Minimum order quantities, production timelines and ordering requirements for custom food packaging

Introduction

Wholesale HQ provides custom branded food packaging produced to order for hospitality businesses, takeaway brands, and food service operators across the UK.

Because all custom food packaging is manufactured specifically to your branding and product specifications, minimum order quantities and production lead times apply.

This page outlines the key ordering requirements, timelines, and production processes for all custom food packaging products.

For a full overview of available packaging products:

➡ CUSTOM FOOD PACKAGING OVERVIEW

Minimum Order Quantities (MOQs)

All custom branded food packaging products are subject to minimum order quantities.

MOQ levels vary depending on:

  • Product type
  • Packaging size
  • Print specifications
  • Material selection
  • Branding complexity

Examples of products requiring MOQs include:

  • Branded paper cups
  • Custom takeaway boxes
  • Printed napkins
  • Greaseproof paper
  • Stickers & labels

For product-specific packaging categories:

➡ BRANDED PAPER CUPS
➡ CUSTOM FOOD BOXES
➡ ACCESSORIES
➡ STICKERS

If your required quantity falls below standard MOQ levels, our team may still be able to advise on alternative solutions or stock packaging options.

Production Lead Times

As custom food packaging is manufactured to order, production timelines are longer than standard stock packaging.

Typical lead times include:

Standard Branded Packaging

  • Approx. 10–12 weeks
  • From artwork approval & payment confirmation

This applies to most custom printed packaging products including cups, boxes, and accessories.

Stickers & Labels (Faster Turnaround)

Custom stickers and labels benefit from shorter production timelines:

  • Approx. 10–15 working days
  • From artwork approval & payment confirmation

For sticker-specific packaging:

➡ CUSTOM STICKERS & LABELS

Payment Terms

Full payment is required upfront before production can begin.

Orders will only proceed once:

  • Payment has been received
  • Artwork has been submitted
  • Artwork has been approved

This ensures production accuracy and scheduling efficiency.

Artwork & Branding Requirements

To begin production, we require print-ready artwork files.

Artwork specifications:

  • PDF format required
  • High-resolution logo files
  • Correct sizing proportions
  • Colour specifications (if applicable)

All custom artwork must be approved prior to manufacturing.

Once artwork approval is confirmed, production will begin.

Print & Colour Limitations

Standard custom packaging production includes:

  • 1 to 2 colour printing

For additional colour requirements, please contact our team to discuss bespoke print options and pricing adjustments.

Sticker pricing may also vary depending on:

  • Shape
  • Finish (matte or gloss)
  • Colour complexity

Product Variations

All product images displayed are for reference purposes only.

Final product appearance may vary slightly depending on:

  • Printing processes
  • Material finishes
  • Lighting & photography
  • Manufacturing tolerances

Colour tones and textures may differ slightly from on-screen previews.

Changes & Cancellations

Once payment has been made and artwork has been approved, orders cannot be amended or cancelled.

We strongly advise reviewing all specifications carefully before final approval is given.

This includes:

  • Logo placement
  • Colours
  • Sizing
  • Quantities

Quality Assurance

All custom food packaging products are quality checked prior to dispatch.

In the unlikely event of defects or product issues, customers must notify our team within 48 hours of delivery, providing photographic evidence for review.

Quotes & Pricing Validity

All custom packaging quotes remain valid for 21 days from the date of issue.

Pricing may be subject to change after this period depending on material costs and production variables.

Additional Packaging Requests

If you require packaging products not currently listed on our website, our team may still be able to assist via extended sourcing options.

Contact us to request access to our broader packaging catalogue.

Need Assistance?

For packaging enquiries, bulk quotes, or production guidance, contact our team:

📞 07354 004790
📧 info@wholesalehq.co.uk

Or submit your requirements via our quote form:

➡ GET A FOOD PACKAGING QUOTE