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Custom Header Cards
Printed Header Cards and Bag Toppers that Finish the Package
Turning Simple Polybags into Retail Packaging That Sells
Custom Header Cards / Bag Toppers
Header Cards for Retail Packaging
Custom header cards, also called bag toppers, are a low-cost way to turn plain poly bags into finished retail packaging. Each printed header card folds over the bag opening and staples in place, creating hanging retail packaging that puts your product in front of shoppers.
Short-run header card printing makes it easy to add branding and product information.
Made from the same durable 18pt or 24pt paperboard we use for our custom boxes, header cards add strength while keeping packaging costs low. A die-cut hang hole lets retailers display the product right where customers look first.
Header Card Packaging that Pops—For Pennies
Want your packaging to stand out? Soft-touch coatings or spot gloss accents elevate printed header cards and bag toppers from simple to standout—often adding only pennies per piece.
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Header Card
Header Card Packaging for Different Products
Some products simply don’t lend themselves to traditional packaging. Rugs, towels, tools, and other bulky items are often better displayed directly so customers can see exactly what they’re buying.
Capacity-scored header cards solve this problem
With a wider U-shaped fold area, they wrap easily around thicker or bulkier products and can be stapled or tagged in place for a clean retail presentation.
Built to Hang Strong—But They Don’t Have To
Capacity-scored header cards are die-cut from heavy-duty 18pt or 24pt paperboard (about the thickness of a credit card) for a substantial look and feel—the same paperboard we use for our folding carton boxes. Add die-cut hang holes for retail displays, or use them as wrap-style capacity cards for bulky products that don’t need to hang.
When used for hanging, multiple hang holes distribute the weight of heavier products to reduce sagging and keep displays looking neat.
Either way, printed header cards are a low-cost way to add branding and product information.
Capacity-scored header cards are ideal for:
• Bath sheets & premium towels: Extra support for heavier textiles
• Rug or carpet samples: Keeps thick flooring swatches display-ready
• Small tools & hardware: Ideal for wrenches, pliers, or hand tools
• Automotive accessories: Great for car care kits or jumper cables
• Heavy-duty pet gear: Handles strong leashes, collars, or toys
• Kitchen & grill tools: Perfect for cast iron utensils or grill accessories
• Compact electronics: Holds gadgets like Bluetooth speakers or power banks
• Sporting goods: For weighted jump ropes or resistance bands
• Household hardware: Padlocks, hose nozzles, or fastener packs
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✔️Easy Way to Measure
✔️ Paper Thicknesses
✔️ Types of Print Finishes
Style of box
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Style
Size:
Length
Width
Depth
Height
Options:
UV
Hang Tab
Window
Volume
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18pt total costs
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18pt cost/box
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24pt total costs
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How Did We Come Up With These Costs?
Our Custom Product Box Costs Explained shows exactly what goes into your quote—and how to make the most of your product packaging budget.
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Paper Thickness
Print Finishes
Measure
Reading a Ruler
Paperboard Thickness Chart
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What's a Good Paper Thickness for My Box?
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16pt (0.016″ ≈ slightly thicker than a business card)
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Best for very small product boxes.
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Rule of thumb: footprint (floor of the box) of about 1″ × 1″ or smaller.
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18pt (0.018″ ≈ just under credit-card thickness)
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Strong enough for most cosmetics, food, and shelf packaging.
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Cost-effective and versatile — the “everyday” choice for custom boxes.
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Rule of thumb: footprint of about 2.75″ × 2.75″ or smaller.
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24pt (0.024″ ≈ credit-card thickness)
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Stiffer and more rigid, with a premium feel in hand.
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Ideal for larger, heavier, or higher-end products where strength and presentation matter.
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Rule of thumb: footprint of about 3″ × 3″ or larger.
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Cardstock.... or Paperboard?
The paper behind your packaging matters
You may have seen box specs like “18pt cardstock” online — but not all 18pt paper is created equal.
• Cardstock: A thick paper used for crafts, postcards, and invitations. It’s cheaper and technically works for light packaging — but it lacks the stiffness and durability needed for most product boxes.
• Paperboard: A stiffer material engineered specifically for packaging. It folds cleanly, glues reliably, and holds its shape to protect your product — and your brand — on the shelf.
The key is knowing what you’re buying. In retail, your product box is what closes the sale — so it needs to perform and look its best. That’s why we use a quality paperboard — so your packaging doesn’t just hold together, it helps sell what’s inside.
Benefits of Header Cards
Custom printed header cards turn simple packaging into a clean, professional retail presentation. They keep the product visible, add space for branding and product information, all at a very low cost.
Keep packaging costs low
Put the product right where customers look first
Pack fast—just fold and staple
Allows multiple in-store placements at once—more chances to sell
Custom Options
Header cards can be customized to fit your product and display needs.
Choice of 18pt or 24pt paperboard
Sombrero or round die-cut hang holes
Capacity scoring for thicker or bulkier products
Multiple hang holes for heavier items
Rounded or custom die-cut corners
Frequently Asked Questions About Header Cards
What is a Header Card?
A header card is a stiff, custom printed card that folds over and staples to the top of a product - often a polybag. With a die cut hole for hanging, it makes it easy to display products in retail on pegs or hooks.
Do you Print Custom Header Cards and Bag Toppers?
Yes, we print custom header cards and bag toppers for a wide range of retail products -not just poly bags. Whether you need a standard printed header card or something with extra capacity for bulkier items, we can help you choose the right style and design for your packaging.
What Products Work Well With Header Card Packaging?
Any retail product that fits in a poly bag and needs to hang is perfect for header card packaging. Hanging products are easy for retailers to display in high-traffic areas—and often in multiple locations—giving your product maximum visibility. And that boosts sales.
What Is the Minimum Order Quantity for Header Card Printing?
Minimums typically start at 500 for header cards and bag toppers.
Start Your Custom Header Card Project
Let us know your product specs, bag size, and design preferences—we’ll help you choose the ideal paperboard weight, shape, and finish.
Work With a Team That Specializes in Paperboard Packaging
At The Box Co-op, we build high-quality packaging that punches above its weight. If you’re looking for header cards that don’t fold under pressure, you’re in the right place.