Not all that long ago, product packaging was primarily a functional element, and it served the sole purpose of protecting products until they made their way into customers’ hands. Over time, the role of packaging began to include branding and product information. Of course, at this point, it has evolved well beyond its initial boundaries.

Consumer spending has reached all-time highs, and it’s not going to slow down any time soon. At the same time, eCommerce has achieved unprecedented popularity, and that, too, will continue to surge in the years to come. On top of that, consumers have changed how they view unboxing a product.

These days, getting a product out of its packaging isn’t just a means to an end. It’s an entire experience, an unveiling of sorts. People want to be wowed as much by what’s surrounding their purchase as by the items themselves. Because of that, custom packages have become essential for today’s businesses.

Optimizing Your Product Packaging

With all that in mind, it’s fairly obvious that boring brown corrugated boxes and plain white cardboard envelopes will no longer suffice. Though those may be the cheapest and easiest solutions for product packaging, they’re definitely not the most effective. At Your Logistics, we’re here to help you optimize your packaging to protect your products and promote your brand. Consider the following tips to help you get the most out of your packaging investment.

Think Inside the Box

First of all, think about the materials that go inside your outer packaging. Known as infill, these materials go a long way toward protecting your products while being handled and shipped. For some companies, infill is a secondary consideration, and that’s often the first wrong turn they take, though.

Infill should certainly do its part to keep your products from being damaged during various phases of the logistics process. Still, it’s also part of the all-important unboxing experience. That means you need to make sure the infill you use speaks to customers while keeping your products intact.

Several infill materials are available to businesses. A couple of the most effective and environmentally friendly are shredded paper and cardboard, and both provide extra cushioning and are recyclable. Since they come in numerous colors, they could easily blend in with your logo, company colors, and package design themes.

Styrofoam and plastic are also popular options. They likewise come in a variety of colors and gauges. They’re also perfect for orders that contain multiple pieces. You could choose bubble wrap as well. It’s not the prettiest or most environmentally friendly material, but even the most ecologically minded consumers are often willing to overlook those factors for this particular type of infill. After all, who doesn’t love bubble wrap? It’s an experience in its own right!

On the Outside

Now, let’s take a look at the outer packaging for your products. Again, several options are at your disposal, from bags and envelopes to boxes made of various materials. Some items are small and don’t necessarily need a great deal of protection. For those, bags or envelopes may be the best solution. They’re bound to save your company money if they’re appropriate for your products and shipping needs.

Other products require a bit more defense against the potential hazards of shipping and handling. In those cases, sturdy boxes would be the better solution. Additional seals or layers of shrinkwrap are recommended for products that could be contaminated or shouldn’t be exposed to air.

While infill provides padding and helps keep products in place, outer packaging offers extra protection. Both work together to prevent punctures, tears, and other problems that could detract from customer satisfaction. The outer packaging also serves other important purposes, though.

Appearance Matters

Keep in mind that your products’ outer packaging is the first thing customers see when they receive their orders. It helps people form an impression of your company and what you have to offer. That means the packaging can significantly influence how people perceive your company and its products and services.

Packaging can be an important component of your branding and marketing efforts, and be sure it reflects the feelings you want customers to get from the products inside. For example, if you sell beauty products, jewelry, or indulgent snacks, consider using packaging that conveys what the items inside the packaging are all about. Your designs could exude an air of luxury and high-end extravagance.

Make sure your packaging offers helpful details about your products, too. Consider adding special features, instructions for use, and other vital points. Don’t forget to include your company’s logo and contact information to help foster brand recognition and recall.

Colors, patterns, fonts, images, the materials the packaging is made of, and many other factors will affect the overall unboxing experience. Additionally, taking a look at the types of packaging your competitors use is advised. If they’re using vivid, busy imagery on their packaging, taking a more minimalistic approach could make your company stand out. On the other hand, if they’re taking the minimalistic route, you may fare better going in the opposite direction.

Making the Most of Your Product Packaging

Standard cardboard boxes and other basic packaging materials still have their place: that point isn’t being denied. They can provide yet another level of protection for your products while safeguarding the packaging you’ve put so much thought into. Still, those conventional solutions on their own just won’t do these days.

Product packaging now serves many roles. It protects your products, acts as a marketing tool, and contributes to the customer experience. The packaging can alter the way consumers view your company, transform new customers into repeat business, and spark valuable word-of-mouth advertising if it creates the experience your customers expect.

Numerous packaging solutions are available to you, and the design possibilities are virtually limitless. Think about the messages you want to convey about your company and products, and plan your packaging accordingly. Custom packaging pays off when compared to bland, generic alternatives. This approach may cost a bit more, but it’ll generate boundless returns in the long run.

Your Logistics is here to help you make the most of product packaging as well as many other warehousing and shipping needs. Feel free to contact us to discuss your needs and expectations. We’ll help you find the perfect solutions for your company.