Everything You Need To Know To Find The Best Box Packaging Manufacturer

15 Apr.,2024

 

The significant number of competitors means online businesses must do whatever they can to differentiate themselves. There are many ways to do so, but one of the best and easiest is packaging. Let’s take a closer look at the general principles of ecommerce packaging and the best ways to go about it.

Product Packing Basics

Product packaging has three purposes. The first two are well-known: protecting a product during shipping and ensuring it arrives at the appropriate destination through the shipping system. The third is to present a branding experience to the customer, which is an often underutilized purpose by many ecommerce companies.

Several factors go into product packaging, including selecting the right packaging, inserting padding and protection, sealing the package, and shipping.

Packaging for Ecommerce: Protecting Products

First things first. Packaging is meant for protection.

There’s nothing worse than ordering an item online, waiting patiently for it to arrive, and then having it show up at your doorstep in a broken, mangled mess. But unfortunately, this is a fairly common occurrence. According to various online resources, as many as 1 in 10 shipments are damaged in transit.

For you, this means it’s important to ensure your orders are properly packaged to minimize that risk.

While the exterior package already adds some level of protection, internal padding is often needed for protection during shipping. There are several options for this, including:

  • Loose fillers: Loose fillers are materials like packing peanuts or shredded paper that can help cushion the product. The one downside of loose fillers is that products can shift around during transit when not packed in tightly enough.
  • Foam: Foam protection can consist of large sections that hold the product in place or thin layers that wrap around the product.
  • Bubble wrap: Bubble wrap is one of the most popular options for shipping protection. It can be easily bought in large rolls of varying sizes, making it efficient for products of many sizes.
  • Air pillows: Air pillows are large plastic air pockets that can be packed around a product for cushioning.
  • Cardboard inserts: These are simply rigid pieces of cardboard that can be inserted around the product to hold it in place during shipment.

Don’t ever skimp on internal packaging protection. While it may save cost in the short term, it can add up when returns or refunds begin to stack up.

Moreover, damaged products can create a negative brand image, leading to customers leaning toward other brands or bad reviews.

Types of Product Packaging for Ecommerce

Before going any further, let’s take a quick look at the various types of packaging for ecommerce. These include:

Corrugated Boxes

Corrugated cardboard boxes are retailers’ most common form of packaging. They are general shipping boxes that can be purchased from any store or postal service.

There are many different types and sizes of corrugated boxes, which make them a popular option for many sellers. This is especially true for those who sell large products.

Tuck Top Product Boxes

Tuck-top boxes are a separate type of cardboard box with tabs to secure it shut. They may have one tab that goes into the inside front of the box or two tabs that slide into the sides.

These boxes are most commonly used for small or medium-sized products, but there are some larger versions as well.

Padded Mailers

Padded mailers are an excellent option for smaller products and those needing extra protection.

These are essentially envelopes with bubbles or additional padding inside. They are great for jewelry, books, electronics, and more.

Poly Mailers

Poly mailers have become an increasingly popular option for many sellers. These envelopes are commonly made from paper or polyethylene LDPE.

They are light, affordable, and self-sealing, making it easy to package many products. However, their size and durability do limit the contents.

Choosing the Ideal Product Packaging

The proper packaging for a product can vary between sellers and the particular product. However, here are some immediate points to consider:

  • Budget: The chosen packaging must be within the budget and allow the company to ship the product without significantly reducing profit. However, this doesn’t mean choosing packaging based on cost alone.
  • Protection: As mentioned above, product protection is one of the most important packaging parts. While poly mailers may be affordable, they don’t offer the best protection. This could be a risk when shipping fragile or delicate items. Consider packaging that will ensure the product arrives at the seller in the best shape. Selecting the more affordable packaging can be tempting, but that could cost more in the long run from returns and refunds from damaged products.
  • Shipping costs: While this slightly comes under the budget heading, shipping costs must also be considered. Generally, larger and heavier packages will cost more, so be sure to factor this in when choosing packaging.

Sourcing Your Packaging Materials

When it comes to finding a supplier for your packaging materials, you need a company that can provide you with high-quality, versatile shipping products that help get your items safely to the customer.

Some options for sourcing your packaging include eBay, Alibaba, and PaperMart (to name a few). For the most part, buying these shipping materials in larger quantity means getting a larger discount — so don’t be afraid to stock up.

Why stock up? Because as you source your packaging materials, you’ll need to figure those costs into the retail price of your item (or to add on an additional shipping/handling fee). Keeping costs down in the packaging department means more affordable items for customers and higher margins for you.

Going Above and Beyond with Product Packaging Design

Many ecommerce sellers default to using the easiest or cheapest product packaging. While this is understandable in the early days of an ecommerce store, sellers should try to shift to creating an impression with their packaging.

In other words, it is essential to design packaging that is pleasing and impactful to the customer. Let’s take a look at some of the ways that can be achieved.

Packaging Design Points

Some ecommerce businesses may not know where to begin when it comes to designing packaging for ecommerce. Fortunately, some immediate design points can be considered, such as:

  • Product size and shape: One of the first factors to view is the size and shape of the product. If a product is uniquely shaped, it may be worth having a custom-shaped box created for it.
  • Colors: Packaging color alone can make a difference when it comes to creating an impression. No one enjoys the color of a simple cardboard box or black bag. If the company has a logo or color branding, these can be great themes to introduce to packaging.
  • Copy: Copy is the written words that are included in a package. If there will be a copy included on the package, it is vital to use it effectively. The copy should be clear enough to communicate the point but concise to not overwhelm the reader.
  • Imagery/Graphics: Imagery and graphics on packaging add visual appeal for the customer. These can include items or things associated with the product. For example, if the product is an herbal shampoo, the packaging could have herbs or associated ingredients detailed around it.
  • Audience: The target audience should always be one of the most senior design points. After all, the point of designing packaging is to appeal to those who will buy the product. Consider who has been purchasing the product and what audience should want it. Is it a specific age group or gender? Is it for those with a specific interest?
  • Internal flair: Add a bit of glamour to packaging by including internal flair through tissue paper, inserts, or other decoration. This makes the package that much more pleasing for customers to open.

Packaging Customization

Customization is always a good thing, and there are a couple of different ways you can accomplish this for your packaging. The option that’s best for you will depend on your needs and budget. We’ll look at two different avenues, as well as the pros and cons of both.

DIY Customization

If you are a small to mid-sized ecommerce business and are managing the shipping process on your own, you can implement customization on the standard packaging you’ve ordered with the help of custom-made stamps, stickers, and packing tape that reinforce your company branding. This is a more hands-on and time-intensive approach, but works for those who want to minimize packaging-related expenses.

Pros: The DIY customization route adds a personal touch to packaging, as each order will look slightly different than the others. It’s also much more cost-friendly to add these low-cost customizations on your own.

Cons: Adding the custom stamp and/or branded stickers to your packaged orders will take more time, and won’t look as standardized as if you used custom-made, branded packaging.

Customized Packaging

For those who want a more standardized and polished look to their shipped orders, custom-made packaging may be the route to go. You can design and order custom packaging from sites like Packlane or Pakible, and create shipping materials that reinforce your branding.

Pros: Each order’s packaging is exactly the same, and it’s one less step for you in the order fulfillment department. This look is polished and professional.

Cons: Overall it’s more expensive, and it doesn’t have the handmade touch that the DIY approach does.

Eco-Friendly Packaging

The rise in ecommerce has also led to a significant increase in waste production, which has made more people concerned about the environmental impacts. Fortunately, this has also contributed to an increase in eco-friendly packaging.

There are ample eco-friendly materials, packaging made from recycled materials, and more. This can be a great way for ecommerce businesses to adhere to their eco-friendly standards and appeal to customers with the same interests.

Conclusion

Product packaging is a critical part of ecommerce, and there can be a lot to it.

However, creating or finding the proper packaging that protects your products and elevates your brand can be key to ecommerce success.

We hope this guide helped you learn everything you need about product packaging.

Good luck in your selling journey!

 

Frequently Asked Questions

We have compiled some common questions asked by those new to online selling.

What is ecommerce packaging?

Ecommerce packaging is the supplies and process associated with enclosing, protecting, and shipping a product to a customer.

Is there a standard packaging for ecommerce purposes?

There is no standard packaging for ecommerce products, as it can vary depending on the product’s size, fragility, and more. However, cardboard boxes tend to be the most common choice.

Do you need packaging stamps for ecommerce products?

Packaging stamps can be an easy way to add the address to any packaging when self-fulfilling. However, it is more common to use prepaid shipping labels with all the necessary information to save time and shipping costs.

 


Learn more

Create an online store with Ecwid in minutes

 

Looking For A Packaging Manufacturer?

Finding the right packaging manufacturer for your product can be a difficult endeavor. With so many options available, it is important to vet each one carefully before making a decision. One of the first steps in this process should be to identify what you need and then search for packaging manufacturers that have those abilities.


If they do not have them on their list of services, simply move on to another company as there are plenty out there who specialize in a variety of different fields.


This article will give you a rundown of everything you need to know about choosing a packaging partner for your next product launch.

What Are The Benefits of Using A Custom Packaging Manufacturer?

Custom packaging can have a huge range of impacts on your brand and supply chain. You may be able to reduce costs as you grow if you use custom packages, which is great for small businesses who are trying to start out with little money in the budget! And just as a bonus, check out these 5 Benefits Of Working With A Packaging Manufacturer to learn more.


Better Access To Quality


First, they have access to high quality materials and equipment that you won't have access to via wholesale suppliers. So you know that your product will be well protected during shipping, look great, and fit your products exactly as you need them to.


Increase Your Brand Appeal


Second, you can increase your customer base by making your brand stand out with a better design. Stop blending in with the generic products and increase your visibility. They offer you the ability to create your own customized design, which is something that can't be done with off-the-shelf packaging products


More Nimble Supply Chain


Finally, custom manufacturers also give you the opportunity to order small quantities without having to invest in large volume orders. That is because some of them are setup with High-Speed Digital Printers that allow for smaller runs that can help a business get their foot in the door and establish themselves as innovators by using custom designs, which may not be feasible on larger printing presses.


Related Manufacturing Design Tips:

  • Walmart Packaging Design Tips
  • Costco Packaging Design Tips

How Do You Find A Reliable Manufacturer?

Identify what your packaging needs are. Consider what your packaging goals are for this product and where you want to take it. Gather all the dimensions and weight of your products, and potential material needs. And be knowledgeable about the label regulations associated with your business category.


Find The Right Business Partner


Search for packaging manufacturers that have those abilities, and examples of great work. Once you find a few manufacturers who can work with your needs, check out their reviews and testimonials. Ask for references from others that they have worked with in the past. You want to make sure that this is a legitimate company before moving forward with them.


Review Their History


Finally, you want to have clear information about their quality of materials, turnaround time, and price. You should never be paying more than what you are willing to spend but you also don't want to sacrifice quality. Be sure to check reviews online for feedback on the company's services and products before signing any contracts.


Finding a reliable custom packaging manufacturer that you will work well with is an important step towards generating a successful product launch!

How Can I Find A Manufacturer That Specializes In High Or Low Volume Production Runs?

There are a few different kinds of packaging manufacturers in the world.


Integrated Packaging Manufacturer


First, there are some known as "integrated". They specialize in extremely large runs of more simple packaging needs. This allows them to lower their costs, but only offer so much in terms of customization and presentation.


Independent Packaging Manufacturer


Second, there are independent packaging companies, and no two are alike. Each one offers a unique set of solutions to brands, but the key thing to focus on is what your growth goals are. You want to find a partner that has other solutions that you plan to grow into as a business, so that you supply chain and relationships are already established.


Niche Packaging Manufacturer


Next, there are online and niche businesses that focus on different categories of packaging. Most of these online businesses focus on small e-commerce focused packaging like mailers and shippers. They offer great materials and designs, but don't have easy ways for you to grow as a business in other packaging and POP Display areas.


Wholesale Packaging Manufacturer


Finally, there are wholesale packaging suppliers. These are suppliers that buy standard packaging items in large bulk quantities. The limited options of large quantities allows them to sell smaller units to customers on a first come basis. The problem is many of them are passing along a higher margin cost to you per order.


Choose The Right Manufacturer


Finding a packaging manufacturer that specializes in small or large volume production runs can be challenging. The key is to find one whose solutions align with your business goals and growth plans. Whichever type of supplier you choose, make sure they offer customization and presentation options as well as other services you're looking for.

What Are The Options For Printing Services?

When it comes to packaging, the graphics and printing are the most important part of the entire process. You want to make sure that you choose the right option for your order, category, and brand. At first they can seem a little daunting, so let's do a quick breakdown.


Flexography


Flexography is a printing process that typically uses between 1 and 4 ink colors. This means it is not well suited for any images, or "high resolution" artwork. But it is a very cheap printing process for larger quantities.


Lithography


Lithography has been the industry standard for many years for high graphic and quality, large volume work. This is typically used by larger brands who print a large amount of packaging every year.


Litho Lam


Litho Lam is the process of printing a paper graphic and then gluing it to the packaging. Avoiding printing directly to the corrugated entirely. This is also typically reserved for larger quantity orders due to the additional gluing process.


Digital Printing


Digital Printing is the most exciting printing process in the entire industry. We were one of the first to invest because we knew it was and is a game changer. It's able to print small orders with ease because it doesn't have printing plates, and looks extremely high quality. Not to mention it can allow brands to be more nimble with their marketing by running multiple smaller orders, and creating graphics for every SKU. The best part about Digital is that it's a more sustainable printing method. Using less waste, resources, and delivering your packaging faster than every other method.


Related: 10 Tips To Make Your Packaging More Sustainable


Finding The Right Process


Every business has a different goal and marketing needs. But when it comes to printing packaging, there are many options that can make your life easier. Contact us if you need help determining which process is best for your order size or the type of graphics on file with us. We're always happy to provide information!


Related: Printing Coating Options

  • Aqueous Coating
  • UV Coating
  • Varnish Coating

Who Do I Contact At The Packaging Manufacturer?

Typically your first interaction will be with a sales team member. These employees are trained on all of the technical knowledge of what their business offers, and can get you started and in the system.


Once you are in the system and have a RFQ, you will begin talking with the design department and project managers. They will be focused on locking in the structure and graphics that suit you best, and sourcing your materials for the entire supply chain.


Their goal is to make it an easy a process for you and your team, while also delivering a great product. If you have any specific questions about the printing process, pricing options, or if you need help deciding on the best printing option for your project, contact us today. We're always happy to help with information and provide more insight into finding the right supplier for your needs!

Bennett Packaging Can Help You

We are one of the largest independent manufacturers in North America with a wide array of capabilities to help our customers grow. Our capabilities include simply RSC shippers, to more complex shelf-ready packaging, all the way up to custom point of purchase retail displays.


Whether you need a team with award winning designers, or just a manufacturing partner for your supply chain, we are here to help. Contact us today to get started on a custom quote.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Long Does A Quote Usually Take For Packaging?

This can vary greatly depending on a few factors. If your order is custom or a standard size, how busy the manufacturer is, and how large your quantity is.

Should I Buy A Standard Design Or Custom Packaging?

Determine what your budget will allow for first and start there. If a standard size works, consider it first before you move into the custom design arena.

Are There Standard Minimum Orders For Packaging?

Depending on the supplier you go with, it will be very different. Wholesalers will usually allow for lower minimums, while other manufacturers can offer them too but at a higher price.

Everything You Need To Know To Find The Best Box Packaging Manufacturer

How Do I Find A Packaging Manufacturer?