- ●Approve a master layout before adapting the range.
- ●Keep SKU details, artwork versions and production specifications in one controlled record.
- ●A screen mockup is not a substitute for supplier checks and an approved production proof.
A packaging design handoff is the transfer of approved artwork and production information to the supplier making the pack. It should identify the correct SKU, dimensions, artwork version and required files. A polished mockup helps show the idea, but it does not establish whether the actual pack will be produced correctly.
For a brand planning packaging design in Indore, this process matters before the range grows. One approved layout can become several sizes, flavours or formulations. Without a controlled record, a small copy change can reach the wrong file.
Start with a SKU matrix
Create one row for each product variant. Record its exact product name, pack size, dimensions or dieline reference, front and back copy, barcode supplied by the business, and the person approving the content. Mark missing information clearly rather than filling it with assumptions.
Keep the matrix separate from the visual mockup so the team can check facts without searching through slides. If one product is sold in two pack sizes, treat those as separate artwork outputs even when much of the design is shared.
Confirm the production geometry
Ask the packaging supplier for the verified dieline and production specifications. These may include bleed, safe areas, print method, colour requirements and finishing layers. The designer should work from the agreed specification and identify any uncertainty before building the range.
A previous supplier's file or a photographed pack may be useful context, but its dimensions should not be assumed to fit a new supplier's tooling. If the geometry changes, review the layout again. Moving a fold or seal can affect both appearance and information placement.
Approve a master before adapting every variant
Use a representative SKU to establish the hierarchy: brand, product, key variant information and supporting content. Review how it reads at the size people will see, not only enlarged on a laptop. A consistent system should also make products distinguishable from one another.
Once the master is agreed, adapt it across the matrix. Check long names, smaller packs and any variant with additional copy. These are useful stress tests. A design that works on the shortest label is not automatically ready for the full range.
Separate content approval from visual approval
The business should supply and approve product facts, claims and required information with its relevant advisors. The designer organises the content and flags obvious layout problems; this article is a design workflow guide and does not replace regulatory advice.
Use a written approval checkpoint for the final copy and another for the production artwork. If a claim changes after approval, identify every affected SKU. Avoid relying on an informal message such as “same changes everywhere” when products have different content.
Make the handoff easy to identify
Use a predictable naming convention that includes brand, SKU, pack size, revision and date. Distinguish working files, review PDFs and approved production files. Provide the formats and supporting assets agreed in the proposal, together with notes on any supplier-specific layers.
Keep superseded artwork in an archive rather than beside approved files with similar names. Ask the supplier to confirm which revision it will use. A short manifest listing each final file and its product variant makes the handoff easier to check.
Review the actual proof
Check the supplier's proof against the approved matrix and artwork. Review the size, content, variant, barcode treatment and finishing instructions with the relevant people. Physical output and screen colour can differ, so colour-sensitive work needs an agreed production reference.
Grafizu provides artwork and design support within the agreed scope; clients arrange printing and manufacturing separately. Explore published packaging and branding work, or share your product range with the SKU list and supplier specification to discuss a practical scope.
FAQ
Does Grafizu manufacture or print packaging?+
Grafizu provides design and agreed print-ready artwork. Physical printing, material selection and manufacturing are arranged with your supplier.
Can a digital mockup be used as the final print approval?+
A mockup helps communicate visual direction. The actual dieline, artwork file, colour requirements and production proof still need approval with the supplier.
