Capture the current specification
- Current drawings and revision numbers, dimensions and board information.
- Representative boxes, product samples and the filled pack weight.
- Artwork files, colour references, barcode data and approval requirements.
- Packing equipment, pallet patterns, storage and distribution conditions.
- Usage by product variant, order patterns and delivery locations.
- Known problems and any tests or performance criteria the pack must meet.
Confirm what can transfer
Check your rights to use drawings and artwork and the ownership of existing tooling. Do not assume that a cutter or printing plate can be transferred straight onto another supplier’s equipment.
If a like-for-like pack is needed, agree what equivalence means. Matching dimensions alone does not confirm the same board performance, print result or packing-line behaviour. Document any proposed changes explicitly.
Agree the samples and trial before the changeover
Use the proposed pack with the real contents, closure method and packing process. Check appearance and fit, then agree any production-line, handling or distribution tests appropriate to the application.
Record approval against a specific drawing and artwork revision. Where a retailer or another customer needs to approve the packaging, include that step in the timetable.
Plan stock and deliveries together
Review stock on hand, outstanding orders, expected usage and the first required delivery from the new supplier. Decide how the remaining stock will be used and how a late approval or demand change would be handled.
If stockholding and call-off supply are proposed, agree quantities, replenishment responsibilities and how artwork changes or obsolete stock will be managed. Agree a contingency plan for changes in demand, approval timing or deliveries.
Keep the first production order visible
Confirm the approved specification, quantities by variant, delivery address and contacts responsible for resolving questions. At receipt, check identification, condition and the agreed pack features before wider use.
Record feedback from packing and distribution so that any adjustments go through the same approval process. This checklist is a starting point for planning; the detailed checks depend on your product and supply requirements.