Here are some terms related to foreign trade that come in handy when handling overseas orders. FOB, EXW, and DDP are trade terms that determine who bears the costs for shipping, customs clearance, and risk. LCL (Less than Container Load) and FCL (Full Container Load) are two shipping methods, while “shipping marks” refer to the identification details printed on the cartons. Clarifying these terms when they appear on a quotation helps avoid misunderstandings.
Let’s start with printing-related terms. “Four-color” refers to CMYK printing, which uses cyan, magenta, yellow, and black inks to create a wide range of colors—suitable for most designs. “Spot color” involves using a specific, pre-mixed ink for greater color accuracy; this is often used for brand logos, with the specific shades identified by Pantone numbers. “Lamination” involves applying a thin film over the printed surface; glossy film creates a vibrant look, while matte film offers a more understated finish and protects the surface. “Spot UV” applies a glossy, raised coating to specific parts of the design to create contrast.
It is also helpful to know a few terms related to the production process. “Proofing” means creating a sample to verify the visual effect, while “sample approval” (or “signing off on the sample”) establishes the standard for the final inspection. “First-article inspection” involves checking the very first unit produced once mass production begins. “MOQ” (Minimum Order Quantity) is the smallest order a manufacturer will accept, and the “sample fee” covers the cost of making the sample—though many manufacturers will deduct this amount from the cost of the bulk order.
When dealing with packaging for the first time, you might encounter unfamiliar terms on quotations and in communication logs, such as spot color, cutting die, lamination, and MOQ. These terms aren’t actually difficult; once you understand them, reading quotations becomes easier, and communicating with manufacturers goes much more smoothly.
Material-related terms also frequently appear on quotations. “Grammage” refers to the weight of the paper per square meter, whereas the thickness of greyboard is measured directly. “Paper mounting” (or lamination/wrapping) involves adhering printed paper onto greyboard. Materials used for inserts—such as EVA foam, sponge, or velvet—serve to secure and showcase the product.
Terms related to finishing processes are straightforward as well. “Hot stamping” uses heat and pressure to apply metallic foil to the paper surface, commonly used for logos and fine lines. “Embossing/Debossing” creates a three-dimensional, raised or recessed effect, giving the design a tactile quality. A “cutting die” is the mold used for cutting and creasing; custom dies are required for irregularly shaped boxes or boxes with windows, and the “die fee” covers this cost.
Terminology is a tool for communication, not a barrier. If you don’t understand something, just ask; a good manufacturer will be happy to explain everything clearly, point by point. It’s the same on our end: every term in the quote can be explained in detail, so you fully understand everything before placing an order.
