Based on current regional supplier data:
Folded Cartons & Die-Cut Boxes (used in FMCG, pharma, retail):
MOQ: ~1,000 units
Lead Time: ~7–15 working days
Corrugated Shipping Cartons (plain or printed):
MOQ: 500 units
Lead Time: ~7–14 working days (often quicker for standard sizes)
Rigid/ Kraft Boxes (premium or eco-friendly packaging):
MOQ: ~300 units
Lead Time: ~7–15 days aparnapackaging.in
Small-batch orders (50–100 pcs) are occasionally accepted by more flexible vendors such as Aparna Packaging in Siliguri / NE region—but usually only for standard RSC cartons or boxes (not highly custom folding or die-cut types). Expect longer turnaround and higher per-unit cost in these cases.
Quick Reference Table
| Box Type | Typical MOQ | Lead Time |
|---|---|---|
| Folding / Die-Cut Carton | ~1,000 pcs | ~7–15 working days |
| Corrugated Shipping Box | ~500 pcs | ~7–14 working days |
| Rigid / Kraft Box | ~300 pcs | ~7–15 working days |
| Low-MOQ standard box | 50–100 pcs (select vendors) | ~10–20 working days |
Why These Parameters Exist
Tooling & Setup: Folding and die-cut cartons require cutter dies and setup time—economical only at mid-to-high volumes.
Printing Setup: Custom prints (especially offset/spot colors) require pre-press prep—leading to higher per-unit costs at lower volumes.
Sample Runs: Small orders (50–100 pcs) are mostly managed by agile vendors with digital printing; expect sample or mock-up first, then a short-run production slot. Delivery across Assam may take closer to 2–3 weeks total.
Tips for Small Brands
Start with sample run (50–100 pcs) via supplier like Aparna Packaging to test design, quality, and fit.
Scale up to standard MOQ (300–1,000 pcs) once satisfied.
Choose digital printing for short runs—offset is better for consistent large runs.
Plan ahead—custom folding/die-cutting adds 3–5 days on top of base lead time.
Sample Inquiry Message to Supplier
Hi, I’m looking for custom folding cartons (approx. 200 × 150 × 50 mm) with my logo and cut-out window. Could you please share: availability for a small batch (50–100 pcs), your MOQ, lead time, pricing per unit, and sample/mock-up feasibility? I’m planning a bulk run of ~1,000 pcs later. Thanks!
Final Take
For folding & die-cut custom cartons: expect MOQ ~1,000 pcs and lead time 7–15 days.
For corrugated shipping cartons: MOQ ~500 pcs, ~7–14 days.
For rigid or kraft boxes: MOQ ~300 pcs, ~7–15 days.
For low-volume trials (50–100 pcs): only a few flexible vendors accommodate this, with costlier pricing and longer turnaround (10–20 days).