· AeroTape Team · Sourcing Guide · 2 min read
Packing Tape OEM Process — Brief, Sample, Bulk, Pack
How a packing tape private-label program moves from brief to approved sample, bulk, and export packing.
A packing tape OEM program is a sequence. Brands that skip the brief and jump to “send MOQ price” usually rework labels, sizes, or packing after the first carton lands.
AeroTape runs the same four stages for custom and bulk buyers.
Stage 1 — Brief
Collect, in writing:
- Channel (DTC, marketplace, pharmacy, distributor)
- Markets and labeling language
- SKU list from the OPP packing tape and specialty tape and PE film catalogs, plus any custom SKU
- mic, width, yards, and core
- Artwork: logo, care copy, barcode, inner box
- Target first PO vs annual volume
We typically return a feasibility note and a quote within 24 hours.
Stage 2 — Sample
| Sample type | Use | Typical timing |
|---|---|---|
| Catalog sample | Confirm hand-feel and construction | 3–7 days |
| Size set | Confirm graded sizes before bulk | Quoted with the brief |
| Pre-production (PPS) | Lock label, color, packing | After artwork sign-off |
Paid samples are the normal path. Credit against the first bulk PO when the PO uses the approved spec.
Do not treat a lifestyle photo as a spec. Approve a written sheet: size / performance guide.
Stage 3 — Bulk
After PPS sign-off:
- Material and trim pull
- Cutting or molding
- Assembly
- In-line QC (measurements, stitching or seal, absorbency or performance band if specified)
- Packing and carton marks
Typical bulk window: 7–15 days for stock SKUs after PO and deposit, depending on fabric/color and packing. MOQ is quoted by SKU unless the quote says otherwise.
See manufacturing for process language you can reuse in vendor onboarding.
Stage 4 — Pack and release
- Polybag / inner box / master carton as quoted
- Carton marks, item codes, mixed-size rules
- Packing list, commercial invoice, and the document set you named in the brief
- Reorder SKU codes so the next PO does not restart artwork
What you send vs what we send
| You send | We send |
|---|---|
| Brand files, care copy, markets | Quote, sample plan, bulk calendar |
| Size curve (if not catalog) | Spec sheet against the size guide |
| Vendor portal document list | Files that exist — we do not invent certificate numbers |
Next step
If you already have a tech pack, attach it on the inquiry form. If you do not, start from the catalog and the custom OEM page.