Packaging FAQs
Our Packaging FAQs are designed to give you clear, practical answers to the questions businesses ask most, from choosing the right packaging materials to reducing transit damage and improving packing efficiency.
Whether you’re reviewing your current setup or sourcing new packaging solutions, this page covers the key considerations that impact cost, performance, and consistency across your operation. Each answer is based on real-world packaging challenges, helping you make informed decisions without unnecessary complexity.
What types of packaging do you supply?
Do you offer both stock and bespoke packaging solutions?
How do I choose the right packaging
Choosing the right packaging depends on three key factors:
- Product weight and fragility
- How the item is stored, handled, and transported
- Cost efficiency across your operation
In many cases, businesses over-pack (wasting material) or under-pack (causing damage). A structured review of your packing process helps identify the right materials and specifications for consistent performance.
Can you review or improve our current packaging setup?
Yes. We regularly assess existing packaging processes to identify inefficiencies, excess material usage, or avoidable product damage.
A packaging review typically focuses on material usage, packing methods, and transit performance — with the goal of improving consistency, reducing waste, and lowering total packaging cost.
Which industries do you typically work with?
We work with a wide range of businesses across the UK that rely on consistent, cost-effective packaging solutions to support their operations.
This includes manufacturers, distributors, e-commerce businesses, and fulfilment operations — from growing companies improving their packaging processes to established organisations managing high-volume packing and shipping requirements.
While industries vary, the common need is the same: reliable packaging that protects products, supports efficient packing, and performs consistently in transit. Our approach focuses on understanding how your operation works and providing practical packaging solutions that align with your specific requirements, rather than a one-size-fits-all product.
How do I request a quote?
To request a quote please contact us either via email sales@kbpackaging.com or call us 0115 944 1600
To provide an accurate packaging quote, we typically need:
- Product dimensions and weight
- Quantity requirements
- Current packaging (if applicable)
- Any known challenges (e.g. damage, storage issues, cost pressures)
Is there a minimum order quanity
We operate with a minimum order value of £150, rather than fixed quantities, allowing flexibility across different packaging products.
Many standard packaging items can be ordered in lower quantities within this value, while bespoke packaging solutions may require higher volumes due to manufacturing requirements.
If you’re unsure, we’ll always advise on the most practical and cost-effective option based on your usage and packaging requirements.
What are your typical lead times?
Lead times vary depending on the product and whether it is stock or custom:
- Stock items are typically available on short lead times
- Bespoke packaging may require additional production time
Can you support urgent or short lead times?
Where possible, we can support urgent or short lead-time packaging orders, depending on the product and availability.
Stocked packaging items can often be supplied quickly, while bespoke or made-to-order packaging may require longer production time due to manufacturing and material requirements. In some cases, alternative materials or specifications can be recommended to meet tighter deadlines.
If you’re working to a specific timeframe, it’s always best to speak with us directly so we can advise on the most realistic and effective approach.
Do you hold stock or offer scheduled deliveries?
Yes, we can support stock holding and scheduled deliveries for customers with ongoing packaging requirements.
This allows you to forecast your usage, with packaging held and supplied as needed — helping to reduce on-site storage, improve consistency, and avoid stock shortages. Deliveries can be arranged on a schedule that suits your operation, whether that’s regular drops or call-off orders.
For many businesses, this approach improves efficiency and reduces the risk of delays by ensuring packaging is available when it’s needed.
Can you provide samples before I place an order?
This is particularly important when changing packaging specifications, as real-world testing ensures performance before committing to a full order.
Where do you deliver to?
Delivery is available nationwide, with coverage designed to support businesses across a wide range of locations and operational setups.
Lead times will vary depending on the product and order requirements, but we always aim to provide clear delivery expectations and consistent service to keep your packaging supply running smoothly.
Do you offer next day delivery?
Yes, next day delivery is available on orders placed before 3:00pm.
Availability will depend on the product type and stock levels, but we aim to support fast turnaround wherever possible to help keep your operation running without delays.
Do you offer collection or warehouse solutions?
Yes, same day collection is available where required.
This allows you to collect packaging at a time that suits your operation, helping to maintain flexibility and keep your packing process running efficiently.
Can I track my order?
Yes, orders can be tracked through the online portal, with live tracking available for added visibility.
This allows you to monitor delivery progress in real time and stay updated throughout the process, helping you plan and manage your operations more effectively.
What happens if my order is damaged or incorrect?
Please check your order carefully upon delivery to ensure everything is included. Orders with multiple parcels may occasionally arrive separately. If any items do not arrive the following day, contact our team on 0115 944 1600 or sales@kbpackaging.com, and the issue will be investigated and resolved promptly.
If incorrect items have been received, please accept our apologies for the inconvenience. Get in touch straight away and a replacement will be arranged as quickly as possible.
What is KB’s return policy?
A 14-day returns window is offered to ensure you can be confident in every order placed. If goods are returned in their original, resealable condition and unspoilt packaging, a full refund can be provided.
Reporting timeframe
Any issues relating to damages, quality, or returns must be reported within 14 days of delivery to ensure your claim is valid.
How do I make a payment?
Payments can be made online through the checkout using a range of methods, including credit and debit card, Google Pay, Apple Pay, and PayPal.
For account customers, payments can also be made via invoice in line with agreed credit terms, typically using BACS.
Please note, we do not offer over-the-phone or on-site payment facilities.
I'm buying for a business, do you do credit accounts?
Yes, credit accounts are available for business customers.
For more information on account setup and business solutions, you can visit our Credit Accounts page
Will I receive an invoice for my order?
Yes, an invoice will be issued for all orders, outlining the products supplied, total cost, and payment details.
Invoices provide a clear record of your order and include the necessary information to process payment in line with agreed terms.
Do you offer bespoke packaging?
Yes, our bespoke packaging solutions can support you when standard packaging isn’t right for you.
This includes tailored sizes, materials, custom printing and configurations designed to improve protection, efficiency, or presentation.
Can you match our brand colours and requirements?
Yes, your brand colours and specific packaging requirements can be matched as part of our bespoke packaging solutions.
This includes working to defined colour specifications where required, alongside tailored materials, finishes, and formats to ensure the packaging aligns with your brand and performs effectively in use.
What information do you need for a bespoke packaging quote?
To provide an accurate bespoke packaging quote, we typically require:
- Product information
- Packaging specifications (size, material, or format)
- Quantity per delivery
- Estimated annual usage
Can I see prototypes or samples before full production?
This helps ensure the packaging performs as expected and fits your product correctly, reducing risk before committing to larger quantities.
What file formats do you accept for artwork?
Artwork can be accepted in a range of formats, depending on what works best for your business and design process.
If you already have artwork prepared, we can review and guide on suitability for your packaging requirements. If not, our team can support you through the process — from refining existing designs to helping create artwork that works effectively for print and production.
Are your packaging products recyclable or sustainable?
However, sustainability isn’t just about material choice — it’s also about using the correct amount of packaging and reducing unnecessary waste across your operation.
Can you help us reduce our environmental impact?
Yes. Reducing environmental impact often involves:
- Minimising excess packaging
- Switching to recycled or recyclable materials
- Improving packing efficiency
Small changes in specification or process can significantly reduce material usage over time.
A free packaging audit can also help identify practical opportunities to reduce waste, improve efficiency, and optimise your overall packaging setup.
What do we need to know about UK packaging regulations?
UK packaging regulations focus on reducing waste and improving recycling, with businesses responsible for how their packaging is used and disposed of.
Recent changes, including Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR), mean some businesses must report the packaging they use and contribute towards recycling and waste management costs.
In practical terms, this means using recyclable materials, reducing unnecessary packaging, and understanding the packaging you place on the market.
What is EPR (Extended Producer Responsibility) and how does it affect us?
Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) is a UK regulation that makes businesses responsible for the full lifecycle of the packaging they place on the market — including the cost of recycling and waste management.
Depending on your business size and the amount of packaging you handle, this may involve collecting and reporting data, and contributing towards waste disposal costs.
For a more detailed breakdown of how EPR works and what it means in practice, visit our Extended Producer Responsibility page.
Do you offer recycled or eco-friendly alternatives?
Yes, a range of recycled and eco-friendly packaging alternatives can be supplied depending on your requirements.
This includes options such as recycled materials, recyclable packaging, and solutions designed to reduce overall material usage. The most suitable option will depend on how your packaging is used, stored, and transported.
Where possible, the focus is on finding practical alternatives that maintain performance while reducing environmental impact, rather than making changes that affect efficiency or protection.
What is the Online Portal?
The online portal is a dedicated system that allows you to manage your packaging requirements in one place.
It provides direct access to your agreed products, pricing, and order history, helping to streamline ordering and improve visibility across your packaging process.
How can I register for an account the online portal?
To create an account for the online portal, simply get in touch with our team and access will be set up for you or click the button below and complete the form.
Once your account is created, login details will be provided and the portal can be configured to reflect your packaging requirements, including products, pricing, and ordering preferences.
Can I place orders directly through the portal?
Yes, packaging orders can be placed directly through the online portal at a time that suits your operation.
This allows for a faster and more efficient ordering process, with access to your agreed products and specifications in one place.
Is the online portal tailored to my business?
Yes, the online portal can be tailored to reflect your specific packaging requirements.
This may include customised product ranges, agreed pricing, and order preferences, helping to improve efficiency and maintain consistency across your packaging supply.
I forgotten my password, how do I reset it?
If you’ve forgotten your password, you can reset it using the password reset option on the online portal login page, or click the button below.
If you’re unable to reset your password or need further support, simply get in touch with our team and access can be restored quickly.