A small launch does not need a big packaging order. Many new perfume brands believe luxury boxes are only for houses that order thousands at a time. That is no longer true. With a minimum of 50 pieces per design, you can launch with a rigid box that looks and feels as premium as the big names, and learn what your customers love before you order more.
This is the step-by-step plan we suggest to brands launching with 50 to 200 boxes.
Step 1: Fix your bottle and cap
The box is built around the bottle, so the bottle comes first. Before you ask for a packaging quote, make sure you have chosen:
- The bottle shape and size (for example 30 ml, 50 ml or 100 ml)
- The cap, which can change the height and width a lot
- Any collar, label or charm that adds to the shape
Then measure height, width and depth with the cap on. Our guide on how to measure your bottle explains exactly how.
If your bottles are still on their way, ask the bottle supplier for the specification sheet. It is accurate enough to start the quote.
Step 2: Decide how you will sell
How the box will be used changes the best style:
- Online and direct to customer: the unboxing moment matters most. Think about how it looks in a photo or video.
- In shops: shelf look and the front of the box matter most.
- As a gift: a slower, more special opening works well.
Step 3: Pick a box style
For a first launch, these three styles cover most needs:
- Magnetic flip-top box: one smooth reveal, ideal for a single hero bottle.
- Double-door box: a dramatic centre opening, great for a signature scent.
- Book-style box: opens from the side like a book, with space inside the cover for your story.
If you are launching a set, such as a bottle with a travel spray, look at the sliding drawer box. Our comparison of magnetic and drawer boxes explains the difference in detail.
Step 4: Choose one or two finishes
On a small run, every extra finish adds to the price per box, so be selective. A classic choice that works for most brands is:
- A dark matte or soft-touch box
- Your logo in gold or silver foil
If you want more depth, add embossing or debossing to the logo. Our guide to foil, embossing and spot UV shows what each one looks like.
Keep the inside simple: a black or white foam or card insert cut to your bottle looks clean and protects it well.
Step 5: Prepare your artwork
Send your logo as a vector file (AI, EPS, SVG or PDF) if you have one, plus your brand colours. If you only have a PNG or JPG, send the largest version you have. Our guide on what artwork files to send covers this step by step.
Step 6: Get your quote
Send us your bottle size, box style, finishes and quantity through Get a Quote. We reply within 24 hours with a price.
Ask for prices at two quantities, for example 50 and 100 pieces. The price per box drops as quantity rises, because set-up costs such as foil dies are shared across more boxes. Seeing both helps you decide whether a slightly larger first order is worth it.
Step 7: Order a paid sample
Before you commit to the full run, order a paid sample. This is the most important step for a new brand. With the sample in your hands you can:
- Check the bottle fits the insert perfectly
- See the real colour and finish under shop and daylight
- Take photos for your website and social media before launch
- Show it to stockists or investors
Step 8: Approve the design and order
We send you a final design proof with the box size, colours and logo position. Check every detail, especially spelling and logo size, and approve it in writing. Production starts after approval and your deposit.
Step 9: Plan your timeline
Work backwards from your launch date. Allow time for:
- The quote and design proof
- The paid sample, including shipping to you
- Production of your bulk order
- Delivery to your country
Your quote shows production and delivery times for your country, so you can plan with real dates rather than guesses. If your launch date is fixed, tell us at the start.
Step 10: Reorder when you are ready
Once your first boxes sell, you can reorder the same design at any quantity from 50 pieces. Because the design and dies already exist, reorders are simpler. Many brands start with 50 to 100 boxes, then move to larger orders once they know which products sell best.
A simple checklist
- Bottle and cap chosen and measured
- Box style chosen
- One or two finishes chosen
- Logo files ready
- Quote at two quantities
- Paid sample checked
- Design proof approved
- Launch date planned
Ready to start?
Send us your bottle size, the style you like and your quantity through Get a Quote, or message us on WhatsApp. We will reply within 24 hours.
