How to Write a Packaging Design Brief (Free Template Included)
A clear design brief is the single factor that separates smooth packaging projects from frustrating back-and-forth with manufacturers. When you communicate requirements precisely — dimensions, materials, finishes, budget — you get accurate quotes faster and reduce revision rounds. This guide includes a free template you can copy and send to any packaging supplier.
Why a Design Brief Matters
Without a brief, conversations with manufacturers often go like this: "I need a nice box for my skincare products." This triggers a cascade of follow-up questions: What size? What material? What color? What finishing? How many? What is your budget? Each question adds days to the quoting process.
With a complete brief, the conversation becomes: "Here is my brief. Please quote." The manufacturer has everything they need in one document. Quote turnaround drops from 3-5 days to 24 hours.
The Packaging Design Brief Template
Copy and paste the template below. Fill in the bracketed sections with your specific requirements, then send to your packaging supplier.
How to Fill Each Section
Section 1: Product Information
The most important field here is product weight. A 400g candle requires different greyboard thickness than a 30g serum. Getting this right prevents packaging failures during shipping.
Section 2: Box Specifications
If you are unsure about box type, describe your unboxing goal. "The customer should feel like they are opening a luxury gift" leads to magnetic rigid. "The box needs to ship flat and assemble quickly" leads to mailer box. Read our rigid vs folding comparison.
Section 3: Materials
Specify FSC certification if your brand values sustainability. Not all manufacturers hold FSC certification — checking this upfront avoids disappointment. Mili Packaging is FSC certified.
Section 4: Printing and Finishing
If you do not have artwork ready, say so. Many manufacturers offer design services. Our finishing guide explains each option.
Section 5: Order Details
Be honest about your budget. A manufacturer cannot optimize costs if they do not know your target price. Phrases like "under $2/unit" or "best price for 2,000 units" are more helpful than "cheap."
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Sending raster logos instead of vector: JPG and PNG logos cannot be used for foil stamping or embossing. Always provide AI, EPS, or PDF vector files.
- Forgetting the inner product packaging: If your serum bottle is in a secondary white box, include BOTH dimensions — the inner box and the outer gift box.
- Not specifying Pantone colors: "Dark blue" means different things to different people. Pantone 289C is unambiguous. Your manufacturer can match it precisely.
- Requesting samples without a brief: Manufacturers charge for custom samples. A clear brief ensures the sample you receive matches your expectations on the first try.
Have a packaging project? Send us your brief.
Get a Free Quote in 24 HoursFAQ
Q: Do I need finished artwork to get a packaging quote?
A: No. You can get an accurate quote with just your product dimensions, preferred box type, material, and quantity. Artwork can be finalized after the quote is approved. Mili Packaging provides free structural design and 3D mockups.
Q: What file formats should I send for my logo and artwork?
A: Vector formats: AI, EPS, or PDF. These are required for foil stamping, embossing, and high-quality offset printing. For reference only, JPG or PNG are acceptable but not for final production.
Q: How soon can I expect a quote after sending my brief?
A: With a complete brief, Mili Packaging provides quotes within 24 hours. Incomplete briefs may take 2-3 days as our team follows up for missing information.