Print Requirements for Music Box-Set Packaging

Why artwork files fail at the press

Most delays in music packaging production come from artwork, not printing. Files prepared for streaming or merch mockups usually miss the requirements a press needs: real bleed, outlined fonts, separated die-lines and correct colour mode. This checklist collects the specifications we publish for every music packaging project, from LP jackets to multi-item box sets.

File format and colour

PDF/X-4 is the preferred format; single-page PDF or Adobe Illustrator files with merged layers also work. JPG screenshots, Word or PowerPoint files cannot be printed directly. Everything must be CMYK — spot colours are welcome but must carry their Pantone C/U reference. Total ink coverage stays within 300% on coated stock and 260% on uncoated stock, and small black text prints as single-black K100 to avoid registration fringing.

Resolution and artwork detail

Photographic images need 300 dpi or higher at final size. Vector artwork for foil stamping, spot UV and embossing needs 600 dpi or higher — foil lines must be at least 0.15 mm wide and the smallest foil type 6 pt. Embossing depth typically runs 0.3–0.6 mm.

Bleed, safety and die-lines

• Bleed: 3 mm on all four sides for flat items; 5 mm for die-cut shapes; 8–10 mm for gift-box wrap layouts.
• Safety margins: text at least 5 mm from the trim edge and 3 mm from any die-line.
• Die-lines and fold lines: on a separate layer marked as a spot colour, never overlapping the artwork.
• Barcodes: EAN-13 / UPC with a 3 mm quiet zone; we verify the scan after production.
• Fonts: outlined or fully embedded.

Box sets: structure comes first

For LP box sets and deluxe editions, the greyboard structure (1.5–3.0 mm) and the wrap layout are engineered before artwork goes final. A white structural sample takes 3–5 days and lets you check tray fit, lid clearance and insert placement with real components. Gift-box tooling and hand assembly run 15–20 days, so lock the structure before investing in final artwork.

Proofing and colour control

Every job is proofed before production: digital proofs in 2–3 days, press proofs in 5–7 days. The signed proof is the contract colour reference — production is held to ΔE ≤ 3.0 within a batch and ΔE ≤ 5.0 across batches, with registration within 0.1 mm and die-cut position within ±0.3 mm. Inspection follows GB/T 2828.1 level II sampling with AQL 2.5 for major defects.

One change after signing = a revision

Once the proof is signed, artwork changes count as revisions and shift the schedule. Lock the tracklist, credits and barcode before proofing. Changes are normal — we just quote and re-schedule them in writing so your release date stays honest.

Export paperwork

For EU destinations we discuss REACH substance limits and PPWR packaging requirements during quotation. FSC-certified paper, soy-based inks and water-based adhesives can be specified with purchase documentation. Flag plastic components and child-contact items early so compliance is handled before production, not after.