Packaging Artwork Checklist Before Sending Files to a Supplier

Importance of Artwork Preflight

Sending artwork to a packaging supplier without a rigorous preflight process often leads to costly production delays, printing errors, or structural failures. Preflighting is the process of verifying that the digital files meet the technical specifications required by the printer’s equipment and the physical constraints of the packaging substrate [1].

While a printer’s prepress team will perform their own job-specific checks, the brand owner or designer is responsible for providing a file that is technically sound and legally accurate. This ensures that the final physical product matches the approved digital proof exactly [1].

Core Technical Requirements

To ensure a seamless transition from design to production, artwork must adhere to specific standards regarding file structure and geometry.

1. Files and Document Setup

The supplier requires files that are editable and verifiable. The following elements are essential for a complete submission:

• Native Source Files: Provide the original design file in the requested application and version, along with all linked assets [1].
• Viewing PDF: A high-resolution PDF must be included to serve as a visual reference to ensure the native file opens and renders correctly [1].
• Asset Management: All linked images and graphics must be either embedded in the file or provided as separate attachments [1].
• Typography: Fonts should be supplied where permitted or converted to outlines (paths) after the final proofreading is complete to prevent font substitution errors [1].
• Scaling: Documents must be built at 100% scale unless a different scale has been explicitly approved by the supplier [1].

2. Dieline and Structural Geometry

The dieline is the technical blueprint of the package. It must be treated as controlled technical data rather than a decorative element [1].

• Supplier-Issued Dielines: Always use the current dieline provided by the supplier. Do not redraw or scale the dieline, as this can lead to structural misalignment [1].
• Layer Separation: Technical elements must be placed on named, non-printing layers. This includes:
  • Cut and crease lines
  • Perforations, seals, and zippers
  • Glue areas, seams, and spouts
  • Window cut-outs and no-print zones [1]
• Safe Areas and Bleed: Critical text and barcodes must remain within the approved “safe area” to avoid being cut off. Conversely, artwork that extends to the edge of the package must include a bleed that extends beyond the cut line by the supplier’s specified amount [1].

3. Color, Images, and Print Layers

How a color appears on a screen differs from how it reproduces on a physical substrate. Precise definitions are required to maintain brand consistency.

• Color Modes: The color mode and profile must match the printer’s specific requirements (e.g., CMYK vs. Pantone) [1].
• Spot Colors: Any spot colors used must have consistent names and approved references to ensure color matching [1].
• Image Resolution: Raster images must have sufficient effective resolution at their final placed size to avoid pixelation [1].
• Special Effects: Functional layers such as white ink, metallic foils, varnish (matte or gloss), and embossing must be placed on separate, clearly named layers or assigned specific swatches [1].
• Technical Review: Designers should review transparency settings, overprints, knockouts, and “rich black” settings to prevent unexpected printing results [1].

Regulatory and Content Review

Technical readiness does not equal legal accuracy. The brand owner is responsible for the content of the packaging, while the prepress team checks for production readiness [1].

Content Verification

Before submission, confirm that the following elements are current and authorized:

• Product Details: Product name, net contents, ingredients, directions for use, and warnings [1].
• Company Info: Correct company address, contact details, and claims [1].
• Certifications: Nutrition facts, supplement facts, and all certification logos or symbols [1].

Barcode Readiness

Barcodes are critical for logistics and retail. Ensure the following are confirmed:

• Correct barcode type and data [1].
• Appropriate size and orientation [1].
• Sufficient “quiet zones” (empty space around the barcode) [1].
• High color contrast between the bars and the background [1].

Common Mistakes and Troubleshooting

Many production errors stem from a few recurring oversights. Addressing these during the preflight stage saves significant time and money.

Summary Checklist for Final Submission

Use this concise list as a final gate before sending files to your supplier:

• [ ] Native file + viewing PDF included.
• [ ] All linked images provided or embedded.
• [ ] Fonts outlined or supplied.
• [ ] Current supplier dieline used at 100% scale.
• [ ] Cut/crease/special effects on separate named layers.
• [ ] Bleed extends beyond cut edges.
• [ ] Color mode matches printer specifications.
• [ ] Barcode data, size, and contrast verified.
• [ ] All regulatory copy and logos approved by the brand owner.
• [ ] File name includes SKU, revision date, and approver.