Custom Cosmetic Tube Tooling: How the Process Works

A tube with your own shape, diameter and cap is often the difference between a product that looks like everyone else's and one that owns its shelf space. Here is how a custom tube project usually runs.

1. Brief and reference

Send the target capacity, diameter, cap style, decoration and a reference image if you have one. We check it against our existing range first, because many projects can be produced from standard moulds and avoid tooling cost altogether.

2. Drawing and quotation

For a new shape we prepare a drawing and a quotation that separates tooling cost from unit cost, MOQ and lead time. Tooling is usually a one-off payment that belongs to the project.

3. Tool making and sample

The mould is made and a pre-production sample is produced for your approval. Colour is matched to your physical sample or Pantone reference, and decoration is applied so you can see the finished result.

4. Mass production

After written sample approval and deposit, production runs with quality checks every 30 minutes and 100% inspection before shipment. Usual lead time is about 30 days.

When custom tooling is worth it

• You need a shape, diameter or cap that is not available as a standard item
• Your brand needs a distinctive silhouette that competitors cannot buy off the shelf
• You plan repeat orders where the tooling cost is spread over volume

When a standard mould is the better choice

For first launches and smaller volumes, a standard tube with custom colour and printing usually gets you to market faster and with less risk. MOQ typically starts at 10,000 pcs per item.

To discuss a custom tube project, email your brief to sales@joysinpack.com.