Welcome to the INKT. Print Questions Hub.
Here we answer common questions about labels, packaging, signage, sustainable print solutions, artwork setup, and commercial printing across Australia.
Can INKT Help If I Don't Know Where To Start With My Print Or Packaging Project?
Absolutely.
Many businesses know what they want to achieve but are unsure about packaging materials, label specifications, print methods, finishes, quantities, or how the production process works. That's where INKT comes in.
As a boutique print and packaging consultancy, we help simplify the entire process from concept through to delivery. Whether you're launching a new product, refreshing an existing brand, or looking for a more cost effective solution, we provide expert guidance every step of the way.
We can assist with:
• Packaging and label recommendations
• Material and substrate selection
• Print specifications and production methods
• Sustainable packaging options
• Artwork guidance and print readiness
• Supplier sourcing and management
• Budget and cost optimisation
• Production coordination and delivery
With more than 25 years of industry experience, INKT helps businesses across Australia make informed decisions while avoiding costly mistakes and unnecessary delays.
Our goal is simple: to make print and packaging easier, more efficient, and less stressful so you can focus on growing your business.
What Makes INKT Different From A Traditional Print Company?
INKT is not a traditional print company. We operate as an independent print and packaging consultancy, giving businesses access to a wide range of production solutions rather than being limited to a single factory, press, or product offering.
Instead of selling one specific print method, we focus on finding the best solution for your project based on your objectives, budget, timelines, and product requirements.
This approach gives our clients access to:
• Labels and packaging specialists
• Digital and offset print solutions
• Flexible packaging and printed pouches
• Folding cartons and retail packaging
• Sustainable packaging options
• Signage and marketing collateral
• National supplier networks
• Independent advice and recommendations
Our extensive industry experience and supplier relationships allow us to source high quality print and packaging solutions across Australia while managing the process on your behalf.
The result is greater flexibility, better outcomes, reduced stress, and access to innovative print solutions tailored specifically to your business.
Does INKT Manage Print Production And Supplier Coordination?
Yes.
One of the biggest benefits of working with INKT is having a single point of contact throughout your project.
Rather than dealing with multiple suppliers, manufacturers, printers, and freight providers, we coordinate the entire process on your behalf.
Our services include:
• Supplier sourcing and management
• Print and packaging procurement
• Production coordination
• Quality control oversight
• Freight and delivery management
• Project scheduling and timelines
• Technical print support
We work with a trusted network of local and national suppliers, allowing businesses across Australia to access specialist print and packaging capabilities without needing to manage the complexity themselves.
This helps save time, improve communication, reduce production risks, and ensure projects are delivered efficiently and professionally.
How Can INKT Help Businesses Save Time With Print And Packaging?
Managing print and packaging projects can be time consuming, especially when dealing with multiple suppliers, technical specifications, artwork requirements, production schedules, and freight logistics.
INKT simplifies the process by acting as your dedicated print and packaging partner.
Instead of sourcing suppliers, comparing quotes, reviewing specifications, and managing production yourself, we coordinate everything from concept through to delivery.
This allows businesses to:
• Save valuable time
• Reduce administration and procurement workload
• Access trusted suppliers quickly
• Improve project efficiency
• Avoid costly production mistakes
• Streamline communication
• Focus on core business activities
Our clients range from start ups and small businesses through to medium sized brands that value having an experienced industry professional managing their print and packaging requirements.
By leveraging more than 25 years of industry knowledge, we help businesses achieve better outcomes while reducing the stress often associated with print procurement.
Does INKT Work With Start Ups And Small Businesses?
Absolutely.
INKT works with businesses of all sizes, from start ups launching their first product through to established brands managing national packaging and print requirements.
We understand that every business has different goals, budgets, production volumes, and timelines. That's why we tailor our recommendations and solutions to suit your specific requirements.
For start ups, we can assist with:
• Product launch packaging
• Custom labels
• Printed pouches
• Folding cartons
• Packaging advice
• Artwork guidance
• Short run production options
For growing businesses, we help create scalable print and packaging solutions that support future growth while maintaining brand consistency and product quality.
Whether you need a small initial production run or ongoing supply solutions, INKT can help guide the process from start to finish.
What Industries Does INKT Work With?
INKT provides print, packaging, and label solutions for a wide range of industries across Perth, Western Australia, and Australia.
Industries we regularly support include:
• FMCG brands
• Food and beverage manufacturers
• Beer and wine producers
• Skincare and cosmetic brands
• Pharmaceutical businesses
• Health and wellness companies
• Industrial and chemical manufacturers
• Transport and logistics providers
• Retail and supermarket suppliers
• Hydroponics and agricultural businesses
• Emerging product brands and start ups
Each industry has unique packaging, compliance, branding, and production requirements. Our role is to help businesses identify the most suitable materials, print methods, finishes, and production solutions for their specific application.
By combining technical expertise with practical industry knowledge, INKT helps brands create packaging and print solutions that perform effectively while supporting business growth.
What Packaging Solutions Does INKT Offer?
INKT provides custom packaging solutions for businesses across Perth, Western Australia, and Australia wide. We help brands create packaging that not only protects products but also improves shelf presence, strengthens brand recognition, and supports business growth.
Our packaging solutions include:
• Flexible packaging and printed pouches
• Folding cartons and retail packaging
• Food grade packaging solutions
• Product labels and shrink sleeves
• Printed cans and specialty packaging
• Promotional packaging
• Sustainable packaging options
• Short run and large volume production
We work with businesses across FMCG, food and beverage, beer, wine, skincare, pharmaceutical, industrial, transport, chemical, and retail sectors.
From initial concept and material selection through to production and delivery, INKT helps simplify the packaging process while ensuring quality, functionality, and visual impact.
Whether you are launching a new product, refreshing an existing range, or looking to improve packaging performance, we can help identify the right solution for your brand and budget.
Can INKT Supply Packaging And Print Solutions Australia Wide?
Yes.
We work with businesses across Australia through a trusted network of local and national print and packaging suppliers.
We coordinate sourcing, production, quality control, and delivery to ensure businesses receive reliable, high quality packaging and print solutions regardless of location.
Our Australia wide services include:
• Custom packaging
• Product labels
• Flexible packaging and pouches
• Folding cartons
• Signage and marketing collateral
• Promotional print solutions
• Packaging procurement and sourcing
Working with INKT provides access to specialist production capabilities while eliminating the need to manage multiple suppliers yourself.
Whether your business is located in Perth, regional Western Australia, Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide, Hobart, Canberra, or Darwin, we can help coordinate your packaging and print requirements.
What Is The Best Packaging For FMCG Products?
The best packaging for FMCG products depends on your product type, target market, distribution requirements, shelf environment, and brand positioning.
Effective FMCG packaging must do more than simply contain a product. It needs to protect the contents, attract customer attention, communicate key information, and perform efficiently throughout transport and retail distribution.
Popular FMCG packaging options include:
• Flexible pouches
• Folding cartons
• Pressure sensitive labels
• Shrink sleeves
• Corrugated packaging
• Retail display packaging
When selecting packaging, businesses should consider:
• Product protection
• Shelf appeal
• Sustainability goals
• Storage requirements
• Production quantities
• Retail compliance
• Budget considerations
At INKT, we help brands evaluate these factors and recommend packaging solutions that balance functionality, branding, sustainability, and cost effectiveness.
Can INKT Help With Flexible Packaging And Printed Pouches?
Absolutely.
Flexible packaging continues to grow in popularity because it offers excellent product protection, strong shelf appeal, reduced transport costs, and improved sustainability opportunities compared to some traditional packaging formats.
INKT can source and coordinate a wide range of flexible packaging solutions, including:
• Stand up pouches
• Flat pouches
• Zipper pouches
• Sachets
• Coffee packaging
• Snack packaging
• Supplement packaging
• Liquid product pouches
Selecting the right flexible packaging structure requires careful consideration of barrier requirements, product shelf life, filling processes, transport conditions, and branding objectives.
We work closely with clients to determine the most suitable materials, finishes, production methods, and packaging formats for their products.
Whether you are launching a new product or looking to improve an existing packaging format, INKT can help identify practical and cost effective flexible packaging solutions.
Does INKT Work With FMCG And Retail Brands?
Yes.
FMCG and retail packaging is one of our key areas of expertise.
We work with businesses across food and beverage, beer, wine, skincare, cosmetics, health products, industrial goods, and supermarket retail categories to develop packaging and label solutions that support both product performance and brand growth.
Our services include:
• Packaging sourcing and procurement
• Product labels and shrink sleeves
• Flexible packaging
• Folding cartons
• Retail display solutions
• Packaging upgrades and optimisation
• Sustainable packaging advice
Retail environments are highly competitive, making packaging one of the most important marketing tools available to a brand.
INKT helps businesses create packaging that improves shelf presence, enhances customer perception, and supports purchasing decisions while maintaining production efficiency and cost control.
What Sustainable Packaging And Print Options Are Available?
Sustainable packaging is becoming increasingly important for Australian businesses seeking to reduce waste and improve environmental responsibility.
Today there are more sustainable options available than ever before, including:
• Recyclable packaging materials
• FSC certified paper and board
• Recyclable label stocks
• Compostable packaging substrates
• Reduced plastic packaging formats
• Eco conscious print processes
• Packaging designed to minimise waste
However, sustainable packaging is not always straightforward. Different materials may be recyclable in some regions and not others, while certain laminates, coatings, and adhesives can affect recyclability.
The most effective approach is to match the packaging solution to the product, distribution environment, shelf life requirements, and disposal stream.
At INKT, we help businesses explore practical sustainability improvements that align with both environmental goals and commercial requirements.
Does INKT Provide QR Code And Smart Packaging Solutions?
Yes.
QR codes and smart packaging technologies provide brands with new ways to connect with customers, improve engagement, and deliver valuable information beyond the physical package.
QR codes can be incorporated into labels, cartons, pouches, shrink sleeves, and retail packaging to help customers access:
• Product information
• Instructions and user guides
• Promotions and competitions
• Websites and landing pages
• Videos and tutorials
• Traceability information
• Sustainability information
Smart packaging can also support marketing campaigns by providing measurable customer engagement data and campaign analytics.
INKT can assist with QR code integration, packaging layout recommendations, print optimisation, scan testing, and advice on creating effective customer experiences through connected packaging.
As consumer expectations continue to evolve, smart packaging offers brands an innovative way to increase engagement and create stronger customer relationships.
Does INKT Provide Custom Label Printing For Food, Beverage And Skincare Brands?
Yes.
INKT supplies custom label solutions for a wide range of industries including food and beverage, beer, wine, skincare, cosmetics, health products, pharmaceuticals, industrial products, and retail applications.
A label does more than identify a product. It plays a critical role in brand recognition, compliance, customer perception, and shelf appeal. Choosing the right material, adhesive, finish, and print method can significantly impact both performance and presentation.
Our custom label solutions include:
• Waterproof labels
• Freezer grade labels
• Custom shaped labels
• Clear labels
• Matte and gloss finishes
• Textured and premium label stocks
• Foil embellishments
• Barcode and QR code integration
• Sustainable and recyclable label options
We work closely with clients to ensure labels not only look great but also perform in real world environments such as refrigeration, moisture exposure, transport, retail handling, and industrial applications.
Whether you're launching a new product or refreshing an existing range, INKT can help source label solutions tailored to your product, brand, and budget.
What Is The Best Label Material For Food Packaging?
The best label material for food packaging depends on how the product is stored, transported, and displayed.
Food labels often need to withstand refrigeration, freezing, moisture, condensation, handling, and transport while maintaining excellent print quality and adhesion.
Common food packaging label materials include:
• Polypropylene labels
• Polyethylene labels
• Synthetic label stocks
• Paper labels
• Recyclable label materials
For chilled, frozen, or moisture exposed products, polypropylene and synthetic materials are often preferred because they offer excellent durability and moisture resistance.
Paper labels can be a cost effective option for dry goods and products with shorter shelf life requirements.
The choice of adhesive is equally important. Selecting the wrong adhesive can result in labels lifting, wrinkling, or failing during storage and distribution.
At INKT, we help businesses select food grade label materials and adhesives that balance durability, sustainability, compliance requirements, and budget considerations.
Why Are My Product Labels Peeling Or Lifting?
Label lifting or peeling is one of the most common issues businesses experience with product packaging.
In most cases, the problem is not the print itself but a mismatch between the label material, adhesive, packaging surface, and application environment.
Common causes include:
• Moisture or condensation
• Cold application temperatures
• Curved or tapered containers
• Textured packaging surfaces
• Incorrect adhesive selection
• Surface contamination during application
• Exposure to chemicals or oils
Even premium labels can fail if the adhesive has not been properly matched to the product's storage conditions and packaging material.
Products stored in refrigerators, freezers, warehouses, or outdoor environments often require specialist adhesive systems designed for those conditions.
Testing before full production is always recommended, particularly for food, beverage, skincare, pharmaceutical, and industrial applications.
INKT helps businesses identify the right combination of label stock, adhesive, and application method to maximise performance and minimise costly production issues.
How Do Custom Labels Improve Shelf Presence?
Custom labels are often the first thing a customer notices when looking at a product.
In crowded retail environments, strong label design and high quality print production can significantly influence purchasing decisions and help products stand out from competitors.
A professionally produced label can help:
• Improve shelf visibility
• Strengthen brand recognition
• Build customer trust
• Communicate quality and professionalism
• Highlight product benefits
• Create a premium customer experience
Elements such as colour, typography, material selection, embellishments, and finish all contribute to the overall impact of a label.
Premium features may include:
• Matte and gloss finishes
• Soft touch coatings
• Foil embellishments
• Spot UV effects
• Textured materials
• Clear labels
• Custom shapes
At INKT, we help brands develop label solutions that combine visual impact with practical performance, creating labels that not only look great but also support marketing and sales objectives.
What Is The Difference Between Paper And Synthetic Labels?
Paper and synthetic labels each offer unique benefits depending on the product application and environment.
Paper labels are commonly chosen because they:
• Are cost effective
• Print beautifully
• Offer a natural appearance
• Work well for dry products
• Support many premium finishes
Paper labels are often used for food packaging, wine labels, artisan products, promotional packaging, and short term applications.
Synthetic labels are designed for more demanding environments and typically offer:
• Water resistance
• Tear resistance
• Greater durability
• Improved chemical resistance
• Longer product life
Synthetic materials are commonly used for beverages, skincare products, industrial products, health products, refrigerated goods, and products exposed to moisture or frequent handling.
The right choice depends on your product, packaging material, storage conditions, branding goals, and budget.
INKT can help determine which label material is best suited to your specific application.
What Label Finish Should I Choose For My Product?
The finish applied to a label can dramatically influence how customers perceive a product.
The most common options include matte, gloss, satin, soft touch, and textured finishes.
Gloss finishes are ideal for:
• Bright colours
• High visual impact
• Retail products
• Food and beverage packaging
• Photography rich designs
Matte finishes are popular for:
• Premium products
• Skincare and cosmetics
• Luxury packaging
• Reduced glare under lighting
• Modern brand aesthetics
Soft touch finishes create a unique tactile experience and are often used for premium packaging where customer perception is important.
Textured materials can add authenticity and craftsmanship to products such as wine, spirits, gourmet foods, and boutique brands.
Choosing the right finish depends on your product category, target audience, shelf environment, and brand positioning.
INKT can help you compare options and select a finish that supports both performance and presentation goals.
Can INKT Help Improve Existing Product Labels?
Absolutely.
Many businesses approach INKT because their current labels are not delivering the results they expected.
Common issues include:
• Poor shelf presence
• Label lifting or failure
• Outdated branding
• Inconsistent colour reproduction
• Material performance issues
• High production costs
Often, small improvements in materials, finishes, adhesives, print methods, or artwork can significantly improve both performance and customer perception.
We can review your existing labels and provide recommendations on:
• Material selection
• Adhesive performance
• Sustainability improvements
• Premium finishing options
• Production efficiencies
• Cost reduction opportunities
Our goal is to help businesses create labels that look professional, perform reliably, and support long term brand growth.
Can INKT Supply Sustainable Label Solutions?
Yes.
Sustainability is becoming increasingly important for brands across Australia, and label technology continues to evolve to support more environmentally responsible packaging.
Depending on the application, sustainable label options may include:
• Recyclable label materials
• FSC certified paper stocks
• Reduced waste production methods
• Wash off label technologies
• Sustainable adhesives
• Recycled content materials
However, sustainable labelling is not simply about choosing a specific material. Factors such as packaging type, recycling streams, adhesives, inks, coatings, and end of life disposal all play a role.
At INKT, we help businesses evaluate practical sustainable label solutions that align with product requirements, customer expectations, and environmental goals without compromising quality or performance.
What Is The Difference Between Digital And Offset Printing?
Digital printing and offset printing are two of the most common commercial printing methods, each offering unique advantages depending on the project requirements.
Digital printing is typically best suited for:
• Short run projects
• Fast turnaround times
• Variable data printing
• Lower setup costs
• Product testing and small launches
Because digital printing requires minimal setup, it is often the most cost effective option for lower quantities and projects requiring quick delivery.
Offset printing is generally better suited for:
• Larger production runs
• Consistent colour reproduction
• Premium print quality
• Specialised inks and finishes
• Long term cost efficiency at higher volumes
Offset printing involves creating printing plates and is often the preferred solution for larger packaging, catalogue, brochure, and marketing campaigns where volume and colour consistency are critical.
Choosing the wrong print method can increase costs or reduce production efficiency. At INKT, we help businesses evaluate quantity, substrate, finishing requirements, budget, and lead times to determine the most suitable production method for every project.
What Artwork Files Are Best For Professional Printing?
Providing the correct artwork files helps ensure a smooth production process and high quality print results.
The preferred file format for commercial printing is a press ready PDF supplied at high resolution with bleed and crop marks included where required.
Common file formats used in professional printing include:
• PDF
• Adobe Illustrator files (.AI)
• InDesign packaged files
• EPS files
• High resolution TIFF files
Where possible, logos and graphics should be supplied as vector artwork. Vector files can be scaled without losing quality, ensuring sharp reproduction at any size.
For best results, artwork should also:
• Be supplied in CMYK colour mode
• Include a minimum 3mm bleed
• Use embedded or outlined fonts
• Contain high resolution images (300dpi)
Incorrectly prepared artwork can lead to production delays, colour inconsistencies, pixelated images, and additional prepress costs.
INKT can assist with artwork setup, file checking, print specifications, and preparing production ready files for labels, packaging, signage, and marketing collateral.
What Is The Difference Between Varnish And Laminate?
Varnishes and laminates are both finishing options used to protect printed products and enhance their appearance, but they perform differently and suit different applications.
A varnish is a liquid coating applied during or after the printing process. It improves appearance while providing moderate protection.
Benefits of varnish include:
• Cost effective finishing
• Available in gloss, matte, satin, and soft touch options
• Enhances colour and visual appeal
• Suitable for brochures, cartons, labels, and business cards
• Faster production in some applications
A laminate is a thin plastic film applied over the printed surface. It offers significantly greater durability and protection.
Benefits of laminate include:
• Improved scratch resistance
• Better moisture protection
• Enhanced durability
• Premium tactile finishes
• Longer product life
Laminates are commonly used for premium packaging, menus, cosmetic cartons, presentation folders, and products exposed to frequent handling.
The best choice depends on how the printed product will be used, handled, and stored. INKT can help determine the most suitable finishing option based on performance, appearance, and budget requirements.
Should I Choose A Matte Or Gloss Finish For My Packaging Or Labels?
Both matte and gloss finishes offer distinct advantages, and the right choice depends on your product, brand positioning, and customer experience goals.
Gloss finishes are ideal for:
• Bright and vibrant colours
• Strong shelf impact
• Food and beverage packaging
• Retail products
• Photography rich designs
Gloss coatings reflect light and often make colours appear more vibrant, helping products attract attention in busy retail environments.
Matte finishes are ideal for:
• Premium and luxury brands
• Skincare and cosmetic products
• Boutique packaging
• Modern brand aesthetics
• Reduced glare under lighting
Matte finishes create a softer, more sophisticated appearance and are often chosen by brands wanting a premium look and feel.
Some products also benefit from combining both finishes through specialty embellishments such as spot gloss effects over a matte background.
At INKT, we help clients compare finish options and select the solution that best supports their product, audience, and branding objectives.
What Is Bleed In Printing And Why Is It Important?
Bleed is the area of artwork that extends beyond the final trim size of a printed product.
It is an essential part of professional print production because it ensures colours, images, and backgrounds continue all the way to the edge after trimming.
Without bleed, even minor movement during the cutting process can result in unwanted white edges appearing around the finished product.
For most commercial print projects, a minimum bleed of 3mm is recommended.
Bleed is commonly required for:
• Packaging artwork
• Product labels
• Brochures and flyers
• Business cards
• Presentation folders
• Signage and promotional materials
When preparing artwork, background colours and images should extend into the bleed area while important text and logos should remain safely inside the trim zone.
INKT helps clients prepare artwork correctly to ensure professional results and minimise production issues.
What Resolution Should Images Be For Printing?
Image resolution plays a major role in determining print quality.
For commercial printing, images should generally be supplied at a minimum resolution of 300dpi (dots per inch) at final print size.
Low resolution images may appear:
• Blurry
• Pixelated
• Soft or fuzzy
• Unprofessional when enlarged
Common image sources such as websites, screenshots, and social media platforms are typically optimised for screen viewing and often do not contain enough resolution for professional printing.
For best results:
• Use original photography whenever possible
• Supply images at 300dpi
• Avoid enlarging low resolution files
• Use vector graphics for logos and illustrations
High quality images are particularly important for packaging, labels, signage, catalogues, brochures, and promotional materials where visual presentation directly influences customer perception.
If you're unsure whether your files are suitable for printing, INKT can review and assess artwork before production begins.
Can INKT Help Prepare Print Ready Artwork?
Yes.
Many businesses have artwork that is not fully prepared for commercial printing, which can lead to delays, additional costs, or production issues.
INKT can assist with reviewing and preparing artwork for a wide range of print applications including:
• Labels
• Packaging
• Signage
• Brochures and flyers
• Marketing collateral
• Retail displays
Our artwork support services can include:
• File checking and preflight reviews
• Bleed and trim setup
• Colour profile guidance
• Resolution checks
• Font and image verification
• Print specification advice
By identifying potential issues before production begins, we help reduce errors, avoid costly reprints, and ensure your project proceeds smoothly.
Whether you have finished artwork or are starting from scratch, INKT can help ensure your files are production ready and optimised for the best possible print outcome.
Why Do Printed Colours Sometimes Look Different To What I See On Screen?
This is one of the most common questions in commercial printing.
Computer monitors, mobile devices, and printers reproduce colour differently. Screens display colour using RGB (Red, Green, Blue) light, while commercial printing uses CMYK (Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, and Black) inks.
Because of these differences, some colours displayed on screen cannot be reproduced exactly in print.
Other factors that can influence colour include:
• Paper or packaging material selection
• Coatings and laminates
• Printing method
• Lighting conditions
• Press calibration
Bright fluorescent colours and highly saturated digital colours are often the most difficult to match exactly in print.
For projects where colour accuracy is critical, INKT can provide guidance on colour management, Pantone matching, proofing options, and production methods to achieve the most consistent results possible.
Can INKT Help Reduce My Printing Costs?
Yes.
Many businesses spend more than necessary on print and packaging simply because they are using the wrong production method, materials, specifications, or suppliers.
At INKT, we help clients identify opportunities to improve efficiency without compromising quality.
Cost saving opportunities may include:
• Alternative production methods
• Material optimisation
• Quantity planning
• Consolidated print runs
• Packaging redesign efficiencies
• Supplier sourcing improvements
• Freight and logistics optimisation
Because we work across a network of trusted suppliers and manufacturing partners, we can often identify solutions that improve value while maintaining quality and performance.
Our goal is to help businesses achieve the best possible return on their print and packaging investment while ensuring professional results that support long term growth.
How Much Does Custom Packaging Cost In Australia?
The cost of custom packaging can vary significantly depending on the type of packaging, materials, print method, quantity, size, and finishing options selected.
Factors that influence packaging costs include:
• Packaging format (pouches, cartons, labels, boxes, shrink sleeves)
• Material selection
• Production quantities
• Number of colours and artwork complexity
• Special finishes and embellishments
• Freight and delivery requirements
• Sustainability requirements
As a general guide, larger production runs typically achieve lower unit costs, while smaller runs may have higher costs per item due to setup and production efficiencies.
The best way to determine packaging costs is to start with your product requirements, target quantities, and budget goals.
At INKT, we help businesses identify packaging solutions that balance performance, presentation, and cost effectiveness while ensuring products are ready for market.
How Long Does Custom Packaging Production Take?
Production timelines vary depending on the packaging type, complexity of the project, artwork readiness, and manufacturing requirements.
Typical timelines may include:
• Digital labels: 1 to 2 weeks
• Custom cartons: 3 to 12 weeks
• Flexible packaging and pouches: 4 to 8 weeks
• Specialty packaging: 4 to 10 weeks
Factors that can affect production schedules include:
• Artwork approval times
• Material availability
• Quantity requirements
• Special finishes and embellishments
• Freight and shipping requirements
Planning ahead is always recommended, particularly before peak retail periods, promotional campaigns, or product launches.
INKT helps businesses manage timelines, coordinate suppliers, and reduce delays by overseeing the production process from start to finish.
How Can Packaging Improve Product Sales?
Packaging is one of the most powerful marketing tools available to a brand.
Before customers experience your product, they experience your packaging. In many cases, packaging is responsible for creating the first impression and influencing purchasing decisions.
Effective packaging can help:
• Increase shelf visibility
• Build customer trust
• Improve brand recognition
• Differentiate products from competitors
• Communicate product benefits
• Encourage repeat purchases
• Create a premium customer experience
Well designed packaging also helps reinforce brand consistency across retail, online, and promotional channels.
Whether sold in supermarkets, specialty stores, online marketplaces, or direct to consumers, packaging plays a critical role in attracting attention and supporting long term business growth.
At INKT, we help businesses create packaging solutions that combine functionality, branding, and commercial performance.
What Information Must Appear On Product Labels In Australia?
Labelling requirements vary depending on the product category, industry regulations, and intended market.
Common information that may be required includes:
• Product name
• Ingredient information
• Nutritional information
• Batch or lot numbers
• Barcode information
• Manufacturer or distributor details
• Country of origin information
• Warning statements
• Storage instructions
• Expiry or best before dates
Additional requirements may apply to food products, beverages, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, industrial products, and health related goods.
Failure to comply with labelling regulations can result in costly delays, product recalls, or restrictions on sale.
While regulatory compliance ultimately remains the responsibility of the product owner, INKT can help guide businesses through packaging and label considerations to ensure production requirements are properly addressed.
What Is A Packaging Dieline?
A packaging dieline is the technical template used to create packaging artwork and production files.
Think of it as the blueprint for a carton, pouch, box, or packaging component. It shows where the package will be cut, folded, glued, and assembled during production.
A typical dieline includes:
• Cut lines
• Fold lines
• Glue areas
• Safety zones
• Bleed areas
• Artwork placement guides
Using the correct dieline is critical because even small positioning errors can affect how artwork appears on the finished package.
Most commercial packaging projects require artwork to be designed directly onto an approved dieline supplied by the manufacturer.
INKT works closely with packaging suppliers and designers to ensure artwork is correctly prepared and aligned with production specifications before manufacturing begins.
How Do I Choose The Right Packaging Supplier?
Choosing the right packaging supplier involves more than simply comparing prices.
The ideal supplier should offer a combination of quality, reliability, technical expertise, production capability, and service.
Important considerations include:
• Product quality
• Industry experience
• Lead times
• Material options
• Sustainability capabilities
• Production flexibility
• Communication and support
• Consistent delivery performance
Many businesses find managing multiple suppliers time consuming and difficult, particularly when sourcing labels, cartons, pouches, signage, and marketing materials from different providers.
At INKT, we simplify the process by leveraging an established network of trusted local and national suppliers, helping clients access the most suitable production partners for each project.
When Should I Redesign My Packaging?
Packaging should evolve alongside your business, products, and customers.
Signs that it may be time to review your packaging include:
• Declining shelf impact
• Changes in target audience
• New competitors entering the market
• Product line expansion
• Sustainability objectives
• Regulatory changes
• Packaging performance issues
• Brand refresh initiatives
A packaging redesign does not always require a complete overhaul. In many cases, small changes to materials, finishes, colours, messaging, or structure can significantly improve customer perception and sales performance.
Regular packaging reviews help ensure your brand remains competitive and aligned with changing consumer expectations.
INKT can assess existing packaging and identify opportunities for improvement while maintaining brand consistency and production efficiency.
Why Is Packaging Important For Brand Growth?
Packaging is often the first physical interaction a customer has with your brand.
It influences perception, builds trust, communicates value, and plays a major role in purchasing decisions.
Strong packaging can help businesses:
• Increase brand recognition
• Improve shelf presence
• Build customer confidence
• Support premium pricing strategies
• Create memorable customer experiences
• Encourage repeat purchases
• Strengthen customer loyalty
In highly competitive markets, packaging can be one of the most effective ways to differentiate products from competitors.
Beyond appearance, effective packaging must also perform well throughout manufacturing, transport, storage, retail display, and customer use.
At INKT, we believe packaging should do more than simply contain a product. It should help tell your story, reinforce your brand, and contribute to long term business growth.
Why choose a Perth based print consultancy?
Working with a Perth based print consultancy provides local knowledge, faster communication, and access to trusted print and packaging suppliers throughout Perth, Western Australia and Australia.
At INKT, we combine more than 25 years of industry experience with a national supplier network to help businesses source high quality labels, packaging, signage, and print solutions while saving time and reducing costs.
What Are The Benefits Of Working With A Print And Packaging Consultant?
Many businesses don't have the time, knowledge, or resources to navigate the complexities of print and packaging production.
Working with a print and packaging consultant provides access to industry expertise without the need to manage multiple suppliers, specifications, and production processes yourself.
Benefits include:
• Independent advice
• Access to specialist suppliers
• Improved production efficiency
• Cost optimisation opportunities
• Reduced project risk
• Technical support and guidance
• Simplified communication
• Better project outcomes
Rather than being limited to one production facility or product range, INKT sources solutions based on what is best for your project.
This approach helps businesses achieve high quality outcomes while saving time and reducing the stress often associated with print and packaging procurement.
Why Choose INKT For Print, Labels And Packaging?
With more than 25 years of industry experience, INKT helps businesses across Australia navigate the world of print, labels, packaging, signage, and promotional materials with confidence.
We combine technical expertise, supplier relationships, and practical commercial knowledge to deliver solutions tailored to each client's objectives.
Businesses choose INKT because we offer:
• Independent advice
• End to end project management
• Access to trusted supplier networks
• Print and packaging expertise
• Sustainable solution options
• Flexible production capabilities
• Personalised service
• Australia wide support
Whether you're launching a new product, improving existing packaging, sourcing custom labels, or looking for a trusted print partner, INKT helps bring ideas to life while making the process simple, efficient, and enjoyable.
Do you work with businesses in Perth?
Absolutely. INKT is based in Perth, Western Australia, and works with businesses throughout Perth and regional WA. We provide print consultancy, labels, packaging, signage, and promotional print solutions for start ups, small businesses, manufacturers, and established brands across the state.
Whether you're located in Malaga, Welshpool, Bibra Lake, Osborne Park, Joondalup, Fremantle, Canning Vale, Gin Gin, Geraldton, Canvavon, Margaret River, Swan Valley, Broome, Denmark and Albany or regional Western Australia, we can help source and manage your print requirements.
Can you supply custom labels in Perth?
Yes. INKT supplies custom printed labels for businesses across Perth and Western Australia.
We work with industries including food and beverage, wine, beer, chemicals, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, industrial products, and FMCG brands.
Our label solutions include:
• Pressure sensitive labels
• Waterproof labels
• Chemical and hazardous goods labels
• Premium wine labels
• Foil and embellished labels
• Multi layer and booklet labels
Do you offer packaging solutions in Western Australia?
Yes. INKT helps businesses throughout Perth and WA source innovative packaging solutions including cartons, flexible packaging, pouches, sleeves, labels, and retail packaging.
We work closely with local and national suppliers to deliver cost effective packaging that protects products, strengthens brands, and improves shelf presence.
What industries do you support in Perth?
INKT works with a diverse range of industries throughout Perth and Western Australia, including:
• Food and beverage
• Wine and spirits
• Craft breweries
• Agriculture
• Fertiliser and chemicals
• Manufacturing
• Pharmaceuticals
• Cosmetics and skincare
• Transport and logistics
• Retail and eCommerce
Our experience allows us to recommend the most suitable print and packaging solutions for each industry.
Can INKT help with sustainable packaging in Perth?
Yes. Sustainability is becoming increasingly important for businesses across Western Australia.
INKT can help identify environmentally responsible packaging and print solutions including FSC certified papers, recyclable labels, flexible packaging options, and materials designed to reduce waste without compromising quality or performance.