What is the minimum order quantity for custom cardboard displays?

by Harvey
What is the minimum order quantity for custom cardboard displays?

Many buyers want custom cardboard displays but worry about high order requirements. Small businesses often fear that factories only accept bulk orders. This makes them hesitate to start projects.

The minimum order quantity for custom cardboard displays usually starts at 100 to 200 units, depending on design complexity, material, and printing requirements. Some factories accept smaller trial orders.

Cardboard bakery display stand with assorted bread and pastries
Bakery Display

When I talk with new buyers, many share the same concern: “What if I cannot reach the supplier’s MOQ?” I explain that every supplier has flexibility. If a buyer has a long-term plan, I often agree to smaller trial orders. This builds trust and makes future cooperation smoother.

What are cardboard displays called?

Some people hear different names for cardboard displays. This confuses them when they search suppliers or ask for quotes. If they use the wrong name, they may not find the right product.

Cardboard displays are often called point-of-purchase (POP) displays, point-of-sale (POS) displays, or corrugated displays. All terms describe the same marketing tool.

Three freestanding cardboard retail shelves stocked with products
Retail Shelf Units

Different Names and Meanings

Cardboard displays have multiple names because of different industries and regions. In the US, retailers often say “POP display1.” In Europe, “POS display” is more common. In the factory, we usually use “corrugated display.”

TermCommon UseIndustry Context
POP DisplayRetail and promotionsMarketing and sales
POS DisplayEuropean retailStorefront sales
Corrugated DisplayManufacturingFactory and logistics

When I communicate with international buyers, I adapt my language. If my customer is from the US, I use “POP display.” If my customer is from the UK, I use “POS display.” This small detail makes communication easier and helps me build stronger business relationships.

What is the HS code for cardboard displays?

Many buyers worry about customs clearance. If the HS code is wrong, their shipment may get delayed or even rejected. This risk is real for international trade.

The HS code for cardboard displays is usually 48191000, which covers corrugated boxes, cases, and similar paper-based packaging and display products.

Warehouse with stacked cardboard boxes and clipboard inventory sheet
Warehouse Inventory

Why HS Code Matters

The HS code2 determines how customs classifies and taxes the product. Even if two suppliers produce the same display, one may use a different HS code. This can lead to confusion or higher import duty3.

HS CodeDescriptionDuty Relevance
48191000Corrugated boxes, cases, displaysMost accepted worldwide
48211000Paperboard cases not corrugatedSometimes misused
49119900Printed advertising materialsUsed for certain displays

When I ship to the United States, I always check the code with the freight forwarder. Some customers want to declare under a lower tax rate, but I warn them not to risk customs rejection. Honesty and accuracy save time and avoid penalties.

What are the three types of cardboard?

Many buyers think all cardboard is the same. But when they receive samples, they realize the strength and thickness matter a lot. Weak material causes display collapse, damaging trust.

The three main types of cardboard are corrugated fiberboard, paperboard (chipboard), and cardboard stock (grayboard), each with different strength and usage.

Three textured cardboard samples with caliper measuring thickness
Material Samples

Material Comparison

Each type of cardboard suits different uses. Corrugated4 is strong and ideal for large displays. Paperboard is thin and used for packaging. Grayboard5 is stiff and used for luxury packaging or inserts.

TypeStrengthCommon Use
CorrugatedHighFloor displays, shipping
PaperboardLowFolding cartons, sleeves
GrayboardMediumRigid boxes, support panels

When I design a cardboard display, I choose corrugated most of the time. I also add double-wall for heavy products like bottled drinks. For light items like snacks, single-wall corrugated works fine. My customers trust me to recommend the right balance between strength and cost.

How to make a cardboard display stand up?

Some buyers worry that cardboard displays look weak. They think cardboard cannot stand long in retail stores. This doubt makes them delay projects.

Cardboard displays stand up by using strong corrugated material, reinforced folds, locking tabs, and base supports that distribute weight evenly.

3D design diagram of cardboard retail display with measurements
Display Blueprint

Structural Design Details

The secret to a stable cardboard display is not only material but also structure. I often design with locking tabs that do not need glue. Base supports take pressure from the main body. Extra shelves with hidden inserts prevent bending.

FeatureFunctionBenefit
Locking Tabs6Secure panelsNo glue, easy setup
Base Reinforcement7Distributes weightIncreases stability
Shelf InsertsPrevent saggingHolds heavier products

When I ship displays to the US, I test them with heavy loads before production. If a display collapses during a product launch, the retailer loses sales. This is why I insist on strength testing. My clients appreciate that I save them from future problems by fixing issues in the sample stage.

Conclusion

Custom cardboard displays have flexible order sizes, multiple names, clear HS codes, different materials, and stable designs that fit many industries.


  1. Understanding POP displays can enhance your marketing strategies and improve sales effectiveness. 

  2. Understanding HS codes is crucial for accurate customs classification, ensuring compliance and avoiding costly penalties. 

  3. Exploring import duty can help you understand its impact on pricing and profitability in global markets. 

  4. Explore the advantages of corrugated cardboard, especially for displays, to understand its strength and versatility. 

  5. Discover the unique applications of grayboard in luxury packaging and support panels, enhancing your packaging knowledge. 

  6. Explore how Locking Tabs enhance stability and ease of setup in cardboard displays, ensuring a reliable design. 

  7. Learn about the importance of Base Reinforcement in distributing weight and increasing the overall stability of displays. 

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