How to choose custom drawer boxes
A drawer box is a tray that slides out of a sleeve. The slide creates a small reveal, which is why drawer boxes are popular for jewellery, chocolates, cosmetics and gift sets. The key decisions are the board, the pull and the fit of the tray.
Sizes and styles
Rigid drawer boxes are the premium option. Printed paperboard drawer boxes are lighter and lower cost. Drawer boxes with a handle or ribbon pull are easier to open, and corrugated drawer boxes suit shipping. Drawer boxes work in almost any size, from a single ring to a full gift set, as long as the tray depth matches the product.
Materials
Rigid chipboard gives a smooth, solid slide. SBS paperboard prints well and costs less. Kraft suits eco-friendly lines; see kraft drawer boxes.
Finishes that work best
Foil stamping on the sleeve, soft-touch lamination and a contrasting printed tray are the most popular choices. Printing the inside of the tray adds a surprise when it slides out.
Pricing drivers
Rigid versus folding construction, size, pull type, inserts and finishes drive cost. Rigid drawer boxes are assembled by hand, so they cost more per unit.
Before you order
- Measure the product with its insert. The tray has to hold both, and the sleeve has to fit the tray, so small errors add up.
- Decide how it is opened. A ribbon pull or thumb notch is easier than pushing the tray out. Choose before the dieline is drawn.
- Think about orientation. If the box will be displayed on its side, the sleeve artwork and the slide direction need to match.
- Check the weight. Heavy products can pull the tray out when the box is tilted. A tighter fit or a closure tab keeps it in place.
- Use the tray for the surprise. A contrasting colour or a printed message inside the tray is one of the cheapest ways to make the box memorable.
Minimum order and lead time
Most styles start at 100 units; some specialty styles have a higher minimum, shown on each product page. Production takes 7–10 business days after you approve the digital proof, and US shipping adds 5–7 business days. Rush production in 5–7 business days is available for an additional fee. Every quote includes a free 3D design and dieline, so you can check the structure before you order.
