Contract packing planning guide
Build a brief
production can use.
A clear contract packing brief helps a production partner assess the method, materials, checks, timing and logistics without guessing. Use this checklist for labelling, packing, kitting, repacking or packaging rework enquiries.
Send your project brief ↗
Direct answer
What should a contract packing brief include?
Include the current pack, the components in one finished unit, every required production step, quantities and variants, the acceptable finished reference, stock location, case-packing requirement and completion date.
Six-part checklist
The details that
move a quote forward.
Send what you already know. Missing information can then be identified deliberately instead of becoming a production assumption.
- 01
The current pack
Share clear photos, dimensions, materials and the condition in which stock will arrive.
- 02
The finished configuration
List every supplied product, component, insert, label and item required in one completed pack.
- 03
The production steps
Describe application, assembly, inspection, correction, packing and case-pack requirements in order.
- 04
Quantity and variants
Give the total quantity, batch or SKU split, expected frequency and any mixed configurations.
- 05
The approved standard
Provide artwork, placement information, a finished sample or a clear visual reference where available.
- 06
Timing and logistics
State the stock location, inbound plan, required completion date and onward collection or delivery arrangement.
Quotation factors
What affects
contract packing cost?
Contract packing is normally assessed around the work required rather than a single price per pack. The number and duration of production steps determine the practical route.
- Handling time for each completed unit
- Number of products, components and variants
- Hand or machine application requirements
- Inspection, reference and reporting needs
- Case packing, pallet and logistics arrangements
- Deadline and available production window
Choose the closest route
Match the brief
to the work.
Briefing questions
Answers before
you enquire.
01What information is needed for a contract packing quote?+
A useful starting brief includes pack photos and dimensions, the components in one finished pack, required production steps, quantity, variants, inspection standard, stock location and deadline.
02Do I need a finished sample before requesting a quote?+
Not always. Clear photos, artwork, dimensions and a written configuration can start the assessment. A representative sample or agreed reference may be needed before volume production.
03Can one-off or short-run packing projects be assessed?+
Yes. Suitability depends on the format, materials, handling method, number of stages, quantity and timing rather than a single standard minimum.
04What affects the cost of contract packing?+
The main variables are handling time, number of components and variants, application method, inspection requirements, supplied materials, case configuration, logistics and production window.
05Who supplies labels and packing materials?+
Responsibilities should be stated in the brief. Stockholm assesses the proposed route around the supplied or specified products, labels, components and packaging before confirming the project.
Start with what you know
Send the pack,
quantity and deadline.
Use the form or call 01494 623015. Your email draft will begin with “STOCKHOLM” at the top.