01Kehong · Guide
Proofing & Samples
Compare white samples, digital proofs and printed samples, then agree fit checks, sample costs and timing for your project.
Choose a sample by the decision it needs to support: fit, assembly, artwork or appearance. Agree what it represents, how it will be checked and any costs and timing before sampling starts.
Start with a white structural sample
An unprinted structural sample helps check usable internal space, folds, locks, opening and product removal. Include the real contents or a representative reference, the insert and any protective wrapping.
Record any difference between the sample material and the intended production material. A white sample does not confirm printed colour, finishing, food-contact suitability or transport performance.
Separate digital proofs from printed samples
A digital proof helps check text, layout, panel orientation and artwork revision. A screen preview cannot establish the finished colour, texture or assembled fit.
A printed sample can help review appearance on the agreed substrate and selected finishes. Confirm how its material and process compare with production; a prototype is not automatically a production-equivalent sample.
Review the complete loaded pack
Assemble the box, insert, dividers and any outer shipping carton in the order your team will use. Check product movement, closure, removal and the packing arrangement.
Agree any handling or distribution checks needed for the actual product and route. For food-related use, identify the surfaces in contact and the actual time, temperature, grease and moisture conditions; a sample alone is not compliance evidence.
Record changes before production approval
Keep the approved dimensions, material, artwork revision, sample changes and packing arrangement together. If the structure, material or artwork changes, agree which checks need repeating.
Sample availability, fees, courier charges and timing are confirmed for the project. Production scheduling and shipping are confirmed separately after the specification and commercial terms are agreed.
Check the printed fold, not only the flat sheet
Photograph visible cracking, an unintended split or lifting surface before and after folding, and mark its position on the sample. Keep the actual board construction, grain or flute direction as applicable, print, finish, sample revision and assembly sequence with the sample identification. Ask the producer to distinguish an abnormal visible failure from the controlled internal ply separation used in creasing some multi-ply solid paperboards.
Ask the producer to review the appropriate crease construction for that material, then approve the folded appearance. Changes to board, print or finish can require a new trial. Holmen’s reference concerns paperboard; it does not supply universal machine settings for microflute packaging.
Prepare a cross-material colour approval plan for bags, boxes and inserts.
Common questions
- Are samples free and ready to ship?
- Sample type, availability, preparation cost and shipping cost need project confirmation. Tell us what you want to evaluate and the destination before making arrangements.
- Does approving a white sample approve the printing?
- No. It addresses the agreed structural checks. Printed appearance and artwork require their own review using the agreed proof or physical reference.
- What if the real product does not fit?
- Describe where it touches, moves or is difficult to remove, and provide measurements or photos. Review the box and insert together, update the drawing and confirm the revised sample scope.
Technical references
Still deciding? Start with what you know
Share the product, use, approximate size and estimated quantity. Write “Not sure” or “Need recommendation” for undecided details. A photo or PDF preview can help; technical details can follow.
Discuss a sample plan03 · Related products & project support