5 Tips To Designing Beautiful And Effective Packaging Online

Virginia Miller

October 18, 2024

In this article

Designing beautiful and effective packaging is essential for any business looking to make a good first impression on customers. It's also important for getting your products noticed on store shelves. Here are 5 tips to help get your packaging design just right.

Understanding Packaging for Ecommerce

Product packaging for ecommerce has three main layers - outer packaging, inner packaging, and product packaging. One or more of these layers are used depending on the product and shipping needs. When purchasing online, customers expect the product to arrive undamaged, so appropriate protective packaging is essential.

Choosing the Right Packaging

The type of packaging should suit the product size and characteristics. Common options include cardboard boxes, hampers, tubes, packets, and cups. The choice of packaging makes an impression on customers and protects the product during shipping, so it's an important ecommerce consideration.

Printing on Outer Packaging

Plan outer packaging design and printing early in the fulfillment process. Include ecommerce vendor details so packages can be identified if using a third party logistics provider shipping products for multiple vendors.

Matching Packaging to Products

Analyze product characteristics and ensure the packaging design and materials suit the item inside. Get approval from relevant teams before finalizing and printing the outer packaging.

Product Packaging Printing

Include key product details like manufacturer, expiry date, and batch number on inner or product packaging. This identifies and authenticates the product for customers.

Get Help with Packaging and Fulfillment

For assistance designing and implementing effective ecommerce packaging, connect with the experts at Simpl Fulfillment. We take care of storage, packaging, and order fulfillment so you can focus on your products and customers.

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FAQs

What are the main types of packaging used for ecommerce?

The three main layers of ecommerce packaging are: Outer packaging: The exterior box, mailer, or bag that shipping labels adhere to. It needs to be protective and durable. Inner packaging: Cushioning materials inside boxes and mailers that protect the product, like bubble wrap, air pillows, and paper padding. Product packaging: The retail packaging holding or containing the product itself that provides information to the customer.

How do you choose the right packaging for an ecommerce product?

Consider the size, shape, weight, fragility, and other characteristics of the product. Select packaging forms like boxes, tubes, hampers, packets, or bags to properly fit and protect the item. The packaging also needs to align with your brand image.

Why is it important to print vendor information and logos on ecommerce packaging?

Including ecommerce vendor details on shipping boxes and outer packaging aids in identifying packages when using a third party logistics provider that handles inventory and fulfillment for multiple companies. It also provides brand awareness when customers receive your package.

What should you include in the printing on product packaging?

Essential information to print on product packaging includes the manufacturer or brand name, expiry or best-by date, batch or lot numbers, instructions, warnings, and other product details like materials, certifications, etc.

How can custom packaging help my ecommerce business?

Tailored packaging aligned to your brand look and feel helps products stand out, provides an unboxing experience for customers, bolsters brand image, and gives marketing opportunities with design elements and messaging.

What are some eco-friendly packaging options?

Sustainable packaging options include recycled materials, biodegradable mailers and peanuts, plant-based or compostable packaging, and reusable shipping envelopes. Prioritize minimal and lightweight packaging too.

Who can I contact for help with packaging and order fulfillment?

Simplify your ecommerce operations by partnering with Simpl Fulfillment. Their experts handle warehouse storage, packaging, and shipping orders so you can grow your business.