How to prepare your product for a co-packing run — the complete checklist.

Production runs get delayed when brands aren't fully prepared at run time. The most common causes: a missing COA, a spec sheet that hasn't been submitted, film that arrives the day before the run instead of a week before. This checklist exists so none of those happen to you.

Phase 1 — Before You Contact a Co-Packer

Have these ready before your first inquiry:

• Finalized formula — your formula should be locked before you engage a co-packer. Changing your formula after you've ordered film and ingredients is expensive. If you're still developing, develop first.
• Target fill weight — in grams, per serving. This is the single most important spec for a co-packer. Know this number.
• Target pouch format — sachet, zipper pouch, or gusset bag. If you're unsure, say so — but have a direction.
• Target run volume — how many pouches in your first order.
• Target timeline — when do you need finished goods in hand.

Phase 2 — After You've Chosen a Co-Packer

Documentation

• Signed MSA (Master Service Agreement) — required before scheduling at Overgang. Don't wait until the week of your run to review and return the MSA.
• Allergen declaration — a written declaration of all allergens in your product. Required before production. Non-negotiable.
• Spec sheet / blending instructions — total pounds of blend needed, percentage formulation for each ingredient (must add to 100%), and any specific blending sequence or requirements.
• Lot number format — how you want lot numbers formatted on your product (example: OVG-2025-07-001).
• Expiration date — your target expiration date or shelf life calculation (manufactured date + X months).

Film and Packaging

• Film supplier identified — you need a roll stock film supplier. Overgang does not supply film. We can recommend suppliers we trust.
• Die lines obtained — request die line templates from your film supplier for your pouch dimensions.
• Artwork completed and approved by film supplier — artwork approval is required before your film goes into production.
• Film ordered at 110% of target pouch count — account for yield loss.
• Film delivery confirmed to arrive at Overgang before run date — with tracking. Late film = late run.

Ingredients

• Ingredients ordered at 110% of expected output — account for 5–10% yield loss depending on run size.
• COAs requested from every ingredient supplier — one COA per ingredient, per lot number. Must match the lot you're shipping.
• COAs reviewed — verify that all tests pass and lot numbers match your ingredient packaging.
• COAs sent to co-packer at least one week before run date — don't wait until the day of.
• Ingredients ordered to arrive at Overgang before run date — with tracking. Materials must be on-site before your run is confirmed.

Phase 3 — Week Before Your Run

• Confirm film has arrived at Overgang — email or call to confirm receipt.
• Confirm ingredients have arrived at Overgang — confirm receipt of all ingredient lots.
• Confirm COAs are on file and approved — co-packer should confirm COAs have been received and verified.
• Confirm run date and time — get written confirmation of your scheduled production date.
• Provide outbound shipping instructions — where should finished goods ship, what carrier, any special requirements.

Phase 4 — After Your Run

• Verify finished pouch count — compare to expected output accounting for yield loss.
• Verify lot numbers and expiration dates — confirm they match your specifications.
• Request batch records if needed — for compliance documentation purposes.
• Arrange pickup or confirm outbound shipping — coordinate with your co-packer on finished goods disposition.
• Note lessons for next run — did materials arrive with enough lead time? Were there formula issues? Build on what you learned.

Quick Reference Checklist