Custom packaging for clothing and apparel

TL;DR Apparel mostly ships in printed mailer boxes or poly mailers, with folding cartons for retail-shelf items like shirts and socks. Mailers protect the unboxing and need no tape. Expect 500 to 1,000 units and about $0.60 to $2 a unit for printed mailers.

Clothing is forgiving on protection but unforgiving on brand feel. The mailer is the first physical touch a DTC customer gets, so the print quality and the inside-lid message do real work. We litho-laminate when the artwork is full-colour and flexo-print when it is simpler line art to keep cost down.

Best packaging options for clothing and apparel

ConstructionWhy it fits
Printed mailer boxSelf-locking, strong unboxing, ideal for DTC apparel
Folding cartonRetail shelf items, shirts, socks, accessories
Rigid boxPremium and gifting lines where margin allows

Materials, MOQ and lead time

MaterialE or B-flute corrugated for mailers, 300 to 350gsm card for cartons
FinishesFlexo or litho-laminated print, matte finish, foil or spot UV on the logo
Typical MOQ500 to 1,000 units
Lead time12 to 20 days after sign-off

Cost ranges above are from our real factory pricing. The exact quote depends on size, finishes and quantity.

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Key takeaways

Frequently asked questions

What packaging is best for clothing?

Printed mailer boxes for direct-to-consumer apparel and folding cartons for retail items. Both can be branded inside and out.

How much does custom apparel packaging cost?

About $0.60 to $2 per printed mailer at 1,000 units, less for simple flexo print, more for full-colour litho lamination.

Do you make poly mailers too?

Yes, including recyclable and compostable options, though printed corrugated mailers give a stronger unboxing.

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