When working with your packaging vendor, there are some useful things you can consider that will make your experience as positive and productive as possible.
Be Plugged-In & Ask Questions
You’ve always been taught that “there are no such thing as stupid questions”. I wouldn’t exactly say that, but even if you think it’s a stupid question, ask it anyway. After all, it’s your money, your business, your product packaging and you deserve to be informed.
In other words, get involved and make sure the packaging company has all the relevant details to help you get the most from their services and your packaging. Here’s an example of buying a POP Display and being proactive and plugged-in to ensure success (at least as much as you can from you end) And to further this pop display scenario, here is an article about the importance of testing theses very expensive class of packaging.
Keep Meticulous Notes
I can’t stress enough the importance of being organized.
Make detailed notes about:
- emails and phone conversations including to whom you spoke and what was said
- dates and times
- artwork versions (name and date each version appropriately)
Understanding the Packaging Industry’s Jargon and Conventions
Every industry has its own specialty terms and phrases, and the packaging industry is no exception. Knowing what people are talking about is essential, whether it be the salesperson/broker, the graphic designer, the structural designer, the pre-press department, the pressmen, etc. You don’t have to know the ins and outs of every aspect of their jobs, obviously, but you should know what you, as an informed buyer, are expected to know. For example, knowing about overs and unders, tooling, cutting dies,, or simply knowing how a box is actually made can be of great benefit. Take some time to explore these links. I do my best to explain the aspects of packaging in a way that will be useful to you. Knowledge is power and can save you time and money.
Negotiation and Compromise
We all want what we want, when we want it, and for the price we want – negotiation is the key to this. Generally speaking, people want your business, so there is always room for negotiation. And sometimes compromise must be done on both sides of the negotiation table. Knowing what is essential for your packaging to be successful and knowing what you can live without takes some discerning and experience.
I have also written a couple of articles on things to keep in mind when working with a packaging vendor that you might find useful: Tips For Working with a Packaging Company and one to help you when you have need of a Packaging Rush Job
Understand Lead Times
It’s important to understand the time frame that is needed to produce packaging. Lead times generally mean the time it takes to produce packaging once the final proof is “signed off on”. This lead time usually doesn’t include transportation time. I have an article that discusses Lead Times in depth and includes a chart illustrating the lead times for a variety of packaging types. And here’s another one that addresses overall lead times for the different phases of the packaging buying process
Packaging Press Check
If you are getting custom printing done, you will have the option of going to the press check. And if you can drive there in a reasonable amount of time, I would. What is a press check? I’ve written a blog explaining what a press check is and how to have a successful one. I think you’ll find it useful – check it out here.
Be Responsive Yourself
As you would expect the packaging vendor to be responsive to your questions and concerns, it is equally important for you to be the same way. Any delay in responding to questions from the packaging vendor can greatly delay your packaging production.