Shoe boxes are everywhere, but if you sell shoes online, own a shoe boutique or building your own shoe label, then the box is a lot more than just a storage box for your product. Good shoe boxes protect your products during distribution, advertising your brand and they will be the first thing customers see when they unpack their order. But how do you avoid being overcharged.
What are the best? How to purchase bulk empty shoe boxes without any set-up or die-cutting fees.
Who Buys Bulk Shoe Boxes?
- Online selling and reselling: Require good strong boxes, which will travel on the courier journey.
- Small shoe brands: Wishing for printed boxes that tell your story.
- Boutiques and retailers: Need consistent, shelf-ready packaging.
- Cobbler and repair store: Boxes for returns and collections of customers.
The groups disagree on priorities, but the one common point is the size, strength and fair value.
What Influences the Cost of Bulk Shoe Boxes?
Each supplier will have a different price so there isn’t one single price that applies to all. These are usually the considerations that will influence your unit price:
| Factor | How It Impacts Cost |
| Quantity | More quantities typically equal a lower price per box |
| Box size | Big boxes eat more material |
| Material and thickness | Corrugated and rigid board cost more than thin cardboard |
| Printing | Plain box is cheaper than printed full colour boxes |
| Finishes | Foil, embossing and lamination add cost |
| Inserts | Each piece adds to the grand total: tissue, cardboard dividers or foam |
| Equipment and tooling | There is an additional cost for plates and cutting dies for some suppliers |
Get an itemized quote and shop around.
Understanding Set-Up and Die-Cutting Fees
Many packaging suppliers will ask for one-off additional fees before they’ll start production. Set-up costs cover the cost to get your print file and artwork ready. Die-cutting fees are for the cutting die that will make your box shape. These charges can push up your cost per box substantially for initial small orders.
By buying from a supplier who does not apply these charges for example Premier Custom Packaging UK you can keep within your budget if you wish to try out a new design or order smaller quantities.
Picking the Right Material
- Corrugated boxes: Structural strength and lightweight. Great for shipping and resale, and won’t crush easily.
- Folding carton board: Printability and foldability. For retail display and light footwear.
- Rigid board: Thick/high quality. Use for the exclusiveness of gift and luxury sneakers.
- Kraft board: A natural, eco-friendly look. Works in a very subtle branding style.
When it comes to stock orders, a cardboard will usually be the most secure option. A more refined look can be obtained with folding carton or rigid board for boutique shelving.
Getting the Size Right
Box too big and shoe is scratched; box too small and shoe is scuffed. Take the length, width and height of your largest shoe then add some for tissue or inlays. Buckle boots, high tops and kid’s styles require a different size box, so when ordering custom empty shoe boxes, don’t order everyone in the same box size.
Ask your supplier if you are able to size other sizes for other applications, if you own a large assortment of footwear.
Printing and Branding Options
Printed shoe boxes provide more than just a logo:
- Logo and brand colours on the lid or sides
- Specification information (size, colour, style code etc.)
- Inner printing for a more premium unboxing
- Foil stamping or embossing for high-end ranges
- Soft-touch lamination for a smooth finish
Printed boxes can brand your product and provide more value to an otherwise simple product.
Ordering Made Easy: Step-by-Step
- Decide on your application: Shipping, retail display or combination of both.
- Box your shoes: Select the largest size from your range of options.
- Select product and style: Blade for the cut of your speech.
- Author your work: Upload your logo, and tell us how you want us to tailor the design.
- Request a complex quote: leelantha.com will give you the calculation of which you need, the various coatings or premiums.
- Check and approve: Let’s check out the size and colour options before we prepare for production.
Before You Buy, Ask Questions
- Are there set-up, plate or die-cutting fees?
- What is the minimum order quantity?
- What is the lead time of production and delivery?
- Can I get a sample or proof first?
- Is printing and inserts included in the cost?
Common Questions
What are empty shoe boxes?
They are shoe boxes to your necessary size, material and layout with no shoes in them. For: shipping, retail display, store display and branding.
Can I order small quantities?
Many times, yes, but minimums will vary from a supplier to another. Premier Custom Packaging UK has low minimums, so don’t hesitate to get a quote for your quantity!
What material is most ideal for shipping shoes?
For your big box you can generally use corrugated cardboard – it is crush-resistant and shock-absorbing.
Is it possible to personalize bulk shoe boxes with my logo?
Yes. Often you can print this on digital or offset printing.
How do I prevent hidden expenses?
Ask for a full quote and understand what is included. For example, printing, finishes, inserts and set-up and tooling costs.
Conclusion
Your lowest cost quote for custom shoe boxes isn’t always your lowest box cost. It’s the most economical quote that provides the size & strength needs that brings you your branded appearance with no up charges or hidden fees. Find the best value and maximum savings on bulk shoe boxes by choosing your material, specs and getting itemized up front charges for set up and die cutting.
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