Think about opening a clear, well-designed box which reflects a concept or a theme of a product placed inside. This is not always a mere coincidence; it is a well-planned and executed technique used by brands to entice the consumers. Take Apple, for instance. When this tech giant came out with the iPhone, the box was as revolutionary as the gadget itself. The sleek design, and the precision of every element of Apple’s products and its packaging made the process of unboxing into a ceremony that consumers appreciated. This element of packaging played a great role in enhancing Apple’s brand loyalty and its image as a design and technology giant.
Today’s consumers expect the best and unique packaging to be part of the brand and marketing strategy in the market. Knowledge of the various packaging types that are available in the market enables the business to identify the right packaging strategy that will work for it. This article discusses the role of packaging, different forms of custom packaging, and how to select the right packaging.
Custom packaging refers to packaging methods that involve the use of particular materials and styles of packaging to suit particular products. The level of competition and consumer awareness has made it compulsory for companies to pay heed to aesthetic packaging that also provides protection to their products.
Why Packaging is Important?
1.Functional Purposes
Packaging also has the ability to help safeguard the product from damage that may occur during transportation or even during storage with a view of supplying the end user the product in the most appropriate condition. It also carries information regarding how to use the product and other important information like the nutritional values for instance.
2.Cost-Efficiency
Giving a keen attention to packaging designs can help to achieve cost-effective packaging solutions. There is, therefore ,immense opportunity for brands to effectively optimize their packaging, the impact will be to reduce operating costs greatly.
3.Brand Differentiation
Special packaging makes a brand stand out among the competition. This means that the branding and marketing strategies of the products are unique in their designs, materials, and messages that appeal to the target consumers.
4.The Digital Touchpoint
In the current world of e-commerce packaging is the digital contact point that makes the first and lasting impression. The unboxing experience is one of the best ways to ensure that the customer is satisfied and loyal to his/her purchase.
5.Brand Affinity
Branded packaging is engaging and helps create an emotional bond with the consumer. If the customers are able to identify with the narrative on the packaging of a particular brand, they are likely going to be repeat consumers.
6.Marketing Benefits
Packaging has been described as the fourth form of communication and it interrelates with the customer in the absence of the usual sales personnel. The use of appropriate and artistic packaging will be able to catch an eye in densely filled shelves and online marketplaces.
According to research, 72% of consumers consider the packaging design as a factor that affects their buying decisions. Various packaging studies have shown that good packaging tends to increase the perceived value and thus sales.
Different Types of Custom Packaging
Having the knowledge of different types of packaging helps the businesses identify the appropriate packaging types to use.
1. Mailer Boxes
Custom Mailer Boxes are ideal for businesses involved in e-commerce operations since they provide strong packaging to support the delivery of all types of products. These boxes are normally made from corrugated cardboard or paperboard since they are strong and offer some measure of protection. The construction of mailer boxes is solid, and thus, it is suitable for posting delicate products that need special care when in transit. Further, they can be developed in terms of size and shapes to accommodate a broad range of products and to provide appealing unboxing experiences to customers. Most of the subscription box services use the mailer boxes for the protection of the items as well as ensuring that the clients have a good experience with the brands.
Some of the popular examples in mailer boxes are poly mailers, custom shipping boxes, and padded mailers. They are mostly applicable to small and lightweight products such as clothing accessories, jewelry, and small electronics. They are made of polyethylene, a material that provides moisture resistance and flexibility thus being suitable for items that do not require a very firm packaging.
Mailer boxes are also popular because of their environmental friendliness; they can be created using recyclable material. This makes them an ideal choice for business entities that seek to minimize their impact on the environment. The fact that graphics can be printed with great quality on the mailer boxes enables firms to re-emphasize the branding and marketing activities. For example, FabFitFun and Loot Crate send out their subscription products in mailer boxes; the boxes themselves are part of the brand experience.
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Pros |
Cons |
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Available in different sizes and patterns to suit different products. |
A little bit more costly than the ordinary shipping procedures. |
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Gives very good protection especially when transporting the laptops. |
May occupy more space as compared to other types of storage equipment due to their size. |
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2. Shipping Boxes
Custom shipping boxes are specifically made for carrying almost all types of products, which is why it is widely used in the retail and e-commerce industries. These boxes are made up of corrugated cardboard since this material offers the right strength and rigidity to offer protection to the items during shipment. Since corrugated cardboard is a very sturdy material, products will not be easily damaged during shipment, which makes it ideal for use. Also, customized shipping boxes can be made to the right size to serve their intended purpose, and their designs can also be modified to suit the overall customer experience and the brand image.
Some corporations like Amazon use specific shipping boxes that help packages to get delivered safely while still being associated with the company’s brand. These boxes are not only strong but also have environmentally friendly solutions since they can be made from recycled material. This is inline with the current trend where consumers are demanding environmentally friendly packaging materials. The fact that these boxes can be branded to include the image, logo, slogan or any other associated brand makes it easier for the business to remind the customers of the image they are selling.
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Pros |
Cons |
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Strong and durable boxes and does not easily break when transporting the products. |
May be larger in size than other types of packaging materials and therefore leads to high shipping costs. |
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It can be easily adjusted in size and almost any design can be incorporated into it. |
Should be appropriately scaled to avoid taking up a lot of space. |
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Available in recyclable and environmentally friendly materials where possible. |
May result in increased costs of production especially if they have to develop unique designs to meet the customer’s requirements. |
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3. Rigid Boxes
Some of the most common uses of custom rigid boxes are in the packaging of superior-quality products such as electronics, cosmetics, gift items among others. These boxes are made with a thick paperboard or cardboard and are usually covered with other better materials to give them a better outlook. Rigid boxes are significantly strong to offer optimum protection for delicate products which is why they are preferred for valuable commodities. This also contributes to the high perceived value of the items which they contain, especially luxury brands products which are elaborately placed inside them.
Chanel is one of the luxury brands that use the rigid box for packing perfumes and cosmetics as the products inside are elegant and exclusive. These are not just sturdy but also reusable and recyclable, which is convenient to the trend of the green economy on the packaging materials. Since rigid boxes are ideal for high-end packaging that can give customers a good first impression of a product, they are ideal for creating a memorable unboxing experience with quality and designs.
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Pros |
Cons |
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Durability and quality appearance lead to better perceived value. |
Pricier than the other packs’ types; this can influence the price. |
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Perfect for shielding delicate items. |
Lack of versatility or adjustability in terms of the form and dimensions. |
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Some are reusable and most are recyclable. |
Might need additional space for storage since they have a more structured architectural design. |
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4. Gift Boxes
Custom Gift boxes are basically packaging that is meant to improve the unboxing process of gifts. These are usually printed on decorative paperboard and the use of items such as ribbon or foil can give the embellished look. These boxes are very suitable to display gifts in a unique and personalized manner making them ideal for both personal as well as corporate gifts. The fact that gift boxes can easily be customized to match occasions and branding makes them all the more appealing to businesses as they can make their clients have the best experience.
Companies such as Harry and David pack their gourmet food products in beautifully designed gift boxes, which enhance the gift appeal in addition to the quality of the products inside. These boxes come in different sizes and designs so one can be able to use them in packaging different types of gifts. The luxurious look and customization opportunities make gift boxes a popular choice for most companies that need to enhance customer experience and brand identity.
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Pros |
Cons |
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Enhances the image of gifts, and thus the satisfaction level of the customers. |
Pricier than your typical custom cardboard boxes. |
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Can be designed to correspond to certain celebrations and the company image. |
Not as useful for shipping as the other options mainly because of the size. |
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They come in all sizes and a variety of styles. |
May need to be packed additionally to avoid any damage during the transportation process. |
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5. Corrugated Boxes
Custom Corrugated packaging is used for transportation as well as for storage of a large number of products especially in the retail industry. These boxes are made from corrugated fiberboard which offers the required strength and shock absorbent characteristics to safeguard the contents during transport.
The unique property of the corrugated packaging is that it is lightweight but very strong, which makes it ideal for shipping the products at a minimum cost. Besides, these boxes may be easily adapted in terms of size and design to the requirements of certain companies.
Firms such as ULINE employ corrugated cartons to transport numerous products in bulk, guaranteeing that they arrive in good shape. Since they are highly versatile, corrugated boxes can be used for various purposes, including shipping electronic gadgets and storing household items. Also, these boxes fall under the category of sustainable packaging because they can be recycled and are made from renewable materials, which is a requisite of the modern world’s environmentally conscious packaging. Though they are not very appealing in terms of design and branding, their functionality and sustainability are some of the reasons why many organizations prefer them. So, go for corrugated box solutions if you are looking to transport your product in bulk.
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Pros |
Cons |
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They are lightweight but strong, meaning their transportation costs are relatively low. |
May not be aesthetically appealing since there is very little branding or design. |
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Quite flexible as it can be adapted to various sizes and designs easily. |
May not be ideal for extremely fragile items without some form of cushioning. |
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Biodegradable and manufactured from 100% post-consumer recycled materials. |
May need extra support especially for large and cumbersome loads. |
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6. Paper Board Boxes
Folding cartons and custom window boxes are among the common types of packaging used in the market for food, cosmetics, and toys. These boxes are made from lightweight paperboard which is usually recyclable thus are considered to be environmentally friendly. Due to its lightweight construction, paper board packaging is cost-effective in terms of freight charges, which is important for businesses. Moreover, folding cartons and window packaging is easy to brand since they can be designed in the best way to capture customers’ attention.
Folding cartons can be used by snack brands like Popchips to create an excellent packaging design that helps in enhancing the visibility of the product on the shelves. Some boxes contain windows so that customers can view the product inside, this is especially appropriate for items such as toys and cosmetics. Even though folding cartons and window boxes are not as protective as rigid boxes they have other advantages and are more economical to use which is why many products for sale end up being packaged in this way.
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Pros |
Cons |
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Easily affordable and can be branded for the company’s logo or name. |
May not afford the same degree of protection as the rigid boxes. |
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Lightweight, reducing shipping costs. |
Lacks in the aspect of withstanding the pressure of heavy objects. |
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May also include windows for the purpose of displaying products on sale. |
May have to be packed again to be made more secure especially for products that may be delicate. |
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7. Flexible Packaging
One of the most emerging types of packaging is flexible packaging, which is being embraced by many organizations with a special preference being given to the food and consumer goods companies. This type of packaging is done using flexible materials commonly plastics films which could be laminated to improve on the moisture and barriers. However, the most common products in this category include foil seal bags, custom mylar bags, and pouches. Flexible packaging can be used to contain all types of foods including the small portions of the snacks, to the bulk amount of non perishable foods.
Of all the forms of barrier packaging, foil seal bags and mylar bags stand out as being very instrumental in increasing the shelf life of foods. Because of their laminated construction, it is possible to design them with the required barrier features, thus guarding content from oxygen, moisture, and light, which are agents of decay. This not only satisfies consumers through provision of higher quality long shelf life products but also helps in a big way to reduce food wastage in an era where everyone is overly concerned with environmental concerns.
Furthermore, flexible packaging can be in any size, shape, and design to help the brands market the products more effectively by having nicely packaged products on the shelves. Some of these packages have extra features such as zippers or press-to-close tabs which make the product easier to use and also maintain its freshness once the pack has been opened. In conclusion, foil seal bags, mylar bags, and pouches used in flexible packaging are indicative of the development of this sector and the balance between utility and design.
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Pros |
Cons |
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Low weight design greatly helps in cutting down shipping costs and related effects on the environment. |
Less protective to some of the delicate goods as compared to the other rigid packaging types. |
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Flexibility in style and color creates brand visibility and product identification, thus improving shelf appeal. |
Difficult to recycle because they are made up of a number of materials, which may cause some environmental impacts. |
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Frequently includes resealability, which enhances the usability and food quality for the buyers. |
May be more prone to puncture or tear during handling and transporting the products thus affecting the state of the product. |
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8. Protective Packaging
Protective packaging is a vital component of packaging since they help in the protection of products during storage, handling and transportation. This category encompasses a variety of materials and solutions, including bubble wrap, foam inserts, and air pillows, all designed with one primary goal: to protect the things which have been kept in it from being harmed in any way. The general use of protective packaging makes it a must-have in the various sectors of the economy such as electronics, fragile glass products, automobile industry, and the medical field. These packaging options act as a barrier around products, thus offering insulation to protect them from any impact, extreme vibrations, or movements that could lead to deformation or cracking.
This has seen protective packaging advance in terms of design developments that not only give better protection to the contents but also cater for environmental issues. For example, biodegradable air pillows, and recyclable foam inserts have been developed and are being used to ensure that goods are protected while at the same time being environmentally friendly. Moreover, there have been improvements in design to come up with solutions that perfectly fit the areas of the products that need protection while exploiting the available space fully. This customized coverage does not only improve protection but also helps to decrease the amount of packaging material used and the expenses on shipping.
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Pros |
Cons |
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Great cushioning characteristics minimize the impact of the product that is likely to be damaged during transport and handling. |
May be perceived by the green consumers as over packaging which is not desirable. |
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Adaptable to a range of product sizes and forms to provide the best protection for particular items. |
Raises the elegance level of the unboxing experience, which could affect the customers’ satisfaction. |
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Many protective packaging materials are light in weight which does not cause a lot of extra cost in shipping. |
Leads to higher overall packaging costs, which can impact product prices or profitability. |
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9. Plastic Packaging
Plastic packaging has been widely used in contemporary society to meet the needs of a variety of sectors including foods and drinks, and body products. This flexible packaging product comes in different types such as bottles, caps and poly bags with each type designed to suit a certain product. Plastic packaging is commonly used today because of the following reasons, the material is very hard-wearing, extremely flexible and relatively inexpensive. Its flexibility to be shaped and formed in various forms and sizes makes it possible to come up with new and creative ways of packaging that not only preserves the products but also makes them more attractive and useful.
The use of plastic has been adopted in packaging for many years but recently the industry has received a backlash because of its effects on the environment. This has prompted changes in the plastic technology where new generation plastics that are biodegradable and recyclable have been developed. A large number of organizations nowadays are focusing on using recycled plastics for their packaging and thus helping to minimize the effects of the environment. In addition, cost of transport and carbon emissions are also reduced by the use of lightweight plastic packaging which is an added advantage environmentally. The future trends are to make plastic packaging more recyclable and to look for the plastics that have the same advantages but are less hazardous to the environment.
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Pros |
Cons |
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Flexibility in design enables designers to adapt and accommodate the product in use or marketing strategies. |
Community and environmental issues about plastic bags and their impact on the environment in the future. |
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They provide a good barrier against moisture, air and contaminants hence helping in preservation of products. |
May be considered negatively by environmentally aware consumers, which may impact brand associations. |
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Low weight decreases the cost of transportation and the emissions tied to it as well. |
There is also a problem with the recyclability of certain types of plastic packaging. |
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How to Choose the Right Packaging for Your Product
Choosing the right packaging for your product has been a critical area of marketing concern for many organizations:
1.Product Shelf Life
For perishable goods, one should use materials that will protect the product from moisture, light and air to help in increasing the shelf life.
2.Shape and Size
The size and shape of the product determines the packaging. Custom shapes serve the purpose of increasing visibility, but they are likely to cost more, so try to get a balance.
3.Material Interactions
Make sure that the packaging material is suitable for the product so that things like chemical leaching or corrosion do not occur.
4.Packaging Materials
Select from the available types: plastic, cardboard, glass or metal depending on the durability, cost, and environmental concerns.
5.Product Weight
Heavier products need more robust packaging in order to prevent breakages during transportation so that your product gets in one piece.
6.Product Design and Marketing
In its essence, packaging is part of your brand’s identity or message. This is something that will enable your product to capture the attention of the consumers especially when placed on the shelves.
7.Order Quantity
More units may mean that a bulk packaging can be used whereas small production may require individual packaging to minimize cost.
8.Sustainability
Sustainability or environmentally friendly packaging is a growing factor. It is possible to try to use the materials which can be recycled or produced from biodegradable materials to attract conscious consumers.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Choosing Custom Packaging
Choosing proper custom packaging may be a complex process, and staying away from certain mistakes is very important for the product and consumer’s protection. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:
1.Wrong Packaging Material
Employing the wrong material results in product deterioration. Ensure that you select the right packaging for your products, by taking some factors into consideration such as the delicateness of the product and its shelf life.
2.Wasteful Packaging
Packing that is excessively large is not only wasteful but it also costs more in terms of the amount of money that has to be spent on shipping. One should strive to achieve optimal designs that do not consume a lot of material yet offer the required level of protection.
3.Not Using Packaging Fillers
Omission of the fillers may cause products to move or change positions during transportation hence causing some damages. In our case, we suggest using fillers such as bubble wraps or packing peanuts to ensure that the items do not move around too much.
4.Overpacking
On the other hand, excessive use of filler or additional packing can be costly and may lead to unnecessary complexity. There are strategies you should learn that will help you find the correct measure to use in protecting your product without having to overdo it.
5.Label Errors
Incorrect information or missing information on labels often causes confusion to the customers and this leads to returns. Always cross check all the labels you want to print and ensure that they are correct.
6.Poor Design and Branding
The packaging is the continuation of your brand image. Don’t opt for generic designs, which do not convey any qualities of your brand, as this reduces customer interest.
7.Complicated Design
Complicated packaging can be counterproductive and hamper the consumer’s ability to get to the product. Choose such designs that are easy to understand and can be easily put into practice.
8.Box Sizing Issues
If the wrong box size is selected, problems arise with regard to protection as well as efficiency in shipping. Make sure your packaging is tight so as not to allow your product to move within the packaging during transportation.
How Packaging Influences Consumer Behavior?
The use of packaging is very important in defining consumer behavior, especially where they initially come into contact with the product. Bright colors, beautiful design and different shapes will help attract attention and tempt consumers to take a product off the shelf. Besides, the packaging relays information about the product such as ingredients, how to use it, and what it is capable of doing to the consumer. With packaging conveying information, it creates trust and has the potential of shifting consumer decisions, making it crucial for brands to get it right.
Moreover, consumer expectations have shifted towards sustainable products and services. Most consumers go out of their way to look for environmentally friendly packaging materials since they tend to associate with brands that are environmentally conscious. This shift is a part of a larger phenomenon where the customer is no longer just buying a product but is also affiliated with a brand that they support. Then, there is the unboxing phenomenon which has now become more popular especially on social media where customers share their experiences. In this case, well-designed packaging can help create memorable experiences while unboxing that make consumers develop a habit of using the product and this helps to foster brand loyalty.
Conclusion
Packaging is a critical success factor that not only performs various functions that are essential in the marketing of a product, but also contributes to brand differentiation and appeal to consumers. So, by choosing the right type of packaging from mailer to rigid and flexible packaging, businesses can solve the issues of practicality and cost, as well as stand out from competitors.
The advantages of custom packaging are not limited to the practical aspects; they are used as a digital point of contact and a marketing instrument. The knowledge of different packaging materials and their uses will help organizations make the right choices depending on consumers and the environment.
One of the key aspects of successful packaging is to avoid some of the significant mistakes which can make the customer’s experience negative and influence their decision making. This is why in today’s cut throat competition, where the first impression is the last impression, custom packaging is not an option but a necessity. The Box Lane provides a variety of custom packaging services for businesses that wish to enhance the quality of their packaging and packaging material to be able to create a lasting impression on the customers.