Have you heard? Around 2.14 billion people all over the world are shopping online. Nowadays, people are buying all sorts of products on the internet, no matter what they are. That’s why understanding the right packaging for your product is crucial.

Let’s explore the things you should think about before you choose the packaging that’s just right for your business. 

Why Do you Need Proper Packing? 

We need proper packaging for the following reasons: 

• Protection 
• Safety 
• Attractiveness 
• Usability 
• Sustainability 

Protection: 

Effective packaging shields products from damage during transport. It ensures they arrive without any damage to customers. 

Safety: 

Proper packaging prevents potential hazards, keeping products and consumers secure. 

Attractiveness: 

Well-designed packaging catches the eye and entices customers to choose the product. 

Usability: 

User-friendly packaging enhances the customer experience and encourages repeat purchases. 

Sustainability: 

Sustainable packaging choices showcase environmental responsibility. It appeals to eco-conscious consumers. 

FACTORS THAT DETERMINE YOUR PACKAGING: 

• Budget 
• Transportation 
• Materials And Sustainability 
• Size 
• Design And Branding 

Budget: 

First, decide on the budget. Setting a clear budget helps you find packaging that balances quality and cost. It ensures that your product’s presentation remains attractive without draining your financial resources. 

Transportation: 

Packaging should be designed to endure the difficulties of transportation. The products should arrive intact, minimizing damage, and reducing the risk of returns. 

Materials and Sustainability: 

Eco-friendly materials not only support the environment but also create a positive impact on environmentally conscious customers. It will potentially enhance your brand’s reputation and appeal. 

Size: 

The packaging size must match the product’s dimensions minutely. It should reduce excess space to avoid shifting during transport. It should also optimize storage space for both you and the customer. 

Design and Branding: 

The packaging design should be aligned with your brand’s identity. It can engage customers and create a lasting impression. It makes your product stand out on shelves or online platforms 

WHICH PACKAGING DOES YOUR PRODUCT NEED? 

The choice of packaging type depends on the nature of the product, its fragility, shelf life, branding requirements, and more. Here are some common types of packaging and the products they are suitable for: 

Cardboard Boxes and Cartons: 

• Suitable for a wide range of products, from electronics to clothing. 
• Ideal for shipping and storing items securely. 

• Can be customized with branding, printing, and labelling. 

Plastic Packaging: 

• Clear plastic blister packs are good for small items like electronics, toys, and cosmetics. They provide visibility and protection. 
• Plastic bags are suitable for items like clothing, food products, and small accessories. 
• Plastic containers are often used for food products, personal care items, and household goods. 

Glass Packaging: 

• Used for products that need to be protected from light, moisture, or air, such as food products, beverages, and cosmetics. 
• Commonly used for sauces, jams, perfumes, and alcoholic beverages. 

Flexible Packaging: 

• These are like bags that can stand up or stay flat. 

• Great for snacks, coffee, and pet food. 
• They keep things fresh and are easy to use. 

Metal Packaging: 

• Metal cans are commonly used for food items like soups, vegetables, and beverages. 
• Aerosol cans are used for products like cosmetics, cleaning supplies, and cooking sprays. 

Boxboard and Paperboard Packaging: 

• Often used for cereal boxes, frozen food packaging, and retail packaging. 
• Provides a good surface for printing and branding. 

Cushioning Packaging: 

• Bubble wrap, foam inserts, and packing peanuts are used to protect fragile items during shipping. 

• Suitable for delicate electronics, glassware, and ceramics. 

Shrink Wrap and Stretch Film: 

• Used for bundling products together, protecting perishable items, and securing irregularly shaped items. 
• Commonly seen on packs of bottled beverages and packs of paper towels. 

Eco-Friendly Packaging: 

• Biodegradable or compostable materials are suitable for products that target environmentally conscious consumers. 
• Often used for organic foods, sustainable products, and eco-friendly brands. 

Luxury Packaging: 

• High-end products may require custom-designed packaging with premium material. E.g., velvet, embossing, or foil stamping. 
• Common for luxury cosmetics, jewellery, and high-end electronics. 

Conclusion: 

Remember that each product and industry may have specific requirements. It’s important to pick packaging that keeps your stuff safe, looks good, and fits your brand.

If you’re not sure, you can ask experts or people who know about packaging to help you choose what’s right for your things.