Short answer: Yes. For most projects we send a high resolution, full-color, to-size art proof for you to approve and sign before production starts. To see a box first, we can often send samples of similar boxes we’ve already made. We can also make a custom sample of your box, sometimes for a fee. Samples of papers, foils and board colors can also be sent so you can choose materials.

Two different things: samples and proofs

People often use these words interchangeably, but they do different jobs.

• A sample is a real box you can hold. It helps you judge size, strength, feel and style.
• An art proof is a picture of your finished design, drawn to size, that you approve before we print and manufacture your boxes.

Option 1: Samples of boxes we’ve already made

We save a handful of boxes from the jobs we run, so we can often send you samples of similar boxes. This is a quick way to compare lid styles, wrap papers or inserts. Samples depend on what we have on the shelf, so we can’t promise a match for every project. Ask your Custom Box Expert what’s available for your type of box.

Option 2: A custom sample of your box

If you want to check that a box is strong enough, large enough for your product, or laid out the way you imagine, we can make a custom sample. Custom samples are sometimes made for a fee. Talk with your Custom Box Expert about what your sample would involve and what it might cost. Our quote checklist shows what to send so the sample is built right.

Option 3: Material samples

If you only need to choose papers, foils or board colors, we can send samples of those materials to help you decide. See What papers and wraps can cover a set-up box? for a look at the choices.

Your art proof: how it works

Once you’ve reviewed your quote and confirmed your order, here’s what happens with artwork:

1. We send a layout sheet. It’s a digital template for your box so your artwork lands in the right place.
2. You send your artwork. See How do I prepare artwork for a printed set-up box? for file tips. If your files are too large to email, ask us how to send them.
3. We send a proof. It’s a full-color, to-size, high-resolution art proof.
4. You sign and return it. Production is based on the proof you approve, so check spelling, logos, color placement and box orientation carefully.

How samples and proofs fit with lead time

Our 3-4 week lead time for most orders is counted from artwork approval and order entry. That’s why a quick, careful proof review helps. If you also want a custom sample, tell us up front so we can plan around it. See Custom Setup Box Lead Time and Custom Folding Box Lead Time.

Tips for getting the most from a sample or proof

• Send your product, or exact measurements, so we can fit the box to it.
• Test the sample with your product inside. Check how it opens and how it feels in your hand.
• Ask us to explain anything on the proof you don’t understand, such as where foil or embossing will go.
• Share the proof with everyone who needs to sign off before you return it.

Get started

Want to see what’s available for your project? Use our quote form, or call 800-696-3080 (Monday to Friday, 9 am to 5 pm Eastern) and a Custom Box Expert will talk through your options. You can also read the full steps in Our Order Process.