To design packaging, first clarify your brand DNA (personality, colour palette, & fonts), pick the right packaging types for function and budget (cups, wraps and/or bags), understand product dimensions and design areas with our print guides, design in CMYK and upload your file. You will receive a digital prototype for your approval (up to 2 free edits), and done! Your order will be ready for dispatch.
In the world of food and beverage, your packaging is often the first thing your customer sees — and sometimes, the last thing they remember. Whether you’re handing over a takeaway coffee or a fully wrapped burger and bag combo, your packaging is a powerful touchpoint that can leave a lasting impression.
If you're just starting to explore custom packaging for your business, here's a step-by-step guide to branding your packaging — the smart, simple way.
1. Define Your Brand Personality
Before you start designing, get clear on your brand. Ask yourself:
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What do you want customers to feel when they see your packaging?
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Are you modern and minimal, or bold and fun?
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Is sustainability a key part of your story?
Your packaging should reflect your business’s values and vibe — whether that's earthy and artisanal or sleek and premium.
2. Choose the Right Products
Start with the packaging that your customers interact with most. For food and bev businesses, that usually means:
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Cups – hot, cold, or both? Double wall or compostable?
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Food wraps – greaseproof paper with a bold logo = instant brand moment.
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Bags – sturdy takeaway bags that look as good as what’s inside.
Pro tip: Choose packaging that works together as a cohesive set. A matching cup, wrap, and bag look professional and polished.
3. Design It Your Way — Simple or Bold
There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to packaging design. Whether you’re into clean, minimal branding or want to go all-in with bold patterns and vibrant colors — it’s all about what suits your brand best.
A few tips to keep in mind:
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Keep your logo clear and legible
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Use consistent colors and fonts across all packaging
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Make sure the design works across different surfaces (cups, paper, bags)
Whether subtle or statement-making, your packaging should feel uniquely you.
4. Think Function and Form
Great packaging does more than look good — it performs. Your wrap should protect the food. Your cup should hold heat. Your bag should hold everything together without tearing.
At Cup & Carry, we offer packaging that’s not only brandable, but built for real-world use. That means:
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Food-safe inks
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Compostable and recyclable options
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Fast turnaround times
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Custom printing with low minimums
5. Start Small and Scale Up
You don’t need to order 50,000 units to get started. Begin with a smaller run of custom cups or wraps to test the look and feel. See how your customers respond, and build from there.
Bonus? Branded packaging = free marketing when your customers post it to socials.
Ready to Brand Your Packaging?
We make it easy. Whether you're just starting out or rebranding your entire business, Cup & Carry is here to help you package your product beautifully, sustainably, and on-brand.
Start your custom order today!
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does custom packaging cost?
The cost of your custom-branded packaging will depend on your quantity order. Explore our Custom Printed Coffee Cups & Lids, Custom Printed Food Wraps, Paper Bags and Tissue & Wrapping Paper to see quantities and prices.
What file format should I send to the printer?
We work from JPEG, AI, PNG, PDF, SVG and EPS files. Make sure they are in a high enough resolution.
Is compostable stock more expensive?
Compostable packaging is a bit more expensive than standard PE material, which has been banned in SA, WA and the City of Hobart. While the unit price of a standard PE coffee cup is $0.84, a compostable coffee cup costs $1.10.
