Packaging inserts are an affordable, versatile tool that adds value to shipments. They help raise awareness about promotions, strengthen customer relationships, and enhance brand loyalty through targeted, personalized messaging.

What are Packaging Inserts?

Packaging inserts are additional materials included in an eCommerce shipment, such as promotional flyers, discount codes, or product samples. They offer an inexpensive and effective way for online retailers to engage customers, raise awareness about promotions, and encourage repeat purchases.

eCommerce businesses use packaging inserts to create a personalized unboxing experience, build stronger customer relationships, and enhance brand loyalty.

7 Best Packaging Inserts Ideas to Consider

I’m sharing some ideas that I mostly use in packaging to grab customers’ attention and boost my product sales.

1. Discount Offers

Offering discounts or deals is a great way to attract new customers and can be an effective marketing strategy.

Plus, the deals will be a great way to boost your bottom line, as you are either giving away free products or selling at a discounted price.

Remember rewards programs! If you offer periodic rewards points and coupons, not only will it incentivize shoppers, but it also helps create brand loyalty! But, again, thinking outside the box and developing creative ways beyond traditional advertising tactics such as media commercials, print ads, and radio spots are essential.

With that in mind, you can apply the following packaging insert ideas:

• Offer a free product with the purchase of another item
• BOGO (buy one get one)
• Buy two, get one free
• Buy one get one 50% off
• Offers for the whole family.

This idea is best used when you have more than one type of product because it gives consumers a choice on what they want to buy.

The more choices, the more likely they will buy something from you!

2. A Request Note for “Share on Social Media”

Today no product can propagate without the social media advertisement and sharing.

All the famous companies have their accounts and pages for that purpose. Whether you already have a business page or have a new product launch, this technique will hep you boost your business.

For that you can also add a personal note of social sharing request as an insertion the product packaging.

Whether the packaging is for soap or any edible item this technique will help you to the best results.

3. Thank You Cards

Thank you cards, and personal notes are a great way to show appreciation for your customers.

Try sending thank you cards or personal notes when they purchase, sign up for a subscription, refer someone else, or leave feedback about their experience.

This can be meaningful for your customer and help reinforce your bond.

It also sends a message that you care about the person on the other end of the transaction.

And what’s more, it’s inexpensive! You can also print out some stationery using word processing software if you don’t want to spend any money (but be warned: this option might take some time).

4. Referral Cards

Referral cards are a great way to boost your business and engage with your customers.

These cards can be given out for free or offered at a discount with the understanding that customers will pass them along when they need a product or service.

It might seem an added expense, but it is worth the investment.

For example, if you were running a bakery shop, you could offer these cards as an incentive to get your customer to refer someone who needs pizza.

5. Product Samples

Including samples in your packages can enhance the unboxing experience and offer additional value for a few reasons.

Firstly, depending on the products you sell, you might be able to get samples from your suppliers without any extra cost.

Secondly, these product samples provide a great opportunity to introduce your customers to new products and product lines that they might not be aware of or have considered trying before.

If you have a variety of products, it’s a good idea to include free samples in your packages.

This allows customers to try out your other products too.

Moreover, this practice often leads to positive word-of-mouth referrals for your company.

Many customers tend to share the samples with their friends and family, which helps spread the word about your products.

6. Small Gifts

Including small gifts in your packaging is a wonderful idea to make your customers feel special.

These gifts are tiny surprises that come with their purchase.

It could be a cute keychain, a colorful bracelet, or a small sample of another product.

These little extras show your appreciation and make the unboxing experience even more enjoyable.

They add a touch of happiness and make customers feel like they’ve received something extra special.

Small gifts are a delightful way to go above and beyond for your customers.

7. Tips and Tricks Guide

A tips and tricks guide is like a helpful manual that teaches your customers how to use your products better.

It can include useful tips on using the product effectively and how to dispose of it in an environmentally friendly way.

Curology does an excellent job of giving tips and tricks guides with every shipment.

These guides show you how to apply Curology products correctly and what to do if you experience any unwanted reactions.

When you’re making your tips and tricks guide, keep these things in mind:

• Make your tips and instructions easy to understand and friendly.
• Choose a guide style that matches your brand. For example, if your product is a electronic device, your guide could include safety tips for your customers.
• Think about the kind of paper and finish you want to use. Whether it’s a rustic kraft paper, matte card stock, or lamination, make sure it fits well with your brand.