DVD Case FAQ: Dimensions, Printing, Materials, and Storage
How to use this FAQ
This FAQ provides concise answers to the most common questions about dvd case dimensions, custom dvd case printing, dvd case materials, dvd case wholesale and bulk ordering, disc case protection, and dvd case storage solutions. Each answer is designed to give you immediate, actionable information. For more detailed guidance—including step-by-step workflows, supplier evaluation criteria, and comprehensive tables—please visit the relevant sections on our DVD case storage solutions and packaging design guide homepage.
All measurements are provided in inches with metric conversions in parentheses, ensuring clarity for our international audience. We distinguish between industry-standard specifications and user preferences, and we cite reputable external sources where appropriate. If you have a question that is not addressed here, or if you would like to suggest an addition, please see our How we research dvd case materials and suppliers page for contact information.
Questions and answers
Below you will find answers to frequently asked questions about dvd case dimensions, materials, printing, sourcing, and organisation. Each question is presented in an expandable accordion format for easy navigation. Click or tap on any question to reveal the full answer.
Dimensions and specifications
Understanding the physical dimensions of DVD cases is fundamental to shelving design, artwork preparation, and shipping logistics. Standard cases follow the Amaray format, while slim and multi-disc variants offer alternatives for space-saving or expanded capacity. Tolerances can vary slightly by manufacturer, so always verify dimensions with your supplier before committing to large orders or custom inserts.
What are standard DVD case dimensions?
Standard DVD cases are typically 7.5 inches tall by 5.35 inches wide by 0.43 inches thick, designed to fit most home media collections and shelving systems. These dimensions correspond to approximately 190.5 mm in height, 135.9 mm in width, and 10.9 mm in thickness. The standard format, often referred to as the Amaray case, accommodates a single disc and provides a spine width sufficient for legible text and small graphics. Slim cases reduce the thickness to about 0.28 inches (7 mm), while multi-disc cases increase thickness to between 0.55 and 0.87 inches (14–22 mm) depending on the number of discs.
Printing and artwork
Custom dvd case printing requires careful attention to file preparation, colour management, and proofing. Artwork must account for bleed, safe areas, and spine alignment to ensure professional results. Digital files should be prepared at 300 DPI or higher, and colour profiles must match the printing process to avoid unexpected shifts in hue or saturation.
How do I print custom artwork on DVD cases?
Most DVD case printing services accept digital files in PDF or image format, allowing you to design custom covers, spines, and back inserts that fit standard case templates. Begin by downloading a template from your case manufacturer or printing service; these templates include precise guides for trim lines, bleed (typically 0.125 inches or 3 mm), and safe areas (at least 0.25 inches or 6 mm inside the trim). Prepare your artwork at a minimum resolution of 300 DPI, using CMYK colour mode for offset printing or RGB for digital proofing. Pay special attention to spine alignment and font size—use at least 8 points for sans-serif typefaces to ensure legibility. Always request a printed proof on the actual substrate before committing to a full production run.
Materials and durability
The choice of dvd case materials affects durability, optical clarity, and environmental impact. Polypropylene and PET are the most common plastics, each offering distinct advantages. Hinge strength, hub retention, and scuff resistance are key performance criteria that should be evaluated through sample testing before placing bulk orders.
What materials are DVD cases made from?
DVD cases are commonly made from polypropylene plastic or polyethylene terephthalate (PET), both offering durability and clarity for displaying disc artwork. Polypropylene (resin code 5) provides excellent hinge flexibility and resilience to repeated opening and closing, making it ideal for cases that will see frequent handling. PET (resin code 1) offers superior optical clarity, which is advantageous when transparent panels are used to showcase interior artwork or disc labels. Both materials are widely recyclable, though acceptance varies by local facility. When evaluating materials, consider surface finish (gloss vs. matte), scuff resistance, and any odour that may be present in lower-grade plastics.
Sourcing and bulk ordering
Dvd case wholesale and dvd case bulk ordering involve navigating minimum order quantities, lead times, sample approvals, and packaging specifications. Supplier evaluation should encompass material certification, production consistency, and returns policies. Clear communication of your requirements—including case style, colour, and any custom features—is essential to ensure that the final product meets your expectations.
Where can I buy bulk DVD cases for manufacturing?
Wholesale suppliers and packaging manufacturers offer bulk DVD cases at discounted rates, ideal for businesses requiring large quantities for distribution. Minimum order quantities (MOQ) typically range from 500 to 5,000 units, depending on the supplier and case style. Lead times vary from two to six weeks for stock items, with custom tooling or colour matching extending timelines to eight weeks or more. When sourcing dvd case wholesale, request samples to evaluate hinge durability, hub retention, and optical clarity. Confirm packaging specifications—cases are usually packed in shrink-wrapped bundles of 10 or 25, then placed in corrugated cartons—and verify that carton dimensions and weight are compatible with your warehouse and freight systems. Discuss material certifications, production consistency, and returns policies to ensure a reliable supply chain.
Protection and preservation
Disc case protection is essential for maintaining the integrity of both the disc and the printed artwork. Quality cases shield discs from dust, scratches, and physical impact, while also providing a stable environment that minimises warping and fading. Environmental factors such as temperature, humidity, and UV exposure play a significant role in long-term preservation.
Why should I use protective DVD cases?
Quality DVD cases protect discs from dust, scratches, and physical damage while preserving artwork and extending the lifespan of your media collection. A well-designed case features a secure hub that grips the disc centre hole firmly enough to prevent movement during transit, yet releases the disc smoothly without excessive force. The case shell shields the disc surface from abrasion and impact, while the printed insert is protected from fading and tearing. For archival collections, store cases in a climate-controlled environment with stable temperature (15–21°C or 59–70°F) and relative humidity (30–50%), and avoid direct sunlight to prevent UV degradation of both plastic and printed materials.
Organisation and storage
Effective dvd case storage solutions balance accessibility, space efficiency, and long-term preservation. Organisation methods vary by personal preference and collection size, but common approaches include alphabetical sorting by title, genre-based grouping, and director or actor-based arrangement. Shelving, dividers, and dvd storage box options all contribute to a well-organised library.
How do I organize my DVD case collection?
Arrange cases alphabetically by title, genre, or director on shelving units, using dividers and storage boxes to maximize space and accessibility. Alphabetical sorting by title is intuitive and simplifies retrieval, while genre-based organisation groups similar content together for easier browsing. Director or actor-based sorting appeals to cinephiles who follow specific creators. Use labelled dividers to mark sections and prevent cases from leaning or toppling. Ensure that shelving is sturdy and appropriately spaced—most media shelves feature adjustable shelves 8 to 10 inches apart. For long-term storage, consider dvd storage box options such as lidded bins for archival purposes or drawer-style units for frequently accessed titles. Maintain stable environmental conditions and periodically inspect cases for damage, replacing cracked hinges or broken hubs as needed.
These answers cover the most common inquiries about dvd case dimensions, custom dvd cases, dvd case replacement, dvd case printing, dvd case materials, dvd storage box options, disc case protection, and dvd packaging design. For more in-depth information, including detailed tables, supplier evaluation checklists, and artwork preparation workflows, please explore the sections on our homepage.
Quick reference table
The table below summarises key decision points when selecting, printing, and storing DVD cases. Use this checklist to identify what to verify, common mistakes to avoid, and best practices to follow. This quick reference is designed to complement the detailed answers above and the comprehensive guidance available on our homepage.
| Topic | What to check | Common mistake | Best practice |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | Verify height, width, thickness; confirm spine width for text legibility | Assuming all cases are identical; ignoring slim vs. standard differences | Request samples and measure with callipers; cross-reference with artwork templates |
| Materials | Identify resin type (PP or PET); assess hinge flexibility and optical clarity | Choosing based on price alone; neglecting to test hinge durability | Perform 50+ open/close cycles; check for stress-whitening and odour |
| Printing | Confirm resolution (300 DPI min), colour mode (CMYK), bleed and safe areas | Sending RGB files to CMYK printer; insufficient spine font size | Use supplier templates; request printed proof on actual substrate |
| Hub retention | Test disc insertion and removal; verify hub does not deform disc centre hole | Accepting cases without sample testing; ignoring hub design variations | Insert and remove disc 20+ times; simulate drop and vibration |
| Bulk ordering | Clarify MOQ, lead time, packaging specs, and returns policy | Ordering without sample approval; unclear communication of requirements | Request samples; document specifications in writing; confirm carton dimensions |
| Storage | Ensure stable temperature and humidity; avoid direct sunlight | Storing in attics or basements with fluctuating conditions | Use climate-controlled space; inspect cases periodically for damage |
| Organisation | Choose sorting method (alphabetical, genre, director); use dividers | Mixing methods inconsistently; allowing cases to lean or topple | Label sections clearly; maintain consistent sorting; keep digital inventory |
Further reading (external sources)
For additional context on disc case protection, materials science, and preservation best practices, we recommend the following authoritative external resources. These sources provide independent, peer-reviewed, or government-backed information that complements the practical guidance offered on this site.
The Library preservation basics from the Library of Congress offers comprehensive guidance on preserving media collections, including environmental controls, handling procedures, and storage materials. This resource is particularly valuable for archival collections and institutions managing large media libraries.
The Plastics and polymer overview on Wikipedia provides an accessible introduction to polypropylene and other polymers commonly used in DVD case manufacturing. Understanding the chemical properties, processing methods, and environmental considerations of these materials helps inform material selection and recycling decisions.
Related pages
For comprehensive guidance on dvd case dimensions, dvd case printing workflows, dvd case materials, dvd case wholesale sourcing, and dvd case storage solutions, visit our DVD case storage solutions and packaging design guide homepage. To learn more about our research methodology, editorial standards, and how we evaluate dvd case manufacturers and suppliers, see our How we research dvd case materials and suppliers page.