I’ve recently stumbled upon a really cool startup that offers handmade goods, crafts and arts. I love buying gifts for friends and family, but it’s getting harder and harder to find unique and thoughtful presents. I was so happy with my discovery of a brand new gold mine for awesome products that I immediately decided to order something and give them a try.
Deciding on what I should get was hard because of their extensive list of amazing goodies but eventually I picked a dope graphic tee and a natural, handcrafted bar of soap that had a catchy phrase written all over it. Their customer service was stellar, they provided helpful information and I was happy with my shopping experience.
Source: Pinterest
The delivery was so quick that the “waiting for a package blues” didn’t have the time to hit. However, just moments later my enthusiasm was crushed after the courier handed me a ripped paper bag with the two products crammed inside. At first, I thought, it’s no biggie, it can happen to everyone, but as soon as I opened the bag I noticed that the bar of soap had stained the white graphic tee and was missing a corner.
What a shame, I thought that they had figured everything out. How much time, money and effort could a tiny bit of bubble wrap or a small cardboard box cost? It felt like they didn’t even care about their customers once the payment was made. Their awesome products ruined because of poor packaging solutions.
Standing there with my cat without bubble wrap to pop to soothe my soul or a cardboard box for Mr Catto to explore, I started thinking about the importance of packaging solutions and how they can make or break a deal.
Products’ Safety
The first thing that popped on my mind was of course products’ safety. If this company used the appropriate packaging materials, my tee and my bar of soap would’ve been intact. Imagine the chaos if I ordered liquid soap and the container was of this poor quality. Boxes and packaging supplies are of utmost importance for products’ safety. They allow for the products to be shipped without damaging or spoiling their quality. Packaging supplies ensure all items are where they ought to be, keep products at the right temperature, keep liquid products from leaking etc.
Moreover, nowadays, with the Coronavirus and the rising standards of health and sanitation, everyone wants their products to be protected from tampering and unauthorized altering. The virus itself may not spread by mail, but this still remains a pet peeve for most of us. Boxes and packaging supplies minimize the chances of adulteration and guarantee the safety and integrity of the product.
Storage and Transportation
Who knows, maybe my order was damaged during storage or transportation. Had they used the right packaging materials, it would’ve been easier for the courier to carry the product or the cargo staff would’ve known better. Sturdy and reliable packaging supplies most certainly make storage and transportation more convenient and efficient.
The packaging informs the cargo staff about the size, weight and characteristics of your products. Moreover, it allows for space utilization. It’s easier to stack larger amounts of products safely when the shape and the size of the packaging are optimized.
Reel in Customers
I think that packaging solutions are definitely underrated. You see, if I saw that the company took time and effort to ensure that I’d receive the products as advertised, I’d be including a referral link in the very next sentence. Not only that I won’t be doing that, but I’ll also think twice before ordering something again.
By using protective packaging supplies you’re not only keeping the products safe, but you’re also showing that you care about your customer’s experience from start to finish. The packaging material is the first thing your customers see when they receive your product. Customers often perceive poorly packaged products as inferior or they’re suspicious of the product’s origin.
What Kind of Packaging Solutions Are Out There?
Intrigued by the huge importance of packaging supplies, I started doing a little research on what kind of packaging solutions are out there. I found suppliers that offered a wide range of packaging equipment to meet different needs and budget.
Source: Orwak
Cardboard Boxes
I was familiar with cardboard boxes, but I didn’t know exactly how economic and convenient they are. You can save time and space with the right-sized box, and if you buy in bulk you’ll save money too. They’re strong and durable enough to protect your product and yet they’re lightweight and convenient to handle. Another great advantage of cardboard packaging is that it’s an eco-friendly solution. They can be easily recycled and reused. Plus, they’re widely available and more affordable than other packaging alternatives.
Twist Handle Paper Bags
Twist handle paper bags are ideal for clothes, crafts and gifts. But since I had an unfortunate experience with one of them, I discovered that not all paper bags are created equal. The key to their performance lies in the material and the construction of the bag. Some paper bags are made from high-strength materials that can stand up to great force and withstand loads above 10kg. Twist handle paper bags are great for adding a personal touch, branding with a label or a stamp. And just like cardboard boxes, you won’t have to spend a fortune.
Instapak Quick Bags
Instapak Quick Bags is a convenient, quick and easy packaging solution that doesn’t require additional equipment. You can use it with various shapes of products and ensure they reach their destination in perfect condition. The Instapak Quick Bags are especially good for delicate items because they offer superior product protection. Plus, your product will arrive in a neat, professional packaging that will guarantee customers’ satisfaction.
Protective Wraps
There’re plenty of protective wraps that add an extra layer of protection for your products, starting with bubble wrap which is ideal for items that need cushioning against shock and vibration. You can easily wrap even the awkwardly shaped nooks and crannies of your product and rest assured that it’ll arrive in perfect condition. If you’re shipping electronic goods, you can opt for anti-static bubble wrap that’s widely used for protecting sensitive electronic equipment.
Corrugated Cardboard Rolls also make great protective wraps. They provide excellent rigidity, strength and cushioning of goods while in transit. Cardboard rolls are a more eco-friendly option since they’re environmentally friendly, recyclable and completely biodegradable.
Products that feature polished and lacquered surfaces require protective wraps made from foam. Same goes for glass items which need a specially designed protective film to keep them from scratching or splashes. The protective wrap you should choose greatly depends on the type of products you sell.
Final Thoughts
I’ve found many other heavy-duty packaging solutions such as poly woven bags for storage and transit of sharp metal or heavy items, pallet pads and sheets for protection from dirt, dust and moisture, but I’ll leave them for next time.
Remember, your packaging solutions say a lot about your product and company, so make sure you educate yourself about what’s best for the goods you sell. If you underestimate the importance of good packaging, you might ruin the first impression or your reputation. Don’t risk it and always dress up your products in the appropriate “attire”.
