Guide / Printing / Chapter 4.4
Flexo printing for cartons.
The workhorse of printed shipping boxes. Here's how flexo printing works, why it suits cartons, and how to design artwork that prints cleanly on corrugated board.
The short answer
Flexo printing (flexographic printing) uses a flexible, raised printing plate to transfer ink onto the board. It's the method we use for printed shipping cartons, from 250 units, with a standard lead time of 10–15 business days from artwork approval. Lead times can differ in peak periods, so check our current lead times. It suits logos, text, handling marks and simple graphics in one or a few colours, printed on the outside of the carton.
How it works
A flexible plate is made with your design raised on its surface, a bit like a rubber stamp. Ink is applied to the raised areas and the plate rolls across the corrugated board, printing the design as the board passes through the machine.
Because a plate is made for each colour, flexo has a set-up stage, which is why it starts from 250 units. Once it's running, it prints quickly and consistently, which makes it efficient for larger carton orders.
What flexo is good for on cartons
- Logos and brand names on the sides of shipping cartons.
- Handling information such as "this way up", "fragile" or weight notices.
- Product names and codes, so your warehouse can identify cartons at a glance.
- Simple, bold graphics in one or a few solid colours.
Flexo printing at PackQueen
| Details | |
|---|---|
| Used on | Shipping cartons (regular slotted cartons) |
| Minimum order | From 250 units |
| Lead time | 10–15 business days from artwork approval. Check current lead times in peak periods |
| Best artwork | Logos, text and simple graphics in solid colours |
| Proof | Digital proof emailed, typically within 1 business day of receiving your artwork |
Designing for flexo on corrugated board
Keep it bold and simple
Corrugated board has a slightly uneven surface because of the flute underneath. Bold logos and clear text print best. Fine detail, small text and photos don't suit our flexo carton printing.
Allow for the flaps and folds
Cartons have flaps, folds and a glued joint. Keep your design clear of folds and edges, and check the proof to make sure each element sits on the right panel.
Think about the colour of the board
Flexo inks print on top of the board colour. On kraft brown cartons, colours look darker, so strong colours and black work best.
What it means for you
The same question, answered for where your business is today.
Choose your stage at the top of the page to open the advice for you.
Start-up · under 100 units
Printed cartons start from 250 units, so most start-ups use plain cartons with a printed label or sticker until volumes grow.
A custom label with your logo is a simple way to brand plain cartons in small quantities.
Growing · 100 to 2,499 units
Once you're shipping 250 or more cartons of the same size, printing your logo and key handling marks can save labelling time and look more professional.
Try this: print the information your warehouse needs most, such as product name or "this way up".
Enterprise · 2,500 units and more
Specify your printed cartons fully: size, board, print colours and artwork position. Consistent printed cartons make warehouses and receiving faster.
Use one master artwork per carton size and keep it on file for reorders.
Common mistakes
- 1Using a detailed design. Fine lines, small text and photos don't suit our carton printing. Simplify.
- 2Ignoring the board colour. On kraft brown, pale colours disappear. Use strong colours or black.
- 3Placing artwork over folds. Logos across a fold or flap can look broken. Check placement on your proof.
- 4Printing everything. Cartons are for transport. Print what helps: your brand and handling information.
Flexo printing questions
What is flexo printing?
What's the minimum order for printed cartons?
How long do printed cartons take?
Can you print photos on cartons?
What should I print on my cartons?
Keep reading
Printed cartons
Planning printed cartons?
Send us your carton size, quantity and logo. Our Melbourne team will quote and send a digital proof, typically within 1 business day of receiving your artwork.