How to order custom printed food packaging from China, step by step
Ordering custom printed food packaging from China, step by step: quote, samples, artwork, a 30% deposit, 4 to 6 weeks of production and FOB shipping.
Choose your products and send a quote request, confirm the specifications and printing, approve samples and artwork, then pay a 30% deposit. Production takes 4 to 6 weeks after all approvals, and the balance is paid before shipment. PROMOPACK sells FOB, so you or your freight forwarder arrange shipping from the port of loading in China. Each product has its own minimum order, shown on its product page.
The steps, in order
An order moves through the same steps whatever you buy, from paper cups to bagasse clamshells.
- Request a quote: add products to your cart and submit the order, or write to us from the contact page. We typically aim to reply within 1 to 2 business days.
- Confirm the specifications: size, material, printing method and the quantity of each product. The minimum order of each product is on its page and is confirmed in the order.
- Check samples: sample kits are available before a bulk order, and their cost may be credited against a confirmed bulk order, subject to approval and order volume.
- Approve the artwork for every printed item.
- Pay the deposit: typically 30%, by T/T (bank transfer), or by L/C for qualified orders.
- Production: 4 to 6 weeks after all approvals.
- Pay the balance before shipment. You receive the commercial invoice and the standard export documents.
- Shipping: the goods are handed over FOB at the port of loading, and your forwarder takes them from there.
What an FOB price covers
FOB (Free On Board) means the price covers the goods loaded at the port of loading. Sea freight, insurance, import clearance, duties and delivery in your country are arranged and paid by you, usually through a freight forwarder. Ask your forwarder for a quote from the port of loading to your warehouse, so you compare suppliers on the total landed cost and not on the product price alone.
Plan the timeline backwards
Start from the date you need the packaging and count back: your forwarder's transit time and customs clearance, then 4 to 6 weeks of production, then the time to agree samples and artwork. For Saudi Arabia, part of our range is held in our Saudi warehouse and can be ordered in the quantities on hand, so a first order does not have to wait for a container.
Printing your brand
Logos are printed flexo, offset or digital, depending on the item and the artwork. Sizes can be customised and the material chosen to suit the food, and FSC-certified papers are available.
How long does a custom printed packaging order take?
Production takes 4 to 6 weeks after all approvals, including samples and artwork. Shipping time depends on your forwarder and your destination.
What are the payment terms?
Typically a 30% deposit with the balance due before shipment, by T/T, or by L/C for qualified orders.
Do you ship to my country?
We sell FOB: the goods are handed over at the port of loading in China, and you arrange shipping from there, usually through a freight forwarder.
Can I see samples before I order in bulk?
Yes. Sample kits are available, and their cost may be credited against a confirmed bulk order, subject to approval and order volume.
What is the minimum order?
Each product has its own minimum order quantity, shown on its product page; the final minimum is confirmed in your order.