Minimum order quantities in custom packaging exist because of how production is structured. Setting up a printing press, calibrating colour, cutting dies and configuring machinery all represent fixed costs that are spread across the quantity ordered. The lower the quantity, the higher the per-unit cost.
For digital printing, minimums are significantly lower than for traditional offset or gravure printing. This makes digital the right choice for brands at launch stage or brands testing new packaging before committing to a full production run.
Typical minimum quantities by format are as follows. Custom labels using digital printing start from approximately 100 to 250 units. Folding cartons and product boxes start from 500 units for digital and 1,000 units for offset printing. Stand-up pouches and flexible packaging start from 500 units for digital. Rigid luxury boxes typically start from 200 to 500 units. Custom mailer boxes start from 100 to 250 units for digital.
For brands who need very low quantities during product development or testing, sheet labels printed on standard sheets can be available from as few as 24 units.
As quantities increase, per-unit costs decrease. A brand ordering 5,000 labels will pay significantly less per unit than a brand ordering 500. For brands with ongoing production needs, our Managed Reorder program provides volume pricing reviews as production quantities grow over time.
Contact Edynamics Packaging to discuss the right production method and quantity for your specific project.