Start with the packaging decision, not the artwork file
State whether the buyer is preparing an early quotation brief, an artwork review, a packed-sample check or an order-release reference. Add the product code, selected configuration, sales channel, destination market and responsible buyer reviewer so the supplier can return the right level of detail.
- Decision stage and requested supplier return
- Product code, drawing revision and sample status
- Sales channel and destination market
- Buyer and supplier packaging owners
Separate protection from private-label presentation
The protective structure answers product, route and handling risks; the private-label layer answers product identity, customer information and retail or project presentation. Review them together, but do not treat carton artwork as proof that the mirror, protection or destination requirements have been confirmed.
- Mirror, edge, face, corner and rear-component protection
- Inner pack, accessory pack and movement control
- Consumer or retail presentation
- Outer-carton handling and shipment identification
Build one brand-content matrix
List every content surface before artwork starts: product label, rating or market label, consumer carton, outer carton, instructions, inserts, barcode data and any project identification. For each item, record who supplies the copy, which language or market version is intended, the file revision and whether supplier confirmation is still required.
- Brand and product naming
- Logo placement and approved artwork source
- Barcode type, data owner and scan check
- Instructions, inserts and accessory identification
- Destination-specific label questions for review
Control artwork and data by revision
Use a consistent file name and revision register for editable artwork, print-ready files, copy tables and barcode data. Ask the supplier to return the proposed print area, production constraints and any required changes against that same revision. Keep unverified market, certification or electrical wording out of final artwork until the selected configuration and destination scope are confirmed.
Review a packed sample against the checklist
Check the physical pack, not only a screen proof. Confirm that the selected mirror and accessories fit the approved protection, visible copy is legible, barcode data scans where applicable, parts and instructions match the pack list, and carton identification remains usable through the intended handling route.
- Packed product and accessory count
- Artwork placement, colour reference and legibility
- Label attachment and barcode scan result
- Handling marks and outer-carton identification
- Differences recorded for the next revision
Create the order-release packaging reference
Link the accepted packaging revision to the final product code, drawing, sample and order documents. Record any open supplier-confirmation items instead of assuming them closed. Final protection design, testing or report scope, labels, instructions, price, MOQ, production schedule, warranty and delivery terms are confirmed for the selected configuration and written quotation.