Guide / Ordering & production / Chapter 6.6
How to get an accurate packaging quote.
A quote is only as good as the information behind it. Here's exactly what to include in a packaging quote request, so your quote is accurate and the box you get is the box you need.
The short answer
For an accurate quote, tell us what you're packing (with its size and weight), how many you need, how it will be printed, how it ships and when you need it. Add your artwork or a description of it, and any finishes or extras. The more complete the request, the fewer back-and-forth emails and the more accurate the price. Our team usually replies within 1 business day.
Why details matter
Packaging prices depend on size, board, print, quantity and finishes. If any of those are missing, the quote has to be based on a guess, and the price can change once the details are confirmed. A complete request gets you a firm price faster. A quote applies to the specification it describes: if the size, quantity, print, finishes or artwork change, the price can change too. Check whether GST, freight, any set-up or artwork conversion costs are included, and quotes are valid for the period stated on the quote.
It also helps us recommend the right packaging. If we know your product is heavy and travels interstate, we'll suggest a stronger board. If we know it's a gift, we'll suggest a better presentation.
Your quote checklist
Copy this list into your quote request, or use it to fill in our quote form.
| What to include | Why it matters | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Product and its size | Decides the box size | Candle in a jar, 90 × 90 × 110 mm |
| Product weight | Decides the board | 450 g each |
| Packaging type | Box, bag, mailer or carton | Die-cut mailer box |
| Quantity | Decides the price per unit and print method | 250, or 250 and 500 to compare |
| Colours, coverage, one side or more | Logo on the lid, one colour | |
| Material and finish | Kraft, white, black, lamination | Kraft brown, no lamination |
| How it ships | Courier, post, hand delivery, pallet | Australia Post, interstate |
| Timing | Decides what's possible | Needed by 15 November |
| Artwork | Lets us check it and price accurately | Logo as an AI, EPS or vector PDF file |
Helpful extras
- A photo of your product, or of packaging you like, says more than a description.
- A sample of your current packaging, if you're replacing it, with what you'd like to change.
- Two or three quantities, so you can see how the price changes with order size.
- Your budget per unit, if you have one, so we can suggest options that fit it.
- Anything that must not change, like a size that fits a satchel or shelf.
After you get your quote
Check that the quote matches what you asked for: the size, board, print, quantity and timing. Ask about anything you're unsure of. When you're ready, we'll prepare a digital proof of your artwork, typically within 1 business day of receiving your files. For a first order or a new size, check the size with a plain sample first, and ask whether a custom printed sample is available for your product. Where it is, it usually costs $50–$200, reimbursed when you place your order.
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
You don't need everything perfect. Your product's size, roughly how many and what you'd like printed is enough to start. We'll help with the rest.
Send a photo of your product. It helps more than you'd think.
Growing · 100 to 2,499 units
Include two or three quantities and your artwork. That gives you a firm price and shows where the cost per unit levels out.
Try this: keep a one-page brief with your sizes, weights and print details, ready for every quote.
Enterprise · 2,500 units and more
Send a written specification with dimensions, board, print, quantities and delivery timing, so quotes are comparable and repeatable.
Ask for quotes on the exact specification you'll reorder, so future orders match.
Common mistakes
- 1Giving only a box size for a new fit. For a new product, give us your product's size and how you'll protect it, and we'll work out the box. For a like-for-like reorder, the existing internal box size is fine.
- 2Leaving out the quantity. Price per unit changes a lot with quantity. A range is better than nothing.
- 3Forgetting the deadline. Timing affects which print methods and options are possible.
- 4Vague print details. "Logo on the box" could mean one colour on the lid or full colour on every side. Be specific.
Quote questions
What do I need to get a packaging quote?
How long does a quote take?
Do I need artwork to get a quote?
Can I get quotes for different quantities?
What happens after I accept a quote?
Keep reading
Popular custom packaging
Ready for a quote?
Fill in our quote form with your details. Our Melbourne packaging team usually replies within 1 business day.