Which flexible packaging format suits my product?
The right format depends on how the product is filled, stored and used by the end customer. Pouches are often chosen for refill packs, dry goods, powders and items that need a neat shelf presentation. Sachets suit smaller fills, sample sizes and single-use portions. Wraps are used where a product needs a printed outer layer or a folded pack that keeps the item protected during handling and transport.
In practical terms, think about the fill weight, seal area, tear options and whether the pack will be stored in heat, cold rooms or on shelves near windows. Coastal humidity around Durban and Pietermaritzburg can affect some materials more than inland conditions, so it helps to mention where the product will be packed and sold.
- Pouches for retail packs and re-sealable formats
- Sachets for small portions, samples and single-serve products
- Wraps for folded or flow-wrapped presentations
- Material choice guided by storage, fill method and handling
What do you need from me before printing starts?
To keep the process moving, send the pack size, product type, quantity needed and any existing artwork if you already have it. If you do not have print-ready files, we can still help with artwork prep and proofing. The more detail you give at the start, the fewer changes are needed later.
It also helps to share your preferred finish, your target delivery town and whether you need a short run order or repeat production. If your product has legal or municipal wording requirements, or if there are local market rules to follow, include that in the brief so it can be checked before print.
- Pack format, size and fill weight
- Artwork files or logo files if available
- Quantity, delivery location and turnaround needs
- Any wording, barcode or label details to include
How do artwork prep and proofing work?
Artwork prep begins with checking the file setup, panel sizes, bleed and text placement. For flexo-printed packaging, small layout issues can show up quickly once the job is on press, so we check carefully before production. We also look at line thickness, fine text and image clarity to make sure the pack reads well at the finished size.
After that, a proof is prepared for review. This is where you check spelling, colours, panel order and any product details before we move ahead. If there are changes, make them at proof stage, not after approval. That saves time and avoids rework, especially when the order is moving to dispatch in a tight window.
- Check spelling, panel order and contact details
- Confirm colour expectations and brand colours
- Review barcode placement and small text
- Approve only once all details are correct
How is colour matching handled on flexo jobs?
Colour matching is handled by comparing the requested shade against the approved artwork and the chosen material. Flexible packaging can show colour differently on glossy, matte or uncoated surfaces, so the same ink mix may look slightly different depending on the substrate. That is normal and needs to be allowed for during setup.
When a repeat order comes back, we aim to match the approved previous run as closely as possible. If you are changing material or moving from one pack size to another, let us know early. Even a small shift in film type can change how the colour sits on the pack, especially on lighter shades and fine detail.
For best results, avoid sending multiple versions of the same logo or artwork. Use one approved version and keep it consistent across future orders. This makes repeat production easier and cuts down on guesswork.
Can I order small quantities or repeat the same pack later?
Yes. Short run orders are useful when you are testing a new product, changing artwork or running a seasonal pack. Repeat production is also available when you need to keep a pack consistent over time. Both options help local brands manage stock without tying up too much space or cash.
If you plan to re-order later, keep a note of the pack size, approved artwork version and any special finishing instructions. That way the next run can be set up faster. This is especially handy for businesses in Durban, Johannesburg and Cape Town that need regular dispatches with different delivery points.
- Short runs for trials, launches and limited batches
- Repeat orders for stable, ongoing packaging needs
- Keep one approved artwork version on file
- Tell us if you want the same material and finish each time
How does ordering, dispatch and delivery work?
Once the brief is confirmed, the next steps are proof approval, production planning and dispatch coordination. We arrange orders from our Pinetown base and deliver across South Africa, including Durban, Johannesburg, Pretoria, Cape Town and Bloemfontein. If you are nearby, local delivery areas also include Pietermaritzburg and Ballito.
Load-shedding and transport timing can affect production and delivery schedules, so it is best to place orders with a bit of lead time. If your site has receiving hours, gate controls or municipal delivery rules, mention them in the enquiry form. That helps the logistics team plan the drop-off properly and avoid delays at the warehouse gate.
For support, use the enquiry form on our contact page. From there, the team can guide you on the format, print prep, proofing and delivery steps from start to finish.
