Packaging for eCommerce: 3 Tips for Better Practices

In 2019, eCommerce sales are expected to account for 13.7 percent of retail sales worldwide. As eCommerce grows each year, it is important to understand what we can do to fully optimize packaging for eCommerce. In this article we will provide you with 3 tips for better practices that you can use in your eCommerce strategy. 

Use the Correct Size Box for the Item Shipped.

Ordering 2 or 3 different sized stock boxes can save your time and money in the short term, but in reality, it is costing you much more money in the long term. A box that is filled with a small product and a lot of air is going to cost significantly more when it comes to shipping. Not only does this cost more money for shipping, but it also creates an environment which leaves products susceptible to damage. Customized packaging specific to the product will ensure that your product is going to hold steady in one place and have adequate protection surrounding it. 

Take Advantage of Marketing Opportunities on Your Packaging

1. Exterior of the Box Graphics / Branding / Sealing
   
   Placing your branding on the exterior of the box creates brand exposure as well as an opportunity for repeat business. You may think to yourself, “They’ve already ordered from us”, or “They know who we are”. If you customer has ordered from, you there is a good chance the box is going to sit on their desk at work, their doorstep, or even posted on their social media networks – giving you ample opportunity for brand exposure, repeat business and new sales. 
   
   What about when it’s a gift? Placing an easy-to-read web address can make it easier for the person receiving the package to check what else you have in-store.
   
   
2. Inside the Box
   
   Placing a handwritten and/or personalized note builds brand loyalty. The note can be as simple as “Thank you for your order! We hope you enjoy it.” Another opportunity for future orders is to offer a discount on their next order. 

Avoid Over-Packaging your Products

When sending fragile items it is easy to resort to over-packaging. Wrapping items in loads of bubble wrap, packing peanuts and packing papers is the norm – though, not really effective. The most effective way to packaging your products properly is to have a packaging professional analyze your product and the methods of shipping that will be used. The packaging professional will then work with a packaging designer to most effectively package the product. This will help reduce packaging costs as well as shipping costs over time. 

---