It takes more than a graphics artist to design quality packaging for a product. Whatever image they come up with must go on the physical container, which makes that container your base and biggest initial impression maker. Consumer decision making is down to five seconds from spotting the product to choosing to buy it, so these first impressions are crucial to catching attention and keeping it.
Variety
Luckily over the years, printed retail packaging and customized shipping boxes have become cheaper and lighter than ever, so the options are vast. This is key for primary packaging that ends up on the front line. It’s worth adding a little to the cost of packaging to create a unique shape, texture, and color to house your product. Go over your options with your packaging solution provider and don’t be afraid to push the envelope for the chance to create something unique.
Don’t forget secondary packaging, either. Corrugated cardboard manufacturers provide sturdy, cheap options, but one size does not fit all. Heavy products being shipped in bulk might need something stronger, as corrugated cardboard warps or breaks under too much pressure. Keep your dimensions and product weight handy when negotiating shipping options.
Remember, “regular” cardboard is little more than thick paper–like the material use to make cereal boxes. “Corrugated” cardboard is triple layered, made to be sturdy and stiff.
Versatility
While working with regular or corrugated cardboard manufacturers, don’t miss out on other marketing opportunities they might offer. Corrugated cardboard displays are a fantastic way to give your product extra fanfare in the store or to give backup to your sales representatives. Again, these are cost-effective, easily transported marketing tools, and the more you replace marketing solutions with eco-friendly cardboard, the more you can claim to be a “green” company, also good for marketing.