Digital technology has revolutionized our perceptions of packaging. The formerly slow process, characterized by high volume and a lack of agility, is now quick, customizable, and brand-driven. Digital box printing enables businesses to produce high-quality, colorful packaging with reduced waste and shorter turnaround times.
However, like all innovations, there are pitfalls. More frequently than not, brands that are keen to take advantage of the flexibility of digital printing fall victim to preventable errors, resulting in increased costs, poor designs, or even packaging that fails to connect with consumers.
The following are the five mistakes to avoid when printing a custom digital box, along with tips to help you do it right the first time.
Mistake 1: Ignoring the Substrate
Digital printing is not only about the ink and artwork; it is also about the surface on which you are printing. The use of the incorrect substrate (the corrugated board, in itself) may lead to complications such as dulled colors, poor print quality, or structural flaws.
In the case of recycled board stock, it may be necessary to apply a specific coating to ensure ink adhesion and color saturation. Glossy finishes may seem high-end, but they may also cause light to bounce back in a manner that minimizes readability.
The fix: Work with your digital box printing provider early to test substrate options. Request samples of the actual material your box will be made from, rather than just a mockup on coated paper.
Mistake 2: Overlooking Color Management
One of the greatest strengths of digitally printed packaging is the ability to produce sharp, vibrant graphics. Yet many companies forget that digital presses interpret color differently from traditional offset or flexographic presses. What appears to be a perfect shade of blue on your screen may shift slightly when printed on corrugated material.
The fix: Use color profiles (like CMYK or Pantone matching) to standardize your artwork. Request a press proof or digital color match before committing to a full run. A professional printing partner can guide you through calibration, ensuring consistency across every box.
Mistake 3: Overcomplicating the Design
It is all too easy to exercise every creative liberty which digital printing has made possible; to saturate with graphics, fonts and intricate designs. This can be visually intimidating, and even worse, it may not be consistent with your brand messaging.
The solution: Continue to make your design simple, bold, and on-brand. Consider digital functionality in a wise manner, such as customized messages or QR codes, without overwhelming the package. Note that packaging must convey a message in a manner that is easy and fast to understand, particularly in a retail or online business environment.
Mistake 4: Failing to Consider Print Run Economics
One of the myths about digital box printing is that it’s always cheaper. Although digital excels with short and medium production, in very high volume production, traditional processes such as flexographic printing can be more economical. There are brands that jump into digital without strategizing their long-term requirements and fail to seize the chance to streamline their budget.
The fix: Evaluate your packaging volumes carefully. If you need seasonal designs, limited editions, or regional variations, digital printing is ideal. If you’re printing millions of identical boxes, a hybrid approach may save you money. A knowledgeable packaging partner can help you strike the right balance.
Mistake 5: Forgetting About the End User
Packaging is all about people at the end of the day. So many times, brands are so entangled in design trends or cost-saving that they forget to ask something: How is the customer going to experience this box?
Will it be singled out in a crowded store? Does it strengthen your brand story when opened at home? Is it easy to recycle? Never before has digital printing enabled personalization and storytelling like today; however, this is only possible when the end user is at the heart of your approach.
The solution: Place yourself in the shoes of your customer. Test your box design under real-world conditions, such as on a store shelf, in a sustainable shipping box, or in an unboxing video. The strength of corrugated digital printing lies in crafting memorable experiences that resonate with your audience.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Which is faster: digital box printing or the traditional printing method?
Digital printing eliminates the need for plates, significantly reducing the setup time. Shorter runs may take days instead of weeks to complete.
- Can digital printing be used to ship boxes?
Yes. The inks and coatings of today are designed to support handling, stacking, and shipping, being suitable for both retail store presentation and e-commerce packaging.
- Can digital box printing handle variable designs?
Absolutely. One of its biggest advantages is the ability to change graphics, barcodes, or text on the fly without added setup costs.
- Is digital printing environmentally friendly?
Digital presses can be less wasteful than conventional processes and can be used with recycled corrugated stock without issues, making them a sustainable option.
- What businesses are best served by digital printing?
Digital box printing is best suited for brands that have frequent product releases, seasonal packaging, or highly customized marketing campaigns.
Unlock the Full Potential of Digital Printing with StandFast
These pitfalls are not only about saving money, but also about building your brand. The correct packaging can transform an ordinary delivery into a marketing opportunity or a shelf display into a sales force.
At StandFast, we are experts in realizing the potential of digital box printing with accuracy. Our team combines the most advanced digital technology with decades of packaging experience. We assist brands in making the right choice by selecting the appropriate substrate, as well as adjusting the design and color to make it beautiful without incurring excessive costs.
Whether you require short-run promotional packaging, custom e-commerce boxes, or retail displays, StandFast provides solutions that are sustainable, scalable and impactful.
