You know you need to custom print your boxes. That much is a given. But what type of printing should you use? How do you know if it’s the right option? How does litho printing differ from flexo and digital box printing anyway?
Does it even matter???
Industry research consistently shows that packaging and design really do matter. In fact, a recent study done by Paper and Packaging Board and IPSOS shows that over 70% of consumers all agree on this one thing: packaging design influences their buying decisions. To put it simply: packaging matters. There is a lot riding on it. From the box you decide on, to the logo you print, to what type of printing process you use, it pays to understand your options before you order your custom printed packaging.
But if you feel overwhelmed when you’re at the designing stage of your packaging, we’re here to tell you: you’re not alone. But don’t let being overwhelmed affect your decision to custom print your packaging. Because there’s no denying how important it is to put some thought and care into your packaging design.
What Are My Printing Options?
There are three basic print options you have for your custom printed packaging.
Flexo – Flexo printing is a great option that allows for 3-color printing and is directly applied to the box during the printing process.
Litho – Litho is the premium, magazine-quality, high-end printing process that essentially laminates printed sheets on top of your box.
Digital – Digital box printing is an economical process that, like flexo, allows for direct-to-box printing. It is one of the easiest, most economical way to print your custom packaging. Read on to learn more about the digital printing process, including more about the differences of digital printing and the benefits and why it may be just the printing process you’ve been looking for.
Why Go the Digital Box Printing Route?
One of the most obvious differences between digital and all other print options is the fact that digital printing doesn’t require tooling or die
Digital – print applied directly to corrugated material, no cutting dies or print plates needed. Ideal for 1 – 500 boxes per order.
When To Go the Digital Box Printing Route?
There are a number of reasons when and why digital may be the best option.
- Samples, short runs
- Budget-friendly
- Lower minimum order requirements – keep in mind, Bolt Boxes never has a minimum requirement, but in general, since there is no cost for tooling
- No need for printing plates
- Quick turnaround time
- Versatile – easy to change colors, design or branding without needed new plates
Sounds Too Good to Be True…Any Downside to Digital Printing?
While digital printing does have some great upsides, there are a few things to keep in mind, too.
- Potential for loss of image quality
- Not great for huge orders
Whether you need digital box printing or any other printing for your product packaging, Bolt Boxes is here to help. We are printing experts, with a G7 Master Qualification that lets us bring our expertise into your brand efforts. Reach out today to learn more about how we can help execute your branding and custom packaging, taking your branding further than ever before.
