Buyer guide · Finishing
Should packaging use matte or gloss lamination?
Gloss film increases reflectivity and colour intensity, while matte film reduces glare and feels softer; both must be checked for scuff, colour shift and recyclability impact.
Submit project requirements
Checklist
Finish details to put in the specification
- Film and bond
- Colour target
- Rub and abrasion
- Recyclability design
- Target quantity and SKU allocation
- Approval sample and decision owner
- Required date and Mainland China delivery point
- Change and repeat-order record
Process evaluation
Four controls behind a repeatable finish
Film and bond
Specify film type, thickness, gloss, colour shift, edge behaviour and bond strength after creasing and die cutting.
Colour target
Use an approved physical reference, Pantone target or measurable tolerance and define the viewing condition for approval.
Rub and abrasion
Set dry or wet rub method, load, cycles and acceptance appearance for the actual ink, coating and delivery environment.
Recyclability design
Review material combinations, coatings, adhesives, labels and local collection routes; a paper appearance does not guarantee recyclability.
Execution method
Four actions from RFQ to production
Mark a separate finish layer
Use named vector layers for foil, varnish, emboss, cut and other process areas.
Approve on the real substrate
Colour, gloss, relief and adhesion must be checked on the intended material.
Set visible tolerances
Define registration, edges, pinholes, scratches, wrinkles and acceptable variation.
Retain production references
Keep approved samples, process settings and supplier references for repeat orders.
FAQ
Questions buyers often ask
Should packaging use matte or gloss lamination?
Gloss film increases reflectivity and colour intensity, while matte film reduces glare and feels softer; both must be checked for scuff, colour shift and recyclability impact.
What should be written in the specification?
At minimum, define Film and bond, Colour target, Rub and abrasion, Recyclability design, 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