What is a custom tin?
Simply put, a custom tin is one that is unique to your product. It may include customized printing, embossing, or a novel size, style, or shape.

How are tins printed?
Metal lithography is similar to the process of printing on paper, however single color presses are used when printing on metal; one color is printed at a time, the ink is then changed and the metal is fed back through the press under tight registration and the process is repeated until the desired effect is achieved. Most color printing is a four-color process - the combination of cyan, magenta, yellow, and black - to produce a virtually unlimited spectrum of color. Printing with the Pantone Matching System (PMS), transparent and metallic inks are also available.

Artwork is formatted to a layout for the specified tin size, printing plates are made, and then each individual color is laid down via a printing press on flat sheets of metal that have been coated with a white base coat. These flat pieces of metal are subsequently trimmed or "slitted" and formed into the final tin shape.

How do I choose a tin?
There are hundreds of options available. Most often, the type of tin you choose is dictated by what you want to put inside. There are many styles available including lockseam, seamless, and welded as well as a myriad of cover and closure alternatives from slipcover to multi-friction plugs. Don’t be overwhelmed by the possibilities…we’ll help guide you through the selection process. Just give us a call!

What are the minimum order requirements for a custom tin?
A general rule of thumb is 10,000 pieces for most round welded and lockseam cans and 25,000 pieces for irregularly shaped tins. Another guideline holds that the smaller the tin, the larger the minimum and conversely the larger the tin the smaller the minimum required.

How long does it take to get tins?
Lead time for standard or stock items is usually 3-6 weeks; custom items are generally 8-12 weeks or longer depending on the complexity of the project. Although we strive to maintain inventory of stock and standard items, demand sometimes exceeds supply. When this occurs, we will quote lead times or offer a substitution. Lead times may extend by 2-3 weeks May through November. We encourage you to place your order as early as possible.