New Product Packaging Checklist for Nepal: Label, MRP, Print
Quick answer: Settle the product and pack first, then the legal label content (producer details, MRP, batch, weight, dates), then the design, then a proof, then the print order. Doing the label content before design avoids the most expensive mistake: reprinting a full run because required information was missing or wrong.
This is a working order for founders and small manufacturers. It links to the detailed guide for each step.
Step 1: Define the product and its pack
- Product, size, weight and how it is stored and shipped.
- Pack type: carton, pouch, bag, bottle with label, sleeve. See how to choose custom packaging.
- Retail shelf, online shipping, or both. See packaging design for retail and ecommerce.
Step 2: Settle the required label content
Under Section 6 of the Consumer Protection Act, 2075 a producer must label goods; goods without the required label cannot be imported, sold or distributed in Nepal. Collect:
- producer name, address and industry registration number,
- ingredients or composition, quantity and weight where applicable,
- use instructions, warnings and precautions,
- MRP including taxes, batch number and manufacture date,
- expiry or use-by period if the product has a deadline.
Details are in product label requirements in Nepal and, for food, food label requirements. The Department of Commerce expects MRP, batch, weight and expiry on a permanent label; see MRP printing on packaging.
Step 3: Decide how variable data will print
MRP, batch and dates may change. Choose: printed in the artwork, a reserved panel for ink coding, or a permanent sticker. Mark the area on the dieline.
Step 4: Design and prepare the file
Use the dieline from the box or label maker, keep required text readable, and follow artwork file prep. Choose colours with CMYK vs Pantone.
Step 5: Get quotes and samples
Send the same brief to each supplier. See how to request a printing quotation and printing prices in Nepal. Order a sample or a small first run before the full quantity.
Step 6: Proof and approve
Check every word, number and area in the proof. Have a person responsible for compliance approve the text. The producer decides label content; the printer prints the approved proof.
Step 7: Order, deliver, store
Confirm quantities, delivery date, packing and storage. Keep the approved proof and file for reorders.
Master checklist
- Product and pack defined
- Label content complete and proofread
- MRP, batch and date plan set
- Dieline and artwork ready
- Colours specified
- Quotes compared on one brief
- Sample or small run approved
- Final proof signed off
A sample launch timeline
This is an illustration of the order of work, not a promise of how long any step takes. Ask each supplier for dates.
| Stage | What happens | Output |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Product and pack decision | Choose the pack type and size | Specification sheet |
| 2. Label content | Gather legal and product text | Approved text file |
| 3. Design | Layout on the dieline | Draft artwork |
| 4. Compliance check | Check against the label requirements | Checked text |
| 5. Quotes | Same brief to two or three suppliers | Comparable quotes |
| 6. Sample | Printed sample on the real material | Approved sample |
| 7. Production | Printing, finishing, packing | Finished packs |
| 8. First fill and test | Pack the product, check the codes and shelf life | Go or no-go |
Mistakes first-time founders make
- Designing before the label content is settled. The text decides the layout.
- Forgetting variable data. MRP, batch and expiry need a reserved area. See MRP printing on packaging and coding methods.
- Ordering a large run first. Test with a small run.
- Choosing by price alone. Compare the same specification, and ask what is included.
- Skipping a physical sample. Colour and fit cannot be judged on screen.
- Ignoring storage and shipping. The pack must survive the supply chain.
- Using unverified claims. Claims such as "eco-friendly" or "organic" need support.
Budget structure
List every packaging cost, not just the box:
- Design and artwork
- Dieline or tooling
- Printed pack or label
- Inner packaging, inserts and tissue
- Outer cartons and tape
- Variable-data printing or coding
- Storage space
- Delivery
- Samples and a reprint allowance
Add the amounts and divide by the number of units to get a packaging cost per unit. Compare this with your selling price and margin before you commit.
Questions to ask every supplier
- Can you quote the same specification at two quantities?
- What is included: artwork help, proof, tooling, delivery, tax?
- What is the minimum order?
- Can I see a sample on the actual material?
- What is the timeline from approved proof to delivery?
- How are defects handled?
- How are files stored, and when are they deleted?
Choosing the pack type
| Product | Common packs |
|---|---|
| Cosmetics and personal care | Folding carton with insert; see cosmetic boxes |
| Sweets and bakery | Window box, sweet box, tray; see sweet box |
| Snacks and dry food | Pouch or carton with label; see pouches |
| Gifts | Gift box, slider box; see gift box |
| Apparel and accessories | Mailer box, bag; see mailer boxes |
After launch
Keep the approved files, proofs and supplier details together. Review packaging performance after the first month: damage, returns, customer comments, shelf look. Adjust the next run accordingly.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need an industry registration number?
The Act lists the industry registration number among label matter for producers. Confirm your registration with the relevant authority.
Can I print a small first run?
Yes. Ask for quotes at two quantities, including a small one.
Who approves the label wording?
The producer. The printer prints the text you approve.
Start your packaging
Browse Thankyooou's product packaging and contact Thankyooou with your product details.
Related guides
Sources
- Consumer Protection Act, 2075 — Nepal Law Commission — Section 6 label duty and content.
- Notice on MRP and labels, 26 Chaitra 2082 BS — Department of Commerce, Supplies and Consumer Protection — producer, importer and seller duties.