The short answer
Calculate the cost of the complete usable pack, including components, development, decoration, protection and delivery assumptions. Divide by the expected accepted quantity, not merely the ordered quantity.
Unit price can hide costs elsewhere in the project. A design that needs special packing or additional line handling may have a different commercial impact from a simpler bottle with the same purchase price.
Build a project cost sheet
Separate recurring costs from moulds, development samples and artwork setup. State whether closures, assembly and quality inspection are included. Use current logistics quotations for the actual route and pack dimensions.
Run a sensitivity check
Compare realistic scenarios for order volume, freight changes, breakage allowances and rework. Use documented project assumptions rather than a universal percentage. Identify which changes would make an alternative design more practical.
Procurement checklist
- List bottles, closures and decoration separately.
- Include tooling and sample transport.
- Use packed dimensions for freight comparison.
- Account for agreed inspection and handling.
- Document exclusions and uncertain cost items.
Common question
Should tooling cost be included in every reorder price?
Clarify the supplier’s pricing basis. A one-off tooling charge and recurring production price should be identifiable so repeat-order comparisons do not count the same development cost twice.