Packaging translation is one of the few fields in which it is not enough for the text to be correct; the text also has to fit on the box. Mandatory information cannot be shortened, and the space is fixed. If this tension is not resolved with the designer at the start of the job, it surfaces at delivery.
Fixed text areas
In packaging design the position and size of every piece of text are set, and when the translation runs longer it does not fit. Because mandatory information cannot be shortened, the design changes. This need is reported at the start of the job.
Expansion rate
Text length varies markedly between languages, and this rate can be estimated in advance. The estimate is given to the designer early. In this way a redesign is avoided.
Mandatory information
The information required by legislation must be present in full, and lack of space does not count as a reason. This information is not shortened. It has priority.
Minimum type size rules
A minimum type size is defined for some mandatory information, and it cannot be reduced. The rule limits the design. The information is passed on to the designer.
Multilingual packaging
If a pack goes to more than one market, the languages appear side by side and the space is shared. The order of the languages is defined. The layout is preserved.
Print file formats
Print files are in special formats, and the text layer may not be editable. An editable source is requested. If there is none, the method changes.
Font embedding
Fonts must be embedded in print files, otherwise characters are lost. Turkish characters are the ones most affected by this problem. A check is made.
Colour codes
Colours are defined by standard codes, which ensure repeatability in printing. The codes are not translated. They are carried over exactly.
Proof approval
The final version to be printed is approved in writing, and after this stage changes are costly. A record of the approval is kept. The version is stated.
Reading the proof
At the proof the text is checked for the last time and printing errors are looked for. This reading is a separate step from the translation review. The scope is set in the job definition.
Barcode and code areas
Barcodes and verification codes are visual elements and are not translated. The human-readable text beside them is carried over. The areas are preserved.
Batch and date areas
These areas are printed during filling, not during printing, and are left blank in the design. The blank is deliberate. It is preserved in the design.
The distinction between label and packaging
Some information appears on the label and some on the packaging, and the requirements differ. The two surfaces are handled separately. The scope is clarified.
Instructions to the printer
Pre-press technical instructions go with the file and define the production conditions. The instruction text is translated. Technical values are carried over.
Material and coating information
The packaging material and its coating affect product safety and are defined in the document. Material abbreviations are carried over. The explanation is translated.
Recycling marks
The recycling symbols on packaging carry defined meanings and are not changed. Symbols are not translated. The explanatory text is translated.
Version management
Packaging designs are updated frequently, and which version has been printed is tracked. A version record is kept. Printing of an old version is prevented.
The costliest mistake in this sector
Shortening a piece of mandatory information because it does not fit the space makes the packaging contrary to legislation, and the entire print run is wasted. Even if the text looks correct, missing information is not accepted. The space problem is solved through design, not through the text.