Telescoping tube
Spiral wound, wrapped200 minimum · 12 to 14 business daysA telescoping tube is a two-piece round rigid container where the lid slides the full depth over the base, so the closed tube shows one clean printed surface with a fine seam. We produce them on 0.08 to 0.12 in spiral wound board from 200 units in 12 to 14 business days after proof, in matte, linen or soft-touch wraps. Most run 3 by 6 to 4 by 12 inches.
When to choose it, and when not to
Choose a telescoping tube when a round product deserves the same weight and finish as a rigid box: a 750 ml spirits bottle, a fragrance, a watch, a rolled print, a premium candle. The full-depth lid is what sets it apart from a short-lid tube. Closed, the print runs unbroken from top to bottom, and the slow slide as it opens is the moment buyers film. A 1/8 in wall with a linen or soft-touch wrap feels closer to a rigid box than to a tube.
Choose a paper tube with lid when a short slip cap is enough and the tube will not be kept, since a full-depth lid doubles the board. Choose a spirits presentation box when the bottle is square-shouldered or you need a hinged lid with a fitted insert and a printed inside panel.
Specifications
| Board | Spiral wound paperboard, 0.08 or 0.12 in wall, white liner |
|---|---|
| Offset CMYK on the wrap, foil, blind or registered deboss | |
| Finish | Matte art paper, linen, soft-touch lamination, kraft or specialty wrap |
| Closure | Full-depth telescoping lid, friction fit, optional ribbon pull |
| Inserts | Die-cut paperboard collar, foam disc, velvet-flocked cradle |
| Prototype | On request; timing confirmed in your quote |
| Minimum | 200 units |
| Lead time | 12 to 14 business days after proof |
| Ships | Assembled, in cartons of 20 to 50 by size |
| Sizes we run | 2.5 x 5 in (candle, watch) 3 x 6 in (fragrance, roll-on set) 3.5 x 9 in (spirits miniature, poster) 4 x 12 in (wine, whisky 750 ml) 5 x 14 in (champagne, tall bottle) any size from 2 x 3 to 6 x 24 in |
Materials that suit it
Questions people ask
What is the difference between a telescoping tube and a tube with a lid?
Lid depth. A standard lid is 0.75 to 1.5 inches deep and sits on top. A telescoping lid runs the full height of the base, or close to it, so the closed tube is one smooth cylinder and the wall is effectively doubled. It costs more board and more wrap and it is the reason the tube feels like a gift rather than a container.
Will a 750 ml bottle fit and be safe in it?
Yes. A 4 by 12 inch tube on 1/8 in board takes most 750 ml spirits and wine bottles with a die-cut collar at the neck and a foam or paperboard disc at the base. For shipping we suggest the tube inside a corrugated shipper. Alcohol labeling and shipping are regulated; this is packaging guidance, not legal advice.
Can the lid and base be different wraps?
Yes. A linen lid on a matte base, or a black soft-touch lid on a kraft base, is one wrap each and no extra process. Foil and deboss go on the lid, the base or both. The usual layout puts the logo on the lid and the story on the base where it is read as the lid comes off.
How tight is the fit?
A friction fit tuned so the lid slides off in about two seconds under its own weight when the tube is inverted, and stays put when carried. If you want it looser or tighter we adjust on the prototype. A ribbon pull tab on the base makes a tight lid easier to start.
Do you make a prototype first?
Yes, on request: a white unprinted prototype, so you can check the fit of your bottle or product before print. Timing is confirmed in your quote. We recommend it on any tube over 8 inches tall, because a tall tube that fits loosely feels cheap and one that fits too tight is hard to open.
What is the minimum order for a telescoping tube?
200 units, and reorders carry the same minimum. Lead time is 12 to 14 business days after you approve the free digital proof.
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Ready to price your telescoping tube?
Send the size and quantity for a quote and a dieline, usually within one business day. Your digital proof follows, usually within one business day of your artwork. Design help and the Swatch Book of materials are free.