What is E-Commerce Packaging?

E-commerce packaging holds your products safely in place during shipments after an online purchase. It’s typically made up of a box, bag, or container. This packaging protects the item while it’s being shipped to you. It usually contains:

• Outer Container
• Infill Material
• Inserts

Importance of E-commerce Packaging

E-commerce packaging is essential for online sellers because it protects your products during shipping. It also helps your customers feel confident in their purchase by showing that you care about presentation. By focusing on it, your product minimizes returns, fosters customer loyalty, and builds brand value.

Product Safety

A product should be packaged to prevent damage and wear and tear. The product should be delivered safely to the customer as per the company’s goals.

A temperature-controlled package is necessary for health and food products. The majority of chocolate sellers use gel packs to ship their products.

Brand Marketing

Lastly, e-commerce packaging is an excellent way to market your brand. It’s a way for customers to interact with your brand and understand what your company is all about.

If your e-commerce packaging is creative, it will make your products stand out from the rest and help you sell more products.

This is because customers are more likely to buy from companies they trust, which means it’s essential to brand your e-commerce packaging as much as you brand your product.

Where to Start?

You’ll need to consider a few things when choosing e-commerce packaging, such as the size and weight of your products, the shipping method you’ll be using, and any special packaging requirements (such as for sensitive items).

You’ll also need to decide on a style that fits your brand identity. Once you’ve considered these factors, you can start shopping for e-commerce packaging.

Designing Tips for E-commerce Packaging

There are certain aspects that one must keep in mind while designing e-commerce packaging. These are just like the key aspects we all follow for custom boxes. Think about your target market and consider their needs when designing packaging.

1. Logo

The first thing shoppers see when looking through your online store is your logo, so make sure it’s front and center on all of your packaging.

If you need help determining what symbol you want or how to design one, look at what other businesses in your industry use. They might have a logo that will inspire you!

2. Color Scheme

Once you’ve decided on a logo, think about which colors are most complementary and cohesive. You can stick with more than one color; make sure they work well together!

3. Font and Typography

It’s essential to use a font that complements the style of your logo and isn’t too distracting from the rest of your branding elements.

4. Keep it Simple

Your e-commerce packaging should be clean and straightforward. Avoid using too many colors or patterns, as this can overwhelm customers. Instead, stick to a few primary colors that complement your product and brand.

5. Make it sturdy

E-commerce packaging needs to be durable, as it will likely be shipped and handled multiple times before it reaches the customer.

Therefore, use high-quality materials and construction methods to ensure that your packaging can withstand the rigors of shipping.

6. Include Important Information

Ensure your e-commerce packaging includes all the essential information that customers need, such as your website address, contact information, and return policy. This will make it easy for customers to find you, make a purchase and help reduce customer service issues.

Best Packaging Materials for E-commerce Packaging

Let us discuss the best packaging materials for shipping. After knowing about all those materials, you’ll be able to confidently create a successful e-commerce packaging strategy that will help your business grow.

Corrugated Cardboard

These boxes are sturdy and economical, making them a well-loved option for many e-commerce businesses.

There are various box types, including full, partial, and slotted. Remember that the shape of the box you choose is also essential: a tall, thin box is ideal for fragile items, while a wide is best suited for heavy items.

Packing Paper

Paper is a staple in e-commerce packaging and is often used as an internal layer to protect items and as an external layer to add branding.

Most paper is manufactured from recycled materials, which makes it an eco-friendly option. Some popular paper types in e-commerce packaging are tissue paper, gift wrap, and Kraft paper.

Padded Mailers

A padded mailer is an envelope lined with bubble wrap, designed specifically for sending delicate items. Mainly these are used for electronics and other sensitive items. They’re cheap and can be customized with various colors and designs. 

Bags and Envelopes

Bags and envelopes are a budget-friendly option for e-commerce packaging. These can also be printed with your logo or branding.

They’re available in a variety of sizes, colors, and materials. They also come in various styles, such as gift bags, shopping bags, and shipping bags, so you can choose the one that best suits your packing needs.

How to Make a Good Unboxing Experience?

Unboxing involves opening the box and taking the products out. A great unboxing experience can make us love a brand and order from them again. It should include the following aspects.

Attractive Packaging

Attractive e-commerce packaging not only looks good but also plays a crucial role in customer retention. It also helps your customers feel confident in their purchase by showing that you care about presentation. It helps in:

• Building customer trust
• Increases brand loyalty

Use Sticker

Decorating your e-commerce packaging with stickers is a great way to add a personalized touch and make your products stand out.

You can use stickers for branding, customer reviews, or to share information about the product inside the box, like instructions or warnings.

Promotional Inserts

A promotional insert is printed material to communicate with your customers and advertise a product. Promotional inserts are an excellent option for e-commerce packaging.

You can use many promotional inserts, such as scratch-and-discover cards, temporary tattoos, or bandages. Explore more ideas here.

Ensure you only include promotional inserts relevant to your brand that tie back to your product.

Product Guide

One of the most critical aspects of e-commerce packaging is the product guide. This is the informational piece of paper that’s often tucked inside the box or taped to the outside.

It gives your customers detailed information about the product they’re receiving, including how to use it and any necessary safety information. 

Suppose you’re selling a product meant for children, including a toy guide or educational information that parents can read.

Small Gifts

That is another excellent idea that will boost your packaging for e-commerce. For instance, if you send cosmetic products to your clients, it will be good to include a small gift related to it.

An applicator, a glass bowl for mixing colors, or any other such thing will make your recipient’s day. It will also add to the worth of your packaging box.

However, the point to keep in mind is that the gift shall not be significant. Otherwise, it will make your packing heavy.