How to Choose the Right Packaging for Your Product

If you haven’t put much thought into how you are going to package your product before you send it to your customers, then now is definitely the time to do so. You may not think that this is a particularly important aspect of launching your new business, but it is, and in more ways than you can imagine.

From ensuring that your product is delivered in the same condition that it was distributed in, to keeping your customers safe when they open your product, to their initial first impression of your brand, finding the perfect packaging has a lot more riding on it than you might have previously thought.

So, how do you go about choosing the right packaging for your product? Keep reading to find out!

Work out your budget

There is very little point in deciding to package your new product in a selection of hand-crafted, artisan boxes complete with silk ribbons if you cannot afford the initial and ongoing cost. Therefore, your first consideration should be working out what you can afford by creating a business budget. Glass may be your preferred packaging for your new perfume or bath product, but not only will this be much more expensive than plastic or a more sustainable material such as bioplastic, it is also much more likely to break during shipping which will lead to even more costs for replacements.

Start by sitting down and thinking about your customer demographic. Will they be willing to pay more for your product just because it is packaged in a more upmarket and expensive way? If not, stick to a cheaper packaging solution.

Choose functional packaging

Of course, you want your packaging to look good, as it is representing your brand, after all. However, the most important element is that it does its job. Namely, it needs to get your package from A to B without any problems such as damages, breakages or spillages. For example, if your product is either bulky, delicate or oddly-shaped, it can be a good idea to pick a packaging solution that is strong and durable.

It is also important to take into consideration whether you are packing any flammable, combustible or corrosive items that require hazardous materials packaging.

Products that need special packaging and/or labeling may include:

• Any products that contain bleach
• Oil-based paints
• Fluorescent lightbulbs
• Mercury thermometers
• Nail polish remover and nail polishes
• Hair dyes and coloring kits
• Perfumes
• Hair sprays
• Self-tanning lotions and sprays
• Insect repellents
• Hair removal creams
• Essential oils
• Any product that contains alcohol

If you are not sure whether your product needs special packaging, then you should consult a company that specializes in hazardous packing for advice. It is better to be safe than sorry.

Think sustainably

Did you know that 56% of Americans would like to see more recycled packaging for their goods? With one third saying they prefer sustainable packaging to standard options. Can you really afford not to listen to the needs of all these potential customers? Of course, you can’t. That is why it is crucial that you look into packaging options that are both effective and sustainable.

Ways in which you can make your packaging more sustainable include:

• Designing your packaging to be recyclable
• Designing your packaging to be reusable
• Using bioplastics instead of fossil fuel-based plastics
• Using paper packaging where possible
• Reducing and removing packaging where possible

Show off your brand

Packaging is not just about the transportation of your goods; it is also about how the customer perceives your brand. Even before they have seen your product, they will have made assumptions about your business purely by looking at the packaging that their item came in. That is why this is such a crucial stage in planning your perfect packaging. You need to have your target audience in mind throughout the whole design process to ensure that they will form positive associations when unpacking their items.

Benefits of branded packaging include:

• Differentiating your brand from your competitors
• Creating brand recognition and loyalty
• Free advertising
• Swaying consumer purchasing habits through your chosen color schemes
• Creating a personal connection between the customer and your brand
• Promoting brand consistency

How to package your items safely

Now that you have created your perfect packaging, the next step is to ensure that you package your items correctly and safely so that they are delivered to your customers in the best possible condition.

Wrap each item separately

If you are sending multiple items in one package, then it is a good idea to wrap each item individually to ensure that each one is sufficiently protected. Plus, this has the added benefit of making your package appear more luxurious and high-end.

• Use multiple layers of protection

As a general rule, three layers of packaging is best. The first one will only be seen by the warehouses where multiple packages will be stored and distributed in large boxes. The second layer is the distribution packaging, which is how your customer will receive their product at their place of delivery. Finally, you have the consumer packaging, which is how the induvial item is packaged purely for the visual benefit of the customer.

• Make sure your packaging is shock resistant

Unfortunately, you cannot follow your product as it is delivered to your customer, and therefore, it is important that you ensure it is as protected as possible. Biodegradable packing peanuts are highly efficient at keeping your product safe from any sudden shocks and can also help your product keep its shape as it is shipped.

• Use effective labeling

For ease of use, you should keep your labeling simple and only provide any necessary information and details. If you are sending an item that is potentially dangerous or hazardous, then you must ensure that this is clearly labeled on the packaging, with instructions on how to handle the item as well as a clear description of what it contains.

If you take all of the above into consideration and take your time to really think about what it is your customers need and want from the packaging of your products, you will be able to create an attractive, environmentally-friendly and high-performing packaging solution that will help your business become the success that it deserves to be.