Packaging is easy to overlook when you are focused on the product, but it shapes how the product sells, how safely it travels and sometimes how much you need to order. Most products on our catalog offer up to three wholesale packaging options.
1. Retail color box
A printed, shelf-ready box designed for display. It is the right choice for retail stores and gift shops where the packaging does some of the selling.
- Best for: retail shelves, gift sets, e-commerce unboxing.
- Minimum: usually the standard product minimum.
- Watch for: slightly larger carton volume, which can affect freight.
2. Plain carton
An unbranded protective carton. Hotels, restaurants and facilities that unpack products straight into use rarely need retail packaging.
- Best for: hospitality, food service and facilities buyers.
- Minimum: standard minimum.
- Watch for: not suitable for resale on a shelf.
3. Custom packaging
Your design, private print or special inserts. Custom packaging builds your brand but needs artwork approval and printing setup.
- Best for: private label and branded programs.
- Minimum: often higher than standard — confirmed in your quote.
- Watch for: extra lead time for artwork and printing.
Labeling requirements
Whatever the packaging, products sold in the United States need correct labeling — for example, country of origin marking for imported goods, and category-specific rules for food, cosmetics and textiles. U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s guide to country of origin marking is a useful reference. Tell us where and how you plan to sell, and we’ll review labeling with the manufacturer.
How to choose
Start with your channel: shelf, food service or private label. Then weigh cost and timing against brand impact. You can choose packaging per selection in the inquiry builder — even mixing options for the same product. Packaging can also help you reach a minimum order quantity more easily.
See the packaging options on any product in our catalog, or ask our team for advice.
