General Knowledge
General Knowledge
Do you offer custom box styles?
Yes, we do! Beyond the box styles in our library, you can request a fully custom structure. Our team of structural engineers can create nearly any design.
To get started, fill out our Quote Request form and attach reference photos. Your Product Specialist will then follow up for further guidance.
How should the boxes be stored?
For paperboard or corrugated boxes, store them in a dry, cool area, away from direct sunlight, on clean, dry surfaces, and horizontally to prevent bends or creases.
How do I know what the finished product will look like?
We provide flat lay and 3D digital proofs for approval before mass production. For large orders, consider requesting a production-grade sample to ensure your packaging matches expectations.
Will my boxes match the color on my screen?
Screen colors may not exactly match printed packaging due to RGB vs. CMYK color spaces and different substrates (e.g., kraft vs. white paper).
Request a production-grade sample to verify color accuracy before mass production.
How well will my logo/art print? Will it print pixelated?
Use high-resolution images for the best print quality. Minimum 200 DPI is required, though 300 DPI is recommended.
A final artwork proof will be provided. If needed, request a production-grade sample to ensure high-quality printing.
How do I upload files and artwork?
Send finalized artwork on your dieline (.AI or .PDF) to your Product Specialist via email.
For large files, use WeTransfer, Google Drive, or Dropbox and share the download link.
The Pre-press Team will review and provide a 2D proof highlighting potential issues. Non-technical concerns like spelling errors or color shifts are not covered.
How do I get a dieline template?
Once you decide to work with AAA Pak, our structural designers create a custom dieline based on your specifications.
Your Product Specialist will send the completed dieline template for your artwork.
How can I contact a sales representative?
You can reach our sales team:
- Call toll-free: 1-888-228-8165
- Consult via email: quote@aaapak.com
- Availability: Monday – Friday, 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM EST
Where are you located?
Headquarters: 4612 Keystone Crescent, Burlington, L7M0L9, ON, Canada
We operate internationally, with manufacturing facilities across North America, Europe, and Asia.
What is pre-press?
Pre-press is the process of preparing digital files for printing. Turnaround varies by project complexity, ranging from hours to several days.
Contact your Product Specialist for an accurate estimate.
Can I get a prototype or sample before ordering, and how much does it cost?
We offer four types of prototypes:
- Digital 3D mockups (free with proof)
- Plain (unprinted) prototypes
- Digital-printed prototypes
- Production-grade prototypes
Pricing varies due to customizations. Contact your Product Specialist for details or visit our Sample & Prototyping page.
Do you offer color matching?
We currently do not provide color matching services.
Use our production-grade sample service to verify color and sizing before mass production.
Can I print on the inside and outside of the box?
Yes! We can print on one side or both sides.
Indicate double-sided printing in your quote, and your Product Specialist will guide you.
What is PMS color and do I need it?
PMS (Pantone Matching System) ensures consistent color matching using numbered codes.
Widely used in packaging, printing, graphics, and branding. Additional fees may apply.
What is CMYK?
CMYK stands for Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, Black and is the primary printing color space.
Ensure your artwork is in CMYK; otherwise, colors may print inaccurately. AAA Pak offers guidance during pre-press but requires customers to correct files themselves.
What is an additional process?
An additional process is a special finish applied to packaging, often with extra fees.
Examples include:
- Window patching
- Embossing / debossing
- Foil stamping
- Spot UV
- Special die-cut
- Pantone printing
Provide a reference photo for foil stamping, or our Product Specialists will recommend options.
Can I order the same sized packaging with multiple artworks?
Yes! Indicate multiple artworks for the same sized packaging when placing your order.
Our Product Specialists will organize your order to accommodate all designs, even for different sizes.
What is a dieline and why is it important?
A dieline is a blueprint ensuring correct artwork placement and precise cutting/folding.
It includes:
- Fold lines – where to fold
- Cut lines – where to cut
- Bleed lines – extra space for printing shifts
- Safety lines – indicate placement of logos/artwork
Follow our artwork & design guide for proper application.
General Knowledge
Everything you need to know about your your orders.