Packaging Artwork Approval Checklist: Files, Dielines & Print Proofs

Clear artwork files help custom packaging projects move faster and reduce mistakes before sampling or mass production. Whether you are ordering paper bags, mailer boxes, cosmetic boxes, rigid boxes, kraft boxes, food packaging, or retail boxes, the artwork file should match the packaging structure and printing method.

This guide explains what buyers should prepare before sending artwork for custom packaging production.

Start With The Correct Dieline

A dieline is the flat layout of the packaging structure. It shows cut lines, fold lines, glue areas, bleed areas, and important safe zones. Artwork should be placed on the final confirmed dieline, not on an approximate box drawing.

If you do not have a dieline yet, provide the product size, product weight, box style, and packaging use. XLY Pack Factory can help recommend a structure and prepare a dieline after the packaging size is confirmed.

Use Vector Files When Possible

For logos, icons, text, and line artwork, vector files are preferred. Vector artwork stays sharp when resized and is better for printing, foil stamping, embossing, debossing, and spot UV.

Common useful file formats include AI, PDF, EPS, and editable vector PDF. A flat JPG or PNG can be used as a reference, but it may not be enough for high-quality production.

Set Artwork To CMYK

Most printed packaging should be prepared in CMYK color mode. RGB artwork is mainly used for screens and can shift when converted for printing.

If your brand requires exact color matching, include Pantone color numbers. Pantone colors are useful for logos and brand colors, especially when the design uses simple solid colors.

Add Bleed And Keep Text In Safe Areas

Bleed extends the artwork beyond the final cut edge so the print can be trimmed cleanly. Without bleed, there may be white edges after cutting.

Important text, logos, QR codes, barcodes, and legal information should stay inside the safe area. Do not place small text or essential design elements too close to cut lines or fold lines.

Outline Fonts Or Include Font Files

If fonts are not outlined, the text may change when the file is opened on another computer. To avoid font problems, outline all text before sending final artwork, or include the font files if editable text is required.

For small text, choose a readable font size and avoid very thin strokes. This is especially important for kraft paper, textured paper, and small packaging.

Mark Special Finishing Clearly

If your packaging includes foil stamping, embossing, debossing, spot UV, window patching, or special coating, mark those areas clearly in the artwork file. It is helpful to place finishing marks on separate layers.

For example, foil stamping artwork can be placed on a separate layer named “Gold Foil”. Spot UV can be placed on a separate layer named “Spot UV”. This makes prepress checking easier and reduces production misunderstanding.

Check Image Resolution

Product photos, patterns, and background images should be high resolution. Low-resolution images may look acceptable on screen but appear blurry after printing.

As a general rule, use high-quality original images and avoid enlarging small images too much. If your design includes detailed photo printing, send the original image files together with the artwork.

Artwork Checklist Before Sending

• Final dieline is confirmed
• Artwork is placed on the dieline correctly
• CMYK color mode is used
• Pantone numbers are included if needed
• Bleed area is added
• Text and logos stay inside safe zones
• Fonts are outlined or included
• Foil, embossing, spot UV, and other finishes are marked clearly
• Images are high resolution
• Final file is saved as AI, editable PDF, EPS, or production-ready PDF

Need Help Checking Your Packaging Artwork?

XLY Pack Factory can review packaging artwork before sampling or production. Send your dieline, logo, design file, box size, material, quantity, and finishing requirements so we can check the file and quote more accurately.

Related Guides Before Production

If your project is still in the planning stage, you may also want to review our printing and finishing guide, MOQ and production timeline guide, and custom packaging inserts guide.

Artwork File FAQ

Can you help create a dieline?

Yes. If you provide product size, product weight, packaging type, and target use, we can help recommend a structure and prepare a dieline after the size is confirmed.

Can I send JPG or PNG artwork?

JPG or PNG files are useful as references, but editable AI, PDF, EPS, or vector PDF files are better for production, especially when the design includes logos, text, foil stamping, embossing, or spot UV.

Do I need Pantone colors?

Pantone colors are recommended when brand color matching is important. CMYK is common for full-color printing, while Pantone helps keep logo and brand colors more consistent.

Send a quote request or WhatsApp SofiaWhatsApp Mia if you need help preparing artwork for custom packaging.