The MOQ for custom printed aluminum cans is typically one 40-ft high-cube container per order, and a design usually takes 4–7 weeks from approved artwork to shipment. Smaller runs are possible with labels, shrink sleeves or digitally printed samples on blank cans.
Why printed cans have an MOQ
Printed cans are decorated on high-speed dry-offset printers that run hundreds or thousands of cans per minute. Each design needs printing plates and press set-up, so very short runs are uneconomical. That is why most can makers quote a minimum per design or per order.
Our MOQ for custom printed cans is one 40HQ container. Several designs can often share one container — ask us about mixed loads.
Typical lead time
- Inquiry & quotation: 1–2 days
- Artwork review & pre-press: 3–5 days
- Digital proof / physical samples: 5–10 days
- Plate making & production: 2–3 weeks after approval
- Inspection, packing & loading: 2–4 days
- Sea freight: depends on destination
Blank cans and ends from stock can usually ship sooner.
Artwork checklist
- Use our die-line template for your exact can size
- Supply vector artwork (AI, PDF) with text converted to outlines
- Specify spot colours (Pantone) — dry-offset printing uses spot colours, not CMYK photo printing
- Keep fine text above the minimum size and avoid hairlines
- Leave room for barcodes in a single dark colour on a light background
- Mark finishes: gloss, matte, tactile or thermochromic areas
- Confirm the end colour and tab colour
Ways to start smaller
- Blank cans + labels for test markets
- Shrink sleeves for short seasonal runs
- Digitally printed samples for photography, investor decks and trade shows
When your volumes grow, moving to printed cans usually lowers your cost per can and improves durability. Request a quote with your can size, quantity and number of designs.
Frequently asked questions
What is the minimum order for custom printed cans?
Our MOQ for printed aluminum cans is one 40HQ container per order. Several designs may share one container.
How long does it take to produce printed cans?
Allow about 4–7 weeks from approved artwork to shipment, plus sea freight time to your port.
