How Much Does a Custom Card Deck Cost?
Quick Answer: For orders of 200–3,000 decks delivered to the USA, tarot cards (78 cards) cost $1.99–$8.55 per deck, game cards (100 cards) $1.77–$8.06, and playing cards (54 cards) $1.11–$6.45—depending on card count, packaging type, and quantity. Prices vary by packaging: shrink wrap (most affordable) to magnetic rigid box (premium). All prices are DDP (shipping and duties included). See detailed pricing below.
Custom card deck costs depend on several factors: card count, card size, cardstock weight, surface finish, packaging type, and order quantity. The good news? Ordering 1,000 decks can reduce your per-deck cost by 40–50% compared to a short run of 200 decks.
At QinPrinting, we specialize in premium custom card printing with a minimum order of 200 decks. This guide provides transparent pricing for our most popular card types—with four packaging options each—so you can choose the right balance of quality and budget for your project.
Packaging Options at a Glance
Each card type below offers four packaging options to match your budget and brand positioning:
| Packaging Type | Description | Best For | Price Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shrink wrap | Clear plastic film wrap | Bulk orders, game expansions, promotional decks | $ (Economy) |
| Tuck end box | Folding cardboard box with tuck flap | Standard playing cards, everyday card games | $$ (Standard) |
| Telescope rigid box | Two-piece lift-off lid box | Premium games, gift sets, retail products | $$$ (Premium) |
| Magnetic rigid box | Rigid box with magnetic closure | Luxury tarot/oracle, collector's editions | $$$$ (Luxury) |
1. Tarot Card Printing Cost
Tarot cards are larger than standard playing cards, providing ample space for detailed artwork and symbolism. A standard tarot deck contains 78 cards (22 Major Arcana + 56 Minor Arcana). Learn more about tarot card printing →
Standard Specs:
- Card size: 2.75″ × 4.75″ (70 × 121 mm)
- Card count: 78 cards per deck
- Cardstock: 350gsm premium cardstock
- Finish: Varnish both sides
2.75" × 4.75" Tarot Deck (78 cards) – Price by Packaging
| Packaging | 200 decks | 500 decks | 1,000 decks | 2,000 decks | 3,000 decks |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Shrink wrap | $6.36 /deck | $3.54 /deck | $2.67 /deck | $2.12 /deck | $1.99 /deck |
| Tuck end box | $7.69 /deck | $4.13 /deck | $3.01 /deck | $2.34 /deck | $2.16 /deck |
| Telescope rigid box | $8.19 /deck | $4.69 /deck | $3.62 /deck | $2.94 /deck | $2.76 /deck |
| Magnetic rigid box | $8.55 /deck | $4.88 /deck | $3.75 /deck | $3.01 /deck | $2.83 /deck |
* Prices are per deck, DDP to continental USA (excludes remote areas), including shipping and tariffs.
2. Game Card Printing Cost
Game cards are designed for tabletop games, trading card games (TCGs), and custom card games. Using poker-size format with a linen texture finish, these cards are built for enhanced grip and repeated shuffling during gameplay. Learn more about game card printing →
Standard Specs:
- Card size: 2.5″ × 3.5″ (63.5 × 89 mm)
- Card count: 100 cards per deck
- Cardstock: 300gsm premium cardstock
- Finish: Varnish both sides + linen texture
2.5" × 3.5" Game Card Deck (100 cards) – Price by Packaging
| Packaging | 200 decks | 500 decks | 1,000 decks | 2,000 decks | 3,000 decks |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Shrink wrap | $6.02 /deck | $3.44 /deck | $2.45 /deck | $2.00 /deck | $1.77 /deck |
| Tuck end box | $7.31 /deck | $3.88 /deck | $2.78 /deck | $2.21 /deck | $1.93 /deck |
| Telescope rigid box | $7.68 /deck | $4.38 /deck | $3.33 /deck | $2.66 /deck | $2.49 /deck |
| Magnetic rigid box | $8.06 /deck | $4.55 /deck | $3.42 /deck | $2.71 /deck | $2.54 /deck |
* Prices are per deck, DDP to continental USA (excludes remote areas), including shipping and tariffs.
3. Flash Card Printing Cost
Flash cards are educational tools used for learning, memorization, and study. Larger than playing cards, they provide more space for text, images, and diagrams. Our flash cards feature matte lamination for reduced glare and easy note-taking. Learn more about flash card printing →
Standard Specs:
- Card size: 3″ × 4″ (76 × 102 mm)
- Card count: 60 cards per set
- Cardstock: 350gsm premium cardstock
- Finish: Matte lamination both sides
3" × 4" Flash Card Set (60 cards) – Price by Packaging
| Packaging | 200 sets | 500 sets | 1,000 sets | 2,000 sets | 3,000 sets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Shrink wrap | $5.91 /set | $3.20 /set | $2.21 /set | $1.79 /set | $1.56 /set |
| Tuck end box | $7.20 /set | $3.65 /set | $2.54 /set | $2.00 /set | $1.73 /set |
| Telescope rigid box | $7.65 /set | $4.17 /set | $3.10 /set | $2.46 /set | $2.28 /set |
| Magnetic rigid box | $8.02 /set | $4.35 /set | $3.23 /set | $2.53 /set | $2.35 /set |
* Prices are per deck, DDP to continental USA (excludes remote areas), including shipping and tariffs.
4. Oracle Card Printing Cost
Oracle cards are larger format cards used for divination, inspiration, and self-reflection. Unlike tarot, oracle decks have no fixed structure—you can include any number of cards with any theme. Learn more about oracle card printing →
Standard Specs:
- Card size: 3.5″ × 5″ (89 × 127 mm)
- Card count: 60 cards per deck
- Cardstock: 350gsm premium cardstock
- Finish: Varnish both sides
3.5" × 5" Oracle Deck (60 cards) – Price by Packaging
| Packaging | 200 decks | 500 decks | 1,000 decks | 2,000 decks | 3,000 decks |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Shrink wrap | $6.71 /deck | $3.72 /deck | $2.81 /deck | $2.25 /deck | $2.10 /deck |
| Tuck end box | $8.03 /deck | $4.31 /deck | $3.16 /deck | $2.46 /deck | $2.28 /deck |
| Telescope rigid box | $8.52 /deck | $4.86 /deck | $3.75 /deck | $3.06 /deck | $2.87 /deck |
| Magnetic rigid box | $8.90 /deck | $5.07 /deck | $3.90 /deck | $3.15 /deck | $2.96 /deck |
* Prices are per deck, DDP to continental USA (excludes remote areas), including shipping and tariffs.
5. Playing Card Printing Cost
Playing cards use the classic poker-size format (2.5″ × 3.5″), perfect for custom card games, promotional decks, and branded merchandise. Our standard deck includes 54 cards (52 cards + 2 jokers). Learn more about playing card printing →
Standard Specs:
- Card size: 2.5″ × 3.5″ (63.5 × 89 mm) – Poker size
- Card count: 54 cards per deck (52 + 2 jokers)
- Cardstock: 300gsm premium cardstock
- Finish: Varnish both sides
2.5" × 3.5" Playing Card Deck (54 cards) – Price by Packaging
| Packaging | 200 decks | 500 decks | 1,000 decks | 2,000 decks | 3,000 decks |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Shrink wrap | $4.50 /deck | $2.30 /deck | $1.55 /deck | $1.21 /deck | $1.11 /deck |
| Tuck end box | $5.77 /deck | $2.86 /deck | $1.87 /deck | $1.41 /deck | $1.27 /deck |
| Telescope rigid box | $6.04 /deck | $3.30 /deck | $2.33 /deck | $1.91 /deck | $1.70 /deck |
| Magnetic rigid box | $6.45 /deck | $3.50 /deck | $2.44 /deck | $1.99 /deck | $1.76 /deck |
* Prices are per deck, DDP to continental USA (excludes remote areas), including shipping and tariffs.
6. What Affects Card Deck Cost?
Understanding these factors helps you make smart decisions that balance quality and budget:
Order Quantity (Biggest Factor)
Offset printing has significant setup costs (plates, die-cutting, box assembly). These fixed costs are spread across all decks, so larger orders have much lower per-unit prices. Moving from 200 to 1,000 decks can cut your cost per deck by 40–50%.
Packaging Type
Packaging significantly impacts cost and perceived value. From most to least expensive: Magnetic rigid box > Telescope rigid box > Tuck end box > Shrink wrap. Choose based on your target market and price point.
Card Count
More cards per deck = higher cost. A 100-card game deck costs more than a 54-card playing card deck. However, the per-card cost decreases as card count increases.
Card Size
Larger cards use more material and require larger boxes. Poker size (2.5″ × 3.5″) is the most economical. Tarot (2.75″ × 4.75″) and oracle (3.5″ × 5″) sizes cost more due to increased cardstock and packaging requirements.
Cardstock Weight
We use 300gsm cardstock for standard poker-size cards (2.5″ × 3.5″) and 350gsm for larger cards. Heavier cardstock provides better durability and a more premium feel. Custom weights are available on request.
Surface Finish
Standard varnish provides a smooth, glossy feel. Linen texture adds tactile grip ideal for game cards. Matte lamination offers a soft, non-reflective surface perfect for flash cards. Premium finishes may add to the cost.
7. Frequently Asked Questions
What is your minimum order quantity?
Our minimum order is 200 decks for all card types. The best value starts at 500+ decks where per-unit costs drop significantly.
Are the prices on this page all-inclusive?
Yes. Prices shown are DDP (Delivered Duty Paid) to continental USA (excludes remote areas). This includes card printing, packaging, sea freight shipping, and import tariffs—no hidden fees.
Which packaging should I choose?
It depends on your market and price point. Shrink wrap works for budget products or expansion packs. Tuck boxes are standard for playing cards. Telescope boxes suit premium games. Magnetic boxes are ideal for luxury tarot/oracle decks where unboxing experience matters.
Can I customize the card count?
Absolutely. The prices shown are for standard configurations. You can order any card count—from 20 cards to 200+ cards per deck. Use our online calculator for instant pricing on custom configurations.
How long does production and shipping take?
Standard production takes 3 weeks after proof approval. Sea freight shipping takes 4–5 weeks to the US West Coast, or 5–6 weeks to the East Coast. Air freight is available for faster delivery at additional cost.
Do you offer samples or proofs?
Yes. We offer free digital proofs for all orders. Physical printed samples are available for a fee and are recommended for first-time projects to verify color accuracy, cardstock feel, and packaging quality.
What file formats do you accept?
We accept print-ready PDF files (300 PPI, CMYK color mode). We also accept AI, PSD, and high-resolution PNG/JPEG files. Our team provides free file checks and can assist with artwork preparation.
Can I get a custom quote?
Absolutely. These charts show common configurations. For custom card sizes, different card counts, special finishes, or unique packaging, use our online calculator for instant EXW pricing, or contact our team for a complete DDP quote to your location.
What's the US import duty on cards printed in China?
As of 2026, printed playing cards and card games from China are subject to approximately 7.5% import duty. All DDP prices in our charts already include this tariff—no surprise fees.
Get Your Card Deck Quote
We offer two ways to get pricing:
Instant EXW Quote: Use our online calculator to see factory pricing for your exact specifications.
Custom DDP Quote: Contact our team for all-inclusive pricing delivered to your location. We’ll calculate shipping and duties for you.
