
Small business product packaging is the first impression customers have of your brand, and it can make or break their decision to buy from you. A well-designed package can convey professionalism and attention to detail.
According to research, 71% of consumers say that packaging is an important factor in their purchasing decisions. This means that investing in high-quality packaging can actually increase sales.
A clear and concise product name and logo should be prominently displayed on the packaging to help customers quickly identify the product. This is especially important for small businesses with multiple products.
Stand out from the competition by using unique and eye-catching packaging designs that reflect your brand's personality.
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Why Packaging Matters
Packaging is a miniature billboard that engages customers wherever it goes, and a well-crafted design can be a make-or-break factor for your product.
A 2018 study proved that packaging influences the purchasing decisions of at least 72% of Americans, making it clear that lackluster packaging can reduce your company's market viability.
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Your packaging serves as your storefront, especially in eCommerce, so take the time to create a thoughtful, engaging brand image.
In fact, about half (49%) of shoppers are willing to spend more if they consider your packaging well done.
A well-designed packaging reflects your business's personality, which is much more appealing than a plain brown box, especially in today's competitive market where customers are more drawn to authenticity.
Customers are more likely to remember your brand and keep coming back for more if you can make them excited about opening their package.
Design and Materials
At Ashtonne Packaging, we understand the importance of custom packaging that perfectly represents your small business. Our designers collaborate closely with you to create a unique packaging solution.
We offer a wide range of materials for custom packaging, including paperboard, plastic, and corrugated paper. Our design and sourcing teams will select the proper materials and printing techniques for your specific products.

Our process begins with a custom packaging prototype, which allows you to review and approve the design before production. This ensures that your packaging meets your expectations and aligns with your business's unique needs.
Here are some of the materials we specialize in for small business packaging solutions:
- Paperboard
- Plastic
- Corrugated paper
- And much more!
From Any Material
At Ashtonne Packaging, we can design and produce custom packaging made from a variety of materials, especially those that are recycled and sustainable.
We specialize in using paperboard, plastic, and corrugated paper for small business packaging solutions.
Our design and sourcing teams will pick the proper materials and printing techniques for you, even if all you need is custom boxes or packaging supplies for your small business.
We can work with a wide range of materials, including paperboard, plastic, and corrugated paper.
Here are some examples of materials we can use:
- Paperboard
- Plastic
- Corrugated paper
- And much more!
Eco-Friendly
Eco-friendly packaging options can significantly reduce waste and highlight your dedication to environmental responsibility.
Sustainable packaging choices like biodegradable materials, recycled content, and minimalistic designs can make a big impact.
Seed-infused paper, biodegradable bubble wrap, and edible packaging like rice paper or seaweed-based wraps can serve a secondary purpose and divert waste from landfills.
By choosing eco-friendly alternatives, you can attract eco-conscious customers and enhance your brand's image.
Upcycled packaging also tells a compelling story of environmental stewardship and resourcefulness, showcasing your brand's commitment to sustainability.
Interactive
Interactive packaging is a game-changer for businesses, transforming the unboxing experience into an engaging and memorable activity. At least 72% of Americans consider packaging when making a purchase, so why not make it fun?
Interactive packaging ideas can include puzzles, games, QR codes that unlock exclusive content, or augmented reality features. This type of packaging adds an element of fun and gets customers excited about your brand.
Interactive packaging can also offer educational or informative content, such as augmented reality experiences that provide detailed product information or creative uses. About half of shoppers are willing to spend more if they consider your packaging well done.
Incorporating interactive elements into your packaging can make your brand stand out in a crowded market. By making the unboxing experience memorable, you can build brand loyalty and encourage repeat business.
Product Protection

Fragile items like glassware, electronics, or delicate crafts need extra cushioning materials to prevent breakage during transit.
Bubble wrap, foam inserts, and air pillows are effective at absorbing shocks and protecting these types of items.
Double-walled boxes or custom-molded packaging can provide even more protection for fragile goods.
On the other hand, durable goods like clothing or non-fragile accessories can often get by with more minimalist packaging solutions.
Minimalistic packaging can help reduce shipping costs and environmental impact.
Fragile items require a balance between protection and bulk, while durable goods can often prioritize cost-effectiveness.
Branding and Marketing
Aligning your packaging with your brand identity is essential for creating a cohesive and memorable customer experience. Thoughtfully designed packages that incorporate your brand's colors, logo, and overall aesthetic can significantly enhance brand recognition and convey your unique value proposition.
A well-crafted design can be a make-or-break as your product vies for limited shelf space. In fact, a 2018 study proved that packaging influenced the purchasing decisions of at least 72% of Americans.
Including branded messages, QR codes leading to exclusive content, or promotional offers in your packaging can drive customer engagement and reinforce your brand image. Consistency in packaging across all products not only reinforces your brand image but also builds trust and reliability in the eyes of your customers.
Brand and Marketing

Packaging is not just about protecting your product; it's also a marketing tool that can significantly enhance brand recognition and convey your unique value proposition. A well-crafted design can be a make-or-break as your product vies for limited shelf space, influencing the purchasing decisions of at least 72% of Americans.
A study proved that packaging influenced the purchasing decisions of at least 72% of Americans, and about half (49%) of shoppers are willing to spend more if they consider your packaging well done. This shows just how important packaging is in making a lasting impression on customers.
Including branded messages, QR codes leading to exclusive content, or promotional offers that drive customer engagement can make your packaging a marketing powerhouse. Consistency in packaging across all products not only reinforces your brand image but also builds trust and reliability in the eyes of your customers.
In fact, 72% of buyers actually say that packaging is a vital part of their decision-making process when making a purchase. This means that your packaging can be a deciding factor in whether or not a customer chooses to buy from you.
Aligning your packaging with your brand identity is essential for creating a cohesive and memorable customer experience. Thoughtfully designed packages that incorporate your brand's colors, logo, and overall aesthetic can significantly enhance brand recognition and convey your unique value proposition.
4. Brand Collaboration

Partnering with local artists or brands can elevate your product's appeal by incorporating unique artwork that resonates with consumers.
By working with talented artists, you can create limited edition products or new merchandise that consumers will be eager to collect.
This approach reinforces your brand's commitment to innovation and supporting the creative community, which can be a major selling point for customers.
Incorporating unique artwork into your packaging can make it a collector's item, giving customers a reason to hold onto it and share it with others.
This strategy can also help promote your products and brand, especially if you're targeting consumers who value one-of-a-kind items.
Cost-Effective Solutions
Cost-effective solutions for small businesses can be found in custom packaging. Purchasing larger quantities of packaging can reduce the cost per unit.
Simple designs can be just as powerful as elaborate ones. Digital printing is a cost-effective option for small-batch packaging. It's a more affordable alternative to traditional printing methods.
Here are some cost-effective solutions to consider:
- Bulk ordering
- Simple designs
- Digital printing
Streamline Fulfillment

Streamlining your fulfillment process is key to reducing costs and improving efficiency. By leveraging 3PL Services, you can outsource your logistics and focus on growing your business.
Pick and Pack Services can help you manage large volumes of orders, while Subscription Box Fulfillment ensures timely delivery of recurring shipments. Retail Omnichannel Fulfillment enables you to sell across multiple channels and platforms.
Ecommerce Fulfillment is a critical component of any online business, requiring fast and reliable shipping to meet customer expectations. Kitting and Assembly Services can also help you prepare and package products efficiently.
FBA Prep Services can even help you prepare your products for Amazon's Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA) program, streamlining your operations and reducing costs.
Cost-Effective Solutions
Finding cost-effective solutions for custom packaging can be a challenge, especially for small businesses. Bulk ordering packaging materials can reduce the cost per unit, making it a more affordable option.
You don't need to have an elaborate design to make an impact, simple designs can be just as powerful. In fact, something simple can be more cost-effective and attention-grabbing.

Digital printing is a game-changer for small-batch packaging, it's much more cost-effective than traditional printing methods. This makes it an ideal choice for businesses that need to print smaller quantities.
Here are some cost-effective solutions to consider:
- Bulk ordering packaging materials
- Simple designs
- Digital printing
By implementing these cost-effective solutions, you can create impressive packaging that won't break the bank.
Packaging Supplies and Automation
Small business packaging supplies are pretty straightforward, but it's essential to factor in how much help packaging automation can provide.
For those just starting out, entry-level packaging equipment like poly bag openers, bag sealers, and label applicators can be a great place to start.
Product packaging supplies include corrugated boxes, poly mailers, kraft paper, air pillows, and poly bags, which are all necessary for physically placing goods inside and protecting them during shipping.
Shrink wrap machines and strapping tools can be a good option for those who ship multiple products to different distributors.
Supplies and Automation
Small business packaging supplies are pretty straightforward, but they're essential for getting products to customers safely and efficiently.

You'll need product packaging supplies like corrugated boxes or poly mailers to physically place goods inside.
Entry-level packaging equipment like poly bag openers, bag sealers, and label applicators can be a great starting point for small ecommerce companies.
Kraft paper, air pillows, or poly bags are just a few examples of void fill products and other protective packing materials for shipping.
Shrink wrap machines and strapping tools can be a good investment for businesses that ship multiple products to different distributors.
8. Poly Mailer
Poly mailers are a cost-effective option for shipping non-fragile items due to their lightweight nature, which reduces shipping costs.
Their water-resistant properties provide protection against moisture during transit, making them a great choice for items that might get wet.
Poly mailers are flexible and can accommodate various sizes of items, reducing the need for multiple packaging options.
The self-sealing adhesive strip on poly mailers makes packaging quick and easy, enhancing efficiency in fulfillment operations.
Getting Started

Getting started with small business product packaging is crucial for making a great first impression on customers. Consistency is key, so ensure your packaging matches your brand's personality and reflects it in colors, fonts, and styles.
To create a cohesive look, consider the following: define your brand's aesthetic by choosing colors, fonts, and styles that reflect its personality. This will help you create a consistent image across all platforms, including your website, logo, and social media presence.
To take it to the next level, think about the unboxing experience and add personal touches such as inserts, stickers, or tissue paper. This will make your package feel like a gift, and the interior of the box should be just as exciting as the exterior.
Here are some key things to keep in mind when choosing quality materials:
- High-quality materials reflect the quality of your product.
- Sustainability is a growing issue for consumers who are willing to pay a premium for eco-friendly products.
Getting Started
Define your brand's personality and choose colors, fonts, and styles that reflect it. Consistency is key, so ensure it matches your website, logo, and social media presence to keep it authentic and genuine.

Consistency is crucial for building trust with your customers. If your branding is all over the place, it can be confusing and even off-putting.
Think about the unboxing experience and add personal touches such as inserts, stickers, or tissue paper to make your package special. The interior of the box should be just as exciting as the exterior.
Using high-quality materials is essential as it reflects the quality of your product. Sustainability is a growing issue, and consumers are willing to pay a premium for eco-friendly products.
Find a Partner
Finding the right partner can make all the difference in your business. A qualified packaging company can offer a comprehensive strategy to help your business succeed.
Packaging is its own form of marketing. It's essential to create unique and easily recognizable packaging that represents your product and brand as a whole.
People place products out on their countertops, reuse nice packaging, post attractive packaging on social media, and even film unboxing videos. This means your packaging has the potential to reach millions of viewers.
Your packaging partner should help boost sales, increase customer engagement, and create instantly recognizable packaging.
Our Design Process
Our Design Process is centered around collaboration and customer satisfaction. We work closely with you to ensure your custom packaging meets your needs.
Our designers will create a custom packaging prototype designed specifically for your small business after reviewing your retail or eCommerce products. This prototype allows us to provide a price and get your approval before creating a formal design.
You'll have the opportunity to review the design, provide suggestions, or confirm it aligns with your perfect custom packaging solution. Our focus on client satisfaction sets us apart in the realm of small business product packaging.
We test ship or drop test the custom-designed packaging to ensure it meets your expectations. Once you approve, we'll kick-start the supply chain process for your small business packaging.
Unboxing Experience
Creating a memorable unboxing experience can make a big impact on your small business. This is because it encourages customers to showcase their purchase with others online, bringing new eyes to your products.

A memorable unboxing experience is share-worthy, which means customers are more likely to take a photo of it and share it on social media. This can lead to free advertising for your business.
Appealing packaging is key to creating a memorable unboxing experience. By making your packaging appealing, you're giving customers a reason to share their purchase with others.
As a small business, the goal is to succeed in a competitive market. A memorable unboxing experience can help you stand out from the competition and get noticed by potential customers.
Minimalist and Transformative
Minimalist and Transformative packaging can make a big impact on your small business. It's a way to show that you value simplicity and sustainability.
By embracing minimalist packaging, you can create a sense of luxury and exclusivity, appealing to customers who appreciate refined and uncluttered designs. This design philosophy focuses on clean lines, understated elegance, and subtle details to convey sophistication.
Transformative packaging, on the other hand, is all about creating something useful or decorative after the product is used. This can be achieved by designing custom boxes that convert into storage organizers or bags that double as totes.
Minimalist Elegance

Embracing minimalist packaging is a great way to add elegance to your brand. By stripping away unnecessary elements, you can create a sense of luxury and exclusivity that appeals to customers who appreciate refined and uncluttered designs.
Minimalist packaging not only enhances the product's perceived value but also aligns with environmental sustainability by reducing material waste. This is a win-win for both your customers and the planet.
A minimalist approach can make your product stand out, allowing it to take center stage and speak for its quality. This is especially true for products where the packaging itself is part of the overall aesthetic experience.
By using a minimalist design philosophy, you can convey sophistication and appeal to a modern aesthetic. This can be a key differentiator for your brand in a crowded market.
Transformative
Transformative packaging is a game-changer for brands that want to stand out. It's a creative way to add value for customers while making your brand unforgettable.

Transformative packaging can evolve into something useful, like a storage organizer or a toy for children. This adds significant value for customers and shows that your brand values sustainability and practicality.
A custom box can be designed to convert into a stylish piece of home decor, doubling as a creative package that folds into a decorative display piece. This offers a unique and practical afterlife for your packaging.
Bags can be designed to double as totes, reusable containers, or even parts of a DIY project. This provides ongoing utility and demonstrates thoughtfulness and creativity.
Transformative packaging can turn your brand's packaging into a memorable experience for customers. By doing so, you can create a loyal customer base that appreciates your brand's values and creativity.
Food Packaging
Food packaging is crucial for small businesses, especially those delivering food. Using the right packaging can ensure food arrives safe and fresh to customers' doors.
From wrappers to bags or containers, businesses can choose options that delight customers and align with their demand for sustainable practices. A lot of corporate kitchens use leak-proof containers like plastic tubs or styrofoam pouches.
Incorporating custom designs and labeling can give businesses a professional touch. A custom sticker on top of a leak-proof container can make a big difference in how customers perceive a product.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cheapest product packaging?
Our most affordable product packaging option is the Poly Mailer Bag, a cost-effective and versatile solution for shipping and storing items. For a budget-friendly packaging solution, consider our Poly Mailer Bags.
How do I choose the right packaging for my product?
Choose packaging that balances your product's needs with your budget, considering options like poly bags, corrugated boxes, and padded mailers. The right packaging will depend on your product type, such as art, which may require more protective options like rigid envelopes and cardboard tubes.
Sources
- https://www.gprinting.com/blog/small-business-packaging
- https://www.ipack.com/solutions/post/small-business-packaging-supplies
- https://www.ashtonne.com/services/custom-designed-packaging-for-businesses
- https://phasev.com/blog/custom-packaging-for-small-business-or-ecommerce-brand/
- https://fourthwall.com/blog/10-packaging-ideas-for-small-businesses-that-boost-sales
Featured Images: pexels.com