How to Error Proof Your Product Packaging

The proofing process is an important part of every business operation. When we think about the full cycle of a product, we see where proofing fits with product development, packaging, distribution, marketing, and more. For product packaging, without a clearly outlined proofing process errors can end up being very costly.  Depending on the type of error, packaging problems have a domino effect and can lead to a delay in getting your product to market, product recalls, and frustrating your customers. If you work with retailers, it could also affect your relationship with them.

What’s missing in your packaging proofing process? Let’s look at a few common mistakes and how to error-proof your product packaging.

Mistake #1 – Packaging design doesn’t work with the box style you choose

The fix: Involve the box and packaging manufacturer in both the graphic design and the proofing process

Packaging companies are experts in what they do. Their employees live and breathe packaging, so they know specifically what to look for in terms of errors and issues. They also know how graphic design works with printing packaging. Most packaging companies will offer in-house design services but they also can work directly with an outside designer. For example, if your company wants to outsource graphic design, the packaging manufacturer can provide guidelines and then review the design ideas with the box dimensions and make sure that no design features, folds, creases, or adhesives will affect the overall printed packaging. The graphic designer and the packaging manufacturer work together to make sure your finished product is exactly what you need.

Mistake #2 – Errors with text, graphics, and packaging selection

The fix: Slow the proofing process

Most mistakes happen when a process is rushed. Getting a product to market is a complex process. There are a lot of moving parts which means there is plenty of room for error. The more points in the overall process you have for proofing and reviews, the fewer errors you will have overall.  Make sure that everyone involved in the proofing process is on board and committed to the schedule, but that they also take their time and look very closely for errors and issues.

Mistake #3 – No standard operating procedures around proofing your packaging

The fix: Document the proofing process

Checklists are your friends. They are also an ever-evolving tool that needs updating as new developments occur. Start the documentation process by working with your packaging company. They can provide specific guidelines for designing packaging and producing the packaging.  The artwork guidelines come with a final checklist that graphic designers can use to make sure they have covered all the bases. Experts at the packaging company can show you all of the options that are available for packaging so that you choose what will work with your product goals and your budget.

Tools like the packaging essentials guidelines provide details about all the considerations to take when making decisions about packaging. Use the guidelines provided by your packaging company to create a master checklist for everyone involved in the proofing process. Along the way, if you need to make changes to the product packaging, ensure you change the checklists so these items aren’t missed in the future.

Mistake #4: Not requesting a design proof and not running a short run of packaging

The fix: Ask your manufacturer for a printed box design and discuss short-run options

Some mistakes aren’t seen until you have the finished packaging in hand. If you place an order for thousands of units and then see a mistake, that could devastate your budget. At Uppercut Box Company, we provide a 3D rendering of your finished design and a pdf proof. We can also print a finished box for you to review with your team. Plan for a successful first packaging run by starting small. Small runs are ideal for any size business because they give you extra time to fully test your packaging with your product and the market. Testing your product in a limited release is a smart way to conserve cash flow and reduce inventory issues. An added bonus is that you get to test out your custom box manufacturing process and see where to tweak for subsequent runs.

The beauty of short-run packaging is you produce only what you need – when you need it. Your per-unit price may be a bit higher, but your over-inventory supply risk is minimized and short-run packaging allows you to manage your cash more efficiently. Read about other important benefits of short-run packaging here.

Do you have questions about designing product packaging? Our team of experts can help you error-proof your product packaging and walk you through the process. We are happy to answer any questions. Give us a call today!