When it comes to packaging, great care should be taken when narrowing down material options. It’s also best to make use of higher-quality packaging that can better withstand the rigours of transportation – these items aren’t lightly handled when in transit! And, putting the practicalities aside, what about the experience of a recipient unboxing a gift that has been shipped to them? Surely, this would be an occasion for something more personalized and beautiful than a plain cardboard box.
Today, let’s go over several common packaging mistakes and how you can avoid them.
Loosely Packaged Items
Without bubble wrap and pre-filled airbags, most standard packaging sizes will allow the product within to be tossed and turned about as it makes its way toward the recipient. Loosely packaged items are prone to cosmetic issues such as hairline cracks, scuffs, and scratches. Not only that, but they can become partially damaged, or they may get destroyed before even reaching the person you’re sending them to. This is especially true if you’re shipping a fragile item or something with sensitive internal components.
This mistake can be avoided by packing just enough around the item being shipped to ensure that it’s snug and protected. No need to overdo it!
Uninspired/Unattractive Packaging
Have you ever received a gift or product shipped from afar, only for it to arrive in a crumpled brown box without much care put into the packaging experience? This happens far too often, including with gifts for others. The unboxing experience is the first impression, and you only get one shot at it.
Avoid this issue by ensuring that the packaging makes sense for the contents inside from a shared standpoint of quality, aesthetics, and personalization, especially if it’s a premium product or something handcrafted.
Wrong Packaging Size
Why spend more for an oversized box or crate when the item you need to ship is much smaller? This eats up not only your wallet but also precious environmental resources, plus you’d then need to put in additional extra packagings like peanuts or bubble wrap.
Avoid this mistake by taking measurements, comparing available packaging sizes, and determining the best possible balance of value and protection.
Spending too Much on Packaging
On the flip side, you could also end up spending way more than is necessary for packaging. Premium wines, specialty goods, luxurious soaps and other pricier items are more deserving of an equally premium focus when it comes to their packaging.
Consider the value of the item being shipped; if it’s something simple and budget-friendly like a phone case, then there’s no need to spend more than the amount of the item itself on the packaging.
Too Much Filler
“Filler,” as some like to call it, is the packaging surrounding the item being shipped to protect it from bumps and being jostled around. Examples include airbags, as mentioned earlier, packing peanuts, bubble wrap, and even more premium alternatives like straw.
Using too much filler isn’t eco-friendly and can be quite wasteful, so only include what is necessary. This is especially the case if what you’re shipping isn’t very expensive and doesn’t need as much protection when in transit.
Labelling Errors
If the recipient’s name or address is incorrect, there’s a chance that the item you’re sending will wind up on someone else’s doorstep rather than their own. Avoid this risk by triple-checking the details on all labels affixed to the packaging, right down to how the recipient’s name is spelled. No such thing as being too careful!
Want to learn more about premium packaging solutions that are also eco-friendly and designed to delight your recipients? We’re here to help at Ekan Concepts, planting one tree for every custom wooden box sold. Browse our selection today or contact us for further assistance.
