Custom Packaging Prices UK | 2026 Cost Guide

How much does custom printed packaging cost in the UK?

There isn't one fixed price for custom packaging. The cost depends on what you're ordering, the quantity, material, size, printing method, artwork, production speed and delivery requirements.

This guide explains the main factors that affect custom packaging prices and how businesses can choose packaging that works for both their brand and budget.

How Much Does Custom Packaging Cost in the UK?

Custom packaging prices vary significantly because different packaging products require different materials, printing processes and production methods.

A small run of printed stickers, for example, is a very different product from custom mailer boxes, printed coffee cups or branded food packaging. For that reason, comparing custom packaging purely on a single unit price can be misleading.

What Affects the Price of Custom Packaging?

The main factors affecting custom packaging prices include the packaging type, material, dimensions, quantity, print specification, artwork, finishing requirements, production speed and delivery.

Changing any of these can affect the overall order cost and the price per unit.

Does Order Quantity Affect Custom Packaging Prices?

Yes. Quantity is one of the most important factors affecting the cost of custom packaging.

Larger production runs can often reduce the cost per unit because production setup and other fixed costs are spread across more pieces. Smaller runs may have a higher unit cost, but they require less stock and a lower overall quantity commitment.

Is Low MOQ Custom Packaging More Expensive Per Unit?

Lower minimum order quantities can sometimes result in a higher cost per individual item than a larger production run. However, unit price is only one part of the overall cost.

Ordering a smaller quantity can reduce the amount of money tied up in stock, reduce storage requirements and lower the risk of being left with outdated packaging after a menu, product or design changes.

Read our Low MOQ Custom Packaging UK guide for more information.

Does the Packaging Material Affect the Price?

Yes. Different materials have different manufacturing and printing requirements, so the material selected can affect the overall price.

The best option depends on what the packaging needs to do as well as how it needs to look.

Does Packaging Size Affect the Cost?

Size can affect the amount of material required and the way a product is manufactured, printed, packed and transported.

Choosing a suitable size rather than unnecessarily oversized packaging can therefore be important for both practicality and cost.

Does the Printing Method Affect the Price?

Different packaging products can use different printing methods. The most suitable method depends on factors such as the product, quantity, artwork, number of colours and required turnaround.

Some printing methods are particularly well suited to shorter runs, while others can become more economical at larger quantities.

Does the Number of Print Colours Affect the Price?

It can. Depending on the product and printing process, the complexity and number of colours in a design may influence production requirements and therefore pricing.

The individual product specification should be checked when comparing different printing options.

Do I Have to Pay for Packaging Artwork?

Artwork requirements vary depending on the product and project. If you're unsure whether your design is ready for print, PackGenie's team can help with getting artwork print-ready.

Always check the current product information or quote to understand what is included for the specific packaging you're ordering.

Are There Setup Costs for Custom Packaging?

Setup requirements vary between packaging products and printing methods. Some products may have different setup requirements from others.

When comparing quotes, look at the total order cost rather than only the headline unit price and check what is included.

Does Fast or Express Packaging Cost More?

Express production can have different pricing from standard production, depending on the product and service selected.

If you have more time available, compare the standard and express options before ordering. If the deadline is critical, the value of getting packaging produced in time may be more important than achieving the lowest possible unit cost.

Selected PackGenie products are available with same-day, 24-hour, 48-hour and other express production options.

Browse our Express Printed Packaging collection for current fast-turnaround products.

How Much Do Custom Printed Coffee Cups Cost?

Printed coffee cup prices depend on factors including cup size, quantity, printing specification and production speed.

Rather than relying on a generic price estimate, compare the current options for the cup size and quantity you actually need.

Visit our Coffee Cup Branding collection to explore current standard and express cup options.

How Much Does Printed Greaseproof Paper Cost?

The cost of printed greaseproof paper depends on the product specification, quantity, print requirements and production option.

If you're researching greaseproof paper in more detail, read our Printed Greaseproof Paper UK guide .

How Much Do Custom Mailer Boxes Cost?

Custom mailer box prices can vary according to the box size, quantity, material, print specification and production requirements.

Smaller businesses may prefer a lower quantity initially, while growing e-commerce brands may achieve a different unit cost by ordering larger runs.

Our Custom Packaging for E-commerce Brands UK guide explains how branded packaging can be introduced as an online business grows.

How Can I Reduce the Cost of Custom Packaging?

Start by ordering packaging that fits the product and quantity you genuinely need. Avoid unnecessary complexity and compare quantities before assuming the smallest or largest run is automatically the best value.

It can also help to prepare artwork early, avoid unnecessary last-minute production where possible and use versatile branded elements across more than one packaging format.

Is It Cheaper to Use Stickers on Plain Packaging?

For some businesses, applying custom printed stickers to plain packaging can be a practical way to introduce branding without custom printing every individual packaging format.

Whether this is the best-value approach depends on the quantity, packaging type, labour involved and the presentation you want to achieve.

Should a Start-Up Order Large Quantities to Get a Lower Unit Price?

Not necessarily. A lower unit price can look attractive, but buying more packaging than you need can create storage costs and leave you with obsolete stock if your branding, product range or packaging requirements change.

For a new business, a smaller initial run can sometimes provide more flexibility while demand is being established.

How Should I Compare Custom Packaging Quotes?

Make sure you're comparing like for like. Check the quantity, material, dimensions, print specification, production time, delivery and any other requirements included in each quote.

A cheaper headline price is not necessarily better value if the specification or service is different.

Does Delivery Affect the Total Packaging Cost?

Delivery can form part of the total cost of getting packaging to your business, particularly where an urgent or specialist delivery service is required.

Production time and delivery time should also be considered separately when planning around a fixed deadline.

How Far Ahead Should I Order Custom Packaging?

Ordering earlier usually gives you more flexibility when choosing between production and delivery options.

If you're working towards an opening, event, product launch or campaign, allow time for artwork approval, production and delivery.

Read our Custom Packaging Lead Times UK guide for more information.

What Is the Best-Value Custom Packaging?

The best-value packaging is not necessarily the product with the lowest unit price. It is packaging that meets the practical requirements of the product, represents the brand appropriately and can be ordered in a quantity the business can realistically use.

Need Help Comparing Custom Packaging Options?

Tell us what packaging you need, your approximate quantity, artwork requirements and deadline. Our team can help you identify suitable options for your business.

Email: help@packgenie.co.uk
Phone: 0203 488 2200