Why is a print sample important before series production?

On screen, the packaging design looks perfect. But does the product really fit? Do the colours look the same on board as on the monitor? Is the box easy to open? Only a sample can answer these questions. That is why you should not do without one before series production.

What types of samples are there?

• Blank sample: unprinted packaging in the final construction and original material. It shows shape, size, fit and function.
• Digital print sample: printed packaging, usually produced digitally. It gives a realistic impression of design, colours and overall effect.
• Colour-accurate proof: a print on paper that simulates the colours bindingly. It is the reference for colour approval.
• Press proof: a print on the production press with the original material. It is the most realistic but also the most elaborate sample.

What a sample shows

Fit: does the product sit securely without wobbling or jamming? Does the insert fit? Especially with irregularly shaped products, this only becomes clear on the real object.

Function: is the packaging easy to erect, fill, close and open? Does the closure hold? Does the packaging run on your filling line?

Colours and material: colours look different on board than on screen, and different again on kraft board. A sample shows the real effect under real light. More in our article What role does colour accuracy play in printing?.

Finishing and feel: soft-touch, embossing or hot foil can only be judged on the real object.

Legibility and orientation: is all text the right way up when the box is folded? Are mandatory information and barcodes easy to read?

Why a sample pays off

A sample costs time and sometimes a little money. An error in the series costs many times more: the entire run can become unusable, the product launch is delayed and a new production run is needed. Compared with this risk, a sample is a small investment.

Further benefits

• Internal alignment: marketing, sales and management can hold the packaging in their hands instead of discussing a file.
• Photos and presentations: with a sample, product photos for your online shop and catalogues can be taken before the series.
• Customer tests: you can show the packaging to selected customers or retailers.
• Transport test: ship a sample as a trial and check how it arrives.

Tips for checking samples

• Check the sample with the real product.
• Judge colours in daylight or standard lighting, not just under office lighting.
• Work through a checklist: dimensions, text, barcodes, orientation, function.
• Document change requests clearly.
• Keep the approved sample as a reference for reorders.

Your path to a sample

Our article How is custom packaging made? describes how samples and approval fit into the overall process. For a first impression of materials and finishes, you can order our free sample pack with material and print samples. Feel free to ask us about a sample for your specific project. You will receive a binding quote within 24 hours.

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