Top 3 Sustainable Packaging options

If you’re someone who wants to create compostable packaging and want to offer this to customers, you’re not alone. Having packaging that’s compostable isn’t just a suggestion, it’s almost a must for people. Compostable packaging, biodegradable packaging, and the like is something that people want. When customers don’t have the access they need to this, you need to also look at alternatives that are sustainable to this type of packaging as well. 

Why compostable Packaging 

Compostable packaging is super popular. This is because those who want eco-friendly packaging love it. a lot of customers will even switch their brands if they find out a company is doing compostable packaging. It’s basically a packaging that degrades over time, and usually, you can either do this at home for your gardens or at a facility that composts this correctly so that it degrades.

The problem is a lot of companies don’t give this option. Some customers aren’t able to send this out, so they aren't able to create sustainable packaging. Does that mean that the customers are basically not being eco-friendly? No, you’re the one that did it, so the right alternatives to compostable packaging will give these users the feeling of being sustainable, while also offering better packaging alternatives for them to look at.

Biodegradable Packaging 

This is the best alternative to compostable packaging that’s out there. You may wonder if they’re the same thing. The short answer is no.  Biodegradable and compostable have some levels of similarities, but they’re not going to be the same thing.

You might ask, what’s the difference then. Biodegradable means that you can throw this in the trash, and it breaks down fast. It also doesn’t require a compost bin, and for the most part, it’s better for those who don’t have the means to compost.  Usually, if you’re getting biodegradable packaging, it doesn't require a compost, but some of it is compostable, and may only be compostable, so keep that in mind.

Post Industrial Recycled Packaging Materials 

This is known in many cases as PIR materials, and usually, they’re made from the waste from the packaging, and then, it basically gets re-recycled in order to create something else. These are good because they don’t use as many virgin components, so it’s more eco-friendly for people.

Post-Consumer Recycled Materials 

Finally, we have the post-consumer recycled materials for packaging. This one is very popular. This is also known in circles to be PCR packaging. This type is made from items that are recycled, that consumers have utilized already.

These packaging supplies are also becoming popular with a lot of people, and it also makes people feel better, as they can choose stuff that’s been recycled or used once again, giving new life to the product. This also reduces the virgin materials that are used in this, and PCR tends to have the lowest impact compared to these other two, so if you’re a company that’s looking to offer some sort of alternative to composting, this is a great way to do it.

If you're someone who wants to give back to the planet, and offer some alternatives, we have them here for you. If you've ever been curious about these alternatives, then you’re in luck. With all of these alternatives in place, there is a lot that you can do, and a lot to do to help with this. talk to someone, see what works for you, and try them today, to create alternatives to composting that are out there for you as well.

How to Use Customer Feedback for your gift boxes

If you have gift boxes, you probably wonder if there’s different ways for you to ensure that you get the right feedback. Here, we’ll go over how you can use the feedback to improve your experience. 

Understand the Preferences of customers 

This is a huge part of it, because while you may be able to figure out what they like and dislike from initial purchases, their preferences and expectations are properly communicated on a feedback form. You might learn that the customers prefer more eco friendly sorts of packaging or want something more elegant and minimalist. When you know this, you can plan out the boxes. 

Through meeting and exceeding these expectations, people will be happy to stick around. It also might help you with attracting others. If you don’t already have the right systems for customer feedback, this is something you should start with. Collect this feedback and use materials, design, and functionality in order to make more informed decisions to refine the products. 

Identify Areas to Improve 

With the right feedback, it boosts your confidence, and it can also be good to hear negative feedback. There are different ways for the boxes to fall quite short of the expectations of customers.  This includes aesthetics, durability, and the functionality of this.

Through addressing these concerns, you’ll be able to optimize the packaging in order to meet the needs of a customer. If you complain about how fragile the gift boxes are, you’ll be able to explore some sturdier and better materials, and better construction, to help commit to the customer’s satisfaction. 

Innovate the design 

Customer feedback options also allow for you to build better ideas for packaging of the items. Consider building surveys and solicit some input from social media, in order to get ideas of the aesthetics that people want out of packaging. 

For instance, customers will say they want something more customizable, such as messages that are personalized, or even some elements of branding.They may even suggest innovative materials and closures, adding more luxury to this packaging. Embracing all of this sets you apart from others to give you a fresher, more modern sort of look. 

Enhances the Loyalty to the Brand 

When a customer sees that the feedback improves on a box, they feel like their voice matters. It means that you’re willing to improve things and make it as best as it can be. When they’re seen and heard, they’ll advocate for you. They’ll tell the whole world about your packaging, and of course, help with improving the sales that are there. 

Improve Unboxing 

You should also remember that the right gift packaging creates better unboxing experiences. Unboxing experiences are a huge part of what makes customers nice and happy when they get items. This feedback can help with crafting a more memorable experience of unboxing. The feedback also suggests that there’s some anticipation when they open these, so you’ll be able to improve the design, and craft excitement. 

You also will learn that customers like to feel included, and little surprises and thank you notes also will improve the unboxing. All of this builds brand loyalty, and also helps you get the right customer experience while also optimizing the costs. It’s great for creating the ideal balance for people, and when you navigate all of this, the customer feedback offers the right balance. 

Luxury boxes are great for gifts, and when you accept the feedback, you’ll be able to enhance the experience, and make customers nice and happy at the end of the day too.

How to choose the Correct boxes for Shipping Items

Trying to find the ideal items for shipping is a hard task. This is especially true when looking for the correct packaging. The primary difference between damaged items and perfectly-good items is usually in the selection of the correct cardboard items. 

Here, we’ll go over the essentials necessary for choosing cardboard boxes for your shipping desires. This will also include touching up on various elements, including the specs, and also environmental considerations. 

Whether you’re dispatching items in a domestic fashion, or across different borders, dealing with heavy or cumbersome items, or even just navigating the complex intricacies of the tariffs used for shipping, we can provide you with the right tips, considerations, and advice that’s necessary. 

Types Of Boxes 

There are different boxes for you to choose from, and the specs and materials play a huge role in making sure that the items safely arrive during the transit processes. 

The market provides different options, including single-walled E or Be flutes or double or triple-walled corrugated cardboard. 

Every single one of these serves different packaging needs. 

Here, we’ll go over the different types: 

• Single Walled E flutes or B flutes: these are smaller and thinner box types and are perfect for lighter items. They are thinner, and then offer a better crush resistance than some other flimsy box types. The B flute is thicker, and it has better stacking strength for you to enjoy. 

• The double walled combines two layers of this corrugated material, offering a more enhanced form of protection, and is better for heavier products and items that require some extra security during the shipping process. 

• The triple walled, which is the ultimate choice for shipping different items that are super fragile, or super heavy. Triple walled usually has three different layers of materials for packaging, so it offers unmatched durability, strength, and so much more. 

Going Green 

If you’re someone that’s curious about the box types, you also need to look at the impact of the shipping materials you use, and their capabilities on a protective level. 

Opting boxes that are made from materials that are certified sustainable allows for the packaging to be responsibly managed and sourced from there. 

When you embrace the reachability of your packaging, the box will also be a part of it. try to utilize recyclable paper tape, and also paper void fill to ultimately reduce the overall carbon footprint that you put out. 

Tax Considerations 

Finally, let’s talk about the taxes that you might have to pay on your stuff. 

Shipping across the globe is complex, and there is definitely a lot more to factor in. you need the boxes to be more durable against the longer transit times, and the potential impact that these tariffs have. 

When you understand just how to optimize this, you’ll be able to save a ton of money. You’d be surprised at the different aspects that come with this, so part of the art of packaging is to also optimize the savings you have with the right types of packaging possible. 

Choose the correct Box Size 

Finally, if you're shipping far, you’ll want to also consider heavier or bulky items. This is something that will make sure that they arrive where they need to in a safe manner. 

Double and triple walled cardboard that’s corrugated offers the protection that’s necessary for the items that are there 

When you also ensure that the materials for packaging such as the void fill and cushioning you’re doing, are correct for the weight and size, it will go better too.

Creative Ways to Make your Packaging Stand Out

Looking to make your packaging start to impact others? Well, there are new ways to make this stand out than ever before. Here, we’ll go over some of the unique ways to make packaging work well. 

Enhanced Behavioral Types of Pricing 

A lot of times, you can capitalize on the packaging to make people impulse-buy from you. This is good for promotions and sales. If you add urgency to the structure of the pricing, and offer products at discounts, based on how a shopper makes these decisions, it creates an incentive for buyers to avoid missing out on deals. 

For instance, let’s say you’re a shoe supplier and you want to get people to buy certain shoes.  If someone buys them within 24 hrs. of seeing the ad, you can offer them an incentive to buy to get this sale.  That way, you don’t have to worry about them waiting. They just buy it. 

There’s a lot of ways you can take advantage of this, and it can definitely help with getting shoppers to make decisions before they can think. Custom packaging and sales can encourage people to take advantage of certain opportunities that are there. 

Show you Care 

One thing to make your packaging really stand out is to show that you care. A little gift, or maybe even a message with the purchase is a good way to start. It doesn’t have to be huge or expensive.  Rather, it shows that the customers are willing to put in extra time, effort, and the like.  It really builds that connection and gets them to remember you. 

Customized packaging is good for creativity and customization. It makes many feel valued and appreciated for the business too. 

When they’re valued, they’re incentivized to buy again, so as an online retailer, you will get more customers. 

Create Eye-Catching designs 

Customized packaging that makes people stand out and build brand recognition definitely improves the business.  You can get people appealing to your business that have never heard of them in the first place. This in turn, also works with those familiar with what you’re doing. 

Customized packaging is great for useful items within the store. Packaging does need to stand out from the other types of people there, but it does also need some form of attraction that customers can pick up, and then further investigate. 

Eye-catching art is definitely a science. It’s not enough just to have a design be different. You want to excite the customers.  If you want to get people to buy, you’ve got to create a product that differs from others and outperforms compared to other sellers. You want people to buy first and ask questions later. 

Sturdy but Don’t Be Heavy 

You want to make sure that the packaging is durable, but also isn’t so expensive that the costs for shipping are insane. If you’re having trouble with this one, talk to a packaging provider, as they’re usually the best at making sure the items are aptly protected. 

Add Promotional Items 

Finally, add some form of promotional product. This entices other people to do more business with you. If you can use the item multiple times, get them to do repeat business. With many different options for you to try out, there are so many different ways to craft that personalized message. Even as small as a thank-you to the customer is a great way to get them to understand and helps to build overall customer loyalty. This also aids in improving the sales of other customers too.

Biodegradable and Compostable Packaging solutions

With a lot of people looking for alternatives to relying on normal recycling and lowering their environmental impact, some people wonder where they can go.

One way is biodegradable, or compostable packaging. Biodegradable is a type of packaging where it naturally breaks down.   This can be bioplastics and other items that might not be compostable due to how it interacts with the soil, but it is able to be disposed of accordingly.

In contrast, compostable packaging means that it can be thrown into the compost, and when it breaks down, a lot of times it offers unique nutrients to the soil.   When it exudes this, it then, in turn, will help the soil by providing critical nutrients. Some people have compost piles in their backyard, or in their community. Some go to an industrial compost, tossing all of that and from there allowing them to handle the composting matters. 

This is a new type of packaging, and it’s become super popular because of how useful it is to customers, and offers a unique way to be eco-friendly with the items that they toss. 

Materials and elements of Biodegradable Packaging 

The main factors here are that you use natural and plant-based materials for this.   elements such as cellulose, cornstarch, even bamboo are quite common. These are made with plant materials that are able to naturally break down, and won’t need any chemical coatings.

The packaging is then designed to be composted or decomposed. With this, there’s no additives or chemicals treated on this. Patrol inks are not recommended, because that gets in the soil and adds toxic chemicals. The same goes for lamination, as this is not used either.   The materials may also be a natural plastic that’s been manufactured, but is safe for the ground.

Reduction of Waste in Many Ways 

This type of packaging does reduce the water in many regards. With the ocean filling up and having a lot of added chemicals and extras, it can definitely pose a problem.   Using this type of packaging keeps your waste out of the ocean, and also adds more peace of mind.

It also is good for brands as well. if you mention you’re biodegradable, you’ll be able to naturally break all of these down, and you have a focus on sustainability, people flock to that. a lot of times, people will choose your brand over others, simply because of your dedication to being sustainable and biodegradable. 

The Challenges 

The biggest challenge with this is that you’re going to run into the issue that some of these items may not be as sustainable to source. This is especially the case if you’re struggling to make your packaging biodegradable.

The other thing is addressing the misconceptions about items that are compostable and biodegradable, and also making sure that customers do dispose of this accordingly. Remember, your packaging can be as great as can be, but if people aren’t tossing it away accordingly, it’s going to just be a waste of time.

Finally, there is also the disposal systems, which also does play a part in the overall way to address misconceptions. Not all products like this can just be easily tossed away. it requires more complex systems, and if you don’t know this, you can’t get the most benefits of this.

But compostable and biodegradable packaging do work, and some brands have effectively adopted it, especially in food service and consumer goods. Through this, the materials broke down, and the performance was better, provided they appropriately labeled the way to dispose of all of these items in their own way.

Cactus Packaging

If you’re looking to try selling succulents and plants, you are not alone. One thing that a lot of people like is cacti, as they are great for boosting collections. Due to the hardy nature of cacti, they’re perfect for green collections.  One company that’s been taking advantage of this is the Colecti Cacti, which was designed by Maria Carreno and Tamara Segura. They created this packaging, and through this student project, they created a packaging that’s simple, along with sustainable.

This is a cardboard packaging that does replace the normal plastic that’s used in pots in various flower shops.

While the plastic packaging has been used for a while, a lot of people are looking for a greener motive, and the Colecti cacti is available to make this work for people.

This offers twelve different types of packaging, and it’s got a range that’s chromatic, and allows for buyers to make and choose the color combos that are there. 

Function and Form 

The cool thing about this packaging is that it’s perfect for what it’s used for.

The shape of this is very distinct, similar to truncated cones. It makes these products more modular.  The packaging can be placed in an upside down fashion, so that it creates new models that sit right next to each other, boosting preservation. 

The pack does come with a small rope handle that holds this in different holes. This system is very easy for a person to carry, avoiding plant damage when a buyer transports all of this.  This handle also improves the transportation of different cacti that someone can get. Say you want to buy more than one, then there you go.

Two packaging sides that are there also do say the days on where each side will be exposed to light sources. This is because a lot of cacti require different levels of sunlight, and you need to make sure that you provide them with sunlight on each side, in order to grow in a harmonious fashion. 

It’s minimalist, but very effective in the way that this works. 

The colecti cacti is something that’s bringing a new idea to the realm of plant packaging. Right now however, this is not commercialized, and instead brings to light the imperative nature of a cactus and plant package that is sustainable. As more and more companies are looking to create packaging solutions that are sustainable, while also effective, this is one that sits near the forefront as one of the best packaging solutions that are out there.

If you’re interested in this, you’re not alone. While they can’t give you the exact same packaging as the Colecti Cacti, this does offer open ended boxes, where you can provide a graphic, custom sizes, and also handle cutouts for you to put on there with the dieline. You can make something very similar, which is great for a lot of people who are interested in cactus packaging.  That’s because, when you choose to do this, you’re creating a cactus packaging that’s simple, effective, and really shines.

If you’re bored with the current packaging that you have and you wish to get the right packaging in place, then you’ll most definitely want to look into this. try it out and see what’s right for you. Have fun with the plant packaging that you can bring and try working on this today. You’ll see a difference right away, especially in the packaging resources that you have, and the ability to let these resources be used for other things especially with the different aspects out there.

Ordering Printed Stretch Film

If you’re someone who likes stretch film, you’re not alone.  However, you might wonder where printed stretch wrapping comes from, and where it might be. 

Stretch wrapping is ideal for advertising different products, and it is something that’s good for storage and transit.  Usually, they tend to cost more due to the options that they have. Here are some of the steps that a person might take for custom printed stretch wrapping. 

Understand the Pricing and Minimums 

The first thing to understand is that you need to know the minimums. On average, the minimum is just a pallet, and the minimum is set up, and usually takes down the time for every single print job.  For the stretch film rolls, one pallet usually is about 192 different rolls.  For machine stretch, one pallet comes with 40 rolls.  The machine rolls usually are a lot longer than the hand rolling, so keep that in mind. The pricing does vary based on the colors, and the type of the film that you’re going to print on.  Most of the time, for super customized options, you’re looking at more than 5 grand for these. 

Determine the thickness and color 

The logo and the color are what will determine the ideal stretch and the color choice for the film. 

Clear is the cheapest, but it’s not what will make logos look good. White is another one that’s pretty common, as it lets the artwork, and the logos stand out.  Logos that are most white will be printed on a black colored film as well. both the white and the black logo are perfect for containment of the load, and they usually are opaque too.

The thickness must be considered.  Most of the time, you should look at the different types to choose the right kind of film for the job.  The most commonly used are the 80 gauge, but it might not be good for you to get something different. Bear in mind that the printing of this cannot be done on super thin films.  However, nothing thinner than 60 gauge is best for you to print on. 

Give the Artwork and the colors used to print 

Remember that most companies will not edit this artwork.  You must supply your finished artwork in order to get good pricing for the print job.  Once this artwork is supplied, the printing colors that are needed are determined, and from there, you get a digital proof made for this, and this details the size and the logo along with the film placement. 

Paperwork and Pricing 

Once the colors of the film and print are further decided. The pricing and the fees for the plate are calculated. More complex logos with different designs tend to have greater fees for plates than those that are simplistic. Plates do need to also have engraving for the initial printing jobs.  

Engraving and its fees are usually required for the first time you order this, and then, once you’ve agreed upon the price, you then need to have printed proof there that it’s returned and signed. 

Along with signed proof from the customer, you also need to film out the wind sheet, which details the means in which the logos get printed onto each film roll.  There are different ways for you to determine this, and it should be done before printing. 

Finally, you need to add the down payment, and then, you’ve just got to wait for them to print it, which can take up to 6 weeks depending on when you order the stretch wrapping, bearing in mind peak times.

What you Need to Make Retail Packaging Successful

With packaging becoming something incredibly critical for brands, especially when they battle the attention of customers and their shelf-space, it is something that is a tried and true strategy.  Here are a few things to make retail packaging better than before. 

Get the Shelf Space sorted 

You need to consider different retail elements when creating packaging that’s retail ready. 

It also means collaboration in order to assess the following: 

• Shelf space dimensions 

• Products that fit there 

• Sales and replenishment rates 

Once you have this, you can design it even better. 

Consider the Customer Experience 

You want to also make sure that your retail ready packaging hits on all features that customers want. 

They include: 

• Simple to get and use 

• Simple to see 

So in order to make this catch the eye, you need it to be simple enough that customers will be able to work with this, without it being too complicated. It boosts the customer experience by avoiding edges and sharp corners. 

It also does imply that once the products get removed from the shelf, you also can consider the packaging that’s retail ready as it appears there. consider taking advantage of the brand messaging, so it’s shown prominently and clearly. High definition printing ensures that these products stand out, especially from others. 

Be Sustainable 

You should also make sure that it stands out in a manner of sustainability.  You can do this in simple ways, such as lowering the thickness of this material, thereby reducing your carbon footprint.  You also should use more eco-friendly items that will help you with standing out. This includes boxes that are recycled. 

But you do need to make sure that you test all seals of packaging, in order to make sure that this maintains the weight of products. There are many different ways to test this out, and when you conduct tests, you can secure the packaging so it stands the tests of time. 

Why this matters 

All of this may seem like it doesn’t really matter, but the truth is, it does. 

Packaging is the initial connection one person’s packaging and products have with buyers. It’s imperative that the packaging convinces them to try out these products. 

According to recent studies of retail, over 70% of buyers do admit that the influence of design on packaging does matter. 

That’s a lot of buyers that businesses are able to influence through the design of packaging alone. Over 30% of those that reported also see good surges in sales and improve packaging design. 

It’s also good for other reasons, so optimal packaging is vital. Packaging also does contribute to the loyalty of customers, so that they can return products because of their packaging. Any packaging that’s easy to recycle also does drive customer purchases. They’ll come back if they can do that. Over 60% of customers say that they like sustainable packaging, including corrugated paper and paper packaging items. This is good as well for stopping the usage of plastic forms of packaging. 

Retail ready forms of packaging do aid in the brand establishment of positive imagery and legitimacy. Customers can overlook products where packaging fails to show the items and the quality of this. it does impact your credibility. 

People want labeling that’s honest, and many people will not buy if they get packaging that is misleading, not transparent, and isn’t honest about what’s inside. So yes, it is important. 

If nothing else, make sure you’ve got your packaging ready for retail, in order to ensure great success in the long run.