Custom Packaging RFQ Checklist: A Practical Buying Guide

A useful packaging quotation starts with a clear product brief. A photograph helps explain the look you want, but the supplier also needs dimensions, quantity, materials and delivery information. Use this checklist when sourcing custom Mylar bags, glass jars, pre-roll tubes or printed boxes.

1. Describe the product and how it will be packed

State what the packaging will hold, the intended fill amount and whether the product is packed by hand or on a machine. Include a product photograph or reference link. Explain whether you need a pouch, a rigid container, a tube or an outer gift box. If you have an existing pack, provide photographs of the front, back, closure and base.

2. Provide dimensions with units and a measurement drawing

Write every dimension in millimetres or inches and label the measurement points. For a pouch, show width, height and any bottom or side gusset. For a jar or tube, distinguish the outside dimensions from the usable internal space. For a box, show the product dimensions and the space required for inserts. Do not assume two containers with the same advertised capacity will fit the same product.

A physical fit sample is useful before approving the final dimensions. Check how the product enters the pack, how the closure works and how much space remains after filling.

3. Specify the material, closure and finish

Describe the conditions the packaging needs to handle, such as contact with oils, moisture exposure, light sensitivity or transport. Ask the supplier to propose a suitable material structure and explain the available options. List the closure you want, such as a zipper, heat seal, screw cap or pop-top, and any window, hang hole or tear notch.

For printed packaging, identify the desired surface finish: glossy, matte, soft-touch or a combination. Ask which finishes are compatible with the proposed material and printing method. Any food-contact, child-resistance or other regulated requirements should be stated clearly, with the applicable market and documentation needed.

4. Send artwork and the number of designs

Share your logo and artwork files, the number of colours or designs, and any colour references. Request the supplier's dieline before finalising print-ready artwork. Mark the front and back, barcode location, text orientation and any areas that must remain clear. Keep required text away from seals, folds and cut lines according to the supplied dieline.

Confirm how the artwork will be checked, what the proof represents and whether a printed sample is needed. A screen preview alone does not establish the final material feel or printed colour.

5. Break the quantity down by size and design

Instead of giving only a total order quantity, list the quantity for each size, material and artwork version. If you want to compare order volumes, request quotations for the same specification at each quantity. Ask which setup, tooling, sampling, packing and transport costs are included so the offers can be compared on the same basis.

6. Add delivery details and the required approval steps

Provide the delivery country and postal code, the required arrival date and whether the quotation should include transport. Separate the target delivery date from the production schedule. Ask the supplier to confirm what must be approved before production begins and how sampling, artwork approval and shipping affect the schedule.

A brief you can copy into your inquiry

• Product and packaging format:

• Dimensions and units, with a labelled drawing:

• Material and closure requirements:

• Printing, finish and number of artwork versions:

• Quantity for each size and design:

• Sample and proof requirements:

• Delivery country, postal code and target arrival date:

Start by comparing custom Mylar bags, glass jars and lids, pre-roll tubes or custom packaging boxes. When your brief is ready, request a packaging quotation or discuss packaging samples.