Are you the type of person who buys groceries in a box? If this is the case, you are not alone. Boxed packaged goods are becoming more popular, and manufacturers are taking notice. In this blog post, we’ll look at some of the most recent trends in boxed packaging and talk about the materials that are being used.
Understanding the world of boxed packaged goods can feel like learning a new language. With terms like ‘retail-ready packaging,’ ‘shelf-ready packaging,’ and ‘custom packaging,’ it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. But have no fear; this beginner’s guide is here to break it all down for you.
What Exactly Are Boxed Packaged Goods?
Boxed packaged goods are items sold in a box, usually with a lid. The boxes can be made of cardboard, plastic, or a variety of other materials. Boxed packaged goods are commonly used for food, but they can also be used for cosmetics, cleaning supplies, electronics, and other items. The use of packaging boxes can aid in the protection of goods during transportation.
Boxed packaging can also be used to give the product a more professional appearance. Remember that boxes are the best product packaging for securely delivering your goods to customers.
Understanding Boxed Packaged Goods
Boxed packaged goods, also known as consumer packaged goods (CPG), are products that are packaged in a way suitable for retail sales. These goods can be non-perishable items such as cereals, detergents, and paper products, or perishable goods like meat, dairy products, and beverages.
Boxed packaging provides protection during transportation and storage and is vital in marketing the product. It’s the first physical touchpoint between the consumer and the product, and as such, it significantly impacts their purchasing decision.
Why is boxed packaging important?
Boxed packaging plays a critical role in protecting products, presenting brand messages, and creating an unforgettable unboxing experience. Here’s why it matters:
Advantages of Custom Boxed Packaging
Packaging is essential for capturing your customer’s attention, whether you’re selling cosmetics, electronics, or anything else. When you operate in a highly competitive market, packaging may mean the difference between a sale for you and one for your competitors. Here are a few benefits of custom-boxed packaging:
Improved Customer Service
From the box to the advertising, every aspect of the product must be designed to benefit the customer. Packaging that stands out and conveys the right message sets your product apart from the competition. The right kind of packaging can enhance the product inside, giving the customer a sense of exclusivity when they buy it. Even if the product inside is exactly what they need, no one will be satisfied if the packaging claims otherwise.
Branding and Marketing opportunities
This is not required for all products. However, displaying your company’s name or logo is an opportunity. When customers see your product, branding is critical to establishing a sense of trust and credibility. It can also serve as advertising.
Custom boxes give businesses an opportunity to showcase their brand. Companies can add their logo, tagline, and other brand identity elements to their packaging. This helps build brand recognition and contributes to a more memorable unboxing experience for the customer, thereby improving the overall customer experience.
Keep the Product safe.
Strangely shaped or breakable items may be difficult to handle, particularly during shipments. One advantage of custom packaging is that you know exactly what is inside and can be more confident in its safe delivery.
Custom packaging allows for better product fit and protection, as boxes can be designed to accommodate the exact dimensions and characteristics of the product. This can significantly reduce the risk of damage during shipping and handling, which ultimately leads to lower return rates and higher customer satisfaction.
The Most Recent Boxed Packaging Trends
Packaging is an important consideration for many products. It is not only necessary to protect the product but also to market it and create a visual identity. Boxed packaging, like any other industry, is constantly evolving. So, what are the most recent developments in this field?
Printing on Demand
Digital printing is the process of creating images or graphics for physical product packaging that influence their appearance. With digital printing, packagers have far more freedom to personalize and customize products.
Individualized Packaging
Many well-known product brands have experimented with customized packaging and found a significant return on investment. Customized packaging enables a business to get its name and brand out there in a way that distinguishes it from the competition.
Adaptable Packaging
Flexible packaging materials have progressed to the point where they can now be used in a much wider range of consumer goods than previously. Its improved cost-effectiveness, improved shipping features, and eCommerce functionality have made it a top choice for many brands.
Packaging Made from Recycled Materials
Because most packaging waste has ended up in landfills over time, recycled packaging is an important component of the global sustainability movement. Thanks to technological advancements, recycling is now easier and more convenient than ever.
Product Packaging That Is Minimalist
The minimalist product packaging box is popular among environmentally conscious consumers who prefer products with minimal packaging. This is especially true in the modern food packaging industry.
Packaging and e-commerce
As e-commerce has grown in popularity, so has specialized packaging for e-commerce. Products must be presented professionally, preserved, and meet customer expectations. Many customers post about their unboxing experiences on social media, highlighting the product’s packaging.
Versatility and Creativity
With custom packaging, there are virtually no restrictions on the design elements you can incorporate. You can choose from different materials, sizes, shapes, colors, and graphic designs to create a packaging solution that’s truly unique to your product and brand.
Packaging is Environmentally friendly.
Packaged goods manufacturers should consider their responsibility for environmentally friendly and sustainable products. Many businesses have switched to biodegradable packaging made of compostable materials like paper or hemp. Others are focusing on reducing the amount of packaging in a product. It reduces the weight and shipping cost of the product while also sending a positive message to customers.
As businesses strive to become more eco-friendly, custom boxes can be made from sustainable, recyclable materials.
This helps reduce your company’s environmental footprint and appeals to a growing consumer base that values sustainable practices.
Materials for Boxed Packaging
Boxed packaging has evolved alongside technological and design advancements. Boxes are now made of various materials, such as cardboard, plastic, and others. Trends in sustainable and eco-friendly movements have also influenced packaging material selection. Here are some of the most common materials used in packaging boxes:
Boxes made of paperboard
Paperboard boxes are made of wood pulp and, in some cases, are entirely recycled. Paperboard boxes can be molded into custom shapes. Paperboards are a low-cost packaging option. If you use anti-static chemicals on paperboard boxes, you can safely package electronic products.
Rigid Containers
Rigid boxes are made of four times thicker paperboard than regular boxes, making them far more durable. Rigid boxes are distinguished by their stiff structures, significant weight, and density. A rigid box can be personalized. They are one of the most expensive packaging materials, which is why they are only used for high-end items.
Boxes Made of Corrugated Material
Corrugated boxes, also known as cardboard boxes, are commonly used for export and retail packaging. A corrugated board is a multi-layered paper that includes a corrugated layer for insulation, protection, and strength between the outer and inner layers of heavyweight paper.
Corrugated boxes are frequently made from recycled paper, making them both environmentally friendly and cost-effective. To deliver well-packaged retail goods to your clients, a cardboard box can be trimmed and molded to fit the shape of the products.
Plastics
Despite the fact that plastic packaging has received a lot of attention due to its environmental consequences, it is one of the most effective packaging materials available. Plastic packaging has several distinct advantages, including strength, durability, and moisture resistance. They can also be shaped in a variety of ways. Plastic boxes are extremely durable and, in some cases, recyclable if made with the proper polymer.
Chipboard
Chipboard packaging is a type of paperboard made from recycled paper. Reclaimed paper is compressed and then bonded with resin in the production of chipboard packaging. Chipboard is not only environmentally friendly, but it is also made from recycled materials. They are inexpensive to produce and easily customizable. Chipboard packaging is typically a lightweight material that, depending on thickness, can also be heavy-duty.
The Role of Sustainability in Boxed Packaging
Sustainability is no longer just a buzzword; it’s a critical factor in the packaging industry. Today’s consumers are more conscious than ever about the environmental impact of their purchases. As a result, businesses are moving towards using recyclable, biodegradable materials for their packaging. Some are even using plant-based inks for printing.
This shift towards green packaging not only helps businesses reduce their environmental footprint, but it also appeals to the growing consumer base that values sustainable practices.
Boxed Packaging Design Tips
Designing effective boxed packaging requires careful consideration of various factors. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Keep It Simple: Avoid overcomplicating your design. Ensure that your brand name, logo, and product information are clearly visible.
- Use Colors wisely. Colors can evoke emotions and responses. Choose colors that align with your brand identity and resonate with your target audience.
- Don’t Neglect The Inside: The unboxing experience doesn’t end once the product is revealed. Consider how the inside of the box looks as well.
- Consider Material and Finish: Different materials and finishes can greatly influence how your package looks and feels. Consider options like matte or glossy finishes or textures that add an extra touch.
Understanding Different Types of Boxed Packaging
There are various types of boxed packaging options available, each with its own unique advantages.
- Retail Ready Packaging (RRP): This is designed to go straight from the delivery truck to the store shelf without the need for unpacking or repacking. It’s easy to identify, easy to open, and contributes to an optimized shelf presentation.
- Shelf-Ready Packaging (SRP): Similar to RRP, this is designed to be easily placed on a shelf without requiring any unpacking. SRP is typically used in supermarkets, where speed is of the essence.
- Corrugated Boxes: These are highly durable and provide excellent protection, making them ideal for shipping heavier items. They are also recyclable and cost-effective.
- Folding Carton Boxes: These are typically made from paperboard and are popular for packaging a wide variety of goods such as food, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics. They are lightweight and can be printed with high-quality graphics.
- Luxury Boxes: These are used to package premium items. They are typically made from high-quality materials and feature unique designs to create a luxurious unboxing experience.
Conclusion
While custom-boxed packaging may initially appear to be an unnecessary expense, there are several advantages that can make it a worthwhile investment. Customized packaging not only looks professional and high-quality but also aids in brand recognition and customer loyalty. Furthermore, thanks to the most recent advancements in digital printing technology, creating personalized boxes that reflect your distinct brand identity is easier than ever.
Boxed packaging is an essential component of any product-based business. Effective packaging is vital in today’s competitive marketplace, from ensuring product safety to establishing brand identity.
As you embark on your journey in the world of boxed packaged goods, remember to keep the customer at the heart of your packaging strategy. After all, the goal is not just to protect the product but also to create an experience that leaves a lasting impression on the customer.
So, to take your company to the next level, consider investing in custom-boxed packaging!
