The popularity and demand for e-commerce products have risen over the past decade. This demand has put increased pressure on e-commerce business owners to keep up with packaging solutions to handle shipping and logistics. The act of fulfilling an order and a customer receiving their package is the most direct connection an e-commerce business has with customers.
Many businesses are missing out on the marketing opportunities that packaging offers. Packaging was formerly used as a way to protect products during shipping, with a focus on function over presentation. Branded packaging done well can create a memorable unboxing experience for your customers.
Common Types of E-Commerce Packages
These are the most common types of e-commerce packages:
- Corrugated Boxes: These sturdy, lightweight packages are the most typical packaging used by retailers. Double-walled corrugated boxes add extra strength and durability, and best of all, they can be recycled.
- Padded Mailers: These are ideal for shipping small, flat, and delicate items. You can wrap the product in bubble wrap or recyclable paper for extra protection.
- Bags and Envelopes: Poly mailers, Tyvek envelopes, and plastic mailing bags are suitable for shipping light, non-fragile products. Envelops feature a self-sealer, are easy to store, are lightweight, and are easy to customize.
- Custom E-Commerce Packaging: You can customize almost anything about your packaging. Custom boxes, printed tissue wrapping, and packing slips are unique ways to present your product and create a satisfying customer experience.
Large-scale e-commerce businesses that fulfill a large volume of orders can benefit from using automated packaging equipment. Case erectors are useful for producing bottom-sealed cases with efficiency and reliability. Automatic case erectors transform case blanks into formed, bottom seal cases using glue for optimal durability.
Insite Packaging designs advanced automatic case sealer and case erecting equipment and other packaging machines. Their sleek sealers come with functions and features that most case sealer manufacturers charge for and can handle cases of all sizes. Using a semi-automatic case erector is a smart way to save on labor costs and improve order processing efficiency.
Create a great unboxing experience.
Create an unboxing campaign that’s centered around a tactile experience using smart, thoughtful design and intentional shipping and packaging materials. An easy way to stand out from competitors using traditional cardboard boxes is to design branded boxes and creative shipping packaging. Effective product packaging keeps the product safe during shipping and is aesthetically pleasing. There’s no limit to the unique packaging materials you can use, from branded packaging tape and custom tissue paper to eco-friendly mailers that minimize how much packaging you use.
Customers love to receive free things, so surprise them by including a free sample with each purchase. This is an easy way to add value, advertise another product, and build excitement during unboxing. The key to strengthening your brand is smart marketing. Include marketing materials in your branded packaging, such as a brochure, discount postcard, or a one-page, engaging flyer introducing your brand. Add a personal touch by including a hand-signed thank you note with each package, arranging your products in a cohesive, aesthetically pleasing way, and don’t be afraid to put a literal bow on the package.
Depending on the time of the year, you may be processing and preparing a lot of orders for shipment. The best way to stay hydrated and focused while preparing orders is to have clean drinking water readily available. Canadian Springs delivers great-tasting bottled water sourced from the Canadian Rockies right to your workplace door. Whether you need individual bottled water for clients or multi-gallon bottles for the office water cooler, the Canadian Springs water company is ready to meet your beverage needs.
Keep these packaging and shipping tips in mind as you consider the best approach to product presentation. There’s no limit to how creative you can get with custom packaging so long as the presentation aligns with your brand.