Custom Packaging
in Washington
Washington, DC is a city of associations, embassies, government contractors, conferences and restaurants. Its packaging needs lean towards event kits, delegate gifts, branded mailers and food service packaging for a busy dining scene.
Delivery to Washington
Packaging for Washington businesses
DC has strict packaging rules: a 5-cent fee on paper and plastic bags at food and alcohol retailers since 2010, a foam foodware ban since 2016, and a requirement that food service ware be compostable or recyclable.
DC's museums, memorials and gift shops sell to millions of visitors, and its many trade associations hold annual conferences that need delegate kits and branded merchandise. Packaging here often carries an institutional look: restrained design, foil seals and well-organised inserts.
Associations and events
Associations and event organisers need delegate kits, branded mailers and gift boxes.
Restaurants and catering
Restaurants and caterers need compostable or recyclable takeout packaging and catering boxes.
Embassies and government
Embassies and agencies order protocol gifts, rigid gift boxes and printed folders and boxes.
Packaging rules to know in Washington
DC bag fee and foodware rules
DC retailers selling food or alcohol charge 5 cents per paper or plastic bag (since 2010). Since 2016 foam foodware is banned, food service businesses may only use compostable or recyclable food service ware, and utensils are provided only on request.
Source: DC DOEE/ABRA briefing on bag and foodware lawsRules change: confirm current requirements before you print.
Also applies: FTC Green Guides for "recyclable" claims
Tips for Washington orders
- Food service ware in DC must be compostable or recyclable; choose paperboard and avoid foam.
- Delegate kits ship best as a printed mailer with an insert for each item.
- Protocol gifts look best in a plain rigid box with a foil seal or logo.
Popular packaging for Washington businesses
FAQs — Custom Packaging in Washington
What takeout packaging is allowed in DC?
Do you make conference and delegate kits?
Do I have to charge for bags in DC?
Do you make packaging for museum gift shops?
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