An “item” is similar to a SKU (stock keeping unit). It's a single component, and it has all the specifications and instructions a supplier needs to manufacture it, like dimensions, materials, printing options, and production-ready files. Items make it easy to manage specifications and create orders without having to reenter information.
Before you can request a quote for a product, you’ll need to import its specifications in the form of an item. With each item specification, you're giving a supplier information about how much it will cost them to produce your packaging.
The more complete and accurate your specifications are, the more accurate your quotes will be, and the less time you'll spend answering questions in prepress. When you know all the specifications of the item you want to order, you can set it up and send it out for quoting.
To create an item go to your Items view and click the Add new item button.
Tip: You can save an Item as a draft at any point, but before you can request a quote for an item, you have to enter all required specs.
Product group: You can see images of each item in the catalog.
Construction: If this field is available for the product you've selected, it's for you to choose the construction style. You can browse some of the available styles in the Styles Library.
Item name: For example, "2-bottle box" or "Holiday 2020 promo card."
SKU: Your internal identifier for this item.
Image: A dieline, 3D rendering, or photo.
Each specification informs suppliers about what materials, machines, and processes are ideal for producing your item.
When specifications are blank, you may leave the supplier to make an assumption or make a decision on your behalf. This could lead to miscommunication, and a final product that doesn't match your intention. The more specifications you include, the more accurate your quote and final product will be.
Dimensions: Directly correlates to the amount of material required, and the cost of shipping the item.
Materials: Reference the Materials library for a visual example of many options.
Printing: Reference Processes for more information on each process.
Design file: The Dieline library has dielines for common products and sizes.
