For e-commerce and DTC brands, packaging IS the product experience. Unboxing videos drive purchase decisions. Generic packaging costs you sales. Here's how to source custom packaging from China.

Types of Custom Packaging

  • Custom Boxes: Rigid boxes (luxury), folding cartons (standard), corrugated boxes (shipping). MOQ: 500-1,000 for folding cartons, 200-500 for rigid boxes.
  • Custom Tissue Paper: Logo-printed tissue at 2-5 cents per sheet. MOQ: 1,000-5,000 sheets. Simple brand elevation for any product.
  • Custom Tape: Branded packing tape at 10-20 cents per roll. MOQ: 100-500 rolls.
  • Insert Cards: Thank you cards, instruction cards, warranty cards. MOQ: 500-1,000 pieces.

Packaging Sourcing Tips

  • Combine packaging with product sourcing โ€” your product supplier can source packaging locally
  • Get a physical sample before production โ€” colors look different on screen
  • Specify paper weight (GSM) โ€” 250 GSM for standard boxes, 350+ for premium feel
  • Include assembly instructions โ€” some packaging requires manual folding at destination
  • Calculate shipping impact โ€” packaging adds weight and volume to your shipment

Custom packaging typically adds $0.50-3.00 per unit. For products retailing at $20+, the ROI on perceived value is 5-10x.