Custom packaging pricing is one of the most common questions we get - and also one of the most misunderstood. The honest answer is: it depends. But that's not very helpful, so this guide breaks down exactly what drives the cost of custom packaging in Canada, what you can expect to pay at different quantities, and how to avoid common pitfalls that inflate your bill.
The 5 Factors That Drive Packaging Cost
1. Quantity
Quantity is the single biggest lever in packaging pricing. Custom packaging involves setup costs - dieline creation, plate fees, press setup - that are spread across your entire run. The more units you order, the lower your per-unit cost. See our guide on minimum order quantities in Canada for a full breakdown of what to expect at each stage.
2. Size and Complexity
A small folding carton for a lip balm costs significantly less than a large shipper case for a hardware product. Larger boxes use more material, require larger print plates, and take longer to cut and assemble.
3. Printing
The number of colours, print method, and coverage area all affect price. A simple 1-2 colour print on kraft paper is the most economical option. Full CMYK printing across the entire surface costs more, but is standard for most retail packaging today.
4. Material
Paperboard weight, corrugated flute grade, and finish type all affect cost. FSC-certified or recycled-content materials may carry a small premium.
5. Domestic vs. Overseas Production
Overseas packaging from China or other offshore suppliers often quotes a lower unit price - but that's before you factor in ocean freight, customs duties, brokerage fees, and the cost of waiting 8-14 weeks for delivery. Canadian-produced packaging typically has a lower total landed cost - no customs exposure, and lead times measured in weeks rather than months.
Typical Price Ranges by Product Type
| Product Type | 500 units | 1,000 units | 5,000 units |
|---|---|---|---|
| Folding Cartons (small, 1-2 colour) | $1.50 - $2.50 | $0.90 - $1.50 | $0.40 - $0.70 |
| Folding Cartons (full colour, gloss) | $2.50 - $4.00 | $1.50 - $2.50 | $0.70 - $1.20 |
| Mailer Boxes (standard, 1 colour) | $2.00 - $3.50 | $1.20 - $2.00 | $0.55 - $0.90 |
| Mailer Boxes (full colour, inside print) | $3.50 - $6.00 | $2.00 - $3.50 | $0.90 - $1.60 |
| Custom Labels (roll, full colour) | $0.20 - $0.50 | $0.12 - $0.25 | $0.05 - $0.12 |
| Shipper Cases (corrugated, 1 colour) | $3.00 - $5.00 | $1.80 - $3.00 | $0.80 - $1.40 |
Note: These ranges are for budgeting purposes only. Your actual quote will depend on exact dimensions, material spec, print coverage, and finish. Submit a quote request and we'll give you an accurate number within 1-2 business days.
How to Get the Best Price
- Order more if you have the storage. The price break between 500 and 1,000 units is usually significant.
- Simplify your design for early runs. A 2-colour design on kraft is much cheaper than full-colour on white SBS.
- Standard sizes cost less. If your product fits in a standard box size, use it.
- Get your artwork print-ready. Packaging suppliers charge for artwork fixes. See our Artwork Guidelines for what to prepare.
Ready to Get a Real Number?
The ranges above are a starting point. The only way to know what your specific packaging will cost is to submit a quote with your actual specs. See how the quoting process works - we respond to all quote requests within 1-2 business days, no obligation, no hard sell.