PACKAGING FIELD GUIDE · 2026
How to source custom cosmetic packaging.
A practical guide to getting clearer quotes, better samples and fewer expensive surprises between the moodboard and delivery.
A useful quote starts from the complete specification, not from “How much is this bottle?”
Build the product brief before comparing prices.
- Product firstDefine formula, fill volume, dispensing, quantity and launch date.
- Reference imageUse it as a direction, not as a technical specification.
- Same scopeA complete brief makes every supplier quote the same thing.
Plan formula compatibility early.
- Formula riskOils, acids, solvents and fragrances may need other materials or seals.
- Real testTest the final formula in production-representative samples.
- Per formatCheck dose for airless, seals for jars and glide for sticks.
Compare materials by function and brand position.
- GlassPremium weight, with higher freight and breakage risk.
- PET and PPLighter and versatile for most formats.
- Acrylic and refillsVisual depth or a refill story, with more components.
- Full breakdownAsk for the material of every part; “plastic” is not a specification.
Understand what drives the minimum order quantity.
- Several minimumsStock part, custom color and printing can each set their own MOQ.
- Per designSeveral artworks can raise the minimum for each design.
- Landed costCompare the total project, not only the unit price.
Specify decoration as precisely as the component.
- MethodsCoating, frosting, print, hot stamping, labels and embossing each have limits.
- Define itState the color standard, artwork size, placement and tolerances.
- CartonsSpecify board, print, lamination, foil and inside print separately.
Approve the right sequence of samples.
- Stock sampleConfirms size and basic construction.
- Decorated sampleConfirms the visual direction.
- Pre-production sampleMatches the final approved specification.
- In writingRecord every approval with codes, versions and finishes.
Define what the freight quote actually includes.
- EXWStarts at the factory; the buyer handles everything after pickup.
- FOBIncludes delivery to the named port and export clearance.
- DDPAims to include transport, duties and delivery to the destination.
- ConfirmGet destination, method, timing, weight, volume and Incoterm in writing.
Review quality against an approved specification.
- MeasurableDefine color tolerance, print placement, defects, leakage and fit.
- InspectionConsider a pre-shipment inspection for large or custom orders.
- ReferenceKeep the approved sample and final artwork as the standard.
Packaging quote checklist.
- Product and formula type
- Package format and reference image
- Fill capacity and dimensions
- Material preference
- Target quantity and quantity per design
- Custom color and finish
- Logo decoration and number of colors
- Carton, insert or label requirements
- Delivery city, state and ZIP code
- Target delivery date
- Requested samples
- Required freight term
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Send us the brief. We’ll organize the sourcing.
MARTI RIKINA coordinates primary containers, custom boxes, decoration, samples and logistics for beauty brands in the United States.
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