can cost more to ship than small, heavy ones due to the space they occupy.
