What Is Digital Printing Packaging And How Does It Work?

Among multiple types of printing processes, digital printing is one of the modern methods. This method is used to apply graphics and product information onto the packaging. Digital printing does not depend on any kind of printing plates. For custom boxes, this printing method is a flexible way to create a detailed packaging design. Brands that need small runs in premium quality find digital printing one of the best options for high-quality packaging boxes.  

It directly transfers ink to the substrate to reduce setup costs and enhance production speed. Digital printing is not all about easy and fast transfer but also about color accuracy and brand recognition. The selection of the right printing method depends on the type of materials and the order quantity. Besides that, you can consider budget and packaging goals before finalizing the printing process. In this blog, we will understand digital printing in accordance with custom packaging boxes. 

How Does Digital Printing Work on Custom Boxes?

The printing process of custom boxes is done after the packaging designs are finished. The printed foils of the artwork are fed into the digital printer. After this, the printer applies ink equally to the required areas of the substrate. The base prices include the following: 

This sequence of steps eliminates the need for printing plates that are used in several printing processes. So small orders and short timelines are among the driving factors for investment in digital printing. For small orders of custom packaging, digital printing gives the best cost per unit. 

What Materials Can Digital Printing Use for Custom Boxes?

One of the best features of digital printing is that it can be used on almost all types of materials. However, the selected ink can vary based on the type of substrate used in the packaging. Some of the materials for custom boxes that can be printed are as follows: 

SBS Paperboard

This material has a smooth and bright printing surface. Solid bleach sulphate works well for retail packaging and gives sharp graphics with accurate brand colors when printed with a digital process. 

Kraft Board

When a natural brown colour is required then kraft packaging is used. It suits organic and aesthetic product presentation such as food boxes or cosmetic packaging. Brands can use digital printing while retaining the sustainable look of kraft boxes. 

Corrugated Board

It may be slightly difficult to print corrugated materials with the digital printing process. This is because the fluted structure of corrugated boxes is not suitable for printing. However, you can use digital printing when a plain layer of kraft or cardboard is applied to fluted paper. 

Folding Carton Board

One of the common types of materials used in retail packaging manufacturing is folding carton board. This is also a type of cardboard that is easy to print via the digital printing process. Food boxes and cosmetic boxes are commonly designed with folding cartons and the digital printing process. However, it is also common in the pharma industry and personal care item manufacturing. 

Besides the selection of print appearance on a particular material, the materials must also be selected based on the following factors: 

• Box strength
• Product weight
• Moisture exposure
• Stacking requirements
• Shipping conditions
• Food-contact requirements   

Digital Printing vs. Offset Printing for Custom Boxes

Digital and offset printing are both commonly used in the manufacturing of custom printed product boxes. But these two are different from each other. When a brand needs small orders at fast rates, digital printing is the best option, such as: 

• Short production runs
• Multiple box designs
• Fast artwork changes
• Personalized packaging
• Variable information
• Prototype packaging
• Seasonal packaging
• Market testing

On the other hand, offset is an excellent option when large order quantities are require. It is also excellent for accurate repeat patterns on the boxes. A small cosmetic brand will need a limited quantity of boxes. In that case, the use of digital printing is more manageable. This is because you can print the complete design without any printing plate. A large established brand will need hundreds or thousands of boxes with identical designs. For them, you can go with offset printing. Therefore, we cannot say which one is the universal winner. You have to consider the following factors for printing process selection: 

• Order quantity
• Artwork complexity
• Substrate
• Turnaround requirements
• Budget should  

You can choose digital printing for custom packaging manufacturing if you have small orders, such as 100 mylar bags or 500 custom paper sheets: 

How Much Does Digital Printing on Custom Boxes Cost?

Whether you are running a small business or a large company. The cost of packaging is one of the main aspects that you must keep in mind. There is no single thing that impacts the cost of packaging. You must consider the following factors. Such as: 

• Box dimensions
• Material type
• Board thickness
• Order quantity
• Number of printed sides
• Artwork complexity
• Finishing requirements
• Structural design
• Inserts
• Coatings
• Shipping destination

What Should You Ask a Custom Box Supplier?

Brands that need custom packaging in small quantities can ask their custom bxo manufacturer certain questions to ensure smooth designs and manageable costs. Such as: 

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When it comes to the manufacturing of packaging in small amounts, digital printing comes at the top. This option is also suitable when brands have to send samples to the customer. This is because digital printing is one of the easiest and fastest printing methods.  You can select this due to its accuracy and high-quality designs. If you are looking for any custom box, then contact Pack Prints. We are committe to manufacturing premium-quality packaging at wholesale rates with the artwork of your choice.