Custom Coffee Cup Sleeves FAQs
Q: What file format should I submit my artwork in?
We accept AI (preferred), PDF, EPS, SVG and high-resolution JPG files. AI is the best choice for print-ready files. If you're submitting a logo, AI or EPS vector files give the sharpest result at any size. PNG and JPG files must be at least 300 DPI at final print size. All files should be set up in CMYK colour mode - RGB files are accepted but colours may shift slightly when converted for print. If you're starting from scratch, we have free Canva templates for all three sleeve sizes (8oz, 12oz, 16oz), just add your logo and download as a PDF or SVG.
Q: What resolution do you need?
A minimum of 300 DPI at final print size is required for raster files (PNG, JPG). Anything lower will appear blurry or pixelated on the finished sleeve. Vector files (AI, EPS, PDF with vector artwork) are resolution-independent, so there's no DPI concern — these are always the preferred option for logos and text-based designs. If you're unsure whether your file meets the resolution requirement, our team will review it after you place your order and flag any issues before we go to print.
Q: Is there a proofing process before printing? How long does it take?
Yes, we always send a digital PDF proof before printing anything. You'll receive your proof within 2–3 business days of placing your order and submitting your artwork. Once you approve the proof, we move straight to print. Your custom coffee cup sleeves are then ready to dispatch within 3–5 business days. PLEASE NOTE: If there are any pixelation issues, we will let you know but this will add to the timeframe of your order.
Q: Do these sleeves fit all coffee cup brands and styles?
Our custom coffee cup sleeves are sized to fit standard Australian single-wall paper takeaway cups - the type used by the vast majority of cafés and coffee shops across Australia. The 8oz sleeve fits standard flat white and short black cups (the most common size in Australian cafés). The 12oz sleeve fits medium latte and cappuccino cups. The 16oz sleeve fits large cold-drink and iced coffee cups. They are not designed for reusable cups, ceramic mugs, or double-wall paper cups. If you're unsure whether our sleeves will fit your specific cup, contact us with your cup brand or model and we'll confirm before you order.
Q: Can I order a sample before committing to a full run?
Yes you can order a single printed sample coffee cup sleeve for $40. This includes the setup and printing costs. It's a great way to check the print quality, colour accuracy, and fit before committing to a larger run. To order a sample, contact our team at hello@heropackaging.com.au or call (02) 8006 1283.
Q: What happens if the print quality isn't right?
If your order arrives with a print error, quality issue, or damage in transit, we will fix it fast. Contact us with photos or a short video of the issue and we'll get it fixed. Because every order goes through a digital proof approval before printing, errors caused by approved artwork are not eligible for a reprint which is why we encourage customers to review their proof carefully before signing off. If you're ever unsure about anything in your proof, just ask us before approving.
Q: Can I get a refund on custom items?
Because every order of custom printed coffee cup sleeves is made specifically for you, we're unable to accept change-of-mind returns. This is standard practice across the custom printing industry. However, if your order arrives with a quality issue or a print error on our end, we absolutely take responsibility. In those cases we offer a reprint, store credit, or refund depending on the circumstances. The digital proof process exists specifically to ensure you're happy with the design before we commit to printing.
Q: Do you offer design services if I don't have a logo file?
Placing your logo on a sleeve is free of charge. But if you want us to do additional design work, we offer a design service for an additional fee. For simple designs, the fee is $50. For more complex custom designs, the fee is $100-$200 depending on the work involved. If you'd like design help, contact our team at hello@heropackaging.com.au before placing your order and we'll get started. Alternatively, if you have a basic logo, our free Canva templates for 8oz, 12oz, and 16oz sleeves make it easy to create your own artwork with no design experience required.
Q: What's the difference between 8oz, 12oz, and 16oz sleeves?
The sizes refer to the takeaway cup capacity each sleeve is designed to wrap around. The 8oz Regular sleeve fits standard hot drink cups - this is the most common size in Australian cafés and the best starting point if you're unsure. The 12oz Large sleeve fits medium hot drink cups, typically used for lattes and cappuccinos. The 16oz Iced Coffee sleeve is designed for taller cold-drink cups used for iced coffees and cold brew. If you're not sure which size you need, check the base of your takeaway cups — the oz size is usually printed there - or contact our team and we'll help you find the right fit.
Q: Is the brown recycled option lower quality than white?
No, both the White 290gsm and Brown Recycled 300gsm options are premium paperboard and printed to the same high standard using non-toxic, water-based inks in our Sydney facility. The difference is purely aesthetic.
Please note: These are not heat resistant coffee cup sleeves. They are for marketing purposes. If you want cafe grade, corrugated coffee cup sleeves, please let us know!
The white substrate produces the most vibrant, true-to-colour print results and is the best choice for bold or colourful designs. The brown recycled board has a natural kraft look that gives designs a warm, earthy feel - colours appear slightly more muted and organic, which suits nature-inspired, sustainable, or minimalist brands beautifully. The brown option is also a slightly heavier board at 300gsm. Both are made from responsibly sourced materials in line with Hero Packaging's sustainability standards as a certified B Corp.
Q: Do you offer larger quantities than 1,000?
Yes. If you need more than 1,000 custom coffee cup sleeves, contact our team for a bulk quote. We regularly work with cafés, event companies, PR agencies, and corporate brands on large-volume runs. The per-unit price decreases significantly at higher quantities, so it's always worth getting in touch if you're ordering at scale. Email hello@heropackaging.com.au or call (02) 8006 1283 to discuss your requirements.
Q: Can I mix sizes in one order?
Yes, you can order multiple sizes - they just need to be placed as separate orders, one per sleeve size. Each size has its own print setup, so a minimum of 10 sleeves applies per size. Simply add each size to your cart separately and check out. If you need help deciding which sizes to order, or if you'd like to bundle sizes as part of a larger brand activation or café rollout, our team is happy to help.
