Compare the total cost of two packaging methods using your own prices, quantities and application time. Include packs, losses, artwork setups and freight in each scenario.
Method and assumptions
Each scenario purchases enough units for the required usable quantity at the entered rejected-unit rate. It then rounds up to the entered pack size and total-order minimum. Setup is entered per artwork design; labor is entered as minutes per purchased unit. All costs are user-entered USD assumptions, not BrandYourPack prices.
- Required before pack rounding = ceiling(required usable units ÷ (1 − loss percentage ÷ 100)).
- Purchased units = the larger of that requirement and the total-order minimum, rounded up to a whole pack.
- Total = purchased units × (packaging + label cost per unit) + designs × setup per design + freight + purchased units × minutes per unit × hourly cost ÷ 60.
- Cost per required usable unit = total ÷ required usable units.
The model excludes sales tax and any unentered storage, equipment or other costs. It assumes all purchased units receive the stated handling. If a minimum or setup applies separately by reference/design, compare the applicable runs separately.
Worked example with editable assumptions
| Input | Printed method | Stock plus label |
|---|---|---|
| Required usable units | 1,000 | 1,000 |
| Packaging / label per unit | $0.42 / $0.00 | $0.25 / $0.08 |
| Designs / setup per design | 1 / $80 | 1 / $20 |
| Freight | $45 | $30 |
| Minutes per unit / hourly cost | 0 / $18 | 0.5 / $18 |
| Loss / pack / minimum | 2% / 100 / 0 | 2% / 100 / 0 |
| Purchased / total | 1,100 / $587 | 1,100 / $578 |
In this illustrative case the entered totals differ by $9. The tool is a comparison of assumptions, not evidence that labels or printing are always cheaper. Confirm equivalent material, structure, print and delivered scope before acting.
Questions about this decision
Does this show BrandYourPack pricing?
No. It uses the prices and constraints you enter. Request a quote for confirmed references and commercial terms.
Does the minimum apply to each design?
The field is a total-order minimum for that scenario. Run separate scenarios when a supplier requires a minimum per reference or design.
Why calculate cost per required usable unit?
It relates total spend to the quantity you actually need, including pack rounding and expected loss. The extra purchased quantity is shown separately.
