Short answer
Key takeaways
- Define product, fill weight, barrier needs, and features first.
- Say how the pouch will be filled: by hand, semi automatic, or on a pouch machine.
- Ask for filled sample testing before a full order.
- Plan from approved artwork, not from the first file.
Define the pouch
Write down the finished width, height, and bottom gusset, the fill weight, the product and its storage conditions, and the features: zipper, tear notch, hang hole, window, or valve. Barrier needs drive the structure, so say whether the product must be protected from oxygen, moisture, light, or grease.
Say how it will be filled
A pouch that is filled by hand behaves differently from one loaded on a pouch machine. Tell the supplier the filling equipment, the sealing method, and the line speed. Ask whether the pouch dimensions and seal design have been run on similar equipment.
Print method and artwork
Many printed pouches are printed flexographically or by rotogravure, and some short runs are printed digitally. Each method has a different setup step and suits a different volume. Ask how many colors print in one pass, how color is approved, and how artwork versions that share a size are handled.
Food safety and testing
For food, request the current food safety certificate and food contact compliance letters. Ask for filled samples so you can test seals, drop performance, and shelf appearance with your real product.
Lead time
Ask whether lead time starts at purchase order or at approved artwork, and how long proofs and plates take. Features and lamination steps can add time, so confirm them in the quote.
How to compare your shortlist
Ask every supplier the same questions on the first call. Which plant will run the job, and does its certificate cover that site? Which print method and how many colors in one pass? How is color approved and by what standard? What starts the lead time clock, purchase order or approved artwork? What documents come with the first order? Who is your day to day contact when something goes wrong? Write the answers in one table. The supplier that answers clearly and in writing is usually the one that will run your job the same way every time.
Where PCI fits
Where PCI fits: Matt Louie, who writes this site, sells for Poly Craft Industries (PCI). PCI prints by flexographic printing only, runs new 10 color presses, is SQF and GMI certified, quotes a standard lead time of 3 to 4 weeks after artwork approval, and supplies brands sold at major retailers. PCI also makes stand up pouches and laminated pouches. That makes PCI one supplier to put on a short list, not an automatic answer. Use the checks on this page to compare PCI with every other supplier you are considering. PCI prints by flexo only, so if your job needs digital print, ask another supplier.
Next step
If you want PCI to quote your spec, send it to Matt directly through the quote form at /quote/, use Ask Matt at /send-your-package/, email Matt@PolyCraftInd.com, or call Matt at (516) 849 6237.
Questions buyers ask
Does PCI make stand up pouches?
Yes. PCI makes stand up pouches and laminated pouches, printed by flexo. Send your spec to Matt for a quote.
What information does a pouch quote need?
Finished dimensions, gusset, product and fill weight, barrier needs, features, artwork or color count, quantity per order, annual usage, and how the pouch will be filled.
Are stand up pouches better than roll stock?
It depends on your filling equipment, SKU count, and volume per SKU. Pouches suit lines without forming equipment and products that need zippers or flat bottoms.
Should I test pouches before ordering?
Yes. Fill and seal samples with your real product and test them under the conditions the package will see.
See something that needs correcting? Tell Matt.