Buying guide · updated November 2026
How Much Do Custom Gift Boxes Cost?
The unit price of a custom rigid gift box is set by six things: size, board thickness, wrap paper, logo finishes, insert and quantity. Quantity has the biggest effect: unit price drops sharply from short runs to 500 pcs and above, because setup work is shared across more boxes.
Key takeaways
- Quantity moves the unit price more than any other choice.
- Size, wrap paper, number of finishes and insert type come next.
- Freight and duty can add as much as the box itself, so compare landed cost, not factory price.
Which choices raise the price most?
Large or deep boxes, specialty or imported papers, more than two logo finishes, foam or velvet inserts and magnets all add cost. Each is worth it when it is what the customer notices first.
How can I lower the cost without looking cheap?
Keep one strong finish (a foil logo), choose a foldable box when freight is expensive, use a paperboard or pulp insert, and order a quantity that reaches 500 pcs.
Why should I ask for several quantity prices?
Seeing the price at 100–499 pcs, 500 pcs, 1,000 and 3,000 pieces shows where the price breaks are, so you can choose the quantity that makes sense for your budget. Our quote form lets you pick several quantities at once.
How does each choice affect the price?
| Cost driver | Lower-cost choice | Higher-cost choice |
|---|---|---|
| Quantity | 500 pcs and above | Short runs of 100–499 pcs |
| Structure | Lid & base, foldable | Magnetic, book-style, calendar |
| Wrap paper | Coated art paper, printed | Specialty textured or dyed-through paper |
| Logo finish | One foil or print | Foil plus emboss plus spot UV |
| Insert | Paperboard or none | Velvet-covered or multi-level |
| Freight | Ships flat by sea | Set-up boxes by air |
What does a typical order cost per box?
As a guide, see the reference ranges on our MOQ and pricing page: they show unit prices for common styles at 500 pcs and at larger runs. Your quote depends on size and finishes, which is why we price your exact specification instead of sending a price list.
Why do short runs cost more per box?
Every order has fixed setup work: cutting dies, foil plates, paper minimums and machine make-ready. On 100–499 pcs that cost is shared by few boxes; at 500 pcs and above it almost disappears from the unit price. Our low-MOQ page shows how the price steps down.
What costs sit outside the factory price?
Sampling (US$50, refunded on order), international freight, import duty and tax at destination, and last-mile delivery. Duty depends on the tariff code your customs authority applies to paper boxes, so check the official tariff tool for your country. Our landed cost calculator adds these up per box.
Want a price for your box? Send style, size and quantities — we reply within 24 hours.
Sources and further reading
- ICC: Incoterms 2020 rules
- US International Trade Commission: Harmonized Tariff Schedule
- European Commission: EU customs tariff (TARIC)
- GOV.UK: Trade Tariff lookup
Related pages
More buying guides
Quick answers
Is there a setup or mould fee?
Cutting dies and foil plates are part of setup. We state any tooling charge on the quote, so the price you compare is complete.
Do prices include shipping?
Quotes are normally given ex-factory or FOB, with freight quoted separately once the carton count is known. Ask for the trade term you need.
How long is a quote valid?
Paper prices and exchange rates move, so each quote carries its own validity date. Ask us to confirm if you are ordering later.
