Packaging for Companies: A Guide to Customization and More

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Custom packaging is a game-changer for businesses, allowing them to stand out in a crowded market and make a lasting impression on customers.

A well-designed package can increase brand recognition by up to 80% and boost sales by 20%. This is especially true for companies that offer products with a high perceived value, such as luxury goods or specialty foods.

With custom packaging, companies can tailor their branding and messaging to appeal to specific demographics or target audiences. For example, a company that specializes in eco-friendly products can use biodegradable materials and a minimalist design to appeal to environmentally-conscious consumers.

Custom packaging can also be used to create a sense of urgency or exclusivity, such as by using limited-edition packaging or specialty finishes.

Recommended read: Custom Wood Box Packaging

Packaging Companies

Packlane offers custom packaging for companies that want to ship one-of-a-kind boxes. They offer a custom design lab, live design preview, and instant quotes for custom orders.

You can choose from a variety of different materials for your box based on the product you’re shipping. Packlane offers packages made from thin or thick paperboard, corrugated cardboard, and boxes in a wide range of colors.

Explore further: Custom Cd Packaging

A warehouse worker in a blue hat walking past stacked packages and shelves in an industrial setting.
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Packlane works with major brands like Everlane, Benefit Cosmetics, L’Oreal and Halo Top Ice Cream, so you know the end result will be top notch. Most orders ship within 10 days or less.

Here are some key features of Packlane's custom packaging services:

  • Choose the type of box you want, select the dimensions you need and the quantity
  • See your price quote before checking out
  • Use the inspiration gallery to see example designs
  • Get discounts for high volume orders
  • Orders ship within 10 days or less

With Packlane, you can also use their online design tool to custom your box with colors, logo and fonts. You can even view your package in 3D to see what the final product will look like.

Prices are based on the type of box, the dimensions and the quantity you choose. For reference, an order of 200 standard shipping boxes that are 12”x12”x12” would cost $5.53 per box.

Easy Customization

Easy customization is a key benefit of custom packaging. You can switch up the design for different holidays, seasons, or products with ease. This makes customers take notice and want to keep supporting your brand.

Packwire's online design studio allows you to create your package from scratch, even without technical design skills. You can see how your finished box will look from all angles using their 3D viewer. They also offer instant price quotes before you send your design for production.

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Packwire offers a range of custom packaging solutions, including custom mailer boxes, rigid gift boxes, folding cartons, and custom shipping boxes. Their prices vary by box size, type, and material, but an order of 250 12”x12”x10” shipping boxes is $3.76 per box.

With custom packaging, you can improve the unpacking experience, help with branding, and reflect your brand's values. Packwire's products are high-quality, but won't break your budget. Their shipping time is longer than some other companies, but you'll know how long it will take before you place your order.

Here are some examples of custom packaging solutions that can enhance consumer engagement:

  • NFC tags that enhance consumer engagement;
  • Stackable takeout containers that make transportation easier;
  • Salad packaged in a container that resembles a lunchbox;
  • Plantable single-use coffee cups with seeds inside.

Packaging Materials

Primary packaging includes materials that are in direct contact with the product itself, such as aluminum and tin cans, glass bottles, plastic, and paper packaging.

Secondary packaging, on the other hand, offers additional protection and is often used in eCommerce. Cardboard boxes are a popular example of secondary packaging.

Tertiary packaging is primarily used in warehousing and transportation, and includes solutions like wooden crates and pallets.

Here are the main categories of packaging materials:

Types of Materials

Diverse team working together, preparing packages in a creative office setting.
Credit: pexels.com, Diverse team working together, preparing packages in a creative office setting.

Packaging materials play a crucial role in protecting products during transportation and storage. Most companies focus on creating new packaging materials that combine sustainability and low cost.

Primary packaging includes materials in direct contact with the product, such as aluminum and tin cans, glass bottles, and various types of plastic and paper packaging. Secondary packaging provides additional protection, like cardboard boxes, which are especially popular in the eCommerce niche.

Tertiary packaging is used in warehousing and transportation, including wooden crates, pallets, and other solutions that help businesses transport goods between warehouses. Paper and cardboard are popular choices for packaging due to their lightweight and recyclable nature.

Some plastics are also recyclable, despite not all types being so. The low price and durability of plastics make them an important material for the packaging industry. Glass is another popular option, being infinitely recyclable and commonly used for beverages and other goods.

Metal, specifically tin and aluminum cans, are also recyclable and have multiple applications. Paper and cardboard, plastics, glass, and metal are all recyclable materials that can be used for packaging.

Bags & Bows

A Person Packaging Folded Socks with a Cardboard Box
Credit: pexels.com, A Person Packaging Folded Socks with a Cardboard Box

Bags & Bows offer trendy shopper bags that can help your brand stand out. You can use them to create a unique and memorable unboxing experience for your customers.

Living up to their name, Bags & Bows provide nifty window boxes that can showcase your products in a visually appealing way. This can be especially effective for products that need to be displayed in a clear and transparent manner.

Fancy crinkle cut fill and patterned tissue paper are just a few examples of the creative options available from Bags & Bows. These can add a touch of personality to your packaging and make it more engaging for your customers.

By incorporating Bags & Bows into your packaging strategy, you can create a consistent and recognizable brand identity. This can help to build trust and loyalty with your customers over time.

Costs

Packaging costs can be a significant expense for companies, but understanding the different types of costs can help you manage them effectively.

A woman packs black sneakers in a cardboard box for her online store. Ideal for e-commerce and startup business themes.
Credit: pexels.com, A woman packs black sneakers in a cardboard box for her online store. Ideal for e-commerce and startup business themes.

There are two main types of packaging costs: variable and fixed. Variable packaging costs include paper, ink, and other materials used in the packaging process, as well as labor costs. Fixed packaging costs, on the other hand, include investments in machinery and design, warehouse rent for packaging operations, and printing plate costs.

Calculating packaging costs is a straightforward process. The formula for calculating packaging costs is packaging cost = (cost of materials + cost of labor) x quantity. This includes not only materials but also labor. If you want to calculate packaging costs per unit, simply divide the total packaging costs by the number of units.

Prices for packaging can vary greatly depending on the type of package, its dimensions, and the size of the order. For example, an order of 250 standard mailer boxes at 10 x 8 x 4 inches costs $3.34 each.

If you're looking to reduce packaging costs, consider implementing a minimalistic design, purchasing large quantities, or investing in sustainable eCommerce packaging. These strategies can help you cut costs and even increase sales and profits.

Contract and Wholesale

Man and woman packing e-commerce orders at startup business with laptop and boxes indoors.
Credit: pexels.com, Man and woman packing e-commerce orders at startup business with laptop and boxes indoors.

Buying wholesale packaging can be a cost-effective option for businesses, with lower wholesale prices being the biggest advantage. This is because packaging is used for literally everything, making it worthwhile to order large quantities.

If you do decide to buy wholesale, be aware that it requires a lot of storage space, and some suppliers have high minimum order quantity (MOQ) requirements, which can be a big upfront investment.

Contract packaging is another option, where you outsource the packaging and labeling process to a third-party provider. These businesses specialize in packaging and can provide high-quality services, including additional services related to logistics and warehousing.

Outsourcing the packaging process to a co-packer can save you money on labor, storage, and initial costs, as well as give you access to better know-how and the latest trends in packaging design. By focusing on the important aspects of your business, you can maximize profits and concentrate on sales.

Contract

A Person Holding a Contract Document
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Contract packaging is a practice where companies outsource their packaging and labeling process to a third-party provider. These businesses specialize in packaging and have the necessary machinery, equipment, and know-how to offer high-quality services to their customers.

Some co-packing companies can provide additional services related to logistics and warehousing, making it a convenient option for businesses. This can help companies focus on their core strengths and maximize profits.

Contract packaging can be beneficial for businesses that want to lower labor, storage, and initial costs. Outsourcing the process to a co-packer can make more fiscal sense in the short run.

However, there are also some disadvantages to consider. Companies that outsource different business processes might find it difficult to grow and scale. This can be a challenge for businesses that are rapidly expanding.

Here are some of the key advantages of contract packaging:

  • Lower labor, storage, and initial costs
  • Better know-how, as co-packaging companies specialize in this field
  • Focus on the important aspects of the business, such as marketing and sales

Wholesale

Buying wholesale packaging can be a great way to cut costs, but it's not without its challenges.

White and Black Mail Pack
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You can save money by buying in bulk, which is the biggest advantage of wholesale packaging. In fact, manufacturers are more likely to offer custom designs and functionalities if you order a large quantity.

However, you'll need to consider the storage space required to hold your bulk packaging. Some suppliers also have high minimum order quantity (MOQ) requirements, which can be a big upfront investment.

Here are some key points to keep in mind when buying wholesale packaging:

  • Lower wholesale prices are a major benefit of buying in bulk.
  • Manufacturers are more willing to offer custom designs and functionalities with larger orders.
  • You'll need to consider storage space and upfront investment for high MOQ requirements.

Warehouse and Logistics

In warehouse operations, packaging is a crucial process that requires careful consideration. Choosing the right packaging based on the size and weight of items is essential.

Wrapping and sealing packages is a key step to protect them during transportation. This helps prevent damage and ensures items arrive safely.

Calculating overnight shipping costs is a necessary step in the process. This involves generating an invoice and a packing slip to keep track of orders.

Here are the key steps in the warehouse packing process:

  • Choosing packaging based on size and weight
  • Wrapping and sealing the package
  • Weighting and measuring the package
  • Calculating overnight shipping costs and generating an invoice and packing slip
  • Sending the package to the next step – fulfillment

Warehouse

Warehouse worker sorting packages in an industrial environment with headphones on, focused and diligent.
Credit: pexels.com, Warehouse worker sorting packages in an industrial environment with headphones on, focused and diligent.

Warehouse operations involve careful planning, and one key aspect is packaging. The warehouse packing process typically includes choosing packaging based on the size and weight of the items.

To make packing in warehouses more efficient, it's essential to equip packaging stations properly. This means having easy access to primary and secondary packaging, as well as ancillary materials like loose fill and adhesive tapes.

The warehouse packing process involves four main steps: choosing packaging, wrapping and sealing the package, weighting and measuring the package, and calculating shipping costs.

Investing in training for employees can significantly reduce human errors and costs related to them. A comprehensive training program can help new employees get up to speed quickly.

A clutter-free environment near warehouse packing stations is crucial for efficiency. Clutter can slow down the packaging process and lead to mistakes.

Here are the steps of the warehouse packing process:

  1. Choosing packaging based on the size and weight of the items;
  2. Wrapping and sealing the package to better protect it during transportation;
  3. Weighting and measuring the package;
  4. Calculating overnight shipping costs and generating an invoice and a packing slip;
  5. Sending the package to the next step - fulfillment.

Uline

Uline is a great resource for finding essential packaging supplies. You can find bags, bubble wrap, cushioning, labels, and envelopes to name a few.

Camera Equipment Boxes and Packages
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Their warehouse-like feel might not be the most exciting, but it's a testament to their focus on providing a vast array of products.

One of the standout features of Uline is their customization options. You can even personalize tags, tubes, and tissue paper to suit your needs.

Whether you're a business owner or an individual, Uline has something for everyone. Their extensive product range makes it easy to find what you're looking for.

Sustainability is a key trend in packaging, with companies investing in eco-friendly packaging and government agencies introducing new legislation to reduce pollution.

Minimalist packaging designs are popular, especially with eCommerce, as they lead to lower costs per unit and are more likely to convert customers.

Interactive packaging, such as scratch-and-sniff labels, can improve the customer experience. Plantable biodegradable packaging with seeds is another example of this trend.

Retro designs can trigger nostalgic feelings in consumers, making them a popular choice for products bought by older generations.

A Packaging for a Product
Credit: pexels.com, A Packaging for a Product

Elements of nature, such as organic and eco-friendly materials, are also being incorporated into packaging design to reflect the sustainable production methods of the product.

Companies are also turning to transparent packaging to showcase their products and boost D2C sales.

The top design trends in packaging are:

  • Minimalism
  • Interactive packaging
  • Retro design
  • Elements of nature
  • Transparent packaging

Econo-Pak offers efficient co-packing services for large and scaling brands, with over 200 co-packing and co-manufacturing machines at their disposal.

They provide fast co-packing and co-manufacturing services, along with a white-glove experience that includes a dedicated customer service representative, scheduled production updates, and cost savings reviews.

One of the key benefits of working with Econo-Pak is their ability to tackle large project volumes while keeping prices realistic for their clients.

Here are some of the popular packaging services offered by Econo-Pak:

  • A dedicated customer service representative
  • Scheduled production updates
  • Cost savings reviews

Best Companies for Custom Boxes

If you're looking for the best companies to create custom boxes for your business, you're in luck. There are many great options to choose from.

Set of white carton packages on marble surface
Credit: pexels.com, Set of white carton packages on marble surface

The Custom Boxes offers custom packaging solutions for a wide range of industries, including cosmetics and food products. They can create boxes for specific products, like wine boxes and cereal boxes.

To get started, you can fill out a form online with your preferred box style, material, quantity, and colors. A company representative will contact you with a price estimate and gather your artwork. This process typically takes 8-10 business days, although rush shipping is available for a quicker turnaround time.

Some benefits of working with The Custom Boxes include 24/7 customer service, free shipping, and a money-back guarantee. They also offer a huge selection of packaging options, making it easy to find what you're looking for.

Here are some key features of The Custom Boxes:

Other companies, like Everlane, have mastered the art of creating a great customer experience by sending orders in custom boxes. This can put a smile on customers' faces and make them more likely to support your brand.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much do companies pay for packaging?

Companies typically spend between 10-40% of a product's retail price on packaging, which can range from $10 to $40 for a $100 product. This cost can vary depending on the product and packaging strategy.

Where do companies get their packaging from?

Companies obtain their packaging from suppliers who source and provide a variety of packaging products, such as boxes, containers, and bottles. Suppliers work with multiple manufacturers to offer businesses a range of packaging options.

What are the top 5 flexible packaging companies?

Based on the provided list, the top 5 flexible packaging companies are Jupiter Laminators Pvt Ltd, FoodPro Packaging Pvt Ltd, Duropack Limited, Shiprocket Packaging, and Ester Industries Ltd, offering a range of innovative packaging solutions. These companies are leading the industry with their cutting-edge products and services.

What is the cheapest product packaging?

Our most affordable product packaging option is the Poly Mailer Bag, a cost-effective and versatile choice for shipping and storing items. For a more detailed comparison of our packaging options, please see our product list.

Jessie Smith

Senior Writer

Jessie Smith is a versatile writer with a passion for crafting informative and engaging content. With a keen interest in travel and aviation, Jessie has established herself as a go-to expert on air travel procedures, providing readers with valuable insights and practical advice. Her articles are a testament to her dedication to helping others navigate the complexities of air travel, making her a trusted voice in the industry.

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