Quick answer: Approve custom mailer printing against one identified artwork revision and bag specification. Separate the layout proof, material or color review and production sample. Approval of a screen image does not establish the appearance or claims of the finished order.
Create one controlled artwork package
Give the artwork a revision reference and identify the bag size, construction and intended print positions. Send the supplier the required source files and ask which file format, print method and production constraints apply to the proposed order.
List the items that require approval: graphics, mandatory wording supplied by the buyer, barcode or label areas where relevant, and orientation. Avoid allowing a quotation attachment and a later email image to become competing instructions. Record which file supersedes the other.
Use the supplier’s actual print area
Ask for a drawing that shows the printable area relative to seams, flap, closure and cushioning. Check the layout on the intended packed bag, not just a flat digital rectangle. Reserve clear space for shipping labels and operational information.
New Solution lists custom printing for plain and bubble mailer families. The number of colors, print method, tolerances and available area still need confirmation for the selected job. Do not assume that an illustrated reference design can be reproduced on every film and size.
Distinguish proof types
A digital proof is useful for reviewing content and placement. A physical material or color reference answers different questions. A production sample can show the selected construction and print together. Ask the supplier to identify what each submitted proof represents.
Agree color references and acceptance conditions before approval; do not rely on a monitor alone. Record whether the physical sample is produced by the intended process or is a mockup. Keep remaining differences open instead of calling an approximate sample a final production approval.
Review claim wording and marks separately
Brand graphics and environmental claims require different checks. Where a BPI mark is proposed, BPI describes artwork review as part of its certification program. Confirm the exact covered item and permitted artwork through the relevant holder or program.
A certification logo on another bag is not permission to copy it. Approve the disposal route and required destination wording for this finished construction. Keep unsupported claims out of the artwork even if they appear in a sales reference image.
Release a traceable print approval
- Identify the artwork revision and bag specification.
- Check print area, orientation, seams and label space.
- Record the proof type and what has been reviewed.
- Approve color and appearance against agreed references.
- Resolve claims, marks and destination wording.
- Confirm quantity, packing, price and order-specific lead time.
Store the approval and the accepted proof together. A change to film color, bag size, artwork or print process should be reviewed rather than silently carried into a repeat order.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a digital proof a production sample?
No. Identify the proof type and its limits. A screen layout and a finished printed sample answer different approval questions.
Can I copy a certification mark from a reference photo?
Do not assume permission or coverage. Verify the item and the relevant artwork authorization.
What should a repeat order reference?
Use the approved bag specification, artwork revision, proof reference and commercial details, and review any changes.
Related Products and Guides
Read next: Compostable Bubble Mailers: A Buyer’s Specification Checklist.
Read next: How to Check Finished-Bag Compostability Documents.
Read next: Mailer Closure and Return-Shipping Design: A Buyer’s Review.
Discuss Your Packaging Specification
Sources
Published by New Solution. This guide supports preparation of a purchasing brief. Product claims and suitability are confirmed against the selected order specification and supporting documents.
Illustrations show generic packaging concepts, not verified product specifications.