Is Digital Printing Right For You?

When it comes to product packaging you want to ensure yours looks as good on the outside as it tastes on the inside. Eye-catching packaging will improve the customer experience, create brand recognition and ultimately increase sales. Now who doesn’t want that?

If you’re an early stage shipper, or simply don’t have the budget for costly package design, digital printing may be the solution without breaking the bank.

Digital printing is the process of transferring a digital file, usually a JPEG or PDF, directly to a printer which applies it onto packaging materials. Unlike offset printing there are no printing plates, dies or paper rolls involved making it a cost-effective solution for custom packaging. This method is ideal for smaller runs or for creating product samples.

While cost-effective and easy, digital printing is not for everyone. It works with the CMYK color system, as opposed to PMS colors which are used in offset printing. This limits the range of colors you get to use. If you’re even wondering what is CMYK and PMS this probably won’t be an issue.

Pros of Digital Printing

• Produces top-quality print for labels, corrugated boxes, folding cartons and prototypes

• Ideal for small production runs

• Low minimums and no costly die plate charges

• Quick turnaround

Cons of Digital Printing

• Costs add up quickly for large volume printing

• PMS colors are hard to match and coating options are limited compared to lithography package printing

• Best for print runs under 100 pieces at a time

When it comes to printing, like your packaging, there is no one-size-fits-all solution. It’s best to speak to a packaging design expert to learn more about the options available and the costs involved.