What to put in a private-label packaging brief

Resolve rights and scope first

Identify the exact product, its recorded brand and the party authorizing customization. Ask what can change: outer carton, retail sleeve, unit label or the product itself. Existing branded goods must not be treated as unbranded stock.

State who owns the artwork and has permission to use every logo, image and claim. Keep written authorization with the brief. A design tool can help prepare concepts, but it does not grant brand rights or prove manufacturing feasibility.

Give the designer and supplier the same specification

Include SKU, product dimensions, retail pack dimensions, units per pack, materials, print colors and finish. Request a confirmed dieline before final artwork. Mark barcode position, scan area and the exact text for each destination language.

Separate required product information from optional marketing copy. Check the destination's labeling requirements using the actual product and transaction. Do not add certification, performance or environmental claims without supporting evidence.

Ask for costs and quantities by operation

Request separate prices for artwork preparation, tooling or plates, packaging units, packing labor and any unused packaging balance. Confirm minimum print run, product MOQ, wastage allowance and whether leftover packaging is stored or delivered.

Record who supplies each file, checks translations and signs off the proof. Ask for revised carton dimensions and weight after repacking, since packaging changes may affect transport calculations.

Define approval and change control

Agree whether approval uses a digital proof, a printed sample or a fully packed product. Check barcode readability, fit, appearance and text against the brief, and keep the approved version with a date.

List the point after which changes incur cost or delay. Request a final quote covering the approved specification and delivery scope before committing. For a new concept, start with the private-label guide and use the product catalog only to identify candidates for feasibility review.

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