Introduction Opening a new bubble tea shop is an exhilarating journey. You’ve perfected your brown sugar pearl recipe, found the perfect location, and designed a logo that pops. But there is one critical detail that many new owners overlook until the last minute: the packaging.

Your cup is more than just a container; it is a walking billboard for your brand. A customer holding your cup on the street is the best free advertising you will ever get. However, choosing the wrong packaging can lead to leaks, poor brand image, and wasted budget.

To help you launch successfully, we’ve compiled the 5 most common mistakes new owners make when ordering custom printed cups—and how to avoid them.

1. Confusing PP with PET Materials This is the number one technical error. Not all plastic cups are created equal, and choosing the wrong one can ruin your operations.

• PP (Polypropylene) Cups: These are heat-resistant and durable. If you plan to use a cup sealing machine (the plastic film seal), you must use PP cups. They are semi-transparent and slightly softer.

• PET (Polyethylene Terephthalate) Cups: These are crystal clear, rigid, and look very premium. However, they cannot be heat-sealed easily. They are best used with dome lids or flat lids.

Pro Tip: If you serve hot drinks or want to use a sealing machine for efficiency, go with PP. If you serve cold, colorful fruit teas and want high clarity for Instagram photos, choose PET.

2. Overlooking the "Lead Time" Reality Custom printing isn't instant. Many startups wait until two weeks before their grand opening to order branded cups, only to find out the factory needs 3–5 weeks for production and shipping.

• The Fix: Factor in MOQ (Minimum Order Quantity) and lead times early. We recommend starting the design process at least 6 weeks before your target opening date. This allows time for digital proofing, sample confirmation, and shipping buffers.

3. Ignoring the Power of the Sealing Film If you choose PP cups, the sealing film is prime real estate for branding. Many owners leave it blank or use generic generic patterns. Don’t waste this space! Your sealing film can feature:

• Your social media handles (@YourBrand).

• A fun interaction or joke (e.g., "Shake me!").

• Seasonal promotions.

4. Designing Without Considering the Drink Your packaging design must complement your product, not hide it.

• The Mistake: Using a heavy, full-coverage print on a cup meant for "Dirty Boba" or layered fruit teas.

• The Solution: If your drink has beautiful visual layers, opt for a minimalist logo placement or a transparent design. Let the product shine through. If your drink is a standard milk tea color, you can be more adventurous with colorful, full-cup graphics.

5. Sacrificing Quality for Penny-Pinching It is tempting to buy the cheapest, thinnest cups available to save costs. However, a flimsy cup that collapses when a customer squeezes it creates a "cheap" feeling. Worse, a leaking lid can stain a customer’s clothes, ensuring they never return. High-quality, sturdy packaging justifies a higher price point for your drinks.

Conclusion Packaging is the bridge between your product and your customer. By avoiding these common pitfalls, you ensure that your brand looks professional from Day 1.

Ready to start your custom packaging journey? At [Your Company Name], we help new brands launch with confidence. Contact us today for a free consultation and let our team guide you to the perfect cup for your menu.