Select the food service route first
Describe the food and how the box will be used: retail shelf, collection, takeaway or another service. Include portion size, whether it is packed warm, and any expected contact with moisture, oil or sauce. State whether the food sits in a liner or may touch the box so the material can be reviewed for the actual use.
Match dimensions to the portion and pack-out
Measure the food or inner tray in its normal packed form and note the number of portions per box. Send the approved logo, product wording and artwork for each menu or product version; do not assume a single layout suits every item.
A concise checklist for custom food boxes
- Food type, portion dimensions and quantity per box
- Service route and warm, wet or greasy conditions
- Liner, tray or direct-contact arrangement
- Approved copy, barcode and artwork versions
- Quantity by design and delivery postcode
Confirm contact conditions before artwork sign-off
Review a sample or drawing with the intended portion and service in mind. Have your food business approve the final information and ask for the material to be confirmed for any direct-contact use. FSA guidance covers legal requirements for food labelling and packaging. Agree dimensions, print, quantity and order terms in writing.