Short answer: Brimar’s minimum for custom set-up boxes is usually 250 boxes, though it can vary with the box size and specs.

Why 250 is a low minimum

Many custom packaging makers won’t take orders under 5,000. With a usual minimum of 250 set-up boxes, small brands, startups and product tests can still get custom boxes. Whether you’re a mom-and-pop shop or a large national brand, we can make your run. See Long & Short Runs.

Why minimums exist at all

Every custom run takes setup work before the first good box comes off the line: ordering and cutting the right cardboard and paper, printing your wraps, setting the machines to your size, and checking quality. That setup costs about the same whether we make 50 boxes or 5,000. On very small runs, that cost gets spread over only a few boxes, and the price per box climbs fast. A minimum keeps the price per box reasonable for you.

What changes the minimum

• Box size and style: Very small or very large sizes may change what’s practical.
• Materials: Special papers or board can come with their own supplier minimums.
• Printing and finishes: Custom printing and foil stamping add setup.

The best way to know your minimum is to call and chat with a Custom Box Expert about your project.

Good news for small runs

• No box tooling for most set-up boxes. You can buy a smaller test quantity first and change sizes later without buying new tooling for the box. (Printing plates and dies are a one-time charge.)
• Quote several quantities. See exactly how the price per box changes between, say, 250, 1,000 and 2,500.
• Patterned papers give a custom look without custom printing costs.
• Samples: We save a handful of the boxes we make, so we can usually send samples of similar boxes. We can also make custom samples, usually for a fee.

Need far fewer boxes?

If you only need a few boxes right now, a stock box may make sense. Brimar’s Wildcat Wholesale line offers premium, American-made stock boxes you can order by the case online. Many brands start with stock boxes and move to custom later. Read Custom Boxes vs. Stock Boxes and our FAQ.

Get a quote

Tell us how many boxes you need and we’ll quote a few quantities. Send your files and request a quote, or call 1-800-696-3080.