Question 1

What is your minimum order quantity?

Accepted Answer

Our minimum order quantity is 12 units. That is deliberately low for custom, made-to-order inserts, so you can prototype a real product launch, run a pilot batch, or serve a small SKU without committing to thousands of pieces. Pricing improves as volume grows, and we run from 25 up to 100,000 or more.

Question 2

How do I place an order?

Accepted Answer

Start with a quote. Send your product dimensions, a CAD file, or a photo along with your box size and quantity. We return a price and a free CAD proof within 24 to 48 hours. Once you approve the proof or a physical sample, we confirm the order, take payment, and schedule production. Email info@customboxinserts.com or call and text (929) 605-4397 to begin.

Question 3

Can I get a sample before ordering a full run?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We can cut and ship a physical prototype so you can test the fit and protection before committing to a production run. This is the safest way to validate cushioning and cavity fit, especially for fragile, heavy, or high-value products. Sample lead time and cost depend on the material and complexity and are confirmed in your quote.

Question 4

Can I reorder the same insert later?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Once a design is approved we keep the CAD file and cut program on record, so reorders skip the design phase and go straight to production. Reordering is faster and the specs stay identical run to run. Just reference your previous order when you contact us.

Question 5

Do you offer rush orders?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Standard production is 7 to 10 business days after proof approval, and rush options are available when you have a tighter deadline. Tell us your in-hands date when you request a quote and we will confirm whether a rush schedule and its surcharge apply to your job.

Question 6

What information do you need to quote my insert?

Accepted Answer

At minimum we need your product dimensions, the internal box size the insert must fit, the quantity, and how protective the insert needs to be. Product weight, fragility, and any special requirements such as ESD protection help us spec the right material. A CAD file or a clear photo speeds things up, but is not required.

Question 7

What file formats do you accept for design?

Accepted Answer

We accept vector files such as AI, DXF, and SVG, native CAD and 3D formats including STEP, STP, and IGES, and standard photos or PDFs. If you only have a physical sample or a photo with a reference measurement, we can work from that too. If you have nothing on hand, we will measure from a sample you send us.

Question 8

Do you provide design help, or do I need my own designer?

Accepted Answer

You do not need your own designer. Our engineers do the design work for you as part of the quote. We propose the material, cavity layout, and cushioning, then return a free CAD proof. Design help is included at no charge and covers unlimited revisions until the fit is right.

Question 9

How many proof revisions do I get?

Accepted Answer

Unlimited. We revise the CAD proof as many times as it takes to get the fit and protection exactly right, at no additional charge. Nothing goes to production until you approve the proof, so there is no risk of paying for a run that does not fit.

Question 10

How tight is the fit — what tolerance can you hold?

Accepted Answer

We typically hold cut tolerances of about plus or minus 0.5 mm, which is precise enough to cradle electronics, optics, and medical instruments without shift. Foam has some natural give, so the effective fit is snug and secure. If your application needs a specific tolerance, tell us and we will confirm what is achievable for that material.

Question 11

Can you match a Pantone color or print on the insert?

Accepted Answer

On paperboard and corrugated inserts we can print, including Pantone color matching, for branded trays and dividers that carry your logo and colors on the unboxing reveal. Foam is offered in stock colors rather than custom print. Share your artwork or Pantone references with your quote and we will confirm the print options for your material.

Question 12

How long does production take?

Accepted Answer

Standard production is 7 to 10 business days after you approve the proof or sample. That window covers cutting, finishing, and quality checks. Design proofs come back within 24 to 48 hours before production begins, and rush options are available if your timeline is tighter.

Question 13

How much does shipping cost and how long does it take?

Accepted Answer

We ship nationwide, and shipping is quoted per order because inserts vary widely in size, weight, and quantity. Foam is light but bulky, while board runs pack more tightly, so cost depends on your specific job and destination. Your quote includes shipping so there are no surprises, and transit time depends on the service level you choose.

Question 14

Do you ship outside the United States?

Accepted Answer

Our primary service area is nationwide shipping across the United States. If you need delivery to another country, contact us with your destination and quantity and we will let you know whether we can accommodate the order and quote the freight accordingly.

Question 15

Will the insert fit my existing box?

Accepted Answer

Yes, as long as you give us the internal dimensions of your box. We design the insert to the inside of your carton and to your product, so it seats correctly and holds the product without shift. If you are still choosing a box, we can advise on a size that pairs well with the insert.

Question 16

How much do custom inserts cost?

Accepted Answer

Price depends on material, size, complexity, and quantity, so every insert is quoted individually. Foam density and type, board grade, print, and run size all factor in. Because minimums start at 12 and pricing improves with volume, we will give you a clear per-unit price in your quote with no hidden fees.

Question 17

What payment methods do you accept?

Accepted Answer

We accept all major credit cards including Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and Discover, plus PayPal, Apple Pay, Google Pay, and ACH. Established accounts can arrange purchase orders. Payment details are confirmed when you approve your quote.

Question 18

Do you offer volume or wholesale pricing?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Per-unit pricing drops as quantity rises, and we run from 25 up to 100,000 or more. If you have recurring or high-volume needs, tell us your projected annual quantity and we will build pricing around your program rather than a single order.

Question 19

What is your return and refund policy?

Accepted Answer

Because every insert is custom made to order, all sales are final. However, if an insert arrives with a manufacturing defect or does not match the approved proof, we will remake it at no cost. Our free proof and optional physical sample exist to catch fit issues before production, so you approve exactly what ships.

Question 20

What materials do you offer?

Accepted Answer

We work in two families. For foam we offer PE, PU, EVA, and ESD anti-static foam in a range of densities, in charcoal, black, blue, anti-static pink, and white. For paper products we offer corrugated and paperboard in kraft and white, cut into partitions, trays, pads, and product locks. We spec the material to your product rather than defaulting to whatever is cheapest.

Question 21

How do I choose between foam and cardboard inserts?

Accepted Answer

Foam is best for fragile, heavy, or high-value products that need cushioning and precise retention, such as electronics, optics, and instruments. Cardboard and paperboard suit retail and e-commerce goods where a clean, recyclable, brand-forward presentation matters and shock protection is less critical. If you are unsure, send us your product and we will recommend the right one and explain why.

Question 22

Do you offer ESD or anti-static foam for electronics?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We offer ESD anti-static foam, commonly in anti-static pink, that safely holds circuit boards, devices, and sensitive components without risk of static discharge. It is a standard choice for electronics and can be routed or die-cut into precise cavities like any of our foams.

Question 23

Are your inserts recyclable, and how should I care for them?

Accepted Answer

Our corrugated and paperboard inserts are fully recyclable through standard paper streams, which makes them a strong choice for brands prioritizing sustainability. Foam types vary in recyclability by local facility, so check your regional guidelines. To keep any insert performing, store it flat and dry, away from prolonged direct sunlight and heat, which preserves cushioning and shape over time.

Guides for buyers and brands

How to Choose Custom Box Inserts for Your Brand

Custom Box Inserts: Materials, Sizing & Branding Guide

Designing Insert Programs for Subscription Boxes

How to Order Custom Box Inserts: A Spec Checklist

ESD Foam for Electronics: When You Actually Need It

How We Spec Cushioning for Drop Tests

PE, PU, EVA & ESD Foam Explained

Foam vs. Cardboard Inserts: How to Choose

Ready for inserts that fit like they were made for it?