Tag Archives: packaging materials

The Best Internal Packaging Materials When Shipping

Custom foam insert
When designing shipping boxes, there is usually some space allowance given between the item and the interior walls of the box. This space is not usually big, particularly with custom boxes. But it is necessary to provide space for packaging materials that will help provide added protection. These materials help to absorb shock and prevent the contents from shifting around. This padding is also important in case the box is perforated. There is less risk the product will be damaged. Here are some of the best options in interior packaging.

Foam Inserts

This is probably the most stable option for products. The foam material is typically quite rigid yet lightweight, providing an effective way for products to remain stable and insulated within a box. They are a good option for shipping & packing materials for expensive commodities like electronics whose mishandling can lead to internal damage. The inserts tend to be thick, ensuring any damage to the box does not get to the contents within. Cardboard inserts can be used for less expensive and smaller lightweight items.

Bubble Wrap

Bubble wrap offers a great cushioning effect that is ideal for protecting fragile items. It is made up of air pockets or bubbles that ably absorb shocks and vibrations, preventing the contents of the box from becoming damaged. It is one of the most lightweight packaging materials, meaning little if any added cost of shipping. There are several variations of bubble wrap including those that come with different sized “bubbles” and self-adhesive options.

Paper

Different kinds of paper can be crumpled up and stuffed around objects in a box. They can also be wrapped around the items. This helps to stabilize them and absorb any shocks during transport. If several items are being kept in the same box, this also helps to ensure they do not bang into each other causing breakage. You can use just about any paper with newspaper and brown paper often being chosen.

Packing Peanuts

Traditionally made from polystyrene, these packaging materials are great for filling up awkward spaces around products that are being boxed. When filled in a box, they provide a soft barrier around the product that can absorb shocks, shaking, jostling, and other rough handling. They can be found in a variety of shapes and sizes. There are also recyclable and biodegradable varieties that are safe for the environment. They have also been made non-toxic due to the frequent occurrence of children eating them.

Why Manufacturers Should Invest In Custom Packaging Materials

selecting the right packaging materials
Packaging products can seem an expensive investment. More so for manufacturers who may find competitors that do not spend on the same. However, the return that can be gained from this investment often more than makes up for the associated cost. Custom packaging is a great way to uplift the visibility of your brand and protect your products. Let’s discuss these benefits in more detail below.

Safeguards Products

Having your products in a box is a good way to protect them from being damaged when on display. More so when you have a display window so customers can look at the product within. A box will not only provide a barrier against people handling the product, but it will also safeguard the contents during transport. Choices like corrugated cartons can withstand the pressures of stacking and rough handling, ensuring products arrive at their destinations in pristine condition.

Also in a time when there are contagious viruses, you will want to have your products in packaging that can be easily wiped down and decontaminated. If exposed, cleaning may be much more difficult after customers have severally handled even just one item.

Adds Prestige

A product that has been well packaged does tend to stand out on the shelf. With a beautiful design to the box and carefully chosen packaging materials, you add a touch of class and give your product an edge over less presentable competing products.

Presentation and differentiation matter a lot in capturing the interest of potential buyers. Try to keep the design attractive yet simple for the most positive impact.

Affordable

Packaging products can seem expensive but is often more affordable than most businesses think. Especially when the resources being used to make the box and packaging materials are paper-based. Since manufacturers produce in bulk, they can also order for boxes in bulk and take advantage of deep discounts that further reduce this expense.

If shipping these boxes from a local supplier, the transport costs can also be driven down. For those that opt to pass on this cost to the customer by marking up their prices, you will find the increase to be minimal.

Branding and Information Sharing

Packaging boxes are a good place to display your branding. You can display logos, the company name, and address. You can also provide all kinds of useful information on the product including its benefits, ingredients, and other specifications.

This can be great for marketing purposes and providing disclosure. Customers appreciate being able to make informed purchasing decisions thanks to manufacturers that are open about pertinent details.