The top 10 items US consumers are embarrassed to buy at physical shops include condoms (29%), emergency contraceptives (26%), bed bug spray (26%), head lice treatment (25%), hemorrhoid cream (24%), diarrhea medication (24%), pregnancy kit (23%), bladder leak or incontinence products (23%), menstrual products (23%), and cold sore medicine (23%).

More good news: brands can ship your order without any product identification or company name to prevent couriers or nosy neighbors from discovering what you bought from their store.

And that’s what discreet packaging is all about. 

Discreet packaging uses plain—no conspicuous design or imagery—shipment boxes or mailers with minimal labeling to avoid drawing attention and ensure its contents remain confidential.

Ambiguous Exterior: “Masking” What’s Inside

Discreet packaging uses the following to keep its contents a secret:

1. Plain boxes or bags

You can use plain white, Kraft, or neutral-colored carton mailers, shipping boxes (full overlap or slotted), or bags with little to no branding.

2. Generic/White labels

Discreet shipping labels can feature only a tracking number, recipient’s address, and any legally required descriptions, depending on your product. You don’t have to include your company name or business logo.

3. Stealth packaging

Packaging materials with tamper-proof features aren’t easy to rip open, securing the quality—and quantity—of its contents. They may use special seals and tapes that need scissors or blades to open. This makes it obvious if others besides the recipient attempted to look inside.

Product Categories Requiring Discreet Packaging

Customers are most likely to request or expect discreet shipping for the following categories:

1. Medication and healthcare products

Some health conditions are considered too embarrassing or sensitive that your customers are secretive about them and may prefer discreet packaging for their medicine. Examples include:

• Digestive and urinary problems (diarrhea, constipation, hemorrhoids, incontinence)
• Personal hygiene troubles (body odor, foul breath, excessive sweating)
• Hair and skin trouble (balding and acne)
• Snoring or sleep apnea
• Fungal or viral infection (toes, nails, reproductive organs)
• Pregnancy

Take InControl Diapers, for example. A YouTube video from InControl shows that the adult urine and bowel incontinence diaper brand delivers orders in plain packaging. The box only has a label with your shipment number, name, and address.

2. Vapes

The amended Prevent All Cigarette Trafficking Act (PACT Act) prohibits the shipment of vaping products, e-cigarettes, and similar devices with or without “aerosolized solutions” via the US Postal Service (USPS). 

It also specifies the wording for packaging labels. “Permitted [cigarette/smokeless tobacco/ENDS] mailing—delivery only upon age verification” must appear in all caps on the mailpiece’s address side, based on its mailing guidelines. 

VapeA1 boasts “extra discreet plain box shipping.” The company ships customers’ packages from any of its four warehouses with available supplies that are closest to them.

3. Cannabidiol (CBD)

CBD regulations vary by state but have common features. For instance, New York State’s Office of Cannabis Management and California’s Department of Cannabis Control require CBD retailers to use child-resistant and tamper-evident packaging that encloses the entire product.

CBD packaging shouldn’t contain elements—such as cartoonish or bubble-like fonts and bright colors—that can be confused with candies or snacks and may attract people aged 20 and below. 

Also, the state expects CBD retailers to use packaging material that will protect the content from light and other contaminants that can lead to product deterioration during storage. Both states require graphic markers on the CBD boxes and packaging.

Overall, vendors should accurately indicate CBD levels on product labels to avoid getting warning letters from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). 

One recent agency study showed that only 31% of 84 CBD extracts sold online bore labels accurately listing the CBD content of their goods. The FDA has issued warnings to 12 firms marketing CBD-related products as of July 26, 2023.

Meanwhile, six companies received cease and desist letters from the Federal Trade Commission for using deceptive marketing for their edible goods containing Delta-8 tetrahydrocannabinol, another compound from cannabis sativa. The packaging resembled the designs of popular snacks, such as Doritos, Cheetos, and Nerds Rope Candy.

Utah-based WholesomeCo shows a discreet but not plain-looking packaging for its medical cannabis.

4. Adult products

Adult products include alcoholic drinks, lingerie, and sexual wellness products or sex toys.

New Zealand-based company Elusive Lingerie tells its customers to specify in the shipping “Notes” section that they want discreet shipping. Otherwise, they’ll get their order in a plain white but branded box.

Standard shipping procedures apply for sexy sleepwear, but for liquor and pleasure toys, consider the following:

Liquor

Like in CBD, state governments set rules for shipping liquor directly to consumers, including the allowable types, maximum amount, and required permit or license. In general, brands can’t send them through the USPS.

Eight states and territories accept D2C shipments of all spirits, according to the National Conference of State Legislatures website, which lists the details of each state’s requirements:

• Hawaii
• Nebraska
• Kentucky
• West Virginia
• New Hampshire
• Rhode Island
• Florida
• District of Columbia

In most states, shipments must be conspicuously labeled with these wordings: “Contains alcohol: Signature of person age 21 or older required for delivery.” 

Labels on alcohol shipments for New York residents must also have the same words but must end with “Not for Resale.” Meanwhile, the labels on North Dakota-bound shipments don’t require the phrase “Contains alcohol.”

Pleasure toys

Brands should check state laws on shipping sex toys, the sale of which is banned in Alabama (due to its Anti-Obscenity Enforcement Act of 1998), Texas, and Georgia. In Texas, these adult products should be identified as “novelties.” You’ll find them sold at local novelty stores.

Bonjibon uploaded a video on TikTok showing its “super boring” white label-plain packaging for its sexual wellness products.

Expensive or luxury goods

Luxury or high-end products include:

• Fashion items: watches, jewelry, precious stones, expensive perfume, designer clothing, bags, and shoes
• High-tech gadgets: headphones, tablets, laptops, electronics, drones, video or film production devices, medical equipment
• Artwork: prints, paintings, sculptures, collectibles

6. Political items

You can ship individual candidate campaign products to thank donors and supporters or send them in bulk ahead of mass rallies and sorties. These items can include:

• Pins
• Magnets
• Bumper stickers
• Doorknob hanger tags
• Pens
• Notepads
• Stress balls
• Hand fans
• Sunglasses
• Wristbands
• Lanyards
• Keychains
• Umbrellas
• Caps and hats
• Banners
• Balloons
• Table throws
• Mugs
• Tote bags
• Shirts
• Yard signs
  

3 Steps for Memorable Unboxing with Discreet Packaging

In customizing your discreet packaging’s interior, you can go all-out on box design, colors, and messaging. Get as creative as you want to provide a unique unboxing experience by trying these steps:

1. Greet your customer

Print “Thank you,” “Hello,” or any other catchy and personalized message at the back of your box’s cover or lid to acknowledge your client’s purchase and to introduce your brand further.

Your business name, logo, and other particulars can also fill this spot.

2. Wrap their order in custom tissue paper and a brand sticker

Use tissue paper and stickers bearing your logo, brand name, colors, and patterns to make your customers remember your business even after they’ve used up your product.

3. Include promotional inserts

Add custom promotional inserts based on your engagement and customer acquisition goals:

• Thank buyers with a customized insert instead of printing a message on the back of your box’s lid.
• Get client feedback on their purchase and connect with them online through social share inserts.
• Include a referral card to the package encouraging current customers to refer their friends to your company with a purchase discount.

You can also use these inserts for instructions on using the product or to share your company history, online or offline events, and upsell opportunities. 

How Discreet Packaging Boosts Your Business

You can reap the following benefits when you offer discreet packaging:

Privacy

Confidentiality works two ways—by concealing your business name and the specifics of your customer’s order, you guard your reputation and your buyer’s privacy.

Some frustrated clients take videos of discreet shipping failures. Prospects who come across such videos are likely to get turned off when they discover your brand doesn’t ship as discreetly as you claim.

Meanwhile, contented customers can polish your image when they leave positive feedback on your review forms and social channels for your expert handling of their sensitive orders.

Security

Discreet packaging isn’t just for embarrassing body-related products but also for high-end items. Generic-looking packaging can prevent theft, damage, or destruction.

Box interior optimization

Although you must be unobtrusive on the outside, your box can bear all your branding elements on the inside. 

Optimize your packaging box’s interior by printing your brand colors, logo, slogan, or personalized message on it. You can also wrap your product with custom tissue and seal it with a custom label or sticker. 

Be intentional with your packaging inserts—use eco-friendly materials for dividers or holders, and include thank you and social share request cards to promote extended engagement with your shoppers.

Available Courier Services for Your Discreet Packages

The country’s top couriers treat various product categories differently. Below is a summary of their services:

You can also opt to work with a fulfillment center, which offers discreet labeling along with shipping services.

Future-Proof Your Business with Discreet Packaging

With 24% of retail purchases expected to happen online by 2026, offering delivery options to your customers—including discreet shipping—can prevent you from being pushed aside by fierce competitors. Over two million retailers operate in the country according to the Census Bureau.

Surprise your customers—or at least don’t make them regret shopping with you—by working with seasoned packaging suppliers that provide white-glove treatment from box type selection to prototyping.

Refine Packaging specializes in customized mailers and shipping boxes, including packaging for brands that seek a balance between a discreet exterior and an impressive interior box design.

We can work with a print-ready design that aligns with our artwork guidelines to ensure a smooth and speedy production process. At the same time, our packaging design specialists can provide expert advice, from box structure to packaging inserts and inside printing. These accomplished graphic artists and engineers can apply their expertise and skills to make your packaging a trust-building vehicle for your brand.

Your journey with us includes 2D and 3D mockup development, which allows you to examine and test your box in its folded-up form before production. Contact us today to discuss your discreet packaging needs.

The post Discreet Packaging: The Ultimate Retail Embarrassment Cure appeared first on Refine Packaging.

Technical packaging terminology can be difficult to understand, even for those in the field for years. If you need to learn about the jargon and terminologies that are commonly used in the packaging industry, this is the guide you need. 

Why Are Packaging Definitions Important to Know? 

By understanding packaging definitions, you’ll save time, communicate more clearly and effectively with your team, and build a stronger reputation and overall custom packaged product. 

The Individuals Who Should Know Packaging Terms  

Ultimately, custom packaging and package design takes place within a company or with multiple degrees of external packaging engineering, often requiring support from independent contractors, consultants, vendor evaluations, independent laboratories, contract packagers, total outsourcing, graphic designers, among other disciplines. Here is a list of professional that should know packaging and printing terms to work more efficiently: 

• Packaging designers 
• Customer service representatives of such companies 
• Brand managers 
• Packaging technicians 
• Material scientists 
• Printers and press operators 
• Packaging engineers 
• Prepress technicians 
• Production managers 
• Ink technologists 
• Finishing technicians 
• Packaging consultants 
• Quality control and assurance personnel 
• Supply chain managers 
• Sustainability managers 
• Machine operators 
• Technical support specialists 
• Regulatory compliance officers 
• Sales and marketing professionals 
• Procurement and purchasing managers 
• Product development managers 
• Artwork coordinators 
• Brand strategists 
• Graphic designers working on these projects 
• Research and development teams 

Without further ado, let’s dig into our complete glossary of packaging definitions from A to Z!

Shop Popular Products

Custom Mailer Boxes with Logo

Learn More

Custom Soap Boxes

Learn More

Custom Vape Cartridge Boxes

Learn More

Custom Hair Extension Boxes

Learn More

CBD Boxes

Learn More

Customizable Candle Box Wholesale

Learn More

Pillow Boxes

Learn More

Custom Printed Eyelash Boxes

Learn More

Custom Cardboard Boxes & Cardboard Packaging

Learn More

Custom Printed Product Boxes for Retail

Learn More

Custom Lip Gloss Boxes

Learn More

Custom-Made Lip Balm Packaging Boxes

Learn More

CBD Display Boxes

Learn More

Custom Bath Bomb Boxes

Learn More

Custom Collapsible Boxes

Learn More

Custom Kraft Boxes

Learn More

Custom Printed Medicine Packaging Boxes

Learn More

Custom Hanger Boxes

Learn More

Numerical Terms

0100 In The Industry: The type of sheets and rolls you can use for commercial purposes. It refers to the types that work for only one side.  

0200 Slotted Boxes: A type of box that is used for packaging purposes. It comes in the form of top and bottom flaps that are stitched or glued.  

0201: A standard regular box with outer flaps that meet the top and bottom for sealing. 

0300: A type of box with a telescope style and more than one piece alongside a lid.  

0500: A type of box that carries several liners or pieces and slides into each other in multiple directions as well. 

0900: This jargon is used for treatments that you can add inside your boxes in the form of partitions, pads, and liners. They work as a singular item; you can also glue them as one item. 

0700: This type of container has one piece; you would ship them in flat form. At the same time, they are ready-to-use types that need a very easy and simple assembly. 

0600: This term is used for rigid style processes that normally have two pieces that are separate. You can switch them together before they are used, and they are known for being large industrial types. 

0400: This is another type of folder box and toys that have pieces of box and hinges. At the same time, they come with interlocking tabs. 

3PL: Acronym for third-party logistics.  

Terms Starting with A

ABS: A logistic that you can create with injection molding and has the ability to give you rigidity and toughness. Although it is a great material that you can use for your packaging, it may be expensive. 

Accelerated Test: A test that allows you to find out about the strength of a coating or a box. The main purpose is to test products in shorter intervals that may occur than in real life. 

Acid Rain: This refers to a mixture of wet and dry deposition that you can have in that atmosphere. This table is important in the packaging and printing industry as well. Acid rain can cause issues to the sources that help the industry create raw materials for their processes.  

Acrylic: A type of thermoplastic material you can get from the polymerization process. So, it is a packaging method that can help you get perfect results for your needs.  

Acrylonitrile: That can provide you with transparency, resistance, and rigidity. There are multiple features it can provide in comparison to its alternatives. 

Additive: The additive is a type of packaging or printing material that you can use to get a certain result for it. 

Adhesive Bleed: It can help you get results against a label material being too pressure sensitive. Multiple scenarios can cause it, like excessive roll winding tension or cold flow. 

Aerosol: This term is used for a range of containers that have specific criteria to meet to get this name.  One of the features they must contain to have this name is a pressure-resistant container that is also gas-tight. Such a box should also have a desired product. 

Aerosol Components: This system is used for liquefied or compressed gasses that you can pack with pressure propulsion containers. This method aims to bring enough pressure to get discharge from a valve. 

Aerosol Services: These are filling arousal products that you use as original formulations and can also be customer supplied.

AlphaSeal: This term is used for units that come with the help of getting a folding box board or virgin pulp wood. There are stringent requirements to meet the standards of these products for the food industry. There is a complete range of materials you can use, like aluminum foil. 

Alternative Fuels: Fuels used in the packaging industry during shipping and transportation. 

Amber Glass: It is a type of brown-colored grass that is used for multiple types of packaging processes. One of the main features of this material is the reduction of light effect on the products packed inside. 

Anneal Bubble Pack: A type of temperature process you can use for creating glass products with the use of stresses and strains. You can use natural and uneven cooling for it.    

Antioxidant: A type of chemical substance you can use for the purpose of preventing the effects of oxygen on plastic material. Such an oxygen attack can cause brittleness in plastic products and reduces their likability and features.  

Anti-Skid Corrugated: A type of corrugated board that comes with chemical treatment and an embossing effect. The benefit of such boxes would be a stable palette and unit load.  

Additive: A substance that you can apply to the surface of a plastic product that you can add to it. The main benefit you get from this one is getting rid of electrostatic charges in your products. 

Applicator Cap: A type of clay closure that you can add to a packaging box to apply content to them, such as grease spouts or daubers. 

Applicator Rod:  A type of short glass rod, which comes in the measurement of 2 MM to 4 MM in diameter. You can use it alongside an applicator cap that can help cut a cap.  

Assembly: A process in which you combine different box elements into one product. The use of such procedures would be to avoid any contamination inside your box. 

AQL: Acronym for the acceptable quality level of a box. This is the maximum percentage move or proportion of a variant In the units that you get with a certain production. The quality assurance department ensures that this variable is under certain guidelines. 

Aromatherapy Packaging: These are the items you can use for packaging aromatherapy products which can also be aluminum bottles, candle holders, and others. 

Aseptic Packaging: A technique you can use to place a product into a box with sterilization kept in mind. The purpose of this process is completed when you get sterilization for your product and the box. Another benefit you get from this packaging product is that there’s no refrigeration requirement for such products. This also applies when the package seal is broken.  

Ampul: A type of smaller container that you can make from glass or plastic tubes. You can draw it into a stem and close it by fusion once you have filled it. You can use a bottom that may be flat and can also draw out as you require it to.  

Ampules/Accessories: These are ampules and also accessories that you can find in the form of breakers, sleeves, and others.  

AN: A material that comes with rigidity, excellent barrier properties, and transparency. This material is used for thermoforming as well. 

Autoclave: A type of pressure vessel that allows you to standardize packages with the help of high-temperature steam or vapor.  

Average Wall Thickness: A type of measurement that you find by measuring the thickest section of a box wall and the thinnest one. Then you divide them into two to find out this measurement.  

Avoirdupois Weight: A system of weights you can use for the purpose of measuring goods. But you are not supposed to measure precious metals and drugs with this unit.  

Animal Healthcare Products in Packaging and Printing: Products that are used for healthcare purposes and come in the packaging category. Injection-molded items are a common example of such packaging products used in the animal health sector.  

Aerosol Components: A type of material that is used for the purpose of creating bottles and boxes. For instance, extruded aluminum containers over caps and closures.  

Autoclavable: Products you can produce from resins and give you the ability to bear up to 250 degrees of temperature for up to 45 minutes. 

Abrasion Resistance: The endurance of a packaging material against scratching and wrapping. This term refers to how strong our packaging material is when it comes to such issues from the use of products that come from them. 

Across Flute: This term is used to measure edited materials as it is a unit for their measurement. 

A-Flute: A type of corrugated flute that is thickest in their category. 

Air Freight: A term used for the products you transport by air. It’s important to have special considerations when packaging such products, such as the sensitivity of the goods, their dimensions, center of gravity, and mass.  

Aluminum: A common material for packaging purposes, known for being lightweight and non-toxic. 

Allocated Inventory In Packaging: The material quantity that a department has been assigned for their production. 

Adhesive: A material that helps bond multiple surfaces into one. 

Anaerobic Digestion: Part of biodegradable waste treatment that helps reduce landfill gas emissions into the atmosphere.  

Anti-Scuff Bicell: A type of basal sheet that you can use without any woven fabrics. These normally work for the outer surfaces of the item and can help against damage to that product. 

Antistat: An anti-static type of packaging that helps avoid any static current in your packaging. This method can help reduce the chances of product damage due to this issue. The full form of this word is anti-static. 

Artwork: This term means the logo or unique design that you can create for your packaging, which are typically associated with specific artwork guidelines.  

Automotive: This term is used for cars and similar vehicles that may be considered in the packaging industry.  

Astraboard: A type of polypropylene that is used inside cases and is famous for its strength and lightweight. 

Attenuate: Reduction of force on products that are sensitive to vibration.  

ATA: Abbreviation of an association that promotes the safety of your case and packaging specifications. The basic functionality of this association is to promote the safety of these products during air transit jobs. 

Terms Starting with B

Backing Liner: A type of paper material you can use to eliminate surface irregularities in packaging products. At the same time, it has the ability to be resistant to water and carry extra strength. 

Banding: This type of machine can help improve the level of security you can have with different items.   

Back Off: Loosening a cap that may occur due to improper cap application torque.  

Backing Liner: A type of compressible paper material to which you can attach the liner. This paper allows you to get rid of any regulation regularities that may exist on the sealing surface. At the same time, you get better strength, appearance, and resistance against spoiling factors. 

Baffle Mark: A type of bottom defect that may occur due to a seam coming between the baffle and the blank mold. 

Bag-In-Box: A type of sealed plastic bag that you can find inside a rigid outer box. The most common use of this one is for packing liquid products that can be of different viscosities. 

Bags: When we talk about bags, there is a long list of products that you can find in the packaging industry. These can be poly bags, mailing currency, anti-static, and many other types of bags.  

Bail: A type of wire handle that allows you to carry a product inside a box. You can weld these two to the opposite sides of boxes to get better results for carrying purposes.   

Barrier Material: A term used to classify packaging materials that offer protection for the environment. You can find these materials with the properties of having pores. At the same time, this helps remove passage of microorganisms, which helps prevent contamination in the boxes.  

Barex: A type of polymer that you can make out of Acrylonitrile. You can also have methyl acrylate and butadiene in these. You can get impressive gas barrier properties and chemical resistance with these. At the same time, it provides you with a good impact. 

Barrels: Barrels are a common type of garden, food, storage, or wine type of containers, which can also be made out of plastic. 

Barrier Material: Any type of material that can help reduce the chances of passage of moisture, gas, and other problem-causing factors into the packaging. 

Baseline Performance: Standards that industry manufacturers adhere to for comparing the performance of their products. 

Bead: A type of narrow and round projection that you can find above or below the surface of a packaging box. 

Bent Finish: A type of finished defect that normally has a bent or crooked appearance on it. You can also call it a crooked finish, in short.  

Barcode: A type of code that can help packaging and printing professionals to understand different aspects about products. For instance, it can help with the SKUs of the product. 

Blown Glass: A term for containers that are created from molten glass. The use of air pressure in this process is a prominent factor that helps create the required shape.  

Blushing: Widening or discoloration that may occur in a plastic bottle. The reasons behind this event can be physical or chemically induced phase separation.  

Board: A heavy-weight thick sheet of paper that can also be created from other fiber substances.  

Boston Round: A style of portal which has the features of a cylindrical shape and roundness. The most common use of this container is in the Pharmaceutical industry. 

Beacon: A network of high-growth businesses also famous for their positions. 

Blank: A piece of corrugated box that has been prepared for making a box. Normally it is in a cut-and-scored form. 

Beers Tray: A type of folding tray that is made of corrugated material. You can find it to have glued corners, and it is quite effective for shipping and storage purposes. 

Bevel: A type of edge of container structure that does not have a 90-degree angle to the container.  

Bins: Boxes used for the purpose of storage of hardware and small parts. You can find them in the shape of corrugated cardboard and recycled plastic. Also, they are useful for shelving and hanging from panels. 

Bioburden: The relative number of microorganisms that you can find for a product at a specific time. This measurement may also apply to the level of microorganisms that you can find in a specific area during air sampling.  

Biofuel: A type of fuel that you can get from organic matter and not fossil products. 

Bird Swing: An edge oversight defect or a string of glass you can find inside a bottle. 

Black Spots: General defect or a small black speck that you may find inside a glass bottle or box in the packaging industry. 

Blake: A certain type of style of straight oblong bottle used in the Pharmaceutical industry. You can also call them space savers and wide-mouth packers. 

Bicell: A plastic sheet material brand you can consider to be a quality product. You can use it as an alternative to Correx. 

Bitmap: A type of digital graphic that is based on pixels normally. They have very large files, and you cannot resize them without losing their quality. 

B-Flute: A term that refers to a corrugated flute that has 1/8th of an inch. 

Bleached Pulp: A type of pulp that you can get by oxidizing chemicals.  

Bott: A term for an Aluminum case manufacturer in the packaging industry. 

Blister Packs: Blister packs are a common type of packaging made from transparent molded plastic, providing a tamper-proof solution for sensitive products, such as for medical and pharmaceutical product packaging.  

Blisters: Blisters are quite different from a blister pack, as blisters can be inside a glass in the form of a bubble. 

Blow Molding: A process that you can use to create plastic containers and bottles. This process also involves molding into two halves of a mold. At the same time, air pressure is used to create mold cavities in products made with this process. 

Blow Pin: A part of tooling that you can use for creating hollow objects or containers with the help of the blow molding process. You can consider it a tubular tool that allows air pressure into a container to shape the mold you want. 

Biodegradable: A material that can decompose in natural conditions. The factors that degrade it are bacteria and other living organisms. 

Blow Molding: A type of process that you can use to mold plastics. There are three main types of this process which are injection, injection stretch, and extrusion molding.  

Bondline: A term for structural parts of a packaging product, including the adhesive part. 

Board: This term is for a thick type of sheet of paper that comes in different variations. Cardboard, containerboard, and fiberboard are 3 common examples of this type.   

Bonding: A process to combine different pieces of foam or plastic. The use of this process allows you to get desired thickness and shape of your packaging products. 

Board Grade: The type of rate that you can give to corrugated boards on three different elements. 

Branding: Branding is a unique aspect or design found on your packaging boxes – such as a logo, color scheme, pattern, icon, slogan, or symbol – that helps people quickly recognize a specific product or suite of products. 

Break Pack: A type of transit container that can be a corrugated case. 

Bubble Pack: Type of package used to protect products inside your packaging. The basic mechanism of this pack is to create a cushioning between the product and potential damaging factors. 

Bottom Plate: Part of the mold carrying heel radius and helps to push up the box. 

Boundary and Scope: These are the two terms you can use for the measurement of project parameters and help define attributes and conditions for them. 

Bruise Check: A side effect or edge that may appear on the side of our product. 

Bulged Finish: A type of finished effect that may be blown out of shape during the production of a box. 

Bung: A type of plug you can use to close a barrel. You can also try using it for closing a drum bunghole. 

Burn Line: A type of dark streak of material you can have inside a plastic bottle. It can result in the decomposition of the material. 

Butterchipboard: A type of pigmented chipboard popular for having smooth sides. You can use it for laminating aluminum foil and quote it with a release quote. 

Buttress Thread: A design of a thread profile that can take certain forms, like a right triangle or a slightly different form.  

Brush Marks: A general defect that can be on the side of a box. Such artifacts may also appear on the neck of a packaging box. 

Brushes: Common packaging equipment that you can use in multiple activities. For instance, you can use them for cosmetic dental, medical, or other applications. 

Terms Starting with C

Capacity: The total volume of space a container can offer for a product that you want to store inside it. 

CAD: This term stands for the computer-aided design you can use in the form of electronic design automation. You can create them in the form of interactive engineering drawings with the retrieval and storage processes. 

CAM: This term is used for a process in the manufacturing of these products. You can use this one to feed data into machines and manufacture products with this data.   

Cap: Cover of a bottle or any packaging that keeps it sealed. Using this part of your packaging ensures that you avoid any type of adulteration into it by keeping it tamper-evident. 

Canning Supplies: Terminology for mason jars and closures. 

Carboy: A type of bottle or other that you can make out of clay, plastic, or metal. Notable for its ability to contain a capacity of three to 13 gallons, used for shipments of spring water and comparable resources.   

Catalyst: A type of chemical substance that can improve a chemical reaction but does not take part in this event. 

Cavity: The process of plastic blow molding, which works to provide the body of the container. 

Carry on Approved: A type of case you can use to meet the luggage requirements for your airline hand luggage needs. 

Chemical Block: This term is used for a form that produces a block of chemical resistance. 

Chop Edge: The chopping-edge is the length of the board or the sheet you use for packaging products.  

CDA: This type of agreement ensures that different organizations do not disclose certain information about certain commitments.  

Coatings: There are several types of specialist coatings that you can use on corrugated boxes. These coatings can help you get different types of benefits like waterproofing, anti-corrosion, and other effects. 

Cobb Test: This type of test allows you to understand the total amount of water a certain material has absorbed. 

C-Flute: A type of corrugated material that can help you get crush resistance. At the same time, this material can offer great printing properties.  

Coldset PVA:  This type of adhesive material can become liquid when you heat them to 60 degrees. On the other hand, it will lose fluidity under 20 degrees.  

Collapsible: A type of box that you can fold to ensure that you can easily bulk transport them.  

Conductive: A type of packaging that can offer protection against static currents.  

Corrispring: A type of material you can use as an alternative to foam and polystyrene cushioning often considered for its eco-friendliness. 

Corrugator: This term is used for an industrial machine that combines various paper types to create a new type.  

Corrust: A special type of coating you can use to avoid cohesion corrosion. Its main uses for protecting metal products for both storage and transit processes. 

Corstat: A type of carbon-based coating that you can use for corrugated cardboard. Its ability to get rid of static current makes it important for the packaging and printing industry.  

Corstat Container: Boxes, picking bins, and trays that have anti-static coating on them. 

CQV: Acronym for commissioning, qualifying, and verifying. These management methods ensure that packaging systems and machinery are kept in the best conditions. 

Cradle: Corrugated cardboard inserts and fittings that you can use to protect during shipping. 

Corrugated Material: The main feature of this material is its shape which allows you to get a lot of strength and stability against difficult conditions for packaging products. It carries ridges and grooves that can help improve the ability to provide strength. 

Corrugated Board Material: The main feature of this material is containing fluted paper sheets.   

Containers For Shipping: A type of container that you can use for shipping purposes. 

Contract Packaging: A 3rd party packaging company that provides you with human resources and packaging boxes for your business.  

Countertop: A type of displacement for retail packaging. You can consider them similar to shelf-ready boxes. 

Convertor: Companies that convert raw materials into packaging products. 

Copolymer Resin: A type of plastic material that is famous for its flexibility and toughness. At the same time, it has a great ability for transparency and clarity. 

Cores: Manufactured from wood pulp fiber, the fibers are wrapped around a rod in a spiral to create a tube shape. For the size of the core, consider both the core’s diameter and length.

Corner Blocks: Corners that you can use for form packaging. The main purpose of peace products is to help reduce the chances of product damage during the shipment process.

Correx: A type of twin-walled plastic that has multiple applications in the packaging industry. 

Corriflute: This term is used for Correx plastic material as a second name.  

Carton Board: A type of material that is stiffer than a board. You can use it for its ability to avoid compression and moisture issues. It has the ability to resist both of these issues.  

Closed Loop System: This term is used for an industrial system that carries zero waste and can reuse and recycle all the materials it uses for production. It can even do the composting processes to improve the eco-friendliness of your methods. 

CNC Routing: A process that allows for the usage of different materials. The main benefit of this method is the use of computerized devices. 

Closures: A type of device or technique that you can use for sealing packaging boxes. There are some common techniques for this purpose, like stapling, glowing, and tapping. 

Case Making: Case-making machines are the equipment you need for making a computerized setup.  

Clean Room: A type of assembly and packaging service among the facilities of packaging and printing. The purpose of this facility is to get rid of any contamination during different procedures. 

Case Sealer: A type of manufacturing machine that you can use for sealing and closing the flaps of any boxes. You can use glue and tape to make sure these packaging boxes are sealed well. 

Castors: A type of set of small wheels that you can use for the movement of different objects in the packaging process.

Clay Coat: A thin layer of clay coat that you can coat onto corrugated boxes. This is a method that can help improve the printing surface of this material. One of its common uses is on unbleached kraft paperboard.  

Crash Lock: A box style that allows you to lock its base. The main benefit you get from it is no need for tape for its interlocking system. 

Cratering: Small and thin spots where you can find bubbles in packaging products that you code with paint or dye. 

Crazing: Cracks that can come under a plastic or glass layer. 

Creep: A type of deformation that occurs progressively in packaging material. It can be caused by stress; anything or any factor may apply to it. 

CSI: A company that can project development and specializes in producing corrugated packaging. 

Cushioning: A type of packaging element that allows you to protect fragile products during delivery and transit. 

Cycle: The number of times you can get usage from a packaging product, used for reusable packaging containers.  

Cushioning Curves: These indicate materials that provide you with different levels of thickness. 

Cushioning Bicell: Foam laminate which allows you cushioning properties. At the same time, you get anti-abrasive features with this material. 

Creasing: Folding lines that you can find in packaging that allow you to allow the package to be folded and cut as desired. 

Terms Starting with D

Damage Burst: Term for packaging containers that may burst or split owing to their exposure to too much pressure. 

Declaration: The total amount of shock any packaging product can handle and endure. The main criterion of its measurement is the product should not get damaged by any force applied to it. You can measure it in G force. 

Deckle: The width of the board that you can run on a corrugator.  

Decorative: Aspect of finish used to identify color and printing of a packaging product. 

Demo Case: Cases you can use as a demo during your presentation in the sales meeting or a sales pitch. 

Density: The weight of a gas, solid, or liquid that you can measure in the unit of grams per cubic centimeter. 

Desiccant: A substance that you can use for drying purposes when you need to try water vapor. The main purpose of this is to decrease and control humidity inside sealed packages. You can use multiple substances for these many of these are calcium oxide. 

Design: A packaging design includes drawings and specifications of a packaged product. These specifications help you determine what a box will look like and how it will be constructed as an end product. 

Die: A die is a special type of packaging tool that allows you to customize your packaging products. You can create customized dyes to achieve a certain type of box design and other specifications. 

Die Cutting: A process that allows you to stamp the cuts and scores that you want to add to a packaging design. 

Distributor: Supplier of merchandise or products to a retail seller, who does not use any products but works as a reseller provider. 

Dividers: Devices that separate different sections of a container to ensure they get good protection. 

Dolly: A small type of device that you can use for moving heavy objects. It has a setup that is fixed on builds and allows you to move heavy objects easily. 

Drawing: Creation from an art designer or packaging engineer used for technical purposes.   

Drop Test: Test to find out the durability and capabilities of a packaging box.  

Dump Bins: A type of point-of-sales packaging that allows you to keep different objects disorderly.  

Dunnage: A type of material that you can use to support the protection of packaging against different contaminating factors. Moisture and damage are two factors they allow you to avoid. 

Duplex: A type of paperboard you can make out of two layers, commonly used for coating material to gain resistance against water. Often used for pharmaceutical industry paper cups and many other applications. 

Double Walled Board: A combination of corrugated material layers to make them one. Using this method allows you to get extra strength for your packaging boxes. 

Digitization: A process that allows you to convert data into digital format for packaging and printing purposes. 

Dimensions: The length, depth, and height of a packaging box. 

Direct Food Contact: Direct food contact is the physical contact of any material with food. There are certain regulations that must be followed if you are packaging a product with direct food contact. 

Displays: Type of packaging used to showcase a product or merchandise at the point of sale, which can be made from corrugated material. 

Terms Starting with E 

Ecommerce: Ecommerce or electronic commerce is a term that is used for selling products online. If you provide packaging or other products through the internet, you are in the ecommerce business. 

Ecommerce Packaging: The packaging boxes used for ecommerce purposes are called ecommerce packaging. The purpose of these boxes and packaging is to keep your product safe during transit. 

E-Flute: A type of material that allows you good crush resistance. At the same time, it offers you great quality printing.  

Egg-Box Foam: A type of form that you can use in packaging. A main feature of this one is being flat from one side and grooved from the other.  

Electrostatic: A unit of the decay rate electrostatic charge. 

Embossing: A type of effect that allows you to create raised design or lettering on a packaging material surface. 

EMC: Acronym that stands for electromagnetic management coupling. You can use this term for a case or product that helps you manage electromagnetic energies in packaging and processes. 

Emulsions: A type of topical public quoting which is famous for being water-soluble. At the same time, it would be quarter resistant when it is dry. 

End Caps: A type of form question cushioning that allows you protection for the product you pack inside a corrugated box. 

Environment Agency: Environment agencies work to improve the regulations set for waste production for packaging.  

EPS: Acronym for expandable polystyrene, which is a foam that allows you good thermal insulation and helps you with high impact resistance. You can use it in the construction and packaging industries alike. 

ESD: Acronym that stands for electrostatic discharge, which can be a common problem for packaging products. 

ESD Anti-static: A type of cortex that allows you to store equipment from entering a packaging box or other product. 

ESD Shielding: A type of conductive material that allows you to resist electrostatic charge in packaging. 

Estimate: The total amount a company calculates to produce packaging boxes.  

Extrusion: A type of method used for producing plastic bottles.  

Extrusion Profiles: Term for extrusions of shaped products, which you can get in multiple configurations. These shapes come in box solid and hollow forms. 

Ethafoam: A type of semi-rigid packaging that allows you medium-density lightweight. At the same time, it is quite flexible. 

Euro Box: A tough and durable storage solution that you can get in standardized sizing. You can get these in warehouse facilities.  

Euro Container: This term is used alternately for Euro boxes, as mentioned in the previous section. 

Explorer: These are military-grade cases that reproduced in Italy. 

Terms Starting with F 

Fabrication: The process of manufacturing, often used as a packaging or printing term. 

Falling Dart Impact: A traditional method used to evaluate the strength of plastics. 

Faraday Cage: A type of enclosure that you can use for blocking electric fields. You can find it in the form of conductive materials. Also, they are available in the form of a mesh of such materials.   

Faro: A type of digitization device that allows you to find different computerized versions of a small object used for packaging. 

Fatigue: The deterioration of packaging boxes in use. You can use this term for products that can be used repeatedly.   

Feasibility Study: Studies to determine if you can get certain results from a particular process, as well as what adjustments to the process are needed to receive the desired results.  

FEFCO: Acronym for an organization that sets standards for design patterns for corrugated products in packaging.  

Fiber: Fibers are the smallest unit of material that creates a packaging box., also known as molded pulp. 

Finish: A type of coating or print that you can use on packaging products. There are multiple benefits of these you can have for your packaging products. For instance, it allows you to get rid of any chances of corrosion.  

Foam: A substance that is created through a process of trapping gas pockets inside a solid material. There are different types of these that you can find, like XPS foam and Polyurethane. 

Foam Lining: A type of foam liner that you can use inside a case to get protection for your packed products.  

Folding Carton: A paperboard product that you can fold, print, and laminate. Also, you can use it by cutting and gluing, and the main purpose of this product is the transportation of products.  

Forme: A type of metal cutter that you can use for cardboard scoring. The purpose of this cutting can be die cut finish.  

Fulfillment: The use of third-party warehousing for your inventory services for your packaging production. 

FSA: A food standard agency determines different standards for shipping food products. 

FSDU: A type of display unit you can use for retail packaging products. 

Fittings: A range of fixtures that you can add to cases and can be made from plastics and steel.  

Flatbed Die Cutting: A process you can use for creasing, cutting, and embossing sheets. You can use this press this die on a material that you can find on a flat surface.  

Flat Pack: A type of packaging that you can use for shipping purposes. The main feature of this type is that you can use them as a flat box during such processes.  

Flood Coat: Term for when an entire surface will use a dye or color. 

Flute Direction: The literal direction you can add inside a corrugated box. You can have two types of directions here, vertical and horizontal. The main feature of these is to get strength for your boxes and other packaging products. 

Flute: Paper layer that allows you to get more strength when added to a certain corrugated board. You can get more rigidity for your product with these as well.  

Terms Starting with G

Glued: A process that allows you to connect different materials into a box. For instance, different sheets of cardboard can be glued together with wood for strength to your boxes. 

G-Force: A type of measurement that becomes the reason for the weight of a product. You can define it as a weight per unit mass.  

Gloss: A type of coating that can help you get higher reflection for your packaging boxes. A big feature of this coating is a good color and contrast definition for your boxes. 

Terms Starting with H

Hanging Tabs: A type of part that different boxes can carry. The main purpose of this part is to allow you to hang your products packed inside these boxes for display. 

Hardigg: Molded equipment cases used to transport fragile and delicate equipment.  

HDPE: Acronym for high-density polyethylene. You can use it for blow molding, which allows you resistance against cracks and also provides stiffness. 

Heat-Seal: Common method to seal multiple surfaces. 

Hermetic Seal: A type of seal you can use when in need of the ability to avoid leaks. 

Hinged End Cap: Similar to standard types, however, the main difference is hinged end caps do not involve any bonding feature. 

HIPS: Acronym for high-impact polystyrene. The multiple features of this material include cost-effectiveness and resistance against impacts. At the same time, it is quite easy to fabricate this material, making it a low-cost option. 

Hot-Melt Adhesive: Term for hot glue, which is famous for being solid at room temperature. On the other hand, you can liquify that by heating it. 

HPX Resin: A type of high-performance resin that is a polypropylene copolymer. 

Hybrid Pack: A type of packaging that uses both corrugated and rPET materials. 

Hand Erect: Term for a packaging type that you can assemble by hand. A common reason to use this type of packaging is the complexity of a packaging box design. 

Hand Holes: A type of space you can live inside a box for the purpose of its movement and handling.

Terms Starting with I

Impact Strength: The ability that a box carries against any mechanical shocks.  

Imperial: The traditional unit of measurement that you can replace with metric. 

Inert: An object that does not cause any reactions. 

Injection Molded Case: Term for the production process of certain plastic packaging boxes. 

Inkjet Printing: One of the most common types of printing that uses pigmented or dyed printer ink and the creation of images, letters, and other objects.  

Inline: A type of die-cutting machinery. 

Inline Wheels: A type of equipment that you can use for the purpose of easier movement of larger cases, insert supply chains, and other processes. 

In-Mold Labeling: This process allows you to place preprinted labels into the plastic mold. This process is done into the mold before the injection process is done into it.  

Inside/Outside View: Inside view refers to the way a package is designed. On the other hand, the printing process of artwork and text is viewed outside the boxes. 

Integrated: Plant that creates both the raw material and the products created from those raw materials. 

Integral Hinges: Type of one-piece molding is done for cases, and hinges are an important part of this process. You can keep in mind that you can inject two parts of a hinge if you want a cost-effective solution. 

Internal Dimensions: The dimensions of a case or box that you get by measuring it from the inside. Just like other box measurements, you keep depth, height, and width in mind during this measurement. 

Inter-Stacking Pattern: A mechanism that you can use to stack cases on top of each other with ease.  

Inventory: Materials and equipment that are meant for the purpose of reselling. 

IP Rating: The effectiveness level of a claim without any closure, measured against foreign objects.

ISO: Acronym that you can use for the international standards organization. 

ISO 14001: The environmental management system that allows you to set the framework for this purpose. The system is used for companies to adhere to and ensure environmental management. 

ISO 9001 Certified: Certification that a company has met the requirements of this ISO system. 

ISTA: Acronym for the international safe transition, which is responsible for setting international safe transit systems. Also used to improve your logistics for your international trade. 

Terms Starting with J

Jigsaw Packs: A term referring to cushion packaging that allows for the positioning to be logged alongside one another.  

JIT: Acronym for just-in-time inventory system, which is a management strategy that aligns raw-material orders from suppliers directly with production schedules.

Terms Starting with K

K470: A type of lightweight aluminum protective case that is also rugged. This case data test is ATA approved. 

Kanban: A Japanese manufacturing system in which you use the scheduling process. Also, you control the inventory system with the supply chain.  

KD: Acronym for knocked down, which means that you are sending boxes or cartons in a flat form. This works for the boxes to get stored and shipped. 

Kiss Cut: A term that refers to a form of die cutting in which you do not cut the top layer of the material, while leaving the bottom of the material attached. 

Kit Skip: A packaging form that sports teams can use to transport their kit, mostly made from aluminum.  

Korrvu: A type of packaging that allows you to use films inside corrugated outers to help keep your products safe during transportation. 

Kraft: A type of paper colored brown and made from paperboard. The process of its manufacturing has to do with virgin pulp.  

Terms Starting with L 

Labels: Informative document you can attach to a product which may also include bar codes.  

Label Panel: The section of a box where you can add labels to it. 

Laser Etching: A type of engraving method in which you can make designs and other elements with the help of lasers.  

Layer Pad: Used inside cases to divide layers of stacked products such as cans, bottles and other rigid packaging, used in the rigid layer separation process. 

LD: Acronym for low density. 

Lead Time: The time that it takes you to get your order from a manufacturer. You can measure it by starting from the time the order has been received till your customer gets the product.  

Lid: An attached top that you can use to enclose your contents. This type also has the feature of being removable.   

Lightweighting: Reducing the total amount of material used on a particular box for manufacturing to reduce the weight of a box, as well as reduce costs. 

Liner: A part of paper material that works as a component of a corrugated board. You can use inner and outer lines that give you higher-quality features. For instance, you can use them for the print finish.  

Line-Side: The type of packaging in which you handle containers. The main purpose of these will be your transport components to your assembly lines. 

Lithography: The printing of flat services in which you use plates. Also, you can find it as one of the most common and useful types of printing. 

Litho Laminated Print: A type of high-quality printer in which you can also add a press with a corrugated board.

Terms Starting with M

Machine Erect: A type of line of packaging which you can use as fully erected by a mechanical machine.   

Manufacture: Producing products on a large scale, typically through either the use of machinery and/or manual labor. 

Material: A substance of matter from which you can produce a product. 

Materials Handling: A system you create for storing and retrieving materials. You can use this system for distribution and manufacturing processes. 

Matte Finish: A type of coating that allows you to create a surface that absorbs light. As it is a coating, you can apply it to the surface of a packaging box. 

Max Case: A case you can use for military and minding marine industries. 

Mini Bag: Bag used for small samples for a serious picture or presentation.  

Mission Critical: A certain act or event that is essential for an organization. It can be any act or event you need to perform a certain task. 

MLT: Acronym that stands for manufacturing lead time, which is the total time of the production cycle till the finish. There are multiple terms that are used to represent different periods of this total term, including move times, inspection, set up times, and order preparation time.

MM: Acronym for millimeter, which is a type of unit you can use for the measurement of different packaging boxes. 

Monomer: A type of chemical that you can use for the purpose of packaging production. The main feature it provides is its reaction with polymer. 

MOQ:  An acronym for minimum order quantity, which refers to the lowest quantity that a supplier will accept to place an order.  

Mold Seam: A vertical groove that you can find at the mold halves, also referred to as a parting line. 

Multipoint Gluing: The points where you apply glue to two intricate designs.   

Multi Trip: A type of packaging that you can use for multiple trips. 

Multi Up: A type of design in which dyes and presses are designed.   

Terms Starting with N 

NATO Part No: NATO stands for North Atlantic treaty organization, a military alliance. This jargon represents a digit code used for identifying material supplies standards. 

N Case: A cost-effective version of smart cases which you can use for presenting and pitching products and their samples.  

Nesting Containers: The type of containers you can design with sloped side walls. This allows you to stack them on each other when empty, saving a significant amount of space. 

Nomar: A type of abrasion-resistant coating you can use for being water-based and can also be glued. 

Terms Starting with O 

Offset Litho: An alternative word for mass production printing in which you use the offset method.  

Offset Printing: This method uses the transferring from the printing plate onto double blankets. You can also use rollers instead of rubber blankets. It is a popular printing method that provides high quality printing and color labeling. 

Ohm: A measurement method that allows you to measure electrical resistance, used for devices and materials. 

Operational Temperature: A range of temperatures that protects you for a certain type of packaging or case.  

Output: The total number of units certain manufacturing blinds can create in a particular manufacturing cycle.  

Outside View: The exterior or outer view of any packaging design. 

Overprint: This is the process of printing multiple colors in a way one will be printed on another. 

Terms Starting with P

Packaging: Term for placing products in a stock or customized container, bag, or box.  

Pack Burst: A type of versatile package design that can contain lubricants. Such packages carry pre measured amounts of these materials. 

Pallets: A flat transport structure you can use for supporting products. These can be most commonly used in the form of wood, which also helps you lift and move products. 

Pantone: A system you can use for matching colors and for printing inks. 

Partitions: A device you can use to create partitions inside a box. You can use interlocking corrugated, cushioning, or other types of boxes. 

PE: Acronym for polyethylene material. 

Perforations: Small holes made into the side of a material that allows you to open a packaging box more easily.  

Performance: Productivity strength features and other noticeable aspects in a packaging process. 

Picking Bin: Containers for picking and shipping to the customer.

Pick Face: The front face of the storage that the order picker can see in the warehouse. 

Pillow Pack: A box that looks like a miniature cardboard pillow and can pop up into shape by handling. You can use interlocking tabs in them; they are perfect for small products and objects. 

Pin-Holding: Small holes you can find in a finish that can occur due to substance. Coating applicators can use multiple options to reduce the chances of such issues. 

Plastic Boxes: Any type of plastic box you can manufacture in a wide range of materials you get from plastic.

Platen: A process to achieve flat surfaces by pressing multiple surfaces against each other. There are types of presses that use such a platan process. 

Plotter: A device you can use for the cost-effective manufacturing of prototypes. You can also get pre-production samples with them that also give you new manufacturing of specific products. 

Plywood: A type of board made from wood carrying 2 layers you can glue together with grain direction altering.  

PMS: Acronym for the Pantone matching system, a popular color-matching system used in the printing industry.  

Polyethylene: A typically used plastic material that has multiple manufacturing benefits, with three classifications being low, medium, and high. 

Polyethylene Foam: A type of closed-shell foam you can use for its resilience against chemicals and the strength it provides. 

Polymer: A material that forms large molecules emerging from smaller molecules coming together. There are two types of them; you can get both synthetic and natural types. 

Polypropylene: A common material you use for packaging purposes and can provide stress resistance. At the same time, it can be transparent even after production. 

Polystyrene: A type of thermoplastic material you can get from the polymerization of styrene. It is non-toxic, and where the resistant features make it special. On the other hand, it can provide you with power and strength.  

POS: POS stands for point of sale product displays, which normally showcase products with promotions.

Postal: A type of packaging you can create and use to post items. This means it should serve all the needs you want to fulfill for transportation by posting. 

PP: Acronym for polypropylene.  

PPE: Acronym for personal protective equipment, which refers to the equipment used to protect team members directly involved in manufacturing.

Press and Pull Catches: Letters used for the purpose of packaging. They can be opened with the push of a button and can stay closed under stress. At the same time, they can bear impact without opening. 

Product Amenities: Additional product features. 

PU: A thin material you can use for being versatile as a plastic material. It is a flexible form of elastoplastic.  

Pulp: Material made from cellulose fibers, wood, and waste paper. You can prepare it by separating cellulose fibers from these materials. 

Purge Valve: A valve that allows you to let air flow through a case. But the real feature is that you can stop dust and water from entering this case without stopping the air.  

PVA Adhesive: A common type of rubbery and synthetic polymer that you can use as a thermoplastic. 

Terms Starting with Q 

Quote: A packaging code you can get from a salesperson or an estimator. With this statement, you’ll receive the total price for a specific packaging order.

Terms Starting with R

Rationalization: A process you can use for the purpose of merging similar packaging lines. With these, you can get but if it’s like a smaller inventory and better economies of scale.   

Rack Mount Case: A metal framework that allows you to carry electronic equipment. 

Rack Unit: A unit that you make for flat cases and portable server cases. 

Recyclable: Packaging materials that can be reused, instead of becoming waste or new single-use material.  

Reel: A spool or coil that you can use to wind flexible materials around. The benefit of this equipment is that you can easily store and translate these materials with it. 

Registration: Locations or marks you can make on print surfaces for better results with the print. It can be quite helpful if you print multiple colors on such a surface.  

Resistance: A measurement of how much difficulty an electric current would pass through a conductor.  

Rotary Die Cutting: A type of die cutting on a cylinder rotary press, commonly used in line with printing, in which you can use solid and engraved dies. At the same time, you can consider magnetic and adjustable dies. 

Rotational Molding: A type of molding process that you can use for plastic materials and has multiple qualities. For instance, it can help you with one-piece hollows and is also stress-free. 

RFQ: Acronym that stands for request for quotation that a company or person gets for estimating the costs and to make products.   

Reusable: Type of packaging that can be used multiple times before discarding it. 

Retail: A method of selling products directly to the public for use purposes and not for reselling or wholesaling.  

Royal Mail Sizes: Guidelines to measure the size and weight of different postages, also used for the maximum size of postages you can add. 

RSI: This acronym stands for repetitive strain injury that can occur due to repetitive actions. 

Run: The total number of products a unit produces in a session.  

Retention Pack: A type of packaging that allows you to have cost-effective and simpler protection in the form of protection. 

Terms Starting with S 

Shadow Board: A type of case insert you can use for an organization station. You can also make them custom forms with foams, and they highlight if a tool is missing or back to the store.  

Sheet: A raw material used for packaging and printing. 

Sheet Feeders: A type of plant that allows you to work with corrugated sheets with the help of a corrugator.  

Shell Case: An alternative commonly used for the purpose of sampling. You can use it instead of a traditional sampling case.  

Shielding Layer: A type of conductive layer that you can use for the purpose of blocking electrostatic fields. 

Sheet Plant: A company that buys its materials from sheet fitters and cut numbered them into packaging. Such plants typically do not have a corrugator device. 

Silk Screening: A printing technique you can use for transferring ink to the printer. There are multiple ways you can use it, like applying it to liners, containers, and other elements. 

SKU: Acronym standing for stock-keeping unit or an identification code you can use for an individual or product. 

SLA: Acronym for a service level agreement, which is a contract that a provider tells about the responsibilities of the supplier, as well as vice versa.   

Sleeve: A type of paperboard that you can customize with shape and style. You can make it in a way that slides over another one to provide you with decoration and beauty. 

Smart Case: A type of packaging case you can use to show products for a sales pitch or a business meeting. 

Sourcing: A term encompassing all functions used for raw materials. You can also consider the collection, processing, and recycling of these processes. 

Spec Number: A five-digit number that you can use for a certain design.  

SPRC: The total time that a production unit can use to create a certain amount of products.  

SSE: Acronym for static-safe environments that work by distributing certain conductive products. 

SSI Schaefer: A manufacturer of warehouse logistics systems shelving storage equipment, and many other similar products. 

Stack Height: Regulations that must be maintained to ensure that you stack packaging safely.  

Stacking Corner: The type of strong plastic corner that you can add to a case or a package to make it more steady and safe. So, the main purpose of it is during stacking. 

Standard 300: A standard age of presentation cases of shell type. 

Starpack: An organization in the packaging and printing industry that recognizes innovations in technology and design packaging. 

Stereo: A type of flexible plate that you use for printing, so it’s even easier, like the flexographic technique. 

Stillage: A type of brake or pilot you can use to hold multiple items. A common use of these is lineside assembly applications.  

Static Dissipative: A form or material you can use to dissipate static charges. These boxes help protect any item within these boxes against any such charges. 

Spool: A type of cylinder that allows you to wind flexible materials around.  

Single Wall: A certain type of box you can use for packaging purposes, which you can use with two materials. You can have fluted paper and then two materials that you can bond on any of the two sides of this material.

Simulated Rainfall: A test used in the UK for checking the protection of a packaging box.  

Single Pass Printing: A single-pass printer allows you the production of four-color printing and monochrome data in one pass. 

Single Source: A method of providing supplies to customers from one source. You can save costs with these and make management easier and better. 

Single-Up: A type of rotary die cutter you can use to cut products in one particular shape. 

Sheet Plant Association: An association that works on the motion of best practices in their member companies.  

Shelf Life: The total time during the age of the product can be usable after production. Packaging is one of the best methods to improve the shelf life of your products.   

Shelf Ready Packaging: A type of packaging that allows for easy assembly and display of your product.  

Sampling: The process of creating a prototype that you can use to get customer approval. All of its features must be like the products you will create. It is a process of creating a sample to show your customer what the end product will look like.  

Seams: Encompasses various techniques used to keep a package together. The methods you use in this technique are tapping, stitching, and gluing. For instance, you may use a corrugated board to make it bigger and stronger.  

Strapping: The process you can use for strapping and combining straps. You can try reinforcing these for stability for certain packaging products.   

Stratocell: A type of low-cost polyethylene foam that is used for packaging. You can try using it for the inner cushioning of a packaging box. 

Style: A style guide can be used for the purpose of box designs that the European federation has set. 

Supazote: A type of cross-linked ethylene copolymer format that you can use for its extremely soft feel. 

Supply Chain: A network that you create between different companies to handle and produce like any product.  

Suspension Pack: A type of check that protects your products during transit. Its mechanism of making products suspended between two layers allows you to get rid of impact. 

Sustainability: Processes and products that reduce the chances of environmental harm and promote eco-friendliness.  

Terms Starting with T

Tamper Resistant Seal: A type of seal that cannot be opened without clear evidence of tampering. When you try to open such a seal or gap, it will be partially destroyed, showing the abundance of tempering with the product. 

Tamper Evident Band: A part of caps and seals that allows you to determine if a product has been tempered. This way, you can reveal if any product has been tampered with or not. Once you open a cab, this part would be destroyed to provide evidence of this activity. 

Tear Strip: A type of plastic film that you can apply to the inside of a package.   

Tear Tab: An extension of a tearing strip that you can find on a package or a bottle. Its purpose is to provide easy grasping of the packaging.  

Technobag: A type of presentation bag made from polypropylene in Germany. Often considered for project production with injection molding, as they have a single wall. 

Test Liner: Manufacture a type of recycled liner board as a sheet of fibers. The big feature of this one is that all the fibers in this one are similar. Its outer layer is better quality cycle fiber, called multiply or duplex.  

Thermoforming: A type of manufacturing process in which you use vacuuming or pressuring. There are a number of industries you can use it for, like product displays, clamshells, and food packaging needs. 

Triboelectric Charge: A type of charge that can be produced by different materials coming together.  

Tri-Wall: The triple-floated corrugated board has the ability to provide flexibility and strength. At the same time, it has amazing eco-friendliness that makes it quite preferable. 

Tubes: Equipment used for the purpose of corrugated tubes for multiple reasons. Commonly you can find these alongside end caps. 

Turkey Lock: A style of box that comes with a full overlap base, which does not require tapping.  

Tool Control: A type of tool organization insert that you can use for cases. You can get its highlight when you’re missing different colored foams. 

Tongue and Groove Seal: A type of extended group that you can operate even on mind mirror image concepts, with the ability of a titled enclosure. 

Travel Skips: Large aluminum cases used to transport sports kits and equipment.  

Trays: Packaging solutions commonly used for samples and other product elements. 

Tote: A type of plastic container that you can stack one upon each other.

Transit: The process by which you transport products from one place to another for shipping. 

Transit Damage: Any damage to a product that may occur during transportation. 

Terms Starting with U

Ultrasonic Welding: A type of industrial building technique that allows you to create certain types of materials. You can use ultrasonic high-frequency vibrations for this purpose. It allows you to create a solid-state world that you can use for plastics.  

Unit Cost: The cost for manufacturing a particular product. Multiple types of costs exist, such as overhead costs, labor costs, among others. 

Terms Starting with V

Varnish: A type of ink that can be shortened or glossy. At the same time, it can be made and helps improve the beauty of a product, as well as increased product protection.  

VCI: Acronym that stands for vapor corrosion inhibitor. The coating allows you to get protection against corrosion. It works both passively and actively to provide this protection.  

Vector: A type of graphic that is made up of paths and defines points from start to end. These images are made from multiple dots, allowing you to scale them up without any quality loss. 

Vibration: Factors such as loose cargo that can damage packaging products and goods packed inside. 

Vibration Sweep: A vibration that travels from one frequency to another. You can use this method for protective cases. 

Virgin Material: A term of approval that a material has not been processed in any way except in its manufacturing process. 

VMI: Acronym that stands for vendor management inventory, used in stock management to determine the appropriate packaging levels. 

Void Fill: A type that you can use to protect a certain product inside a packaging box. You can get it from certain materials that fill the whole box except the product packed inside. 

Volume: The total number of units a manufacturer can produce in a certain amount of time. 

Volume Resistivity: The ability that a material contains to resist the flow of current.  

Vortex Pressure Relief Valve: A type of valve that can help adjust air pressure without letting in any water, and it does it automatically.  

Terms Starting with W

Waterjet Cutting: A type of equipment that allows you to cut materials with the help of high water pressure.  

Weight: The density of a material used for packaging purposes.  

Warehousing: The storage of parts and components that you can use for the purpose of packaging and printing processes. 

Wastage: The components or packaging boxes that do not meet your quality standards and can be discarded. 

Terms Starting with X 

Xtrabag: A type of case that makes you lightweight and is made of plastic. 

Terms Starting with Y

Yield Value: The actual amount of force needed to start an ink flowing.

Terms Starting with Z

Zarges: Manufacturer of a range of aluminum shipping cases and containers.

FAQs 

What are the most common examples of packaging? 

When it comes to the examples of products in this industry, there are multiple products you can have. For instance, there are products like: 

• Mailer boxes 
• Ecommerce packaging 
• Cosmetic packaging
• CBD packaging 
• Retail packaging

What are the most common types of packaging boxes in the packaging industry? 

The type of box ultimately depends on the unique products and custom specifications. In general, the most common types of boxes tend to be mailer boxes, candle boxes, product boxes, ecommerce boxes, and other retail packaging boxes. 

What is packaging, and why does it matter for products in different industries?  

Packaging is any type of product cover that needs protection against environmental factors that can cause issues.  

What is the importance of packaging abbreviations? 

When it comes to the terminologies used in the packaging industry, abbreviations play an important role. The better you understand printing jargon, the more impactful your collaborative packaging process and output can be.

What are the most common food packaging types? 

When it comes to the food packaging industry, there are multiple products that are essential. For example, cake boxes, cookie boxes, and other bakery packaging are quite commonly utilized. 

What does retail packaging mean? 

When it comes to what retail packaging means, it is simple that any type of box for selling to end consumers must be a retail packaging box. 

What does bulk packaging mean?  

Bulk packaging is a type of packaging that allows for scalability in box quantities, as well as more cost-efficient unit prices due to increased order size.  

Refine Packaging: Your Ultimate Custom Packaging Partner

So, you’re armed and ready with all of the packaging terminology that can help you grow as a packaging professional. Now it’s time to start the packaging production process!

Refine Packaging can assist from conceptualization to mass box production. We aim to provide as many options as possible and simplify the process so you can see your idea materialize in the shortest time possible.

Select from our array of custom box industries and products, or let us know your concept so our designers can work with you. We use various printing techniques and offer 2D and 3D mockups of your packaging. Our team can send you a sample so you can verify if the prototype matches your vision.

But don’t just take our word for it—discover how the Refine Packaging process has delivered successful customer stories for 1,000s of satisfied brands and their clientele. Contact us for a free quote today, and our packaging specialist will connect with you shortly.

The post Packaging Definitions: Complete Glossary of Printing Terminology appeared first on Refine Packaging.

Having been given the green light by Congress a few years ago, CBD derived from hemp has been cropping up in a wide range of products. We now see it in food, oils, capsules, skincare, cosmetics, and other consumer products. For enterprising individuals, this presents a potentially lucrative venture with a vast market.

If you’re one of those carving a niche in the CBD sector, there’s one thing you ought to know—the importance of custom CBD boxes. Having high-quality products is already a given, of course. But you’ll need more than that to win consumers. You’d need to have eye-catching packaging that provides accurate product information AND meets legal requirements in your state.

That’s a lot to take in. But don’t fret. This guide will help you navigate the ins and outs and the do’s and don’ts of CBD packaging. It will help you find the packaging solution that screams, “I’m the coolest CBD product on the block!”

What Is CBD?

First things first. Before we delve deeper into carton packaging, let’s go over some CBD basics.

CBD is cannabidiol, a compound naturally found in cannabis and hemp plants. Unlike its psychoactive cousin tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), CBD won’t make you feel high or alter your brain function. Available in different forms, it can be easily incorporated into a wide variety of products, including food supplements, skin care products, edible oils, snacks, and cosmetics.

So what’s the buzz about CBD?

CBD’s popularity can be attributed to its purported benefits on health and wellness. A survey on why American adults use CBD shows that about 3 out of 5 find it helpful in reducing stress, relieving pain, and improving sleep quality. This may come as a surprise, but 1 out of 2 respondents indicated that a doctor suggested CBD as a form of medical intervention and/or treatment. Far from common belief, only 35% use CBD for fun or recreational purposes.

In the beauty industry, the most popular benefit of CBD is reducing inflammation. This is among the main reasons US shoppers buy CBD skincare products. Beyond beauty, CBD has shown promise in reducing seizure episodes in people with epilepsy. In fact, the FDA has approved the use of CBD-based Epidiolex to treat rare and severe forms of epilepsy. This prescription contains a purified form of cannabidiol from hemp and has been deemed safe for use in some seizure disorders.

WHO also gives the green light on hemp-based CBD, saying that the compound shows no potential for abuse or dependence. However, there are still no conclusive findings on the benefits that CBD brings and the effects of its sustained use. More research has to be done to uncover the true effects of this compound. There have been reports of potential side effects of CBD, including liver damage, drug interactions, gastrointestinal problems, male reproductive toxicity, and mood changes. Ingestible CBD products may also increase the risk of sedation and drowsiness when used with alcohol or other drugs.

Legal Matters: Do’s and Don’ts in CBD Packaging

Let’s get one more thing out of the way—the legal complexities of selling and packaging CBD products. When the Agriculture Improvement Act was signed into law in 2018, hemp (Cannabis sativa L.) and its derivatives and extracts were removed from the list of controlled substances. However, CBD products are to be regulated by the FDA and must still comply with regulations, including a cap of 0.3 percent THC on dry weight.

Except for Epidiolex, the FDA has not approved the marketing of CBD as a treatment for any disease or condition. CBD products are also excluded from the list of dietary supplements. However, there are some states that remove restrictions on the medical and health use of cannabis within their jurisdiction. You may want to hold off jumping in excitement though. While some states have legalized the use and sale of CBD products, some have not. There are also some states that prohibit their sale in interstate commerce. That is a bit of a buzzkill, but it’s something you should comply with as a CBD seller.

Because the laws and regulations vary from state to state, you really need to do your homework to know which ones to comply with depending on where you’re located and the areas you cater to. Now, to help you avoid legal ramifications, here are some do’s and don’ts when it comes to CBD packaging.

Do’s:

• Make it crystal clear what form of CBD is in your products. Is it oil, extract, or some fancy concoction? Have this information readable on the product packaging.
• Include the amount or percentage of CBD and/or THC in your product. Follow state regulations and keep the THC under 0.3%.
• Display all essential information clearly. Don’t make your customers wonder what’s inside your products. Include a list of ingredients in your packaging.

Don’ts:

• Don’t make unverified claims or market your CBD product as a miracle cure that can treat and prevent ailments. This is a dangerous practice that can hinder proper and timely medical care.
• Don’t market or label your CBD product as a dietary supplement or food product. Go over FDA regulations and local state guidelines for CBD labeling requirements.
• Don’t mislead consumers with small print. Minimalism is not ideal when designing custom labels for CBD products. You’d want to make sure all information is displayed clearly and readable.

Phew! That was a lot to digest. Now that we’ve shed some light on legal matters, we’re ready to dive into the exciting world of CBD packaging.

Choosing the Right Packaging Type for CBD Products

With CBD sales growing from 0.5 billion to 1.8 billion in just four years, the CBD market is becoming increasingly competitive. More businesses are likely to capitalize on the increased demand, spurring a highly competitive market.

To stand out, having good-quality products isn’t always enough. You must capture consumer attention and pique interest in your products. How do you do that? Through awesome packaging. 72% of Americans state that packaging typically influences whether they buy an item.

Let’s explore some packaging types that can elevate your CBD products and make them shine on the shelves and on online platforms.

1. CBD Boxes

A CBD box offers versatility and customization options, making it suitable for a wide range of CBD products. Whether you’re packaging CBD oils, tinctures, creams, balms, or even CBD-infused edibles like chocolates or granola bars, a CBD box can be tailored to accommodate various product sizes and shapes. Look for features like protective dust flaps, a self-locking design, and durable construction to ensure your products stay secure and protected.

Shop Popular Products

Custom Mailer Boxes with Logo

Learn More

Custom Soap Boxes

Learn More

Custom Vape Cartridge Boxes

Learn More

Custom Hair Extension Boxes

Learn More

CBD Boxes

Learn More

Customizable Candle Box Wholesale

Learn More

Pillow Boxes

Learn More

Custom Printed Eyelash Boxes

Learn More

Custom Cardboard Boxes & Cardboard Packaging

Learn More

Custom Printed Product Boxes for Retail

Learn More

Custom Lip Gloss Boxes

Learn More

Custom-Made Lip Balm Packaging Boxes

Learn More

CBD Display Boxes

Learn More

Custom Bath Bomb Boxes

Learn More

Custom Collapsible Boxes

Learn More

Custom Kraft Boxes

Learn More

Custom Printed Medicine Packaging Boxes

Learn More

Custom Hanger Boxes

Learn More

2. Paper Bags

Paper bags are an economical and eco-friendly packaging option that works well for CBD products like loose-leaf teas, dried herbs, or pre-rolled CBD joints. In a survey, more than 65% consider paper packaging as more appealing than other materials. Paper bags are ideal for customers who appreciate a more natural and minimalist aesthetic. You can also incorporate your brand colors by opting for colored paper packaging with customized designs to make your products stand out. The downside to this type of packaging is that it may not always be that durable for shipping your products.

3. Fabric Wraps

Fabric wraps add a touch of elegance and sophistication to CBD beauty products. An alternative for cosmetic packaging design, they’re perfect for packaging CBD-infused skincare items like face masks, bath bombs, or body lotions. Consider using a loosely woven sack or silk fabric that not only protects the product but also enhances the overall presentation.

4. Display Boxes

Display boxes are designed to catch the eye of potential customers and create an attractive presentation on the shelves. They’re suitable for showcasing CBD products like CBD-infused beverages, vape cartridges, or CBD topicals. CBD display boxes help your products stand out among the competition and create a visual impact that drives consumer interest. These can get your CBD products off the shelves and into consumer homes.

5. Corrugated Boxes

When it comes to sturdiness and protection, corrugated packaging is ideal for CBD products that require extra durability during shipping. They’re well-suited for CBD oils, glass bottles, or any fragile items that need to be securely packaged. Corrugated boxes offer excellent cushioning and protection against impact to ensure your products arrive in perfect condition. Plus, they have a high 91.4% recycling rate in the United States, helping protect the earth as well.

6. Gift Boxes

 If you want to create a memorable unboxing experience and add a touch of luxury to your CBD products, have some custom gift boxes made just for your brand. They’re ideal for CBD gift sets, premium CBD oils, or high-end CBD skincare products. By incorporating customized designs and premium finishes, gift boxes elevate the perceived value of your products.

7. Drawstring Bags

Drawstring bags provide a unique and reusable packaging option for various CBD products. They’re well-suited for CBD-infused bath salts, loose-leaf teas, or small CBD accessories like vape pens or CBD-infused lip balms. The eco-friendly nature of drawstring bags aligns with sustainability-conscious consumers.

8. Kraft Paper Tubes

If you’re packaging edible CBD products, such as CBD gummies, chocolate truffles, or protein bars, a kraft paper tube is an excellent choice. Kraft paper tubes often have a food-safe lining to keep your products fresh and maintain their quality. They can also be used to prevent oil vials or delicate CBD-infused products from being damaged during shipping.

9. Tincture Boxes

Tinctures require sensitive packaging due to temperature and weather considerations. CBD tincture boxes are specifically designed to provide better protection for these delicate products. They’re ideal for packaging CBD tincture bottles, as they ensure that the integrity and potency of the product are maintained.

10. Stand-Up Pouches

Stand-up pouches come with flat bottoms and tear notches for easy opening. They’re usually composed of multiple layers of different materials such as polyester (PET), polypropylene (PP), polyethylene (PE), aluminum foil, or metalized films. The food-grade inner layer keeps food products safe, while the foil seal keeps moisture out to maintain freshness. This type of packaging is great not only for snacks, candies, and cookies but also for non-edible products like bath salts.

These packaging types are just a few suggestions. The suitability of each option varies depending on your specific CBD products and target audience. Consider these recommendations as a starting point, and explore customization options to create packaging that aligns with your brand identity and captivates consumers.

Enhancing Your CBD Packaging with Bespoke Accessories

Bedazzle your packaging to dazzle your customers. Enhance your product’s appeal and boost its value with packaging accessories that elevate its overall presentation and appeal. Here are some packaging add-ons you’d want to have:

1. Custom Coated Labels

Add a personal touch to your CBD packaging with custom coated labels. Design your labels with your logo, brand colors, and unique design elements that match your brand identity. These not only enhance the visual appeal of your packaging but also help improve brand recall and loyalty.

2. Custom Stickers

Just starting out and only have a limited budget for customized CBD boxes? Custom stickers are the way to go! Designing and printing your own custom stickers is a cost-effective way to add branding elements and important details without the need for extensive printing or packaging customization. If you can, invest a bit in professional design and printing services. Use the custom stickers on stock packaging boxes and jars or on the products themselves.

3. Custom Roll Labels

If you have multiple CBD product variations or sizes, custom roll labels offer convenience and flexibility. They come in the form of continuous rolls that allow for easy application using label dispensers or applicators. Custom roll labels can be printed with vibrant colors, high-resolution graphics, and precise product information. They’re a cost-effective option for labeling different CBD products within your product line.

4. Tissue Paper

Tissue paper and custom packaging inserts add more oomph to your CBD packaging and make the unboxing experience more exciting. They can be used to wrap individual products or line the inside of boxes to provide an extra layer of protection. Tissue paper comes in various colors, patterns, and textures so you can choose which ones align with your brand identity.

5. Branded Ribbons or Twine

Adding a branded ribbon or twine to your CBD packaging can instantly elevate its visual appeal. These accessories can be used to tie boxes, secure tissue paper, or create decorative accents. Branded ribbons or twine can also feature your logo, brand name, or tagline. These create a cohesive and polished look for your packaging.

The Benefits of Custom CBD Packaging Boxes

Customized CBD boxes come with additional costs, but they’re well worth the investment. Custom CBD boxes offer numerous benefits beyond basic packaging functionality. They play a vital role in conveying your brand’s values, creating a memorable customer experience, and positioning your CBD products as trustworthy and desirable choices in a competitive market.

1. The PRO Vibe. Custom CBD boxes and mailer boxes instantly give your products a professional makeover. They scream, “Hey, we mean business!” With their sleek and polished appearance, these boxes elevate your brand’s credibility and build trust with customers.
2. The Wow Factor. Custom packaging turns your CBD products into showstoppers. Captivating designs and attention-grabbing aesthetics create a wow factor that turns heads and sparks curiosity. These make your products stand out on store shelves and in online marketplaces.
3. Brand Magic. Custom CBD boxes provide an excellent opportunity to showcase your brand’s logo, colors, and other elements. It’s like having a mini billboard for your brand anywhere your products are. This reinforces brand awareness and recognition.
4. Information Galore. Information is crucial today. Customers want to know what they’re getting, and custom CBD boxes have got you covered. You can include all the important details like ingredients, usage instructions, and any necessary warnings. No more guessing games for your customers—they’ll be well-informed and ready to enjoy your CBD creations.
5. Versatile Branding Opportunities. Customizable CBD boxes provide versatile branding opportunities that can extend beyond the packaging itself. You can create a cohesive brand experience by incorporating additional branding elements, such as branded inserts, stickers, or promotional materials inside the box.
6. Fort Knox for Your Products. Your precious CBD products deserve top-notch protection, and custom packaging delivers just that. One consumer survey shows that 65% of product returns are due to damaged items. Well, you wouldn’t want to be part of that statistic, do you? These boxes are tailor-made to keep your items safe and sound during their journey from production to the customer’s hands. It’s like a cozy home for your CBD wonders!
7. Crush Shipping Costs, Not Your Products. Custom shipping boxes can be tailored to fit your products perfectly to minimize wasted space. This means lighter shipments and lower shipping costs. It’s a win-win for your bottom line and the environment.
8. Fast Fame. Want to get noticed in the blink of an eye? Custom CBD boxes are your ticket to quick recognition. With their alluring designs and unmistakable branding, you’ll become the talk of the town. Watch your brand soar to new heights as customers eagerly seek out your products.
9. Sustainability Champion. Custom CBD boxes can be designed with eco-friendly materials and practices in mind. By opting for sustainable packaging options, such as recycled materials or biodegradable alternatives, you demonstrate your commitment to the environment. This appeals to the increasing number of environmentally conscious consumers who prioritize sustainable choices. By choosing custom CBD boxes, you can be a sustainability champion and contribute to a greener future.

Designing Your Custom CBD Packaging

Designing your custom CBD packaging is a crucial step in creating a captivating and functional packaging solution for your CBD products. By carefully considering various factors, you can design product packaging that not only protects your delicate CBD items but also attracts attention and communicates essential information to your customers.

Are you ready to design your own CBD packaging? Here are some tips to help you craft CBD boxes that are perfect for your brand.

• Choose high-quality materials that are most appropriate for your product types.  Selecting high-quality retail packaging materials is important for both the durability and visual appeal of your custom CBD boxes. Opt for materials such as sturdy cardstock, eco-friendly kraft paper, or cushioning corrugated board depending on the weight and nature of your products. The right material will ensure your packaging stands up to the demands of shipping and handling.

• Make your CBD packaging visually appealing and eye-catching to grab customers’ attention. Incorporate exciting colors, state-of-the-art designs, and printing techniques that align with your brand identity. Use product-related and conceptual art to help customers understand the purpose and uniqueness of your CBD products. Aesthetically pleasing boxes will attract new customers and encourage them to explore your offerings.
• Choose CBD boxes that are easy to open and close. Convenience is key when it comes to packaging design. Keep your customers happy by making sure that your CBD boxes are easy to open and close without any hassle. Customers appreciate packaging that’s user-friendly and doesn’t require excessive effort or tools to access the products they’ve purchased.
• Make your CBD packaging functional beyond its primary role. Design boxes that can serve as storage containers for your customers even after they’ve opened the package. By offering convenient storage options, you provide added value to your customers and increase the likelihood of repeat purchases.
• Let your custom CBD packaging showcase your drive for sustainability. A McKinsey survey reveals that while 75% of businesses have committed to the use of sustainable packaging, fewer than 30% actually do so or meet requirements. Stand out from them by making it clear in your custom packaging that you’re holding true to your commitment to sustainability.

When it comes to printing information on your CBD packaging boxes, consider the following details:

• Brand Name. Print your brand name prominently on the packaging to enhance brand awareness and recognition.
• Product Details. Clearly indicate the purpose of your CBD products on the packaging to help customers understand their usage and benefits. Include important details, such as manufacturing date, expiration date, batch codes, or any other relevant details that inform customers about the product. Be mindful of federal and state regulations on CBD product information.
• Product Ingredients. Display the list of product ingredients to assure customers of the authenticity and quality of your CBD items. We reiterate the need to clearly state the form and percentage or amount of CBD and THC in your products.
• Product Weight. Specify the weight or volume of the CBD product excluding the container weight. Make sure the measurements are accurate to ensure customer satisfaction and earn trust.
• Cautions on Product Use. Provide necessary cautionary statements and warnings to ensure product safety and inform customers about potential risks or contraindications.

Frequently Asked Questions for CBD Boxes

What are CBD packaging boxes?

CBD packaging boxes are specially designed containers used to package and protect CBD products. They come in various shapes, sizes, and materials to ensure the safe storage and transportation of CBD items. They can also be customized to align with your brand’s identity and product requirements.

Why is packaging important for CBD products?

Packaging plays a crucial role in the CBD industry. It protects the products from damage, ensures product freshness, provides essential product information to customers, enhances brand recognition, and helps products stand out in a competitive market.

What materials are commonly used for CBD packaging boxes?

Common materials used for CBD packaging boxes include cardstock, kraft paper, corrugated board, and bux board. Each material offers different levels of durability, strength, and aesthetic appeal. Brands can choose the most suitable option for their specific products and needs.

Are there any regulations or guidelines for CBD packaging?

Yes, there are federal and state regulations on the use of CBD packaging. However, these vary depending on the state or region. Most states have specific guidelines on labeling, product information, and packaging material. To make sure that your CBD packaging is compliant, stay informed about local and national regulations relevant to the use and sale of CBD products.

How can I make my CBD packaging sustainable?

Use recyclable, biodegradable, and other eco-friendly materials that are ethically and sustainably sourced. You can also use water-based inks for printing and opt for minimalistic designs that use as few materials as possible. Strive to make your carbon footprint as small as possible for CBD packaging that’s truly sustainable. To inspire individuals and other brands to be more environmentally conscious, you can also incorporate a sustainability message. Taking these steps can help you win the hearts of the estimated 69% of consumers who prefer businesses that use eco-friendly packaging.

Ready, Set, Package! Discover Where to Find the Best Source for CBD Packaging Boxes

So you’re ready to take your CBD packaging game to the next level? Great choice! Now, let’s talk about how and where to get the best CBD packaging that will make your brand shine like a supernova.

The first step is to find a packaging company that knows its stuff when it comes to customization. Look for a company that specializes in custom packaging, but also offers stock packaging options. Why? Because you want the freedom to unleash your creativity with custom designs, but also have some pre-designed options readily available for those times when you need packaging in a pinch.

That’s where Refine Packaging comes into the picture. We’ve got your back when it comes to customizable CBD packaging boxes that meet your needs. Lightweight? Check. High-quality? Double check. The best part? We offer free design services that’ll give you professional-looking CBD packaging boxes and accessories. With our fast turnaround time, you’d have your custom CBD boxes right when you need them.

The post Designing Custom CBD Packaging Boxes: The Complete Guide appeared first on Refine Packaging.

Custom box inserts may be just what you’re looking for. 

Custom packaging inserts can be made from a variety of materials like cardboard, foam, and fungi. These stylish and practical inserts can be custom-sized to fit your unique products.  

You can use packaging inserts to ship all kinds of products. Want to give that bottle of wine a little added padding? Have a plant you need to send? A custom insert will hold them securely, so they arrive at the recipient safe and sound. Even large and heavy items can get added protection when nestled in a custom insert.

Custom inserts not only cradle your precious cargo, so they get to their destination in one piece. They can also give your packaging that wow factor. Custom inserts can take your customers’ unboxing experience from ho-hum to something they’re eager to share with friends word-of-mouth and the world through social media. 

So, let’s get started! Here’s everything you need to know about custom boxes and inserts. 

Types of Custom Inserts

There are items you can place in a box and send off without putting any thought into it.  However, you give your customers a lackluster experience when they open that box. 

Also, most products need some sort of added protection to ensure their safe arrival. This is where void fill options come in handy. Examples like packing peanuts, crinkle paper, PE foam, and air pillows protect your products and help boost their presentation. 

These are all great options for certain products and in certain situations. But sometimes, you want to add something a little extra to make your customers’ experience much more special.  

Enter custom packaging inserts. 

Custom inserts keep the cargo safe from damage during shipping as they fit the exact specifications of your products. More importantly, they add style to the packaging and help you achieve your branding goals. They’re also not limited to securing the actual products. You can use inserts as trays or dividers.

But what type of packaging insert is right for you? 

Shop Popular Products

Custom Mailer Boxes with Logo

Learn More

Custom Soap Boxes

Learn More

Custom Vape Cartridge Boxes

Learn More

Custom Hair Extension Boxes

Learn More

CBD Boxes

Learn More

Customizable Candle Box Wholesale

Learn More

Pillow Boxes

Learn More

Custom Printed Eyelash Boxes

Learn More

Custom Cardboard Boxes & Cardboard Packaging

Learn More

Custom Printed Product Boxes for Retail

Learn More

Custom Lip Gloss Boxes

Learn More

Custom-Made Lip Balm Packaging Boxes

Learn More

CBD Display Boxes

Learn More

Custom Bath Bomb Boxes

Learn More

Custom Collapsible Boxes

Learn More

Custom Kraft Boxes

Learn More

Custom Printed Medicine Packaging Boxes

Learn More

Custom Hanger Boxes

Learn More

First, you must choose what sort of material you must use for your custom inserts. Each material has its characteristics that add to the presentation of the product packaging. 

Also, coming up with the best custom packaging depends on the product you’re putting in the box. Each product requires different ways to keep it safe during delivery. You can’t just use any material for your packaging inset and expect the product to arrive at the destination without any damages.

According to studies, product damage is the cause of 34% of customer returns related to packaging. So, you can’t afford to lose more than a quarter of your sales due to negligence.

It’s also important to keep in mind the company vibe you want to reflect. If your company mission statement centers around sustainability and environmental causes, use eco-friendly materials for your packaging inserts. 

Last, your budget will also play a part in what type of insert you choose.

To give you a summary of the different kinds of custom boxes, below is a handy table for your reference:

Now, let’s take a look at common materials used for custom inserts: 

Paperboard Inserts

Not all inserts need to be heavy-duty. Sometimes products don’t need much protection, but you’d still like to have an appealing presentation.

Paperboard inserts won’t give you maximum protection, but they’re a great choice for carton boxes and invitation boxes. They’ll keep your products in place and add to an overall pleasing presentation.

Paper stock is also good for small, lightweight items, such as beauty products or stationery. These inserts usually come in natural kraft color or white. Finally, there’s plenty of opportunities to add your branding, such as colors, logo, and message, suitable as paperboards are easy to print on.

Corrugated Inserts

Another affordable option is corrugated cardboard inserts and boxes. They’re heavier duty than the paperboard inserts and offer more protection. You might see these used in a box to separate fragile items like bottles.  

As you can see in the below image, Fuego Box uses custom inserts to display their hot sauce bottles beautifully and to prevent the bottles from spilling into each other. No one wants to open a box to find glass shards and sauce strewn around.

As with the kraft paper inserts, you can also easily print on corrugated cardboard. So feel free to add a message or use a brand color.

Rigid Chipboard Inserts

Rigid chipboard inserts are made from reinforced cardboard, making them good for shipping and protecting fragile items like ornaments or perfume bottles.

They’re also great for keeping products separated, so they don’t rattle into each other.  And since the design is pretty solid, this type of divider might be reused by customers to store other items down the road. 

Foam Inserts

Foam inserts are best for protecting fragile items like glass, camera lenses, and jewelry from scratches and scuffs. 

This foam padding type is made up of pre-scored squares that you can simply take out to fit your product. Since it eliminates the need for die-cutting, it’s a more affordable option. At the same time, these inserts are also super-lightweight and help decrease your shipping costs.

If you have different size products or have a smaller budget, “pick and pluck foam,” is an alternative to the die-cut foam inserts.  

Pulp Packaging Inserts

Pulp packaging inserts can be used for fragile items because they offer a lot of protection. Molded pulp inserts are made from recyclable and biodegradable materials like cardboard, sugarcane, bamboo, and other natural fibers. A perfect example of this packaging insert type is an egg carton.

Pulp packaging is highly versatile and comes in different shapes or sizes. They can even support heavy items like wine bottles. When empty, you can stack these inserts on top of each other to help you save storage space.

Mushroom Packaging

If you want to go further on the sustainability front, packaging made with mushrooms is the way. This packaging can be molded to fit just about any product, from cosmetic to CBD.  

For example, Ecovative Design’s Mushroom Packaging can be grown in only seven days and made from hemp hurds and mycelium.

Their packaging is 100% biodegradable so that you won’t be adding to the overfilling landfills. And you can even add it to your home’s compost pile.  

Molded Plastic

This packaging type is made from natural or synthetic materials with a polymeric structure, making it easy to mold when softened. Common examples of molded plastic include soda bottles, lids of takeout coffee cups, and water bottles.

Molded plastics were popular back in the day due its durability and cost-effectiveness. However, its non-biodegradable nature makes it harmful to the environment. 

Out of the 8.3 billion tons of plastic created between 1950 and 2015, only 9% has been recycled. Its effect on marine life has been devastating. This is a large reason why people are more conscious about using less plastic as much as possible. 

Coming Up with the Structural Design

Custom packaging inserts mean they’re specially made to fit your products and beautifully reflect your company vibe.  However, ensuring you get the right fit and look will take a little work on your end.  

First, it’s essential to determine the exact dimensions of the products you want to place in the insert. If you have a somewhat regular-shaped item, like a candle, or something cube-shaped, simply measure and share its dimensions with the manufacturer.  

But how about for odd-shaped items like drills, cameras, or game controllers? They have all kinds of nooks and crannies that make it challenging to get precise measurements. If the opening is too big, the item will fall out. Too small and it won’t fit. The insert is supposed to cradle your item just right to keep it safe and attractively displayed.  

In some cases, you may need to send the physical product to the manufacturer to get the measurements right. From there, they can build the insert around the product.

Also, avoid over-engineering your custom insert. You want it to offer the protection your items need, but you don’t want to add unnecessary weight or bulk to your packaging.

On top of ensuring the right fit for your products, you must also consider the fulfillment side of things. Cardboard inserts are usually made and stored flat, then folded into shape, and placed in the box.  Someone or something (if you’re using automated machinery) must put the inserts in all of those custom boxes.

While fulfillment should be easy, common issues you may encounter include receiving the wrong package due to poor shipping management. Getting your inserts printed and shipped by a reliable fulfillment center is key to a hassle-free delivery.

Also, you don’t want to frustrate customers with their unboxing experience. Make sure that taking the items out of the insert is as easy as possible for customers. 

Also, consider how your customers will dispose of this packaging. Is it easy to break down? Easy to recycle? Most people don’t want to fill their trash cans with excess packaging. 

Custom Printing and other Design Elements

Inserts don’t have to be a drab brown color unless that’s the look you’re going for. In fact, your insert doesn’t have to match the outside of the mailer box. Feel free to give your customers a little surprise inside. 

You can pick a bold color, print your logo or catchphrase, or write a message to your customers like a simple “thank you.”

Here are three of the leading printing techniques for paperboard or corrugated material:

1. Flexographic printing (or Flexo): This process stamps a non-photo quality design onto the cardboard material.  Since it works well on smooth and rougher surfaces, it’s a good choice for printing on corrugated material. And it’s a good option for large quantities.
2. Digital Printing: This newer printing technology uses the CMYK ink spectrum, giving you a wide choice of colors. Digital printing prints the design line-by-line so you can get photo quality. This process is more cost-effective for small batches, and it has a quick turnaround.
3. Lithographic printing (or Litho): The design is printed onto a label, and then that layer is stuck onto the cardboard.  Litho printing can give a premium look to your packaging.  You can add things like foil details and emboss with this method.  Litho is a good choice for large quantities of premium packaging. 

You can also choose what kind of coating and lamination you’d like for your inserts. Do you want to go for a glossy look? Or maybe a matte finish is more in tune with your brand. 

Get as fancy or simple as you want. Just make sure it ties in with your overall branding goals to delight your customers. 

Benefits of Custom Inserts

As seen above, there are tons of options for custom inserts. It’s now a matter of planning for the right materials and design elements for your custom insert design.

The extra time and effort you may need to invest in coming up with a custom insert design can have big-time benefits.  

Let’s take a closer look at some of the advantages of going with custom box inserts: 

Robust Product Protection

The most important job of your packaging is to ensure your goods arrive in one piece.  

The last thing you want is for your customer to open a box and find out that the special wine glass or new camera lens is shattered into pieces.

It doesn’t matter how great your products are or how pretty your packaging presentation is. If your products arrive broken, your customers will not be happy. And this incident could create a bad lasting impression about your brand that could lead to lost revenue.

Custom inserts are designed to secure and protect your products inside the box that they’re shipped in. They’ll effectively secure your unique products, no matter their shape or size or how many they are.

Presentation

Custom inserts can give your packaging a polished look that customers will take notice of. They can present your items in a way that makes your products the focal point. 

A beautiful presentation can lead to immense marketing benefits. For example, unboxing videos are pretty popular nowadays. In fact, the time people have spent watching unboxing videos from their phones is equivalent to watching “Love Actually” more than 20 million times. And most of the time spent on these videos is about the packaging of the product.

Also, many influencers, and even your everyday customers, have taken to sharing pretty packages on social media channels, such as Instagram and Pinterest.

Finally, according to surveys, 72% of Americans agree that packaging can influence their purchasing decision. In the case of e-commerce and retail, looks matter.

Amplify Your Brand Recognition

Custom package inserts can help customers take notice of your brand. You can add your logo to the insert or use your brand colors. You can even keep branding to a minimum to achieve a raw and bare look.

No matter what style you choose, giving your customers a thoughtful, high-end experience through your packaging will make your brand more memorable and excite your customers.  

And why is building brand loyalty so important? Consider this:

• 43% of customers spend more money on brands they are loyal to. (Fundera)
• 94% of people said they’d be highly likely to recommend a brand they were emotionally engaged with. (Genler)
• 48% of consumers report that they are more likely to become loyal to a brand during the first purchase or experience. (G2)
• 50% of shoppers say they’re more likely to recommend a product with branded packaging. (BusinessLoad)

Custom packaging inserts are a great way to pump up customer loyalty. Not leveraging your packaging to get your brand noticed potentially leaves a lot of money on the table. 

The Environmental Angle

Environmental concerns are on top of the consumers’ minds, and this includes packaging.  No one wants to contribute to landfills or have a giant carbon footprint.

Recent research conducted about sustainability concludes the following:

• 74% of those surveyed would pay more for sustainable packaging, and nearly one-fourth are willing to pay for an increased cost of 10 percent or more.

• 60% of consumers say they are less likely to buy a product in harmful packaging.

The bottom line is that the friendlier your packaging is to the environment, the better.

Inserts made from paper or cardboard are not only easy to recycle but also sustainable. Look for manufacturers who use responsible forestry.

Want to go a step further? Try inserts made from organic material like fungi.  Not only are they super sustainable, but they’re even home compostable.  Who would have thought discarded packaging could help grow a garden?

A Few Potential Drawbacks

As with everything, there are some potential drawbacks to going with custom box inserts. Ironically, many of their cons are what make custom inserts so special. There are three main disadvantages:

• It’s a custom design: On one hand, custom design will make your brand stand out. On the other hand, unlike stock packaging, they’re going to take longer to complete. You can’t grab these inserts off the shelf or put your order in and expect the product the next day. 
• These inserts are product-specific: Sure, this means they’ll offer optimum protection and fit your products like a glove.  But, if you sell a bunch of different products, this may be problematic. Coming up with custom inserts for hundreds of unique products could prove to be a logistical nightmare.
• They’re more expensive than many other void-fill alternatives: As with all of your packaging needs, you need to keep your budget in mind.  Custom inserts might not fit your bottom line today, but they may be something to consider in the future. 

A Little Inspiration

The eCommerce industry generated an estimated $839 billion in sales last year, which increased over 40% from the year before. But there’s a lot of competition out there.  Everyone is trying to claw their way to the top.

So, what can you do to get your products noticed?

It’s going to take a little effort on your part to keep your current customers and attract new ones. Beautiful packaging, including custom inserts, is one way to do that.  

Let’s take a closer look at how some companies are using custom box inserts to enhance their customers’ experiences:

Warby Parker

Finding that perfect pair of eyeglasses that look just right on your face can be a real chore.  That’s why online prescription eyeglass retailer Warby Parker introduced a program where they’ll send out five free pairs of glasses. Decide which one (or ones) you’d like to keep and send the rest back.

Since glasses are fragile, they require extra care when mailing them out. Warby Parker uses a corrugated box with insert dividers to keep the glasses separated and ding-free.

Ritual Vitamins

Ritual is an online multivitamin retailer that developed itself into an Instagram darling.  So you know presentation is important to them including with their packaging.

In the above example, Ritual uses its signature bright yellow color for an eye-catching insert. This color is found splashed across their website, so including it in their packaging reinforces their brand identity. 

Cupcakes

Cupcakes aren’t just for little kids’ birthday parties anymore. In recent years, all kinds of boutique cupcake shops have sprung up across the country, lending these once humble little cakes an air of sophistication.

But nothing less unflattering than a smooshed cupcake. These delicate little cakes need protection. Custom inserts can ensure these tasty morsels make it home looking as good as they did on the bakery shelf. 

Winestyr 

More people are enjoying the ease of ordering their wine, especially since the pandemic. But can you imagine the mess a shattered wine bottle would unleash upon delivery? Talk about a way to lose customers fast! 

Winestyr is fully aware of this. As an online purveyor of artisanal wines, you can join their wine club or order premium gifts. Since their whole business is about shipping out their product to customers, they have their packaging dialed in.

In the above example, they have three wine bottles nestled in a cardboard insert. The insert both protects the bottles and nicely presents them.

Esquire Beast Box

Esquire needs no introduction, but its new subscription gift box does. Named “Beast Box,” it contains various men’s grooming products, in line with Esquire’s branding.

The box insert has different-sized sections for each of the products included. Also, the understated color scheme exudes masculinity, which is just what you’d expect from the brand.  

Pirells Innovative

Here’s a concept design from Pirells Innovative for a premium watch box. The monochrome color complements the simple yet elegant design. The pattern made on the mailer box and the inside insert are made by cutting the black paper, which gives it a unique, memorable look.

When you pop open this box and find a watch lying on the insert, the overall presentation oozes luxury and sophistication. 

Tait Design

You wouldn’t expect a design studio to skimp on presentation, and Tait Design does not disappoint. 

The hot pink cardboard box for their yo-yo matches the printing color on the outside of the box. It pulls the whole look together and makes a “child’s” toy feel unique and fancy.

Get People Talking with Memorable Custom Packaging Box Inserts

Custom box inserts can take your packaging from unremarkable to something that gets people talking. Packaging inserts are only one component of your overall marketing arsenal, but they can build trust, increase brand recognition, and enhance your customers’ overall experience. 

Custom box inserts will protect your goods and make them look good. They’re made from various materials, so you can find one that reflects your company’s values. What’s not to love?

Refine Packaging is the top choice for the world’s Inc 5000 and Fortune 500 companies. With super fast production times, affordable pricing, and a sky’s the limit attitude, we’ll help you turn your custom packaging into a competitive differentiator. Contact us today and a dedicated packaging specialist will guide you through every step of the custom packaging process without breaking a sweat.

The post Ultimate Guide to Custom Packaging Inserts appeared first on Refine Packaging.

Disappointed you can’t seem to garner a similar number of likes, thumbs-up, tweets and retweets to that of your competitors?

Are you over watching other brand’s items fly off store shelves while yours sit there idle, cold, and alone?

Okay, maybe we’re being a bit dramatic with that last one, but the point still stands. 

It is maddening when you know you have a great product that people would love, but it produces nothing but stagnant sales.

That frustration only increases if you’ve done your market research, tested and retested your product line’s viability, and have generated enough favorable feedback from those who have made a purchase to know that it should be performing better than it is.

If this sounds like a situation your brand is currently dealing with, it might be time to look beyond the product itself and reconsider your packaging.

Yes, that’s right, the packaging. 

Though it’s a little strange to consider, especially if you genuinely sell a winning product or line of products, what might be holding you back is the package your products are sold in. 

If you’re using off-the-shelf packaging for your brand, it might be time you considered the benefits of custom retail packaging.

Why Custom Retail Packaging

Consider for a moment you venture into a retail store. You might be there to purchase something specific, but inevitably, a particular product or products may grab your attention. 

Even if you don’t need it or end up buying it, you pick it up, look at it, and make a mental note of it.

Why is that?

It’s highly likely it was how the product is packaged.

Custom retail packaging carries with it the ability to influence consumer buying decisions. A product with vivid colors, clear, easy to read fonts, or is wrapped in a unique manner stands out on a shelf far more than one in a monotone box, with hard to read copy.

From a physical retail standpoint, custom packaging and excellent box design helps your brand stand out and makes it easier to differentiate from your competitors. Retailers love the customizable solutions as it makes their job easier, from stocking to carrying less overhead costs.

Shop Popular Products

Custom Mailer Boxes with Logo

Learn More

Custom Soap Boxes

Learn More

Custom Vape Cartridge Boxes

Learn More

Custom Hair Extension Boxes

Learn More

CBD Boxes

Learn More

Customizable Candle Box Wholesale

Learn More

Pillow Boxes

Learn More

Custom Printed Eyelash Boxes

Learn More

Custom Cardboard Boxes & Cardboard Packaging

Learn More

Custom Printed Product Boxes for Retail

Learn More

Custom Lip Gloss Boxes

Learn More

Custom-Made Lip Balm Packaging Boxes

Learn More

CBD Display Boxes

Learn More

Custom Bath Bomb Boxes

Learn More

Custom Collapsible Boxes

Learn More

Custom Kraft Boxes

Learn More

Custom Printed Medicine Packaging Boxes

Learn More

Custom Hanger Boxes

Learn More

With regards to ecommerce, great custom packaging helps extend your brand beyond the virtual space. It creates an exciting and meaningful experience for your consumer. It incentivizes them to make more purchases and entices others to see what all the fuss is about.

In both instances, outstanding custom packaging can increase your brand’s value, engagement with consumers, and exposure, both short and long term.

How is all of this possible? Well, certainly, great packaging is more than just bright colors and clear verbiage. Let’s explore seven benefits of custom retail packaging.

1. Completely Customizable

The name of the article says it all right, Custom Retail Packaging. And yes, whatever crazy box designs, color schemes, or artistic flourishes you can dream up, packaging can be crafted to fulfill those dreams.

But before we go all Michelangelo on sculpting your boxes and bags, let’s consider why customization truly matters.

Foremost, packaging can be tailored to fit your brand and the needs of your products. Whether you sell tools or toys, cosmetics or clothes, there’s an outer shell to fit your products like a glove.

The principal benefit is a practical one, especially when it comes to packaging for ecommerce brands. Custom packaging provides better protection for your products while they’re in transit. You wouldn’t ship a bottle of wine in a box that’s designed for cosmetics. Nor would you package and ship scented candles and dog treats in the same manner. (If you do, we’re interested to know that niche.)

For products sold in brick-and-mortar stores, secure packaging provides consumers peace of mind. Namely, the items were not damaged from the warehouse to the store, and that the company behind the item thought enough of it to ensure it was safe. 

Next, custom packaging allows your brand to tell its story on its own terms. Customization lets you craft that narrative, however you choose. You can tell it on the outside with unique branding on the outer packaging. You can tell it from the inside with distinctive inner packaging or interesting inserts and add ons.

You can also craft packaging that extols more about your product. Informs consumers how to use it or how to gain the most benefit from it. Or just simply thank them for being a valued customer.

Custom packaging even has the ability to create an experience for the consumer. This is particularly true if yours is a subscription-based service or a lifestyle brand or one that relies heavily on “gift” purchases.

The pet brand, Bark Essentials, provides a good if somewhat non-traditional example. Every one of their dog beds comes with a free chew toy and a punch-out wearable paper crown for the canine recipient. Sure it’s a small addition to the packaging, but it creates a memorable unboxing experience for both the owner and dog. 

Creating a sense of excitement or making a customer feel special extends your brand’s interaction with them after their purchase. If the purchase is meant as a gift, then the experience reaches even further.

However you choose to brand your boxes, your bags, your bottles, or whatever else your products may come, rest assured that you can design it to fit your brand and appeal to your customers.

2. A Magnet for Consumers

Want some stats? We’ve got some stats.

According to a report from Packaging of the World, 70% of consumers form their impression of a brand based on its packaging. 64% of in-store consumers claim they’ll buy products based solely on the packaging. 55% of online consumers will give a brand repeat business if their initial purchase arrives in custom packaging.

The most significant stat, though, is this: 63% of consumers believe that product packaging is very nearly just as important as the brand selling the product.

If you were ever in doubt before, that should prove that looks do, in fact, matter. And consumers are drawn to packaging that looks good. 

The other point to be made regarding consumers and packaging is that it’s a major touchpoint between your brand and your customers. In many instances, it’s the only physical touchpoint. 

Consider that in-store packaging is the only direct interaction a consumer will have with your brand before making a purchase. For ecommerce transactions, the packaging is the singular physical interaction you’ll have with a customer after they make a purchase. 

That’s a lot of heat to place on something that isn’t even the actual product the consumer bought or is thinking about buying. But, let’s go ahead and up the temperature a notch.

Your product packaging also needs to impress those not interacting with your brand. At least, not directly. Word of mouth is a huge deal these days, and it’s only going to intensify. Some estimates have it that 50% of consumers are more likely to suggest a product or brand to a friend if its goods arrive in good packaging.

And they don’t simply say “hey, buy this,” over a cup of coffee. They’re extolling the brand’s virtues to coworkers, family members, and, most importantly, through sharing on social media. 

When developing your packaging strategy, it’s wise to have the social media equation front of mind. You know, the one that says a user shares with two friends who share with two friends, and so on. In numbers form, it looks like this:

2 shares = 4 shares = 8 shares = 16 shares = 32 shares = 64 shares = 128 shares = ???

Adjust that number however you see fit. It quickly turns into a massive boon for your brand. Even better if you grab the attention of an influencer or are lucky enough to have a product unboxed on YouTube.

In our highly connected, digital age, people want to share information. They need to share information. When they find a product they like, from an up and coming brand, that’s packaged in a cool, clever, or sophisticated way, they want to scream it from the mountaintops “look what I found.” 

But it all starts with your packaging. 

3. Image is Everything

Let’s take everything one step further, with one final stat: 68% of consumers say that quality packaging reflects that a brand is upscale. 

That’s actually some value-add information right there. What it basically says is that by upping your packaging game, you’re also increasing your value in the eyes of the consumer. 

Make a nominal investment in your product’s exterior visage, and you could potentially charge much more for that product than you spent to produce it. And consumers will happily pay the premium. Think about that for a second. 

Your product packaging isn’t solely about protecting a product. Nor is it just a vessel to relay information about the item inside the box or the bag. It actually adds value to the transaction between business and customer. Let’s look at a quick example to see how this may play out.

Assume you decide, yes, let’s improve our brand’s packaging game and invest in a logoed branded box to add to your packaging presentation. It’s got to be expensive, right? Well, the truth is that the cost of custom printed boxes is probably a lot less than you think.

In many cases, custom boxes actually save you money. Custom boxes can range in price from 5 cents to a couple of dollars. So when making packaging decisions such as this, it’s critical to work with your design, marketing, and packaging manufacturing team to make the best choice for your brand. 

Initially, that outlay will, of course, cut into your revenue.

You’re probably thinking that’s not good. And that’s fair. 

But consider now, with fresh eco-friendly packaging, you are suddenly an environmentally friendly brand. A brand that cares enough to transform their packaging into something that’s not wasteful. Consumers flock to brands that do their part to help make the world a better place. And they’re willing to pay a premium for it. 

And guess what, that adds value to your company.

Obviously, this is just one such scenario. Depending on your industry, the products you sell, or your consumer base, there are numerous ways to pump value into your brand by making a nominal investment in upgrading your packaging.

However, this approach doesn’t always need to be about more revenue. If you simply want to raise your profile, create a buzz about your product, or perhaps pull yourself out of a slump, look to your packaging to help you achieve those goals.

Do you recall when Coca-Cola began placing people’s names on their bottles during their ‘Share a Coke” campaign? Sure, we all do, and it was a masterstroke of marketing. But did you also know that before that campaign began, Coca-Cola had experienced over a decade’s worth of declining sales? 

That singular idea – printing names on a label that remained otherwise unchanged – turned their slump into a 2% rise in sales after the promotion was launched.

Ultimately, what this hits home at is that image does matter. If you improve your brand’s image in the eyes of your consumers with a simple packaging upgrade, you raise its value. Isn’t that worth it?

Read our definitive guide to custom boxes to learn more about what it takes to craft remarkable branded packaging.

4. Advertising in Perpetuity

Do you know what else those branded boxes and similar custom packaging upgrades mean for your brand? Life after the sale.

No, your custom packaging may not last forever. But it may very well last long enough for potential consumers to take notice. 

Take a resuable tote bag, for example. When a consumer buys the product wrapped with the tote, it counts as a singular transaction. But when they use that tote to bag groceries at the store, carry shoes on a trip, or ferry toys or supplies to a beach or lake, that singular transaction transforms into multiple, indirect interactions.

When your product packaging stands out, your brand is garnering attention it would have never received with standard, throwaway packaging. Even if it doesn’t result in immediate sales, your brand is getting noticed, submitted to memory to be sought out later on.

Then there are the direct interactions. Those where a friend or family member notes the “cute” or “cool” tote and then asks, “where’d you get it.” Now, the satisfied consumer, who’s investment in your brand is being rewarded with attention from others, can detail their excellent experience.

Bags are not the only vessel that will give life to your brand after the sale. Boxes, too, have a role to play even if they’re less direct. Read our guide to CBD packaging boxes for examples of common do’s and don’ts to consider.

First, there’s the obvious ecommerce shipping box and its penchant for repeat use. There’s no reason Amazon should have the market cornered on boxes traveling across the country and around the world. At the very least, any ecommerce shipment should have your brand and logo on the exterior.

Recall that we mentioned earlier that custom retail boxes extend your brand’s engagement with customers or gift recipients after the sale. It’s important to reiterate that your packaging is every bit a part of the purchasing experience as your in-store displays, your advertising campaigns, and the functionality of your online store.

An excellent example of this is the bed in a box brand, Casper. Not only did they disrupt a pretty stale industry with the concept that buying a mattress doesn’t need to be that hard. They used their packaging to get the point across to millions. Their blue and white box is now widely recognized, and it gave rise to a full-blown industry and millions more bed in a box converts.

But even simpler ideas, such as the Coca-Cola promotion mentioned earlier, will get current and potential customers interacting. The whole point of Coca-Cola’s campaign is not just to buy yourself a Coke, but to buy one for someone else. 

If you want to maintain a presence in the minds of consumers – not just your established customers, but the vast pool of potential buyers – custom retail packaging helps you spread the word.

5. Provide Your Brand with an Identity

Arguably, one of the more apparent benefits of custom retail packaging is often one of the most overlooked and undervalued. That is what it can do for your brand’s identity.

In explaining this aspect of packaging, it’s best to examine two iconic brands, one in the fast-food business and the other a global tech behemoth.

First, when you hear the phrase Happy Meal, what comes to mind? Even if you’ve never had one (however unlikely that may be) or it’s been many years since you last had one (more likely), you know exactly what it is – the kid’s meal from McDonald’s.

Even though it’s probably been years since you’ve physically seen one, you know exactly what it looks like. The red box, yellow “M” handle, the fold open top that resembles a house when it’s closed. You know it includes a toy insert. And before now, you probably never considered it one of the most iconic examples of custom packaging design in history.

And what did it do? It transformed Mickey D’s into the premier fast food restaurant for kids. Forcing many a parent, and their dollars, through the drive-thru and into indoor playgrounds across the world.

Not bad for a flimsy container that carries a child-size meal that costs less than $5. Did we mention it also sells over a billion individual units each year?

Turning our attention to our tech example, we’re guessing you already know the company we’re going to mention without us even saying it. That, by its very nature, is the power of custom retail packaging. And if you thought Apple, then you’d be correct.

As a technology company that produces billions of devices – as of 2019, they had roughly 1.4 billion active devices in use worldwide, with many more probably collecting dust in a drawer somewhere – it’s hard to fathom Apple as an environmentally conscious brand. Not a knock on them by any means, but when you produce as much as they do, it’s hard to escape the sheer amount of resources they use year after year.

And yet, Apple is regularly lauded for its eco-friendly packaging, which ferries thousand-dollar devices to consumers worldwide. Let’s face it, for a brand known for groundbreaking technology, its packaging might be one of its most impressive feats.

It’s the bare minimum necessary to protect the devices inside with a decidedly minimalistic, premium feel to it. The outer branding is simple and straight to the point. You know what’s inside, and you can’t wait to experience the unboxing.

Even less mainstream boutique lifestyle brands such as Birchbox have built notable identities around customized packaging. If you really want to know the power it holds, even if you’ve never heard of it yourself, ask five friends or associates, and we bet at least one will know what Birchbox is and what they provide in the box.

No, we’re not trying to give you brand envy. What we are saying, though, is that your custom packaging is more than just a package. That you take the time to sit down and consider both its purpose and meaning beyond simply being a tool to hold a product. After all, there’s a financial reason why successful businesses buy custom printed boxes and packaging. 

Custom packaging can represent your brand as one that is smart, elegant, forward-thinking, or just plain cool. It’s worth it to explore the type of identity custom packaging can build for your brand. 

6. A Competitive Edge

Along with a clearly defined brand identity, custom retail packaging can provide you an edge over your competitors. Regardless of the industry or marketplace, your brand operates within, standing above the competition is always a worthwhile goal.

As an experiment in the importance of competitive advantage, next time you’re at a store with a personal care section, peruse the shampoo and conditioner aisle. What you’ll notice will prove very instructive as you consider your own approach to packaging.

First, there is a definite sameness to the proceedings up and down the hair care aisle. Whether it’s similar bottles or similar colors or fonts and text, a lot of the products seem to all glom together.

Part of this is just plain necessity. Shampoos and conditioners and other hair care goods are relegated exclusively to our bathrooms. And as they come as mainly liquids or gels, the type of packaging is limited to plastic bottles.

However, within the sea of sameness that adorns the shelves, some brands do stand out more than others, even with the product’s constraints. 

Certain brands ditch the most commonly used white bottle in favor of bolder colors. Others opt to alter the shape of the bottle, if even slightly, to cast a different profile on the shelf. If you stop to read the labels, you’ll note that some products sport non-traditional fonts or verbiage to appeal to consumers.

Of course, some of those customizations might prove a bit more costly than your off-the-shelf packaging. However, those brands have made a conscious choice that a little extra investment is worth standing out from the crowd and getting more products sold. 

For your custom packaging, consider taking a similar approach to those brands thinking “outside the bottle.” 

As you research your options, review what others are doing. Who the top sellers are, who struggles to keep up. Determine if they’ve created a connection with consumers or have established a solid brand identity.

You don’t have to go crazy with your design strategies, either. Will a different font help make your packaging more clear? Will new textures appeal to a broader audience? Do your colors appear drab when compared side by side a competing brand? Does every brand in your segment produce similar packaging? If so, why? And can you mix it up a bit?

Don’t rely solely on your industry, either. Check other segments for inspiration or ideas and see what works and what doesn’t. You may not trade in shampoo, but that hair care section demonstrates why differentiation is so important. Take those lessons and apply them to your brand. If your brand is on a tight budget, there are plenty of ways to reduce your packaging costs without sacrificing on quality. 

As you research, you may come to find it won’t take much to stand apart from your competition. That only minor tweaks to your existing strategy are all it requires. 

As we’ve pointed out, the beauty of custom packaging is that you can truly make it your own. A little research and some well thought out design strategies can even put you on top of the marketplace. No matter which marketplace you’re competing in.

7. Improve the Retail Experience

Were you expecting this entire piece to be about the consumer and your brand, and the impact custom packaging has on your bottom line? Well, it’s only 90% about that. The other 10% is about retailers.

Those all-important brick and mortar buildings that house your goods and represent the non-virtual world where consumers interact with your products.

If you’re like some companies, you might be wondering if those physical stores deserve your time and resources, since ecommerce is where the action is at now.

While it’s true that ecommerce sales continue to rise, and investing in your virtual consumer experience, including packaging, is wise, the retail store is not dead yet. 

In fact, it continues to thrive. Ecommerce sales currently represent less than 20% of all retail sales. And those numbers are from the height of the coronavirus pandemic.

Now think about what happens when restrictions subside, and folks are ready to get out, shop, browse and buy in person, just like old times. Yes, ecommerce will one day become the dominant force in retail. But it ain’t happening anytime soon.

Why do we tell you all of this? So that you don’t overlook the importance of custom retail packaging within the brick and mortar environment. In other words, it helps if your products and packaging are retail ready.

Perhaps the most obvious and most straightforward example is the boxes of candy on sale in the checkout aisle. Tear the cover off the box, stick it on the shelf, and boom, the product is stocked and ready for sale.

Retailers love this type of packaging, as it makes restocking a snap and has the potential to reduce their overhead. However, this type of packaging also enhances your consumer engagement.

Most importantly, there’s no easier way to set yourself apart from the competition than retail-ready packaging. You command your own space on the shelf, even if the individual item packaging remains similar to other products.

The “stand apart” display gives you more marketing space too. Depending on how your setup is designed, you highlight singular attention-grabbing cues to draw consumers in. Unachievable if your product line is standing single file on the shelf. 

The keys involved in taking advantage of this custom packaging style include whether the stores where your product is sold accept this form of product display. If they do, great.

Remember, the goals are to satisfy the needs of your retailers and appeal to customers. 

For the former, work with specific retailers to understand their specific needs and requirements. Ensure the packaging can meet the standards of the space. Is the packaging sturdy enough to stand on its own? Does it fit the appropriated shelf or floor space? Is it easy for store employees to handle setup or stock?

With the latter, keep your branding consistent between display packaging and individual product packaging, but use the opportunity to add bold designs and attention-grabbing text or images to reinforce your overall brand strategy.

Final Thoughts

Custom retail packaging is more than just packaging.

It’s customizable to fit your every need, whatever it might be. And build your brand identity.

It’s a tool to help draw consumers closer to your brand and its products.

It’s an extension of your ideals, representing not only your products, but also your mission and appeal to consumers.

It’s a way to boost your image and raise it’s stock among consumers, to cast yours as a premium experience, one that’s not to be missed.

It’s a marketing and advertising piece to extend your reach well beyond the point of purchase or delivery and unboxing.  

It’s a pathway to setting you apart from your competition in an increasingly crowded marketplace.

And, it’s a way to enhance your retail presence both for those that handle your products and those that buy them.

Realizing all the ways it can positively influence your success, it might be time to consider developing custom retail packaging for your brand.

The post The Complete Guide to Custom Retail Packaging appeared first on Refine Packaging.

Not exactly.

That custom box, padded mailer or simple envelope is the singular touchpoint between you and your customer for the entire ecommerce transaction. 

Think about it. 

A consumer browses your website and finds the product or products they want. A few clicks and keyboard inputs later, they mash the submit button on their order. From there, your fulfillment apparatus springs into action, picking and packing and labeling and shipping. A few days pass, then suddenly, as if it were logistical witchcraft and wizardry, your consumer is happily united with their new favorite widget, doodad, thingamajig, or gadget. 

All jokes aside, other than what’s in the box, the box itself is the only other tangible item with which to make a lasting impression on that customer. The packaging you use and how you present it is no laughing matter.

So just how do you impress those valuable consumers? You know, the people that bought something from your ecommerce store? How do you get your products to them safely, and do so without busting your packing and shipping budget? 

Read on for the beginner’s guide to ecommerce packaging.

What is Ecommerce Packaging?

It might seem a bit elementary, but it’s vital first to understand the core purposes for your packaging. It’s not always as obvious as it might seem.

First and foremost, the packaging is there to protect the product or products that you’re shipping. That’s a bit of a no-brainer, but selecting the right type of box or mailer is crucial to ensuring your products reach their final destination safe and sound. You wouldn’t ship cookware in a shoebox or pack cosmetics into a container meant for big bags of dog food. 

Sure those are extreme examples, but you get the idea. The right packaging means an undamaged product, a happy customer, and you not having to sort through the headache of a return.

Second, the packaging is a tool to show off your brand’s commitment to quality and customer service. 

How can a box do that, you might ask? It’s all in the presentation. 

The packaging isn’t just about the box your product is shipped in, but whether it was packed with care. Does it include the proper amount of infill (bubble wrap, packing peanuts, kraft paper, etc.)? The appropriate documentation (receipt, catalog, reward offers, etc.)? Was it sealed properly and securely?

Are those small minor details? Absolutely. But will a customer take notice when one of those small details is amiss? Also, absolutely. 

Shop Popular Products

Custom Mailer Boxes with Logo

Learn More

Custom Soap Boxes

Learn More

Custom Vape Cartridge Boxes

Learn More

Custom Hair Extension Boxes

Learn More

CBD Boxes

Learn More

Customizable Candle Box Wholesale

Learn More

Pillow Boxes

Learn More

Custom Printed Eyelash Boxes

Learn More

Custom Cardboard Boxes & Cardboard Packaging

Learn More

Custom Printed Product Boxes for Retail

Learn More

Custom Lip Gloss Boxes

Learn More

Custom-Made Lip Balm Packaging Boxes

Learn More

CBD Display Boxes

Learn More

Custom Bath Bomb Boxes

Learn More

Custom Collapsible Boxes

Learn More

Custom Kraft Boxes

Learn More

Custom Printed Medicine Packaging Boxes

Learn More

Custom Hanger Boxes

Learn More

Finally, the packaging may serve as an unmoored billboard for your brand. Later on, we detail why this matters. At a surface level, your packaging is an opportunity to advertise your brand. And have it live on as long as the box or other shipping elements remain viable. Regardless of how your packaging finds a second life, as long as your brand is still front and center, it’s a further opportunity for folks to notice it.

Think about a few big-time ecommerce brands and how they package their wares. Pet supply companies are notoriously good about package branding, with Chewy’s giant blue logo the most prominent. Meal kit brand Dinnerly is another company that subscribes to the box as a billboard idea. 

And lest we forget, the biggest of them all, Amazon and their black branded tape and A to Z smiley face arrow on the side of every box.

So with that brief overview out of the way, let’s explore a few specifics such as costs, materials, and why your ecommerce packaging is more than just packaging.

Cost Considerations for Ecommerce Packaging

While it can be easy to get caught up in the design and branding aspects, you still have a business to run. That means managing your packaging costs and ensuring you get the most bang for your buck.

Much of your shipping and packing costs revolve around the type of products you sell. Looking back at our earlier examples, if you sell cookware or similarly heavy or awkwardly shaped products, you’ll want to invest in heavy-duty packaging and infill that keeps those items securely in place. The more stout the material, the higher the cost, both to buy and ship.

Fragile items may not require heavy-duty boxing, but you’ll probably want to look into different types of infill that ensure those items arrive in one piece.

If your brand deals in smaller, lighter products, such as the aforementioned cosmetics or apparel, you can get by with less expensive materials. But if you’re selling an experience or a lifestyle, using premium materials for your custom packaging just might be a worthwhile investment. Whatever form your packaging takes, you still want to make sure it’s not susceptible to outside elements. Or overly aggressive delivery drivers.

If you go custom with your box size and packing materials across most of your product line, that is ideal. You’ll realize considerable savings by only paying for precisely what you need, compared to standardized packaging and shipping where you end up spending a fortune for empty space.

Just keep in mind that whatever your packaging needs are, your shipping materials add to the shipment’s weight. In turn, this will increase your shipping costs. We’ll touch on shipping below, but read our beginner’s guide to shipping strategy for a deeper dive at how to save shipping costs.

When choosing your packaging mix, you’ll also want to factor in the potential cost of returns. Underestimating your shipping needs could inevitably drive up your return costs. And not just due to the processing and replacement of the damaged goods, but what it could also mean for retaining customers.

As with every other aspect of your ecommerce business, plan ahead and put together a game plan for the type of packaging each of your products will require. Figuring this out ahead of time will save money. Both on the shipping materials you’ll need and the shipping expenses you’ll incur.

If you outsource your ecommerce fulfillment, work with your 3PL to determine the right packaging mix, and potentially receive a bulk discount on the materials you’ll need.

Types of Packaging

Now that we’ve determined the foundational basis of ecommerce packaging and it’s related costs, let’s delve into the types of packaging you’ll want to consider.

As we already indicated, it requires planning to work out the right mix of packaging that best fits your brand’s product line and budget. Unfortunately, picking the correct type of packaging does take some effort. It helps to understand the difference in box sizes, materials and costs to make an informed decision for your shipping needs. 

In the end, the effort is worth it for your brand, your customers, and your bottom line. Let’s explore the different packaging types, including branding, boxes and envelopes, infill, and few intangibles.

Branded Versus Unbranded and Customization

Though we briefly touched on branded packaging benefits, putting a logo on your shipping material may not prove the best option for everyone. 

First, custom boxes will cost more than your basic shipping materials, but are probably less expensive than you think. If you don’t think your brand will see a measurable benefit for the extra outlay, it’s worth foregoing the customization.

On the other hand, materials specific to your needs can serve two purposes. One, of course, is the additional advertising potential. Two, customization can result in boxes and packaging crafted to meet your product specs. 

Subscription-based businesses make the most of this aspect, where packaging is part of the overall purchasing experience. The more practical application is that custom packing is more likely to arrive at its destination undamaged.

If you are interested in going the extra mile with shipping materials, contact us through live chat, give us a ring or request a free quote.

For everything else on our list, assume that you can opt to have it customized or not.

Mailers

Mailers are for items that are flat and small or light and don’t require too much protection. Offered in a variety of styles and sizes, mailers are ideal for a range of products. They most often ferry clothing, books and CDs, jewelry, or other small or flat items that don’t need an abundance of padding. You can pack higher dollar items in them too. Items such as art supplies, smart device cases and screen protectors, or accessories like earbuds or wallets fit perfectly in most mailers.

The three main categories of mailers include:

• Bags: Shipping bags are often reserved for clothing. They’re flexible and able to hold several items at once (depending on size) by merely pushing out excess air. The bags themselves are light and relatively inexpensive and won’t add much to your shipping or materials costs.
• Tyvek Envelopes: Not the plain envelope you accustomed to, Tyvek envelopes are constructed from high-density polyethylene fibers, which makes them highly durable (they are difficult to rip or tear). Slightly larger than 8½ x 11 envelopes, Tyvek envelopes are also ideal for shipping clothes or flimsy items that don’t require a lot of protection. Costs are similar to bags.
• Padded Mailers: For smaller items requiring added layers of protection, you’ll want to use padded mailers. The most common type of padded envelopes features an interior lined with bubble wrap. These mailers come in various sizes from small (can fit a tiny box, like a pair of earrings) to very large (some can hold a full-size iPad with packaging). Material-wise, padded mailers will cost more than bags or Tyvek envelopes, but will still help keep your shipping costs low. 

Cardboard Boxes

The real workhorse of the internet shipping world is the cardboard box. Arguably, an innovation on par with the wheel, this brown rigid vessel is where the vast majority of buyers and sellers place their ecommerce dreams. Without it, Amazon would still be a bookstore, and even fewer people would volunteer to help you move.

Specifically, the corrugated box is what moves much of the merchandise from the warehouse to the home. A basic or single-walled corrugated box is basically two sheets of containerboard (linerboard) glued to a corrugated medium (a wavy or fluted piece of containerboard).

For shipping purposes, you have three basic types of corrugated boxes to choose from:

• Single Wall: This is the thickness of your basic cardboard box and is suitable for the vast majority of ecommerce shipping. Sturdy and lightweight, it offers adequate protection without adding too much weight to your packaging or shipping costs. 
• Double Wall: By adding an extra layer of protection, a double-wall corrugated box will handle heavy or bulky items far easier than the single wall version. That additional protection, however, will increase both your material and shipping costs.
• Triple Wall: Triple wall boxes carry a similar strength to wood crates and are designed for your big-ticket man-cave and she-shed items – televisions, appliances, glass tabletops, or large glass framed artwork. It’s also used for commercial purposes like shipping medical equipment. The cost to both acquire and ship is very high.

Of course, corrugated boxes can take numerous shapes and forms, and usually fall into one of the following categories: slotted, telescope, rigid, and folders. There’s also a grouping for interior forms that effectively serve as interior dividers, like for bottles of liquid, for more secure shipping.

The full list of corrugated box forms include:

• Slotted
  • Regular slotted container (note that this your most common, tried and true corrugated shipping box)
  • Half slotted container
  • Overlap slotted container
  • Full overlap slotted container 
  • Center special slotted container
  • Center special overlap slotted container 
  • Center special full overlap slotted container
• Telescope
  • Full telescope design style container
  • Design style container with a cover 
  • Full telescope half slotted container

• Rigid
• • Rigid boxes
  • Self-erecting boxes

• Folders
• • One-piece folder
  • Five-panel folder 
  • Trays

Since this is a beginner’s guide, we will keep the central focus on the basic corrugated regular slotted container. You can find more options in our guide to custom boxes and branded packaging or guide to CBD packaging boxes. However, whatever your ecommerce shipping needs, know that you can find a preformed box or have a container customer made to satisfy your specific product needs.

Securing Your Packaging

Equally as important as the box you ship your products in is how you secure the item or items inside. Typically referred to as infill, this is what keeps your products cozy throughout their travels. An important detail, considering those travels, might include boats and planes and trucks and trains, and if you ship through Amazon, the occasional car ride home.

Again, just as with your choice of mailers or boxes, the critical factor to choosing infill is determining what best suits your product line. Your goal is to find the happy medium between secure shipping and materials that don’t overstuff your expense report.

Below we detail the major items involved in securing your packaging.

Infill

The first thing to recognize about infill is that it’s not always necessary. If you’ve ever received anything via Amazon, you know they use infill only when necessary and only the minimal amount to keep a product from being damaged.

It’s a good rule of thumb to follow as it will save you money over the long term. The trade-off with minimal infill, however, that you run the risk of your returns going up. Similar to boxes, work with your 3PL or others on your logistics team to find the right combination of infill materials. 

One other note regarding infill is that it’s not always environmentally friendly. With more and more people buying products through ecommerce, more and more packing materials are finding their way into the bottom of trash cans. It’s something to keep in mind as you choose your infill. Environmentally conscious brands are often well-regarded among consumers. 

The most common forms of infill include:

• Kraft Paper: Kraft paper is the Amazon standard and is the most versatile and cheapest packing infill available. The paper itself comes in various thicknesses and can tear off into whatever size sheet you need. It is also very lightweight and will add nothing to your shipping costs. Kraft paper is also good for the environment and is both recyclable and offered as a recyclable product.
• Bubble Wrap: Perhaps the most widely known infill material, thanks to its aftermarket amusement for kids and adults alike, bubble wrap has long been a packing and shipping staple. Offering superior protection for even the most fragile items, it’s a go-to for ecommerce businesses that sell glassware, framed art, or similarly delicate objects. It’s relative light weight also makes it a good option for keeping shipping costs low. The downsides include it’s non-recyclable and can be a burden to store.
• Packing Peanuts: Another ubiquitous packing material, the packing peanut is one of the least appealing infill forms available. While they offer great product protection, they are messy, a pain to clean up, easy for children to swallow, difficult to recycle, and not the easiest material to store. 
• Inflatables: Also called air pillows, these plastic, air-filled bubbles have grown in popularity over the past decade (not surprisingly with the rise of ecommerce). They are super light and offer excellent protection, which helps keep both shipping and return costs low. However, the tradeoff is that they are not altogether environmentally-friendly (some are recyclable, some are not), and can prove challenging to manage or store. You can purchase the fill on-demand version, which is easy to store but requires the use of an air filler. Purchase them pre-filled, and you run into storage issues. Overall a good alternative to bubble wrap or peanuts.
• Molded Pulp: The first of two molded infill options, molded pulp (commonly recycled newsprint or cardboard), is a popular option with many lifestyle brands and is mostly used to keep wine safe during the shipping process. It’s also a useful option to keep high-ticket items like electronics or small kitchen appliances from bouncing around in transit. Still, it can be expensive to customize and purchase and also adds weight to your packaging. It is, however, environmentally friendly.
• Molded Styrofoam: Unlike its cardboard cousin, molded styrofoam is not as easily recyclable. But it does offer excellent protection for fragile items during shipping. Most associated with helping to cushion televisions or other high dollar electronics, molded styrofoam is an impractical option for most ecommerce shipping needs.
• Shredded Cardboard: Not as widely used as other infill forms, shredded cardboard is a decent alternative to molded cardboard and styrofoam. Not as rigid as those options, it does give you a bit more flexibility in packaging your products. It’s also relatively inexpensive to purchase pre-shredded. If you’re the industrious type, you can also repurpose old cardboard boxes yourself. Though it’s eco-conscious, it may add weight to your packaging depending on thickness and how much you use.
• Crinkle Paper: Perhaps the least used of your basic infill types, crinkle paper is often reserved for specialty or custom packing. While it’s messy to clean up, it does add a nice esthetic while in the box. As a highly recyclable material, it’s worth considering if yours is a lifestyle brand. It can, however, be costly to use.
• Additional Infill Options: Cardboard inserts are increasingly popular with lifestyle brands that want to showcase product sets. GreenWrap is a combination of tissue paper and biodegradable die cut Kraft paper cut into a honeycomb pattern. Double-boxing puts an already boxed product (like a small appliance) into a slightly larger box to increase protection without adding infill. 

Tape

Didn’t think we’d forget about the tape, did you? It is, after all, the thing that holds the entire operation together.

While tape might seem fairly ho-hum, it’s something you shouldn’t overlook when strategizing your packaging approach. Amazon has single-handedly made packing tape famous with its highly recognizable black strip of tape featuring the Amazon or Amazon Prime monikers.

If custom tape isn’t your thing, then standard clear acrylic tape is perfectly acceptable for the vast majority of shipments. It’s cheap, easy to apply, and customers will rarely hold it against you.

Conversely, Kraft paper tape – both the water-activated and non-water activated varieties – will provide your packaging a bit more punch. It is highly customizable. It comes in all manner of colors, and as Amazon proves (it’s what they use after all), you can brand it however which way you choose.

Going the Extra Mile

See what we did there? Shipping. Extra mile. 

Anyway, as you’ve already guessed, ecommerce packaging extends beyond the box and the materials you use to secure it and the product inside. The competitive nature of ecommerce, regardless of which product segment you’re in, demands that you go the extra mile for your customers. And yes, that includes what you ship their orders in and the extra touches you add.

Here are a few ways to stand out amongst the crowd and differentiate your brand’s packaging from your competitors.

Eco-Friendly Packaging

We touched on eco-friendly packaging at length when discussing infill. However, shipping with boxes that are good for the environment – and making sure your customers know about it – goes a long way to building a loyal fan base.

Increasingly popular amongst lifestyle ecommerce brands, a number of mainstream companies are getting in on the green movement. There are even boutique logistical groups, such as Eco-Friendly Boxes that help firms make responsible packing choices.

Whether it’s just a few aspects of your fulfillment process, like biodegradable infill, or you opt to go all-in with recycled and recyclable materials across your entire logistics network, don’t shy away from letting your consumers know. In a highly competitive market, being socially conscious can set your brand apart. 

Shipping Paperwork

Boring subtitle, right? Well, receipts, invoices, packing lists – whatever you want to call them – are an integral, and often dull, part of the packing and shipping process. Necessary as they may be, they are frequently dour affairs that relay information in the most straightforward and mundane manner possible.

Don’t shy up away from spicing up your packaging paperwork. Tongue-in-check messages (be careful to entertain, not offend), colorful invoices, or artfully branded packing lists will all leave a lasting impression on your customer during their unboxing.

Even better, a package is yet another opportunity to get marketing materials in front of your customers. Feature coupons or discount codes on your receipts (or as standalone pieces) and include your company catalog if you have one. You’ll be surprised at how many people will flip through that before pulling their original order from the box.

Simple, “Thank You for being a Customer” inserts (even better if personalized) can make a person feel valued and special. It could compel them to return to your brand again and again.

Do you have, or can you afford to give away free samples? If so, do it. People love free stuff. They love it even more from a brand they themselves love. Remember our cookware? Toss in a free spatula or cleaning brush. Heck, even a “free” recipe printed on a postcard will do the trick. It’s the type of value-add endeavor they will tell their friends, family, and coworkers about, increasing your pool of potential new customers. 

Subtle Touches

Ever hear the phrase, it’s the little things? This is where we talk about the little things. Small, subtle touches such as bright, colorful tissue paper or fun, strategically placed stickers brighten up any unboxing experience. And a great experience gives customers good vibes about your brand.

Stickers are an incredibly useful marketing tool. They are a cheaper alternative to branding the outside of your shipping box. You can use them as an extra seal on an interior box, complete with a thank you message. Or use them to keep a coupon or thank you note in place, so it’s the first thing a person sees when unboxing. Of course, stickers do a nice job of keeping tissue paper wrapped around a shirt, too.

Speaking of tissue paper, Disney offers a good example of making the most out of a seemingly innocuous piece of paper. 

Order anything from their online store, and chances are it will come in your basic, non-descript corrugated box (single-walled, of course). Open it up, however, and you’re greeted with a few pieces of tissue paper with silhouettes of many of Disney’s most beloved characters. It’s a nice, understated touch. You can even reuse the tissue paper when gifting something to your favorite Disney fan.

Whatever your subtle touches may be, ensure they’re on-brand, appeal to your customers, and make a memorable, lasting impact. 

Final Thoughts: Why Does Ecommerce Packaging Matter?

Now that you understand all the ways, shapes, and forms that your ecommerce packaging can take, it’s worth visiting why that packaging matters. To explore a few trends transforming shipping materials into more than just packaging. 

Considering we now live in a digital consumer-driven Instagrammy YouTube kind of world, growing your brand is about more than just the products you sell. Yes, you need a great product people want to buy. And, of course, reliable customer service is an equally worthwhile endeavor. But consumers these days also want to be wowed, impressed, or simply made to feel special.

In other words, not only do they want a great product, but they want a great presentation, a great experience. Here in this niche part of consumerism, you can make an impression not just on people buying your product, but other people who watch those people that buy your product unbox it.

Confused?

Seriously, head over to YouTube, type “Unboxing” into the search bar, and then just scroll. It’s okay; we’ll wait.

See what we mean? Do the same thing on Pinterest or with #unboxing on Instagram, and you’ll get similar results. It’s weird and crazy and fun all at the same time, and it emphasizes the importance of ecommerce packaging. 

You never know when your product, and the package it was delivered in, will have a starring role. How well you present yourself could result in a massive boost to your brand. 

But even if you choose not to brand, your packing still matters. Consumers appreciate when their orders arrive unharmed. They recognize the attention to detail and a purchasing process that is seamless and well thought out. From their time browsing online to the moment they unbox their order.

Regardless of what approach you take and the packaging you use, remember it’s a critical element in the customer experience. Ensure your brand is one they will keep wanting to unbox for years to come.

The post The Beginner’s Guide to Ecommerce Packaging appeared first on Refine Packaging.