Buyer guide · Print files
How should black be specified in packaging artwork?
Different text, fine lines and large black solids may need different colour builds; define rich black, single black, overprint and total ink limits with the printer.
Submit project requirements
Checklist
Files and references to prepare
- Artwork ownership
- Overprint and trapping
- Ink and substrate interaction
- Proof purpose
- Target quantity and SKU allocation
- Approval sample and decision owner
- Required date and Mainland China delivery point
- Change and repeat-order record
Prepress control
Four checks before releasing artwork
Artwork ownership
Freeze approved copy, logos, legal marks, languages and version responsibility before output; production checks do not replace content approval.
Overprint and trapping
Review knockout, overprint, rich black, small reversed text and trapping rules with the selected print process and substrate.
Ink and substrate interaction
Check absorption, opacity, drying, odour and rub performance on the actual substrate, not only on a screen proof.
Proof purpose
State whether the proof approves structure, layout, colour direction, material or finished process because one proof rarely confirms everything.
Execution method
Four actions from RFQ to production
Use the production dieline
Place artwork only after the final structure and dimensions are confirmed.
Create a preflight report
Flag missing fonts, low-resolution images, colour spaces, overprint and finishing layers.
Approve the right proof
Match proof type to the question being approved: content, structure, colour or finish.
Archive the released package
Keep the final PDF, source assets, version record and approval together.
FAQ
Questions buyers often ask
How should black be specified in packaging artwork?
Different text, fine lines and large black solids may need different colour builds; define rich black, single black, overprint and total ink limits with the printer.
What should be written in the specification?
At minimum, define Artwork ownership, Overprint and trapping, Ink and substrate interaction, Proof purpose, then link quantity, sample, timing, inspection and the approved revision.
Is a physical sample needed?
A decision involving structure, material, colour, finish, assembly or use performance normally needs a physical sample matched to that question; a screen proof cannot approve everything.
Can the previous standard be reused for a repeat order?
Reuse a controlled standard only when files, material, structure, supply chain and use conditions remain unchanged. Record every change and decide whether resampling or reapproval is required.
Continue building the procurement specification