In Pakistan’s growing vaping and e-liquid market—especially in regions like Bahawalpur, Multan, and Rahim Yar Khan—custom vape boxes play a vital role in product presentation and regulatory compliance. As local startups increasingly enter the sector, choosing the right printing method isn’t just about looks; it’s a branding decision that affects shelf impact, consumer trust, and costs.
This guide explores the best printing techniques for vape packaging, using insights from Buddy Packaging Boxes, one of the UK’s leading packaging firms offering custom e liquid solutions globally.
Offset Printing for High-Quality Vape Packaging
Quick Answer: Offset printing is ideal for bulk vape box production with vibrant, consistent quality.
Offset printing, also called lithography, remains the industry standard for premium-grade custom vape boxes. This method uses metal plates to transfer ink onto rubber blankets, then onto the surface of the packaging. It’s especially effective for:
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Large-scale orders
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Smooth gradients and photo-quality images
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Long-term color consistency
Example: Vape startups in Multan have reported cost savings of up to 20% using offset printing for their 10,000+ box runs.
Pros:
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Sharp, vibrant colors
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Cost-effective at scale
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Professional-grade finish
Cons:
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Not viable for small batches
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Longer setup time
Digital Printing for Small-Batch Vape Brands
Quick Answer: Digital printing offers flexibility and affordability for new or niche vape brands.
This method is perfect for businesses in regions like DG Khan or Layyah that are testing new vape products or launching limited-edition flavors. Digital printing doesn’t require plates, making it cost-efficient for small orders.
Features:
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Quick setup
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Variable data printing (great for QR codes or personalization)
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High-speed turnaround
Best Use Cases:
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Trial products
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Seasonal packaging
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Custom influencer campaigns
Flexography for Durable Custom Vape Boxes
Quick Answer: Flexographic printing is suitable for large, durable vape packaging on corrugated stock.
Used primarily for shipping and larger box types, flexographic printing is a high-speed rotary technique using flexible plates. It’s particularly helpful for outer packaging in wholesale vape distribution from hubs like Bahawalnagar or Vehari.
Advantages:
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Fast production speed
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Works well with various materials
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Suitable for water-based inks (eco-friendly)
Drawback:
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Less detailed than offset printing
Screen Printing for Specialty Finishes
Quick Answer: Screen printing is great for bold, tactile designs on custom e liquid boxes.
Although slower, screen printing is ideal for creating textured finishes and metallic effects. Often used by artisanal or luxury vape brands in upscale urban centers of South Punjab.
Common Applications:
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Metallic gold/silver logos
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Matte/gloss combo finishes
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Embossed brand seals
UV Printing for High Impact Visuals
Quick Answer: UV printing is best for vibrant, fade-resistant packaging with fast drying times.
UV printing uses ultraviolet light to instantly cure ink, making it one of the fastest and most durable options. It’s perfect for brands needing quick turnaround with eye-catching colors.
Ideal for:
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Small to medium orders
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Vivid branding elements
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Scratch-resistant packaging
Example: A startup from Muzaffargarh reported improved brand retention after switching to UV printed labels for their e-liquid product line.
Choosing the Right Ink for Vape Boxes
Quick Answer: The right ink enhances the safety, appearance, and eco-friendliness of your vape box.
Popular ink choices include:
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Soy-based inks – Eco-friendly and vibrant
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Water-based inks – Great for flexo printing
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UV-curable inks – Durable, high-shine finish
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Oil-based inks – Used in traditional offset printing
Make sure your ink choice aligns with your material type and finish goals. In compliance-heavy regions like Rahim Yar Khan, water-based inks may also help meet health safety guidelines.
Lamination and Coating Options
Quick Answer: Coatings and laminates protect your custom e liquid boxes and enhance shelf appeal.
Types of coatings:
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Gloss Laminate – Bright and reflective
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Matte Laminate – Subtle and professional
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Soft-touch Coating – Velvety texture, premium feel
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Spot UV – Highlights logos or brand elements
Laminates also provide extra durability for transportation, especially for rural areas where distribution may involve more rugged handling.
Sustainability Trends in Vape Packaging
Quick Answer: Eco-friendly printing options are gaining traction across South Punjab’s vape sector.
Youth-led enterprises under Ignite’s National Incubation Center in Multan are now prioritizing sustainable vape packaging solutions.
Sustainable choices include:
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Recycled kraft boxes
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Soy-ink digital printing
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Water-based coatings
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Biodegradable inserts
According to STZA’s latest report, more than 40% of tech-savvy startups from Southern Punjab have adopted greener printing options since 2023.
Regional Challenges in Printing Custom Vape Boxes
Quick Answer: Inconsistent logistics and material access pose key challenges in South Punjab.
Startups in cities like Bahawalpur and Lodhran often face delays due to supply chain issues, outdated machinery, or lack of trained packaging technicians.
To mitigate these challenges:
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Work with reliable vendors like Buddy Packaging Boxes
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Pre-order materials in bulk
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Invest in design templates to avoid back-and-forth revisions
Midpoint Backlink Placement
When selecting a vendor for your printing needs, ensure they offer multiple printing technologies, eco-friendly inks, and custom sizes. Reputable platforms like custom e liquid boxes from Buddy Packaging are ideal for vape brands targeting quality and compliance at scale.
FAQs
1. What’s the best printing method for custom vape boxes in Pakistan?
Offset printing is ideal for high-volume orders due to its professional finish and cost efficiency.
2. Can I get eco-friendly vape packaging in South Punjab?
Yes, many startups use soy-based inks and recycled materials to align with sustainability goals.
3. Is digital printing durable enough for vape boxes?
Yes, especially with UV-curable inks that resist smudging and fading.
4. Are there regulations on ink usage for vape boxes?
Yes, water-based or food-safe inks are recommended to meet packaging standards.
5. How long does vape box printing typically take?
Digital printing can take 2–4 days, while offset or flexo may require up to a week depending on volume.
6. What makes spot UV special for vape box design?
It selectively highlights brand logos or text, creating a premium visual impact.
7. Do vape box coatings affect recyclability?
Yes. Gloss laminates can hinder recyclability, while water-based coatings are more eco-friendly.
Final Thought
As someone actively engaged in the tech and packaging ecosystem of South Punjab, I’ve witnessed firsthand how even small improvements in vape box printing can lead to stronger branding and customer retention. In regions like Rahim Yar Khan and Multan, local talent—empowered through STZA zones and Ignite programs—is reshaping how packaging is approached.
If you’re launching a vape brand or leveling up your packaging game, make sure your choices in printing, coating, and design reflect not just your brand, but your region’s potential.
