"How much does a custom box cost?" is the first question most brands ask. The honest answer is: it depends on a handful of choices you make. This guide explains the seven factors that set the price of a custom rigid box, so you can understand a quote and decide where to spend.
1. Size
A bigger box uses more board and paper, and takes more space in shipping. Size is usually the biggest single factor in the price.
2. Box style
Some styles have more parts and take longer to make:
- Lid and base: two parts, usually the best value.
- Magnetic flip-top and book-style: magnets and an attached lid add parts and work.
- Drawer: a sleeve and a tray, often with a ribbon pull.
- Double-door and shoulder neck: the most parts, so usually the highest price.
3. Board thickness
Thicker greyboard is stronger but costs more. We suggest the right thickness for your box size and product weight, so you do not pay for more board than you need.
4. Paper and print
- Plain coloured paper with a foil logo is usually more economical than full-colour printing.
- Specialty papers such as textured, linen-look or leatherette add to the cost.
- Printing inside and outside costs more than printing one side.
5. Finishes
Each finish, such as foil, embossing, debossing or spot UV, adds a step and often a one-off tool (a die or screen). Choosing one or two finishes usually gives the best look for the price. See our guide to foil, embossing and spot UV.
6. Inserts
A simple card insert costs less than a precision-cut EVA foam or velvet-covered insert. Multi-pocket inserts for sets cost more than a single cut-out. See rigid boxes with inserts for the options.
7. Quantity
This is the factor that surprises most buyers. Some costs, such as dies and setting up production, are the same whether you order 50 or 5,000 boxes. On a small order those costs are shared across fewer boxes, so the price per box falls as the quantity rises. Our minimum is 50 pieces per design.
Delivery
Bulk quotes include delivery. The cost depends on the number and size of cartons and where they are going. Your quote states the delivery terms; see our shipping page.
How to keep the cost per box down
- Use one box size for several products and change only the colour or a label.
- Choose one hero finish for the logo instead of several.
- Use a card insert where foam is not needed.
- Ask for prices at two quantities to see where the price per box drops.
- Plan seasonal orders early to avoid rushed delivery.
Getting an accurate quote
Send us your product size, the style you like, your finishes and your quantity through Get a Quote. We reply within 24 hours with an exact price, and you can order a paid sample before committing to the full run.
