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Frequently Asked Questions

Answers to the questions we get asked most about custom boxes, artwork, delivery and payments. Can't find what you need? Our team is happy to help.

Ordering and quotes

Is there a minimum order quantity?

No. We have no minimum order, so you can order exactly the number of boxes you need. That makes us a good fit for small businesses, product launches and test runs.

How do I get a quote?

Fill in our free quote form with your box size, material, printing and quantity. You can also email or call us. We aim to reply within an hour during business hours.

What details should I include in my quote request?

The more we know, the more accurate your price will be. It helps to tell us:

  • Box size (length x width x height) and whether it's in inches, cm or mm
  • Material, such as white card stock, kraft, corrugated or rigid
  • Quantity
  • Printing and any finishes you want
  • What you're putting in the box

Not sure about some of it? That's fine. Send what you have and we'll help with the rest.

How long is a quote valid for?

Quotes are valid for 14 days from the date we send them, unless we say otherwise. If your specification changes after that, we'll confirm the new price before taking payment.

Can I talk to someone before I order?

Yes. You can book a phone call or a Zoom meeting with one of our packaging team from our homepage. We're available Monday to Friday, 9:00am to 5:00pm (UK time).

Do you offer wholesale or trade pricing?

Yes. We offer trade rates for UK retailers, distributors and resellers. Larger orders usually get a lower price per box, so ask us for a quote with your expected quantities.

How do I place an order?

It works like this:

  • Send us your requirements and get a quote
  • Send your artwork, or ask us for a free design template
  • Check and approve your digital proof
  • Pay for your order
  • We make your boxes and deliver them

Design and artwork

Can I print my own logo and artwork?

Yes. Every box we make is custom, so you can print your own logo, colours, artwork and text on it.

What file format do you need for artwork?

Please send your artwork as a PDF, PSD or AI file at 300 DPI or higher. This keeps your print sharp and clear.

I don't have a design yet. Can you help?

Yes. We give free design templates (dielines) for your box size, and our design team can help you get your artwork ready for print. If your file is low resolution, let us know and we'll help you sort it out.

Will I see my design before you print it?

Yes. We send you a 3D digital mock-up before production starts. Nothing is printed until you approve it, so please check spelling, colours and sizes carefully.

Can I get a physical sample first?

Yes. For larger orders we can make a physical sample (a hard proof) for a small fee. We'll confirm the cost with you before we charge anything.

Do you charge for dies or printing plates?

No. There are no die or plate charges on our orders.

Materials, printing and finishes

What materials do you use?

We mainly work with white card stock, kraft, corrugated board and rigid board. If you're not sure which one suits your product, tell us what you're packing and we'll suggest the best fit.

What printing methods do you use?

We offer digital, offset and screen printing. The right method depends on your design, quantity and budget, and we'll recommend one when we quote.

What finishes can I add?

You can add:

  • Embossing or debossing
  • Foil stamping
  • Gloss, matte or soft-touch lamination
  • Spot UV
  • Custom inserts
  • Window cut-outs
  • Leather-look finishes
Can you make boxes in any size?

Yes. We make boxes to your exact measurements. Just give us the length, width and height in inches, cm or mm.

Are your boxes eco-friendly?

Our cardboard and corrugated boxes are made from recyclable materials. Kraft is a popular choice if you want a natural look. Some finishes, like lamination or foil, can affect how easily a box recycles, so ask us if that matters to you.

Do you only make boxes?

No. As well as boxes, we also make custom mylar bags and custom printed papers, such as wax and parchment paper for food businesses.

Production and turnaround

How long does production take?

Standard production takes 8 to 10 working days. This starts once we have your final artwork approval and full payment.

How long until I receive my order?

For a standard custom order, allow about 10 to 14 working days in total from artwork approval and payment to delivery. That covers production, dispatch and delivery. These are estimates, not guaranteed dates.

Do boxes arrive flat or made up?

Most boxes arrive flat-packed, which saves space and keeps them safe in transit. Some styles, like rigid boxes, can be supplied already assembled. Just tell us what you need.

Shipping and delivery

How much is delivery?

Standard delivery is free on all UK orders, with no minimum order value. If you choose express or special delivery and it costs extra, we'll tell you the price before you confirm.

Where do you deliver?

We deliver across the UK, including England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. We don't ship outside the UK at the moment.

Will I get tracking?

Yes. You can check your order at any time on our Track Your Order page, using your order number and email address. We also email you when your order is dispatched, with courier tracking where available.

What happens if I give the wrong address?

Please double-check your delivery address before you order. If a delivery fails because the address was wrong or incomplete, redelivery charges may apply. Full details are in our Shipping Policy.

Payments

How can I pay?

We accept debit and credit cards (including Visa and Mastercard) and PayPal. For business or wholesale orders, bank transfer is possible if we agree it in advance. We don't accept cash on delivery.

When do I need to pay?

Full payment is needed before production starts. For large wholesale or contract orders, we may agree a deposit and balance in writing. In that case, we dispatch the order once the balance is paid.

Are your prices in pounds, and do they include VAT?

All our prices are in GBP (£). If VAT applies, it's shown clearly before you confirm your order and on your invoice.

Is it safe to pay on your website?

Yes. Payments go through secure, PCI-compliant providers like Stripe and PayPal. We never store your full card details. More in our Payment Policy.

Cancellations, returns and refunds

Can I cancel my order?

Contact us as soon as you can. What you get back depends on how far along your order is:

  • Before you approve your proof: full refund, minus any design or admin fees already incurred
  • After approval, before production: refund minus design and admin fees already incurred
  • After production has started: we keep 60% of the product price and refund the other 40%
  • After dispatch: the order can't be cancelled
Can I return custom boxes if I change my mind?

Because custom boxes are made just for you, we usually can't accept change-of-mind returns once production has started. This doesn't affect your legal rights if something is wrong with your order.

What if my order arrives damaged or wrong?

Get in touch as soon as possible with your order number and some photos of the problem. If the boxes are faulty, damaged, or don't match your approved proof, we'll replace them, repair them or refund you. If it's our mistake, we'll cover reasonable return shipping costs.

How long do refunds take?

We process approved refunds within 5 working days, back to your original payment method. Your bank may take a few extra days to show it. See our Return and Refund Policy for full details.

Still have a question?

Get in touch and we'll get back to you quickly.
support@thecardboardboxes.co.uk or +44 7478 076 088
Monday to Friday, 9:00am to 5:00pm (UK time, GMT/BST)

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