In this article we’ll go through the steps and best practices of packaging shoes and shipping shoes, the materials to use, the process and how PakFactory’s packaging solutions can help with your shipping.

Why Proper Packaging And Shipping Matters

Before we get into the nitty gritty of how to ship shoes, let’s first understand why this is so important. Shoes, especially delicate or high end items like sneakers or leather boots are prone to damage during transit. From creases and scratches to moisture damage, the risks are many if shoes aren’t packaged correctly.

Furthermore, good packaging isn’t just about protection; it’s also a branding opportunity. For example, custom printed shoe boxes, whether corrugated or rigid, can enhance the unboxing experience and show your brand’s quality and care.

Step-by-Step Guide: How To Package Shoes For Shipping

1. Choose the Right Box Size

First step is to choose a box that fits the shoes perfectly. Too much space in the box can cause the shoes to move around during transit and increase the chances of damage. Here are your options:

• Corrugated Boxes: These are sturdy, lightweight, and perfect for shipping shoes. PakFactory offers customizable corrugated boxes designed to fit your shoe products perfectly.
• Rigid Boxes: Rigid boxes provide premium protection and a luxury feel for high-end shoes.
• Reusable Bags: If you’re looking for an eco-friendly solution, PakFactory’s reusable bags are an excellent option for lightweight shoes like sandals or flats.

Important: avoid oversized boxes, which require more filler material and can increase shipping costs.

2. Use Inserts for Protection

Foam inserts, tissue paper or other protective materials can prevent shoes from moving inside the box and protect them from damage. Inserts are a must if you’re shipping shoes that are delicate like high heels or shoes made from soft materials like suede.

PakFactory’s foam inserts and custom-cut dividers can be added to your packaging solution to keep the shoes in place. These materials will protect the shoes and give a clean and organized look.

3. Secure with Packing Paper or Air Cushions

Once the shoes are placed inside the box, fill the space with crumpled packing paper, bubble wrap, or air cushions. This ensures the boots won’t shift during shipping shoes and helps absorb any impact. For added sustainability, consider using eco-friendly packaging options like biodegradable packing peanuts.

4. Seal the Box Properly

High-quality packing tape is crucial to ensure the box remains sealed during shipping shoes. Double-check that all edges are correctly taped and that the seal is strong enough to withstand handling during transit. Reinforce the seams of the box with additional tape if necessary.

Shipping Shoes Without A Box

Sometimes, businesses may want to ship shoes without the original box. This method is standard for low-cost or lightweight shoes like flip-flops or canvas sneakers. Here’s how to ship shoes without their box:

1. Use Poly Mailers or Bubble Mailers

Poly mailers or bubble mailers can be used for lightweight or less delicate shoes. These bags are cost-effective and take up less space compared to traditional boxes. PakFactory offers durable poly mailers that protect while keeping shipping costs down.

2. Add a Layer of Protection

Since shoes shipped without a box are more exposed to damage, it’s a good idea to wrap them in a protective layer, such as bubble wrap or foam, before placing them in the mailer. Ensure the shoes are cushioned properly to avoid scratches or deformation during shipping.

3. Consider Eco-Friendly Alternatives

To stay eco-friendly, consider using reusable cloth bags or recycled packaging materials. PakFactory offers sustainable packaging solutions, including eco-friendly poly mailers made from recycled materials.

Best Practices For Shipping Different Types Of Shoes

Different types of shoes require different packaging approaches. Let’s take a look at some of the best practices for popular shoe categories:

• Sneakers: Due to their value, sneakers, especially collectible or high-end sneakers, need extra protection. The best way to ship sneakers is to use a sturdy corrugated box with foam inserts or tissue paper inside to cushion the shoes. It’s also a good idea to double-box collectible sneakers to add an extra layer of protection. For example, placing the original shoe box inside a larger shipping box is expected.
• Dress Shoes: Dress shoes made of leather or other delicate materials should be wrapped individually to prevent scuffs or scratches. A rigid box with foam padding or dividers is ideal for shipping dress shoes securely.
• Boots: Boots are heavier and bulkier, so you’ll need a larger box with reinforced walls to support their weight. PakFactory’s corrugated boxes are strong enough to handle bulkier items like boots, and custom sizes can be created to fit the specific dimensions of your products.

How Much Does It Cost To Ship Shoes?

Shipping costs vary depending on weight, size, and distance. Here’s what you should consider when calculating the cost to ship a pair of shoes:

• Weight: Shoes can range from lightweight sandals to heavy boots, so the weight of the package will affect the shipping cost. Make sure to weigh your packaged shoes to get an accurate estimate.
• Dimensions: Oversized boxes can increase dimensional weight charges. Therefore, it’s crucial to select appropriately sized packaging to avoid unnecessary costs. For detailed instructions on accurately measuring box dimensions, take a look at this guide.
• Shipping Service: The carrier and shipping method you choose will also affect the cost. Standard ground shipping is often the most cost-effective, while express or international shipping will incur higher fees.

Most small to medium businesses can expect to pay between $7 and $10 for domestic shoe shipping. International shipping can be more expensive depending on the destination.

Benefits of Shipping Shoes with Custom Packaging

The packaging your customers receive plays a significant role in their perception of your brand. An unique and well protected custom shoes packaging help creates a memorable unboxing experience.

• Brand Recognition: Custom-printed boxes with your logo and colors make a lasting impression on your customers.
• Product Protection: Custom sizes and materials ensure your shoes are well-protected throughout the shipping process.
• Sustainability: Eco-friendly packaging options show your commitment to sustainability and can attract environmentally conscious customers.

With PakFactory’s range of packaging options, including corrugated boxes, rigid boxes, and reusable bags, you can find the perfect solution for shipping your shoe products.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Packaging And Shipping Shoes

What’s the best material to use for wrapping shoes during shipping?

Bubble wrap and foam inserts are the best materials for wrapping shoes during shipping. These materials provide adequate cushioning and prevent damage from impacts or compression during transit. Tissue or eco friendly alternatives like recycled kraft paper can be used for extra padding and a sustainable approach.

How should I label my shoe package for shipping?

When labeling your shoe package for shipping, place the shipping label on top of the box or mailer in a clear area. Use a waterproof label or cover it with clear tape to prevent smudging or damage from moisture. Double check the recipient’s and return addresses to make sure no mistakes.

What’s the most eco-friendly way to package and ship shoes?

The most eco-friendly way to package and ship shoes is using recyclable or biodegradable materials. Opt for reusable cloth bags, recycled cardboard boxes, or eco-friendly poly mailers. You can also use recycled paper or biodegradable packing peanuts for cushioning. At PakFactory, we offer sustainable packaging solutions to meet your business’s environmental goals.

How do I protect high-end shoes during shipping?

It’s crucial to use premium packaging materials for high-end or delicate shoes. Consider using rigid boxes for extra durability and include custom foam inserts or dividers to prevent movement during transit. Wrapping each shoe individually with bubble wrap or foam will protect against scuffs and scratches, and double-boxing can provide an added layer of protection.

How long does it take to ship shoes internationally?

The shipping time for international shoe shipments varies depending on the destination and carrier. Standard international shipping can take 7 to 21 days, while express shipping services typically deliver within 3 to 7 days. Check with your chosen carrier for specific delivery times and costs based on the destination.

Take The First Step With Custom Shoe Packaging

Packaging and shipping shoes require careful consideration of both protection and presentation. Following the tips outlined in this guide, you can ensure that your shoes reach customers in perfect condition while enhancing their unboxing experience with custom packaging.

PakFactory has a variety of customizable packaging solutions for you. From corrugated boxes to reusable bags, our products will protect your shoes while showcasing your brand’s unique style. Contact PakFactory now to get started on your next packaging project!

In the following short guide, we’ll provide a walkthrough on how to ship glass safely and economically, keeping your customers happy while saving your bottom line. 

Understanding the Challenges

Glass is inherently fragile. Without proper packaging, it’s more likely to break during transit than most other materials. Factors like rough handling, vibrations, and sudden impacts are all common during delivery, so it has to be able to survive a certain amount of roughhousing.

Step-by-Step Guide on How to Ship Glassware

1. Choose the Right Box

The first step is selecting an appropriate box to fit your glassware without too much spare room. A sturdy, corrugated box is a good starting point for most glassware, only just slightly larger than the item to provide space for adding cushioning. 

2. Wrap Each Item Individually

Perhaps the most important step in how to pack glass for shipping is to carefully wrap each glass item separately, providing cushioning on the inside and out. The standard solution for this is bubble wrap. Here’s how to do it right:

• Bubble Wrap It: Completely wrap each item with at least two layers of bubble wrap. Secure it with packing tape to prevent the wrap from slipping.
• Foam Sleeves: For bottles or glassware with handles, foam sleeves can provide extra protection. Ensure you cover every part of the item, including the more delicate areas like handles and spouts.

3. Cushioning is Key

After you’ve wrapped your item, the next step is to line the bottom of its packaging with packing peanuts or crumpled paper and fill the rest of the box with cushioning material once you’ve placed the item on top. More specifically:

• Fill the Bottom: Line the bottom of the box with at least two inches of packing peanuts, crumpled paper, or foam inserts.
• Place and Fill: Carefully place your wrapped glassware into the box, making sure there’s enough space around the item for additional cushioning. Fill all remaining gaps with packing peanuts, crumpled paper, or air cushions.

For more specialized or fragile items, custom foam inserts can be designed to securely hold irregularly shaped glass products in place. The snug fit of the foam ensures maximum protection by reducing movement during transit.

4. Seal the Box Securely

With a delicate item, securely sealing the package becomes even more important, as any movement can open space for the item to move within and increase its chances of breaking. Here’s how to seal it properly:

• Use high-quality packing tape to seal all openings of the box. 
• Reinforce the seams to add extra strength.
• Apply at least two layers of tape along all edges and openings.
• Reinforce the bottom and top seams for added security.

5. Label Appropriately

Although not always a guarantee, marking or labelling the box with “Fragile” and “Handle with Care” does psychologically nudge handlers to be more careful, making it a good addition to the steps on how to package glass for shipping. 

The shipping company itself may also have extra precautions in place for packages labeled as such, further increasing your chances it will be handled with care. 

6. Test Before Shipping

Finally, you should do a quick and gentle test of the box to check if the object inside is loose. Pick up the box and gently shake it. If you hear any movement or feel items shifting inside, you need more cushioning. Properly packed glass items should be immobile within the box.

Tips for Shipping Glass Bottles

There is an additional layer of special care to consider when deciding how to ship glass bottles. The same principles as with all glass items apply, but with a few additional considerations:

• Use Dividers: Place cardboard dividers inside the box to keep bottles from touching each other.
• Leak-Proof Packaging: Seal bottle openings securely and consider using shrink bands or seals.
• Custom Packaging: Custom-designed packaging such as foam inserts or molded compartments can can provide even better solutions that cushion the bottles more carefully.

Why Custom Packaging Matters

In addition to the steps provided above, custom packaging provides an additional level of protection through its form-fitting factor. This helps to minimize the movement of items in the package and offers greater overall security to their staying in place. 

At PakFactory, our team of packaging experts is ready to develop custom solutions for any glassware and fragile item needs, providing advice and custom packaging solutions. 

Conclusion

You don’t want your products to break on the way to loyal customers. By following these steps, you will find the best way to ship glassware that minimizes the risks while helping your glassware reach its destination safely.

Ready to safeguard your fragile products? Contact PakFactory today for custom packaging solutions designed specifically for shipping fragile and glass items.

Why Order Early?

Ordering early means your holiday packaging gets to you in time for product packaging and distribution so you don’t have to scramble last minute and risk delays that could impact your holiday sales.

Understanding Custom Packaging Lead Time

While specific timelines vary depending on your location, manufacturer, packaging complexity, and shipping method, here’s a general guideline:

• Design and Production: 6-12 weeks
• Shipping: 1-7 weeks, potentially longer during peak holiday season

For instance, if you need your packaging to be ready for Christmas, it is advisable to place your order by early November at the latest.

PakFactory Ordering Deadlines for Christmas 2024

During busy seasons, such as the lead-up to holidays, design, production, and shipping times can extend. To avoid delays and ensure you receive your custom packaging before Christmas, please place your order with us by November 28th, 2024.

Important Notes:

• Delivery times depend on the type of packaging products and shipping methods.
• This deadline guarantees the arrival of packaging materials only. If you need to package your products, consider ordering early.

How to Calculate Your Order Delivery Time

To estimate the delivery time for your custom packaging order, you need to consider both production and shipping times. Below, you’ll find the formula, an example, and detailed information on these times broken down by product type and shipping method.

Production Time by Product (Business Days):

• Folding Carton/Corrugated: 20-25 days
• Rigid: 20-35 days
• Countertop Displays: 10-12 days
• Floor Displays: 15-20 days
• Labels & Stickers: 10 days
• Paper/Reusable Bags: 25-35 days
• Mailer/Bubble Mailers: 12-15 days
• Custom Pouches: 28-30 days (roto print) / 10-12 days (digital print)
• Foam Inserts: 20 days
• Molded Pulp Inserts: 10 days (existing mold) / 2 months (new mold)
• Tin Boxes: 30-35 days

Shipping Time By Shipping Method (Business Days):

• Express Air Shipping (5-7 days): Fastest, most expensive, ideal for time-sensitive orders.
• Standard Air Shipping (12-18 days): Reliable and faster than sea shipping.
• Express Sea Shipping (30-40 days): Cost effective for large, planned orders.
• Standard Sea Shipping (40-50 days): Cheapest but longest lead time.
• Ground: All methods include ground transportation for final delivery.

Recommendations

For cost and time efficiency, we recommend choosing folding carton and corrugated options. Always account for both production and shipping times when planning your order to ensure timely delivery.

Budgeting for Holiday Packaging

Holiday packaging costs are higher due to increased material and labor demand and higher shipping rates. Remember:

• Allocate a Separate Budget: Set aside a separate budget for your holiday packaging that’s bigger than your regular packaging budget. This will ensure you have the funds to cover the extra costs of holiday packaging.
• Expect Higher Demand: Your packaging needs will be much higher than usual – potentially 80% higher than your regular sales. Factor this in to your budget to avoid being caught short.
• Use Historical Data and Order Extra: Review your past holiday sales data to forecast your packaging needs accurately. As a safety net, order at least 20% more packaging than your projected sales to account for any unexpected spikes in demand or delays.

6 Ways to Make Your Holiday Packaging Stand Out

1. Neutral Language: Use generic language like “Spring Edition” instead of holiday specific language like “Easter Edition”. This will extend the life of your packaging beyond one holiday.
2. User-Friendly Design: Prioritize designs that are easy for customers to open and assemble. Avoid overly complicated structures or excessive elements that could frustrate the customer.
3. Limited Edition: Create a sense of exclusivity and customer loyalty by offering limited edition holiday packaging. This will make your products more desirable and collectible.
4. Marketing and Branding Integration: Ensure your holiday packaging aligns with your overall brand. Integrate it with your marketing campaigns, social media and other branding elements for a seamless customer experience.
5. Seasonal Product Offerings: Consider creating special holiday-themed products to further enhance the appeal of your packaging. This will create a synergy between product and packaging and make it more festive.
6. Quality Materials: Invest in high quality packaging materials to elevate your brand and create a memorable unboxing experience. It may cost more upfront but will pay off in the long run with a stronger brand image and customer satisfaction.

For more holiday design ideas, visit our blog post: 19 Inspiring Holiday Packaging Ideas

Get in Touch with PakFactory

Ready to create stunning holiday packaging? Contact PakFactory today! Our packaging specialists are here to guide you through the entire process, from design to logistics, ensuring your packaging arrives on time and exceeds expectations.

PR Package Meaning

What are PR packages? A PR package is like a VIP invitation to your brand’s world. It’s a thoughtfully curated collection of your products or samples designed to not only excite influencers but also encourage them to share their experience and your brand with their audience on social media platforms.

It lives at the top of the marketing funnel that focuses on awareness. While often overlooked in favor of direct conversion methods like Google Search Ads it’s hard to build a good strategy that doesn’t touch on both. When you focus on awareness, you’re essentially spreading the word about your brand to make sure people know you exist. With PR packages, you’re not just getting people to know your name; you’re also building trust and credibility. Consumers are more likely to choose a brand they recognize and respect, especially when it’s been recommended by someone they follow, enhancing brand recognition.

Why Sending PR Packages Benefit Your Brand

By strategically building partnerships with popular content creators, you can bring your brand to the forefront of people’s minds. But that’s not all. Let’s take a look at some of the other key benefits:

• Foster social engagement: Collaborating with influencers opens up the possibility of engaging user-generated content (UGC). Depending on your conversations this may look like stories, reels/TikToks, static/video in-feed posts and live broadcasts. It’s a great way to spice up your content while leveraging their social media reach to connect with your audience.
• Build credibility and trust: There’s something powerful when it comes to seeing genuine reviews coming from somebody you look up to. It positions your brand as a reliable company in an authentic way that doesn’t seem like a sales pitch.
• Establish yourself as an industry leader: Through effective PR, you can position yourself as a thought leader and innovator in your niche. By sharing your insights and expertise, you can become a go-to resource for industry professionals and consumers alike.
• Increase sales and revenue: By effectively promoting your brand and generating leads, you can ultimately increase sales and revenue. PR packages can help you attract new customers, retain existing customers, and drive growth for your business. Tracking your PR package campaign is also essential to assess whether objectives are being met and to evaluate the performance and effectiveness of your strategies.

How to Create PR Packages

There’s a special art to creating an effective PR package. It’s more than a box, it’s an experience from start to finish. By following these tips, you can capture attention, generate interest, and drive positive results.

• Find your target audience: The first step is to know your target audience inside and out. Understand their interests, needs, and values so when you begin your search for influencers you can narrow in on creators that have a community you want to speak to. This can be time-consuming but is an important step to ensure you attract leads more likely to take that next step.
• Focus on clear communication: To ensure clear communication, make sure to contact influencers before sending PR packages for influencers. Confirm their interest in working together and discuss your expectations for the content and messaging. This will help avoid misunderstandings and ensure that they are aligned with your brand’s goals. If possible, track your packages and share that information to avoid any confusion or delays.
• Put together a story: Every element in a PR package tells your brand’s story. Your logo, colors, and fonts should create a unified look that highlights your identity. Select high-quality products that fit with the influencer’s lifestyle, whether it’s a new release or a trusted favorite, and aim for a visually appealing and memorable package. Unique influencer packaging ideas can further enhance this experience.
• Encourage action: Who doesn’t love a promo code? Providing creators with a little treat to share with their audience allows them to gain favor but also incentivizes their audience to take action. It’s also a great means for you to measure results.
• Send a follow-up: The journey doesn’t end once the delivery has made it to their door. To create long-term relationships it’s important to make sure they feel valued. Sending a little note thanking them for their time and requesting feedback will go a long way. No matter what their impression was, it’s a great opportunity to fine-tune your approach.

Tips for Designing Your PR Package

Designing a PR package requires careful consideration of several factors, including product selection, packaging, and messaging. A well-designed PR package can help brands stand out in a crowded market and increase the likelihood of social media engagement. It’s about creating an experience that resonates with the influencer and their followers, making your brand memorable and desirable. Here’s how to design the perfect PR package:

• Product selection: Product selection is a critical component of designing a PR package. Choose products relevant to the influencer’s audience and aligned with your brand values. Consider what will genuinely excite them and their followers.
• Packaging that pops: Go beyond the ordinary! Custom packaging with branded elements such as labels, inserts, and uniquely designed boxes not only creates a lasting impression but also reinforces your brand identity. This ensures that your product stands out in influencer social media posts.
• Create a first impression: Custom labels, branded packaging tape, tissue paper and even personalized cards can elevate the unboxing experience. Use these elements to build curiosity and excitement from the moment the package is received.
• Safeguard your products: You want the contents to remain intact, despite the rough handling that often happens during transit. For example, we recommend placing your product in a box insert within the shipping box. Not only does this create a layered experience, but it also adds an extra level of protection. That being said, if it’s something that doesn’t require as much care, a nice cover bag is a good substitute.
• Be creative: Whether it’s a splash of color or a cohesive theme, creative elements like this add a twist that brings your brand to life. These can incorporate seasons, trends, and more. The opportunities are endless.
• Personalize each package: One size doesn’t fit all may sound cliche but it’s an important thing to remember when it comes to PR packages. Offer products and messaging that pair well with their lifestyle and interests. Demonstrate your understanding of their needs and show how your brand can provide value to them. If you’re able to take that extra step to truly customize the product with maybe their name, it won’t go unnoticed. Print-on-demand options will help to make it easy to create personalized items like custom apparel or accessories that reflect their style or interests. Alternatively, adding a personal touch to a PR package can be as simple as including a handwritten note or a personalized message. If an influencer is known for their love of a particular color or theme, incorporating that into the packaging can create a memorable experience and further increase the likelihood of social media engagement.
• Include a media kit: A media kit provides influencers with key details about your company and products. Make sure it’s clear and easy to access so they don’t have to dig through websites or emails for info. Include any necessary brochures or instructions related to your product or event.

Our Top 5 Best PR Packages

To get those ideas flowing we’ve put together some boxes, some from big and small companies to highlight the importance of packaging. Whether you’re aiming to introduce a new product, celebrate a milestone, or simply build relationships, there’s a PR packaging that fits the bill.

1. Inoki Bathhouse

Inoki Bathhouse is a small Canadian company that offers small-batch tea bath products for a rejuvenating bathing experience. When it comes to PR packaging this is a beautiful example of a brand that has thought of every single detail. The custom tape, sticker, branded tissue paper, and personalized message create a warm and inviting atmosphere. The carefully wrapped products, nestled in shredded cardboard, feel like a precious gift. It’s the attention to detail – the consistent colors, eco-friendly materials, and thoughtful design – that makes this one stand out.

2. Dior

Dior is a timeless symbol of elegance. With every collection, it brings a sense of luxury and artistic flair, making each piece feel like a celebration of individuality. But how is this reflected in their PR gift? In the reel referenced below, the beautifully designed rigid box, wrapped with a delicate ribbon, sets the stage. Inside, white tissue paper paired with a branded sticker, reveals a cover that holds one of their bags. It’s a perfect example of how simplicity, when executed with such care, can enhance the overall experience.

3. Touchland

Touchland is a brand that focuses on elevating personal care through hand sanitizers that offer a sensory experience. Their packaging uses a colorful, patterned box that immediately grabs attention and sets a playful tone. Each sanitizer is packaged in custom-shaped and colored pouches reflecting the flavor. The addition of a handwritten note adds a personal touch and shows that the brand values every one of its customers.

4. Pixie Cosmetics

Pixi Beauty is a cruelty-free beauty brand known for its effective and affordable skincare products. The theme of “Botanical Collagen” is clearly seen through the packaging’s color palette, imagery, and messaging. You’ll also notice the corrugated box simultaneously acts as a guide, providing information about each product and its benefits. This creates a sense of unity and helps to reinforce the brand’s commitment to bringing out everyone’s natural beauty. By aligning the box insert with this theme, Pixi further enhances the overall presentation and makes the collection more memorable.

5. Send a Cake

Send a Cake adds a touch of surprise and joy to every celebration, delivering beautifully crafted cakes straight to your door. Sweet treats are a dopamine rush and their PR boxes perfectly captures that feeling. In the TikTok linked below the unboxing starts with a red box adorned with a playful pattern and a little note. But what truly stands out is what happens next. The moment she opens the box, butterflies fill the air creating a moment of pure delight. Inside, the cake is surrounded by thoughtful packaging, including photos of the influencer, demonstrating their attention to detail and commitment to personalization. While this example goes above and beyond, they’ve created an incredibly special PR experience worth mentioning.

Wrapping Things Up

Creating an effective public relations package is an art form that can positively impact your brand’s visibility and reputation. When you send PR packages, it is crucial to engage with influencers through their preferred social media channels to enhance brand visibility and create buzz. By following these guidelines and incorporating creative elements, you can craft something that leaves a lasting impression on your target audience. Remember, the goal is to create an unforgettable experience that showcases your brand’s unique personality. If you need a little more help understanding what is a PR package before getting started, you’re in the right place! Take a look through our website to see how we can help you reach your goals.

In this guide, we will break down the most essential aspects when planning your shroom chocolate bar packaging and provide some inspiring ideas to help get you started. By the end of this guide, you will have the knowledge required to ensure your product complies with laws and regulations while remaining safe, fresh, and alluring to your customers.

Key Packaging Considerations For Your Mushroom Chocolate Bars

Protection Against Contaminants

Like any type of confectionery or perishable product, protection is one of the most important factors to consider when packaging your shroom chocolates. Barrier properties that protect from contaminants such as light, oxygen, and moisture will go a long way in preserving the freshness of your chocolates and extending their shelf life.

Balance of Functionality and Aesthetics

Another essential consideration when designing your mushroom bar’s packaging is striking a balance between aesthetic appeal and function. Features such as easy-to-open packaging, resealability, and portion control help enhance the customer experience, maintain freshness, and reduce waste, but creativity must also shine!

Elegantly designed wrappers, vibrant colors, and intricate designs will add that extra wow factor to your mushroom chocolate bar packaging, which is sure to catch the eye of potential customers.

Compliance with Food Safety Standards

With anything edible, ensuring your packaging complies with local and regional regulations and international food safety standards is a must. Not only is this required by law, but ensuring total compliance with food safety standards builds customer trust through honest and informative packaging.

Make sure your packaging meets labeling requirements for ingredients, nutritional information, and allergen warnings. Be clear and transparent about ingredients, sourcing, usage instructions, and health benefits.

Sustainability

The increasing demand for sustainability from a growing demographic of eco-conscious consumers brings us to our final consideration for your mushroom bar packaging. Recyclable or biodegradable materials are becoming increasingly popular ways of embracing sustainability without compromising quality.

Types of Packaging for Mushroom Chocolate Bars

Mushroom chocolate bar packaging started out with simple wrappers and evolved to incorporate various types of packaging to enhance the aesthetic and luxurious appeal to customers. Some of the most popular types of packaging for mushroom chocolate bars include;

Paper and Cardboard Boxes

Paper and cardboard boxes are very popular for chocolates because of their versatility in custom design, opportunities for branding, and printing capabilities. Further customizations are also available through box inserts like plastic trays that add extra protection to your product while displaying them in an appealing way.

Pouches and Bags

Typically made of plastic, pouches, and bags help form airtight seals that effectively preserve product freshness. They are widely used for both standard chocolate packaging and chocolate gift boxes.

Tin Boxes

This packaging is a premium and luxurious way to contain your mushroom chocolate bars. Tin boxes are versatile, durable, highly customizable, and like paper or cardboard boxes, lends itself well to the addition of box inserts.

Wrappers

Circling back to where it all started, high-quality wrappers are still used with mushroom chocolate bars and are an essential piece of packaging that determines the overall look of your shroom chocolate bar packaging. A heavy, matte stock gives your chocolate a more sophisticated look, while a lighter, glossy paper can make your bars more fun and approachable.

Best Material for Mushroom Chocolate Wrappers

As mentioned in the above section, wrappers are still an essential piece of packaging that can be combined with tin, pouches, or paper boxes to further enhance the look and feel of your mushroom chocolate bar packaging. Many chocolate brands opt to use 2 layers of materials, one internal and one external for added protection and customizability. The best types of materials to achieve this include;

• Aluminum Foil: This wrapper provides excellent barrier properties against light, oxygen, and moisture. It is widely used for the internal layer of luxury chocolate wrapping and is excellent for preserving flavors for as long as possible.
• Polypropylene (PP): PP also provides an excellent barrier against moisture, oxygen, light, and odors. Polypropylene is commonly used as an external layer as it also offers brands the ability to print details and labels on their wrapper.
• Paper Sleeves: Paper is another material that can be used as an external layer, but does not offer much in terms of protection. Paper is mainly a decorative piece for custom designs, labels, and product details.
• Metallized Paper: Metallized paper can be used as an internal or external layer for your chocolate. But with the increased awareness of environmental impact, more consumers are beginning to believe that two layers of wrapping is excessive. Certain metallized paper offers similar safety and protection qualities as traditional aluminum but can also be easily printed on, eliminating the need for two packaging layers.

Printing For Chocolate Packaging

Printing for your mushroom bar package is just like any other package. It all depends on what package you choose, but we’ve provided a list below of printing methods that work well for the popular mushroom chocolate bar packaging mentioned in this guide.

• Offset Printing: This printing technique offers exceptional quality with sharp and consistent images.
• Digital Printing: A cost-effective alternative that is great for shorter runs but provides less image quality than offset.
• UV Printing: Fast drying printing method that uses UV light to cure ink and create a glossy finish.
• Foil Stamping: Using heat and pressure to apply metallic foil to a surface, foil stamping adds a touch of luxury to your package.
• Embossing: A technique that creates a 3D effect on your package that can make patterns or logos pop from a box.

All of the printing techniques mentioned above can be used to create a unique and luxurious look for your chocolate packaging. By experimenting and combining different techniques, you can make a memorable design that is guaranteed to stand out from competitors.

Get Inspired By Our Catalog!

With mushroom chocolate bars, the keys to packaging success involve balancing protection, function, and aesthetics while maintaining transparency with food safety and sustainability. Considering these factors while designing an innovative and creative box is a surefire way to impress your customers!

Need a little inspiration? Check out our chocolate boxes below and get inspired!

Ready to Get Started With Custom Mushroom Chocolate Bar Packaging?

At PakFactory, we can help you create unique and eye-catching packaging that is guaranteed to fit your desired aesthetic. Whether you are looking for modern and sleek or classic and timeless, PakFactory offers unlimited customizations that will make an impact. So if you’re ready to begin your mushroom chocolate project, check out our chocolate packaging page for our catalog of options or contact one of our packaging specialists directly, and we will help you begin your packaging journey!

Alternatively, if you are interested in other packaging solutions for similar products like cannabis, we also have you covered!

With the rise in demand for packaged food, businesses are increasingly adopting flexible packaging for their products that cater to cost-effectiveness, sustainability and aesthetic appeal. Pouches are just one type of flexible packaging that’s seen an increase in popularity in recent years, and for good reason.

Pouches are versatile for many industries, such as food, beverage, medical, pharmaceutical, cosmetics, and personal care, with MarketsandMarkets projecting stand-up pouches to dominate the pouch market from 2019 to 2024. Stand up pouches for food and drink, in particular, have seen a spike in demand due to their inherent synergies with the products and abundant benefits to the food industry. So, in this guide, we will cover everything you need to know before beginning your pouch packaging project!

1. Why Flexible Pouches? Understanding Their Benefits

The Flexible Packaging Association states that flexible packaging is one of the fastest-growing packaging industry sectors. Additionally, according to a 2023 industry report by GlobalData, businesses that switched to stand-up pouches reported a 25% increase in shelf impact and a 30% reduction in packaging costs.

Flexible packaging and, by extension, pouches packaging add value to food and non-food products by combining the best protective qualities of plastic, film, paper, and aluminum foil while using the least amount of materials. Pouches offer:

• Reduced Costs – Less material is used than traditional packaging, making pouch production more cost-effective.
• Enhanced Visibility and Aesthetic Appeal – A pouch’s ability to stand upright and its unique appearance give it a strong shelf presence.
• Convenience and Portability – Its lightweight and slim profile that takes up significantly less space when filled or unfilled helps reduce shipping costs and allows efficient storage and distribution. The Flexible Packaging Association equates one truckload of empty flexible pouches to 26 truckloads of empty glass jars.
• Extended Shelf Life for Your Products – Pouches come with barriers and special films that prevent external factors such as odours, oxygen, light, and bacteria from contaminating a product while keeping refrigerated items fresh for extended periods.
• Environmental Benefits – The Flexible Packaging Association revealed in a publication that flexible pouches use 75% less energy and generate a tenth of CO2 emissions during production than metal containers of equivalent products.

2. Premade vs. Custom Pouches – Which One is Right for You?

While the benefits mentioned above can extend to both custom and premade pouches, custom-made pouches offer so much more than stock pouches. Though premade pouches are lower in cost, customization is almost non-existent, a significant disadvantage to your brand in today’s market.

On the other hand, custom stand up pouches are designed from scratch to fit your product and branding requirements. The possibilities are endless, and at PakFactory, you can customize everything from the type of pouch to the materials, coating, layers and features. By developing a unique design that’s pleasing to the eye, convenient, and functional for customers, you are creating a positive image of your brand that will help distinguish you from the competition!

3. The Types of Pouches You Can Have

So, with custom pouches in mind, the first thing you can decide is the type of pouch you want for your product. Different pouches have their own set of benefits, but the ability to choose the one that best fits your product is another plus over premade pouches.

3.1 Stand-Up Pouches

Stand up pouch bags are ideal for storing and displaying foods or other retail products. They are one of the main go-to options for flexible packaging and are available in various sub-styles.

Block Bottom (Flat Bottom) Style

The block bottom bag, or flat bottom bag, is a pouch with a flat rectangular base that is sometimes gusseted on the sides, allowing it to stand upright. This pouch offers the maximum balance of stability and presence for your product as it can stand upright on the shelf, has good volume and space for heavier products and features 360 degrees of surface area for custom printing.

Block bottom bags are excellent for products such as coffee, pet food, spices, sweets, frozen foods, nutritional products, household chemicals and high-density products.

Bottom Gusset Style

Bottom gusset bags are a type of stand-up pouch with a rounded gusset bottom that allows the bag to stand independently without support. They are stronger and hold more weight than block bottom pouches. They are also generally larger than side gusset pouches, allowing more products to be packaged. This pouch type is flexible and suitable for many products, such as snacks, candy, coffee, baking powder, custards, liquids, hygiene products, and medical products.

The three main types of bottom gusset pouches available to you include;

• Plow-Bottom Pouch
• Doyen-Style Pouch
• K-Seal Stand Up Pouch (K-Style) with Skirt Seal

Side Gusset Style

The side gusset is the last sub-style of stand up pouches. As the name suggests, side gusset pouches feature gusseted sides and two flat panels on the front and back, making this style less box-shaped. Side gusset bags take up less space on the shelf but can still hold a good amount of product. Still, their smaller package size makes them more cost-effective, less wasteful, and perfect for storage.

Side gusset bags are popular for snacks, dry ingredients, frozen food, coffee and tea.

3.2 Flat Pouches

A flat pouch, or lay-flat pouch, is a style of flexible pouch packaging that is the most economical out of the other options we will cover in this guide. As the name suggests, lay-flat pouches are designed to lay on the shelf but still offer stability and a large printable surface for customization.

The three main styles available for flat pouches include;

Pillow Pouch Style

The pillow pouch packaging style is the most common type of flexible packaging. When filled, the pouch expands in the middle and flattens out at the top and bottom seals to resemble a pillow. Pillow pouches are cost-effective, use little space during storage and transport, allow for complete customization on the package’s front and back, and are ideal for single-serve products, snacks, frozen foods, and meal kits.

Pillow pouches also have other optional features, such as press-to-close zippers, hanger holes, product display windows, and tear notches.

Three-Side Sealed Style

Three-sided sealed bags are similar to their four-sided cousin but are sealed on three sides and folded on one. The fold is generally featured on the bottom of the package to allow flexibility and the product to settle at the bottom of the bag, making this pouch ideal for ground products, coffee, snacks, spices, pet food, and produce.

A three-side sealed bag offers the same optional features as the other flat pouch styles while providing more bag volume than the four-side sealed bag and maintaining cost-effectiveness, efficient storage and transportation and good package uniformity for cartoning.

Four-Side Sealed Style

As the name suggests, a four-sided sealed bag is sealed on all sides to provide the best protection against leakage while still being customizable on the front and back panels. Unlike a pillow bag, this flat pouch cannot flex and expand as much, but it is a popular choice for liquid, medical, or sample products.

Four-sided sealed bags are also cost-effective, efficient to store and transport, and offer the same optional features as pillow bags.

3.3 Roll Stock

Roll stock is a printed and laminated film on a roll that is then used with Form, Fill, Seal (FFS) machinery to form a package, fill it with a product, and seal it. This package option allows brands to create pouches using their own equipment, allowing for high speed and output over long runs.

Roll stock is perfect for smaller items such as nutrition bars, packaged snacks, single-serve samples and stick packs.

3.4 Custom Shaped Pouch

Custom shaped pouches offer the ultimate form of customization for your flexible packaging endeavors. If none of the above styles fit your brand’s identity, consider creating a shape that best suits you! Whether you are looking for a standing or flat pouch, you can always customize the bag to suit your desire. From the shape, size and openings to other optional features, a custom shaped pouch is guaranteed to elevate your packaging further.

4. Choosing the Right Materials for Your Pouch

After deciding on the type of flexible pouch that fits your product, you need to consider the materials you want to use to create it. How pouches are made plays an equally crucial role in your packaging project as the type of pouch you choose, so it is worth considering all the options when making your decision. Some typical pouch materials used include plastic, metal foil, paper, and bioplastics.

Plastic for Durability and Versatility

Plastic is an excellent barrier against contaminants like oxygen, moisture, dust and UV light. It helps maintain your product’s freshness and has good material qualities like rigidity, stability, flexibility, tensile strength and transparency.
However, plastic has a low melting point and cannot withstand high temperatures. It has a shorter life cycle than containers like glass or metal and is very environmentally harmful, with challenges related to waste, disposal, and recycling.

Plastic materials for pouches are typically made of;

• Polyethylene (PE)
• Nylon
• Polyethylene terephthalate (PET)
• High-density polyethylene (HDPE)
• Low-density polyethylene (LDPE)
• Cast polypropylene (OPP/CPP)

Metal Foil for Superior Barrier Protection

Metal foil provides maximum protection for your product against moisture, light, aromas, and oxygen, extending its shelf life. Foil packaging is durable, resistant to punctures and tears, and can withstand various temperatures.

However, it must be noted that foil still cannot be microwaved and is also harmful to the environment when improperly disposed of. Like plastic, it is non-biodegradable and can take hundreds of years to break down. In addition, foil is more expensive than other materials, such as paper and plastic.

Paper for a Natural Look and Sustainability

Paper materials are available in natural brown or white kraft. Unlike plastic and foil, kraft stand up pouches are naturally compostable while offering excellent barrier properties that protect a product from spills, pests, UV rays, oxygen, and moisture. Kraft paper also provides a high tensile strength, making the pouch resistant to punctures.

However, though kraft paper offers moisture protection, it still has poor water resistance and strength compared to other materials.

Bioplastics for Reduced Environmental Impact

Bioplastics are an environmental alternative to traditional plastics, offering similar protective properties while being less environmentally impactful. Made from plants or other biological materials like polylactic acid (PLA), bioplastic reduces carbon emissions by being biodegradable, breaking down naturally without releasing harmful chemicals. Bioplastics are also resealable, allowing the use of recyclable pouches to further contribute to a sustainable initiative.

However, though bioplastics seem to have all the benefits of plastic without the negatives, this is untrue. Bioplastics generally cost more—though their recyclability somewhat counteracts this—and sometimes have a shorter lifespan than traditional plastics, depending on the type of material used. Also, though bioplastics are biodegradable, they require special facilities and proper disposal to reduce pollution effectively.

5. Customization Options for Your Pouches

We briefly mentioned the optional customization earlier in this guide, but more than a brief mention is needed to show you the breadth of what you can do with a custom pouch. Pouches feature many customizable options, such as various fitments, closures, merchandising features, layers, and shapes.

Fitments and Closures

The first type of customization we will look at are the fitments and closures. These customizations contribute to the longevity of your product by determining how the pouch dispenses your product and whether it can be closed again. Popular options include;

• Easy dispensing pouches with a tear notch are ideal for liquid, gel or lotion samples.
• A Tear Notch or slit is a perforated top that allows for an easy opening process. You can also feature tear notches with other options like zippers for resealability.
• Press-to-close zippers are an excellent and cost-effective option that allows your pouch to be conveniently closed and reopened.
• Sliders are easy and fast to open and reclose. They offer your consumers the convenience and assurance that the pouch is closed correctly.
• A Spout Pouch features a re-closable nozzle for easy access to liquid products.
• Resealable films allow consumers to open and reseal a pouch using tamper-evident methods for safety and convenience.
• A degassing valve is excellent for products like coffee that use stand-up pouches. The one-way valve vents CO2, allowing products to stay fresh for longer.
• Tin ties add a quick way for consumers to close a pouch and are popular for baked goods.

Merchandising Features

These customization options help display your pouch on store shelves and attract potential customers with convenient additions to your packaging. Options include;

• Hang/Peg holes that enable a pouch to be placed on hangars or hooks.
• Display Windows on a stand-up pouch lets consumers see the product inside the package.
• Carry-hole handles provide an accessible and comfortable place for customers to carry a pouch bag without worrying about dropping it.

Barriers and Coatings

Barrier and coating layers come in direct contact with the product and protect the pouch and its contents against contaminants by providing crucial barrier properties. These customizations improve packaging integrity and structure while increasing shelf life and preventing food waste. Barrier properties for stand-up and flat barrier pouches include;

• Moisture Protection prevents food from losing moisture or protects against moisture for dry foods.
• Grease Resistance/Grease-Proofing protects the package and maintains hygiene by resisting grease transfer from product to package.
• Gas and Aroma Barriers prevent contaminants such as oxygen from entering a package and causing spoilage or prevent gasses from escaping.
• Additional Heat Resistance gives a pouch extra resistance against hotter temperatures.

Typical coating materials to achieve the above barrier properties include aluminum foil, EVOH resin, transparent film, nylon, polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyethylene (PE), and breathable or permeable barriers.

Material Structures and Layers

Pouches typically have multiple layers of material structure, all of which can be customized for different functions to market, protect, and preserve a product. Layers include;

• The print/ink and coating layer is the outermost layer used for branding and design. It affects a package’s overall look and feel while providing product information to consumers.
• Structural layers give a pouch its strength, durability and puncture resistance.
• Barrier layers protect a product from odor, oxygen, light, and bacteria.
• Sealant layers protect from leaks and provide functionality for other customizations like closures, fitments and resealability.
• Tie layers are what bond structural and barrier layers together.

6. Pouch Treatment and Filling Methods

With your packaging customized to your liking, it’s time to consider one of the most crucial factors in your pouch packaging endeavor: how to fill stand-up pouches.

Not only do different treatment and packaging techniques contribute to your product’s ability to maintain taste and freshness while having an optimal shelf life, but they are also crucial to meeting safety, compliance, and quality standards established by regulatory bodies like the FDA.

Standards for product sterility, sterile zones in the manufacturing process, packaging systems, materials and more are all requirements, so carefully considering your treatment and filling methods and ensuring they meet FDA or other regulatory body standards is essential. Common filling and treatment methods include;

Manual Filling

The most basic and generally low-cost method of filling involves using a scoop or similar tool to fill a pouch by hand. The bag is then manually sealed using impulse heat-sealing or direct heat-sealing equipment. Manual filling allows greater control over quantity and quality but may only be suitable for small-scale operations or starting businesses, as this is far from ideal at larger scales.

Aseptic Packaging

Aseptic packaging is the typical method used in the food and pharmaceutical industry. The product is sterilized through quick exposure to high heat in a technique known as flash pasteurization and then rapidly cooled to room temperature. The product is then filled into sterilized pouches and sealed in a sterile environment, enabling the packaged contents to last up to 18 months.

Ideal applications for aseptic filling include liquid pouch packaging for milk or high-acid products such as juices in glass, aluminum or PET containers.

Retort Packaging

The retort-filling method involves filling a package with a non-sterile product and sealing it in a non-sterile, retort-able flexible pouch with heat-resistant plastic layers that can withstand high temperatures with or without aluminum foil so the product can be thermo-processed. The retort pouches are then loaded into a retort pressure chamber and sterilized with heated pressurized steam.
Retort pouch packaging is ideal for foods with a pH level greater than or equal to 4.5, such as chicken breasts, chili, ham, and tuna.

Hot-Filled

The hot-filling process involves sterilizing a product through high heat before filling it into a non-sterile container and immediately cooling it to preserve taste and quality. Opposite to retort packaging, hot-filling is suitable for foods with a pH lower than 4.5 and is also cost-effective for various liquids, including soft drinks, non-carbonated beverages, juices, water, and teas.

7. Printing Techniques for Your Custom Pouch

The design and print are the final things to consider when planning your pouch project. Depending on the purpose, budget, and type of finish you are looking for, one technique might better suit your needs than the others.

But before we discuss the various techniques available to you, it is important to note that color matching with packages involving two or more components of different materials may be difficult regardless of your chosen printing technique. So, with this in mind, let’s look at the various other pros and cons each printing technique offers.

Flexography Printing

Flexography is the most commonly used technique for pouch printing and works very well on pouches made of kraft material. It involves rolling the pouch through a printing press and then pulling it into several printing units. Flexography is best for larger runs, as it has high setup costs but has the lowest cost per unit among the other printing options. It offers minimal coloring and lower print qualities unsuitable for photo images but excellent for simple designs and a quick turnaround time.

Rotogravure Printing

This printing method works well on a wide selection of materials and involves engraving the image design on multiple color plates and transferring it onto the pouch. Like flexography, rotogravure is best for larger runs with a high setup cost and a lower cost per unit. However, unlike flexography, rotogravure offers crisper colors and exceptional image quality.

Digital Printing

The digital printing method involves printing digital-based images directly onto the pouch. This technique is best for smaller runs and dynamic content like special promotions and serialization as it has no setup costs but a higher price per unit. Digital printing offers the fastest turn-around time while having a high print quality and can be used on most materials.

8. Looking for a Custom Pouch Packaging Partner?

Although this guide contains many factors to consider and may be overwhelming, they are all equally essential to a successful custom pouch project. However, you do not have to work alone. Whether you are looking for more help, are ready to find a pouch packaging manufacturer or partner, or want to jump right in and order custom pouches, PakFactory is the choice for you.

Don’t believe us? Check out some of our previous designs for pouches and get inspired!

Branding encompasses all visible elements of your brand, including your logo and values, and is crucial in creating a consistent and recognizable image for your customers.

Successful branding is a marketing tool that involves more than just a logo and requires the use of various elements to build cohesive branding.

Custom packaging design is a great place to start in creating a consistent and strong brand story.

Consistency is key in branding, and constantly changing styles and colors can confuse customers and make it difficult for them to recognize your brand.

The Personality of a Company

As mentioned before, by definition, branding is all the visible elements of your brand, but it’s deeper than that.

Branding is your company’s personality. It defines your business’ values and shapes the image customers see. It embodies everything your company is and does, so a strong brand identity is crucial to standing out from the competition.

But standing out from the rest of the competition isn’t the only thing branding does for your company.

Why Is Branding Important for My Business?

Deeply Connected With Your Company

Branding is the “face” of your company. When consumers see your logo, It shouldn’t be just a cool design and arrangement of colors, but something deeper.

Even though your logo is only part of your branding, it is still an important piece of the puzzle.

 When customers see your logo, they should immediately be able to recognize and connect it with your company.

Builds Credibility and Trust

Associating a logo with your company doesn’t just mean memorability for potential customers but also adds credibility.

If you’ve successfully created strong branding, customers should automatically know the quality of your company’s products simply by seeing your logo. Branding builds trust in consumers who know they are purchasing a quality product from your business.

Assists Advertising

Branding also provides a template for future advertising of your product and business, making planning more straightforward.

Establishing solid branding equips you with the tools needed to attract potential customers through advertisement, whether through print, online, or a YouTube commercial.

Represents Your Company’s Mission

Similar to being the “face” of your company, branding will also define your company’s purpose or heart.

For example, Coca-Cola’s mission statement is to refresh the world and create moments of optimism and happiness. 

Their “Share a Coke” campaign perfectly highlights this mission and their branding by replacing their logo with the names of people or professions to share a Coke with.

Through this campaign, Coca-Cola showcased its strong branding and didn’t even need to include its logos on the bottles!

Generates New Customers

Finally, solid branding will inevitably lead to more customers.

Yes, a good product creates sales, but strong branding creates connections with your customers.

A company with a good face, credibility, and mission will always attract more customers that support your vision.

When these customers feel a sense of belonging and loyalty to your brand and its message, they will naturally become advocates for your business and attract even more customers!

Eight Elements for Consistent Branding

Now, with the importance of branding in mind, you might be eager to learn how to strengthen your branding through packaging.

However, one more thing needs to be covered before we get to that: brand elements.

Name – Probably the most crucial element. Your brand name is what customers are going to know you by!

We all can agree that the first impression is important, and your brand name serves as your first impression to customers, so consider this element carefully.

A great brand name can have a significant impact on your branding and brand packaging!

For example, Band-Aid is a brand, not a product. The actual name for the product is an adhesive bandage, but no everyday consumer uses that term. They just ask for a Band-Aid!

Logo – The next most crucial element is the logo.

Your logo is the visual trademark of your company and should be just as, or more, recognizable as your brand name.

Or even better, consider making a wordmark where you skillfully combine your logo and brand name, like Google or FedEx.

Color – There is a lot of psychology behind color, but for simplicity, different colors mean different things. 

In the eyes of the consumer, seeing specific colors also elicits various emotions.

So as a business, it is up to you to decide what color combinations best fit your branding and the message you wish to convey.

Slogan – The slogan is a memorable and catchy phrase representing your brand’s personality and tone.

If you have a serious brand, you don’t want a silly slogan and vice versa.

Your slogan should last through the evolution of your brand but can and should change over time to reflect your values better and refresh your image.

However, do not overdo it with yearly changes, as it can confuse customers!

Image – Any images used for advertising, marketing, or posted on your website should be consistent and of similar quality.

Image editing styles and brand filters should be the same throughout.

Shape – The shape plays more of a role in packaging and the product. Differentiating yourself by designing a non-generic packaging or product shape is a great way to differentiate yourself from the competition.

Graphics – Graphics are separate from the logo but somewhat similar. Graphics use the same color pallet or model of the design of certain aspects in your primary logo.

Typography – The final element is typography. Typography plays a big part in branding as well! Make sure the type you use fits the style of your logo and other aspects of your brand identity.

Packaging Design Tips: How to Brand a Product

With the different branding elements covered, we can now move on to the role of packaging in branding.

Like a logo, name, or slogan, how you package your product is also part of your branding.

As mentioned earlier, packaging is a great place to start implementing consistencies and strengthening your branding, as it is where customers will most frequently interact with your brand.

But how do you make your brand packaging design?

Start With Your Story

Before designing any brand packaging for your products, defining your company’s story is essential.

Branding starts with a company’s history, values, mission, and vision.

Determine your company’s beliefs, the audience you intend to market your product to, what makes it unique, and how it can change consumers’ lives. Once you’ve determined this, you can move on to brand packaging.

Consistency With the Use of a Branding Package

To begin, let’s look at a few key considerations that you must make when planning your package design to fit your brand.

Consistency is the first and most important thing you must consider when building branding through packaging.

This does not mean rehashing the same design on all your products; doing that will get boring quickly.

The key to consistency is to develop a style guideline that will be the foundation for all your future endeavors, whether packaging or advertisements. This is known as a branding package.

Do not confuse branding packages with brand packaging. They are different, but at the same time, they go hand in hand. 

A branding package can and should be applied to your brand packaging!

With a branding package, your business compiles all the visual assets needed to create a consistent and cohesive brand image. Branding packages can be used for advertisements, emails, or in this case, your brand packaging!

A branding package is about establishing your brand’s visual identity and creating guidelines to maintain it consistently.

The most common items included in a branding package are the logo design, color palettes, brand typography, and a brand style guide.

Note a branding package’s similarities with the eight elements for consistent branding; this is not a coincidence!

Let’s look at logo design first.

A distinguishable and unique primary logo is excellent, but that doesn’t mean it can work design-wise with all mediums. When creating a branding package, consider making logo variations or including smaller submarks in your branding package.

Having variations or smaller sub-marks makes it easier to maintain consistency throughout your packaging and other branding material!

However, make sure that the color schemes and font are consistent throughout the variations and submarks to ensure easy brand recognition. 

This leads us to the next consideration and branding package essential: color palettes.

Color palettes are crucial to maintaining consistency across all forms your brand might take.

A color palette should contain all the colors your brand will use across all mediums, be it social media, promotional material, or product packaging.

The colors should represent your brand’s personality, so be as detailed as possible

Being specific about your colors also significantly helps with consistency when it comes to design.

The next consideration is brand typography.

Typography isn’t just about choosing the right-looking font. The font is significant, but you must also consider the text size, capitalization, and placement. Negative or empty space also plays an essential role in creating a specific look for your brand.

Ensure that your branding package includes guidelines on typography, including instructions on capitalization, spacing, and size for consistency.

With all the above in mind, you can now create a brand style guide to serve as a solid foundation for future packaging designs and any other material you might need to further your branding. 

The last thing to consider when developing a brand package is don’t over-design it. 

A good branding package should help prevent this but don’t overload your consumers with too many flashy graphics and colors.

In terms of brand packaging design, less is more.

The Common Challenges and Solutions

Building consistent branding through packaging doesn’t come without various challenges.

These challenges come in maintaining consistency between your branding and packaging but can be avoided with thorough planning and thought.

Avoid mixed messages. Confusing your consumers is the last thing you want to do with your packaging, so carefully consider the language and visuals to convey your message as clearly and concisely as possible.

Don’t copy your competitors. Though it may be tempting to copy your competitor’s successes, do not fall into that temptation. Take their successes into account, but put your twist on them! 

Maintain Consistency between online and offline. It is a given that things are going to look different in an online form than offline. However, sticking to your branding package’s guidelines will help you keep online and offline material as consistent as possible.

Do not fall into the temptation of chasing trends simply because it’s the most popular thing at the moment.

If the trend does not align with your branding, don’t do it. Scale your identity in line with your original values and beliefs, not on what’s popular.

Finally, monitor your brand. Keep a close eye on analytics, surveys, comments, and other forms of feedback. Know what you are doing right and what you are doing wrong.

Consumer feedback is integral to fixing any other challenges you might face!

Example of Successful Brand Packaging Design

Let’s change pace and look back at the example we used earlier with Coca-Cola.

For simplicity, we’ll only look at the three standard Coca-Cola cans: the regular, diet, and zero.

Officially, Coca-Cola’s primary brand color is Coke Red, and its secondary color is PMS Process Black C.

However, you’ll notice that all the cans are different colors. One is red, one is silver, and the other is black.

Why aren’t all their packaging red or black? They aren’t being consistent!

Consistency doesn’t just mean using the same color for all packaging. Yes, you should incorporate similar colors in your palette and designs, but it doesn’t mean you just copy and paste everything onto your packaging.

Let’s look closer at how Coca-Cola maintains consistency without rehashing the same packaging design choices.

The red aluminum can mainly uses the primary color associated with Coca-Cola with a white logo font. Everybody knows that a red Coca-Cola can is the main product because of the primary red color associated with Coca-Cola.

The silver can doesn’t showcase the primary brand colors, but does feature them in the font. The logo font utilizes the red and black brand colors, but everybody knows silver is the alternative Diet Coke.

Finally, the black aluminum can uses the secondary black brand color with red logo font. This has become synonymous with Coca-Cola Zero.

Notice how all cans are designed differently and have different variations of color for the Coca-Cola logo. 

However, consistency is still achieved as all cans’ logos, designs, color palettes, and typography are variations of Coca-Cola’s primary logo and color palette.

The colors of Coca-Cola cans are also consistent with the type of product offered, making it easy to recognize which product you are consuming just by the color of the can!

Benefits of Building a Consistent Brand Personality

Now that you know how to build consistent branding through product packaging, what are the benefits of doing so?

As mentioned earlier and showcased in the Coca-Cola example, it garners brand recognition and awareness.

Packaging is where the consumer most frequently interacts with your product. The package is just as important as the product itself.

If your product was featured in a generic box, how would the consumer know it was a product from your company?

Consistently featuring your branding with your packaging also improves customer loyalty and the product’s perception.

With your branding on the package, consumers will know what your business represents and the message you are trying to convey. You will no longer be a generic company but a company with a personality behind it.

Customers are more loyal and willing to support a company that showcases their values and beliefs than a faceless one without an identity.

And with brand loyalty and recognition comes a competitive advantage over your competitors.

Incorporating your branding with your packaging will allow target customers to recognize and single out your brand over the others on the shelves.

The Package Is Your Brand Too

Brand identity should always be a part of your product packaging.

Take your time developing your brand identity before designing brand packaging for your product.

Create a branding package to assist you with this endeavor and help avoid the common challenges of maintaining a consistent brand identity throughout all mediums.

Keeping your product packaging in line with your company’s values, beliefs, and identity is integral to maintaining a consistent and solid brand identity that customers will recognize, appreciate, and support.

Consistent brand identity and packaging will only serve as a benefit to your company!

Whether you’re looking for holiday themes or committing to an eco-friendly initiative, packaging is the most straightforward way to convey this to your customers. But before diving into the details and steps of creating your e-commerce packaging, we need to know the key aspects that lay the foundation for a successful customer experience.

Source: PakFactory

The Basics of E-commerce Packaging

E-commerce packaging serves three primary purposes: protecting your product, controlling shipping costs, and establishing your brand identity by catering to your customer’s unboxing experience. 

First impressions are the most important, and while it’s true that customers first see your product on their computer screens, the first physical interaction is where it counts for customer retention. The unboxing experience is the true first impression of your brand. 

Your customers’ expectations and anticipation are built from a simple digital image, but your business is responsible for meeting or exceeding customer expectations. How is this achieved? 

It’s accomplished by choosing your packaging based on the purpose rather than the appeal. In other words, it’s what’s inside that counts.

The Key Objectives of E-commerce Packaging

Protection

The primary reason e-commerce-ready packaging is essential is because it protects what you’re trying to sell, which is a pretty simple objective. Shipping and distribution will be a stress-free process for your business, and many happy customers will receive their product undamaged and ready to be used.

Furthermore, well-protected products add significant value to your brand. There is no risk of refunds and exchanges, and it creates a strong impression that serves your brand well.

Source: PakFactory

Marketing & Branding

From a marketing and branding standpoint, e-commerce-ready packaging provides a lot of return if you make the proper investments.

Through the right design, you can create a meaningful unboxing experience for customers that they will never forget– which is vital for building brand equity with customers and differentiating yourself from competitors.

In today’s competitive e-commerce market, creating a strong brand image is critical to success, and packaging plays an essential role in achieving this.

The Importance of the Right E-commerce Packaging

Proper ecommerce packaging helps your business stand out. Wrong packaging choices can damage products, weaken brand connections and cause a loss of customer retention. As such, ensuring your packaging is the best it could be is crucial.

One of the better guidelines for creating e-commerce ready packaging is Amazon’s ‘Frustration-free packaging’ (FFP).

What is Frustration Free Packaging?

Frustration-free packaging is a type of e-commerce packaging designed to make the delivery process smoother and less stressful for both the customer and the seller. Frustration-free packaging is low waste, easy to open, and offers considerable protection during shipping without driving up costs.

It eliminates the hassle of opening a package using a minimalistic approach with simple yet practical designs. Frustration-free packaging also helps to reduce shipping costs, decrease the environmental impact, and improve the overall customer experience.

With frustration-free packaging, customers receive their orders promptly and efficiently, without any unnecessary stress or frustration, making it a win-win situation for everyone involved.

The First Steps of E-commerce Packaging

As mentioned earlier, packaging is just as important as the product in delivering a first impression. Custom packaging can assist you in creating a strong brand identity to impress your customers. Still, thorough research and planning are required to find ways to have your packaging complement your merchandise and brand identity. 

If you are in the beginning stages of deciding on your first e-commerce packaging for your online products, we’ll help you determine which options work best!

But before focusing on a particular design, you must consider a few things;

• Determining your budget based on how much value your packaging can bring to a product will help lay the foundations for a successful packaging design.
• Adding value by promoting, protecting, and complimenting the respective product can boost your brand visibility and, in turn, your sales.
• Consider how many products you expect to sell in a given period and how much margin you can invest into your packaging. 
• What is the target market, and how are your competitors packaging their products? 

The above considerations will give you a good ballpark range of what your packaging, design, and shipping options will entail, allowing you to make a well-rounded, informed decision on your packaging options. Once you’ve considered all of the above, it is time to start thinking about how you’ll place the product in the packaging, as this will determine the structure of your box.

Source: PakFactory

For example, if you’re in the cosmetics or beauty business, placing the merchandise where its entire size, shape, and color can be seen without opening the packaging is common. Based on where you want to put the product and how much space it may occupy, you can now determine the measurement of your packaging.

Here, minimizing the dimensions and keeping the packaging lighter and smaller is best. Through structural engineering, packaging specialists can help you create packaging that leaves minimal space for your product to move around. This, in turn, will offer your products more stability and minimize the risk of damage.

Source: PakFactory

Exploring E-commerce Packaging Materials

After researching and planning the purpose of your package, it’s time to look at materials.  Corrugated shipping boxes and poly mailers are the most popular packaging materials for e-commerce packaging. We recommend corrugated packaging as it is made from recycled materials, is very protective and can come in various shapes, sizes, and thicknesses, making it incredibly versatile for many products.

Material Stock Options

Choosing the right material stock depends on your artwork and your branding designs, but below are some of the available options:

• Natural White (Digital & Offset): For colorful and flood printing.
• Bleached White (Digital): Brighter output of colors to mimic offset printing slightly
• Kraft (Digital & Offset): Environmental and rustic look – perfect with black print, and no coating is required.

Read more on choosing your packaging materials

Material Thickness Options

Typically, manufacturers suggest the thickness of the paper based on the weight of your products and the dimensions of your box. It is still good, however, to understand what they are and how they can benefit your product.

E-Flute

The average thickness of the E-flute corrugated board is 1.2mm.

This type of fluting is ideal for packaging software, retail products, beauty products, food, and more.

B-Flute

The average thickness of the B-flute corrugated board is 3.0mm.

L x W x H = >570 anything more than this total dimension is B-Flute.

This type of fluting is ideal for packaging shoes, industrial products, furniture, and more.

Popular Packaging Styles

Now that you have a better idea of your material choices and thicknesses, you can start looking for the ideal structure to accommodate your product. Heavier and larger items require more protection to withstand harsh shipping and handling conditions. Some of the most popular cost-effective e-commerce packaging options are:

Roll End Tab Lock Corrugated Shipping Boxes

Source: PakFactory

The tab lock roll end box or mailer boxes are corrugated box styles that are well sealed, sturdy, and easy to unbox. These boxes are the most popular e-commerce packaging boxes due to their durable capabilities and unboxing experience.

Corrugated boxes offer versatile printing and finishing capabilities, allowing you to build an authentic connection with your customers!

Regular Slotted Corrugated Boxes

Source: PakFactory

Slotted corrugated boxes are your typical shipping box. This style is ideal for large and heavy-weight items needing extra support and care during shipping.

This type of box requires manual taping when put together, but this process is simple enough and can be done in a time-effective manner.

Roll End Tuck Top Corrugated Shipping Boxes

Source: PakFactory

Roll end tuck top boxes are shipping boxes that can be folded without hassle during assembly. The top of the package can open and close smoothly while ensuring maximum closure with a tuck on the inside.

These shipping boxes are ideal for;

• Catalogs
• Clothes
• Gifts
• Electronics
• Health products
• Beauty products
• Small hardware

Shipping Poly Mailers

Source: PakFactory

The poly mailer is a flexible packaging made from polyethylene LDPE or paper. Think of an Amazon bag or FedEx mailer – these are poly mailers. Padded envelopes are also considered poly mailers. 

With poly mailers being light and versatile, they are a popular choice for e-commerce businesses that ship all types of light to medium-weight products. Unfortunately, poly mailers are not great for heavier products since they cannot provide adequate protection and support.

Still, this packaging type is cost-effective, tear-resistant, and usually waterproof!

Poly mailers have a self-seal adhesive strip for easy closure and are available with a padded interior or as a simple flat-packed bag, making packing and assembly a breeze.Read more on choosing the right package for your product.

Printing Methods for E-commerce Packages

Print quality significantly affects the presentation and overall look of your e-commerce packaging. While your package shape and size are essential to accommodating your products, printing is vital to accommodating your customers. Displaying clear and concise information is crucial to forming an authentic connection with your customers.

But because of the harsher shipping conditions e-commerce packages likely face, high-quality printing is not typically recommended for a box’s exterior as it will likely get damaged and tarnish the overall unboxing experience. 

Instead, e-commerce businesses opt for interior printing or packaging inserts — more on this later. For now, the two main printing options for corrugated liner boards are digital and offset printing.

Digital Printing

Digital printing is the transferring of a document on a desktop or digital storage to a particular printing substrate through a device that accepts graphics and text output. The printer’s ink is then printed directly on the packaging material, working similarly to the average printer you use at home or the office. 

Digital printing is perfect for low-quantity orders and is far less expensive than other printing methods since no printing plates and dies are required. 

We mentioned earlier that it is not recommended to print on box exteriors. However, digital printing is advised if e-commerce businesses are looking to print on the exterior of their packaging. Since digital printing is much more cost-effective and time-efficient, e-commerce businesses can afford the risk of potential damage in return for a bit of brand differentiation. 

Still, try to keep your artwork as minimal as possible regarding details and colors. The simplicity will provide a better output quality when printing digitally. Having too many small details and lots of colors in digital will fog the overall quality of the artwork and can end up looking low quality.Digital printing is the best for low-quantity orders as it is the most time-efficient and cost-effective printing method. Check out our digital printed corrugated boxes here: PakFactory’s Digital Corrugated Boxes

Offset Printing

Source: PakFactory

Offset printing is a printing press technique that transfers the ink from a plate to a rubber roller (or blanket) and then to a paper material. It is typically used for printing large quantities of;

• Newspapers
• Brochures
• Stationery
• Magazines
• High-quality boxes

The setup costs are expensive for offset printing, but the quality is impeccable. Typically, offset printing is advised for printing on the interior of the packaging or packaging inserts for optimal color output and quality, but due to the set-up costs being so high, it’s best to opt for offset printing if you have a high-quantity order. 

What makes offset the desired choice for printing is its ability to print in PMS Color and produce unique printing processes such as;

• Matte & gloss lamination coating,
• Spot UV,
• Foil stamping,
• Embossing/debossing.

Check out our off-set printed corrugated boxes at PakFactory’s Freedom Offset Corrugated Boxes or read more on printing methods.

Inserts and Additions to Your E-commerce Package

Adding additions and custom box inserts for protection or promotional inserts for marketing purposes is also recommended for E-commerce packaging. 

Box inserts offer extra support and durability for your products and allow you to enhance the unboxing experience. For lower quantity runs, consider standard-sized packaging options with inexpensive customized additions, such as;

• Ribbons
• Labels
• Sleeves

Box Inserts

If you want to protect and organize your products, you can use cardboard or foam inserts to divide and protect your products. These types of box inserts will prevent your products from moving around in the box during transit.

Source: PakFactory

Box inserts also enhance your brand identity by offering a higher-end unboxing experience and are available in:

• Foam material
• Plastic
• Paperboard

Promotional Inserts

Promotional inserts are one of the cheapest ways to promote your product and increase brand awareness, customer loyalty, and sales.

A custom message, cross-promotion or a simple thank you can be a powerful statement to reflect your brand’s narrative while improving your customer’s unboxing experience. Promotional inserts give customers the motivation to continue engagement with your products and an opportunity for them to get the most value out of your brand.

Furthermore, customers look to make an authentic connection with brands, and promotional inserts are a great way to work towards aligning your company with your customers. 

Read more about custom packaging inserts.

Artwork Design for E-commerce Packaging

The printed design is the first thing customers see and interact with when seeing your packaging for the first time. Below are simple elements you can incorporate into your artwork to resonate with them.

Personalized Messaging

You don’t need fancy letters or designs to capture your customers’ attention. All it takes is having a well-thought-out brand narrative that shows off the personality and value of your brand. Speaking directly to your customers allows them to feel connected with your brand.

Unlimited Brand Color Scheme

What is excellent about custom-printed e-commerce packaging boxes is that you can use unlimited colors for your artwork without any additional charge. So, make sure to include all of the elements of your brand colors in your artwork to establish a unified brand narrative.

Source: PakFactory

Consider color psychology and choose which emotions you want to trigger based on your target market’s needs and desires.

Brand Logo 

Your logo should be visible the moment a customer receives your box. This can be achieved through exterior and interior printing of your brand logo. Make sure to allow your brand name to stand out and be memorable to your customers. Making your brand logo the star of the show will enable customers to remember your brand and repurchase your products with ease.

Samples and Prototyping

Prototyping is one of the most critical steps in the packaging process. We highly recommend that a prototype is made to confirm the structure and printing of the final output of your packaging, as it avoids the issue of receiving hundreds or thousands of boxes with the wrong dimensions or inaccurate fit. 

Unlike stock products, custom packaging is made specifically for your products and cannot be returned or refunded.  An incorrect packaging batch will need to be written off and recycled, coming out of your costs and causing your company added stress and time to your product launch.

Get a physical CTP proof to check color and printing accuracy, and a non-printed sample can help ensure product fitment. Another great option is a physical prototype of your custom packaging, which is a one-off make of your packaging in either production or sample grade. Prototyping provides the closest experience to your final packaging, so don’t skip this step! Read more on why box samples are essential for your packaging.

The Production and Shipping Process

You will have minimal involvement in the last step of this guide. This step is when the manufacturer mass-produces your packaging based on your final packaging specifications. Typically, you will only need to find a freight forwarder to complete the shipment or ask the manufacturer to ship the product to you with their forwarders or by express.

There are four main ways you can ship your products:

• Sea Freight (Coming from overseas and typically the least expensive option for international shipping)
• Air Freight (Overseas or local, quickest and most costly)
• Ground Freight
• Express (Courier)

Logistics can be a daunting process, especially, if you are shipping internationally, requiring several documents for declaration, customs clearance, and policy. The benefit of working with a courier is that they can help you through the clearance process, while shipping through freight may require a bond to be purchased and renewed annually.

Et Voila!

There’s much to unpack when embarking on an e-commerce packaging journey, but don’t fret. It is entirely possible when you work with packaging experts during the planning and design process. Don’t let the processes overwhelm you — instead, see it as an opportunity to connect with your target market.

Understanding what your target market is looking for will enable you to create packaging that will help sell your products and attract new customers.

While starting your own e-commerce packaging project may seem troublesome, with proper preparation and support from reputable vendors, any business can achieve a professional e-commerce packaging solution.

In this article, we will help you through this daunting process by providing some creative retail display ideas to consider, pros and cons, and which displays work best for each industry. By the end, we hope to provide you with enough information so that you feel confident enough to begin your journey of creating the best displays for your merchandise!

What Are Retail Displays, and Why Are They So Important?

Source: PakFactory

Before we get into the nitty-gritty of the types of displays available and their pros and cons, it’s essential to understand what retail displays are and why they are a must-have for stores of any industry. So, to begin, a retail display is any piece of physical marketing, fixture, or in-store area designed to attract customers, engage them, and showcase or promote merchandise. Think of them like exhibits for your products.

The definition alone should be evidence enough of the importance of store displays. However, to further convince you of this notion, studies show that placing products into specially curated in-store exhibits can increase sales by as high as 478%! 

If we read between the lines of the above study, we can glean that product display stands are highly effective tools to attract customers and should be used in stores to drive sales through marketing and promotion. That said, there are many different variations and types of display styles, so it’s essential to understand each option to know which one best suits your needs.

Popular and Creative Retail Display Ideas

Now that you know what a retail display is, we can cover the many options you have at your disposal. Whether you want something for shelving, table tops, windows, or the floor, there are many choices, and PakFactory has a wide selection of custom cardboard displays! 

But continuing with the article, let’s look at some popular options in many retail stores.

Point of Purchase Units (POP)/Floor Displays

POP displays are any free-standing in-store presentation that draws the attention of consumers. They exist separate from fixed store installations and offer an opportunity for marketing and merchandising throughout the aisles and pathways of your store, where most purchasing decisions are made.

A standard tray floor display with 3 tiers, arranged in a vertical formation and perfect for displaying a wide range of products.

Multi-tier Shelf Floor Display elevates and highlights its stocked product. It showcases a variety of products on several tiers of shelves arranged in a vertical formation.

A floor display with peg hooks is perfect for retail stores to showcase products that can be hung or displayed on hooks.

Cells/Pocket Floor Display is designed to hold various smaller products in a gridded formation.

Tray Floor Display is a floor display with separated tiered trays, designed to hold products like clothing, footwear, and other flat merchandise.

Dump Bin is an efficient way to make use of floor space. It can provide customers with quick access to a variety of items quickly and easily.

Counter and Tabletop Displays

Tuck Top Snap Lock Bottom Display Box is a cost-effective solution to increase visibility – helping you promote awareness of your brand and drive more sales.

Corrugated Shelf Counter Display is a multi-tier counter top display perfect at checkout for showcasing a variety of products on several tiers of shelves.

But What Display is Best for What Retail Store?

With the many options and styles of retail displays, it can be daunting to decide which one best fits your business. An argument can be made that any type of display is effective for any industry, but that doesn’t help you narrow down your choices.

So to narrow down what might work for your business, let’s look at a few typical retail store sectors and which display we think might complement them.

Grocery/Supermarket

Grocery stores and supermarkets provide a range of food and drink products. Selections often include fresh and packaged foods, beer and wine, pet food, and other essential household products. Typical grocery store displays include dump bins, retail shelving, isle units, and gondola displays.

Convenient Stores

Convenient stores are like mini grocery stores, offering quick trip experiences and providing a selection of basic foods, drinks, and everyday essentials. Since they are smaller and are used as quick stops, effective retail displays might include countertop options at the cashier for impulse buys or shelf stoppers to showcase promotions quickly.

Specialty Stores

These stores carry many brands, styles, or models in a narrow category, ranging from local boutiques to big-name stores. In other words, think of stores like furniture, clothing, books, or electronics stores. Since this category has a wide range of possible merchandise, different displays have varying effectiveness based on your specialty store.

For example, garment racks work best with clothing stores but not for other specialty stores, for obvious reasons.  On the other hand, jewelry store displays typically use display cases because of the product’s higher value, but not so much for clothing.

However, two options that are effective for a large variety of specialty stores are window exhibits and immersive displays! Designing window exhibits and immersive displays inside your store to showcase your specialty merchandise is an excellent way to communicate with potential customers and entice them to buy whatever product you offer.

How to Turn a Good Store Display into a Great One

As shown above, many options and considerations exist when deciding what display style you want for your merchandise. Depending on the type of merchandise you have, your customer base, and the level of creativity you want, each style can have varying effectiveness, but the more crucial aspect of store displays is how you use them.

Source: Well Designed Wood and Sonsm by PakFactory

Below we’ve included a few tips and pointers to consider with your merchandise displays.

1. Use creative signage. Wall art and other unique tags or signage can quickly grab your shoppers’ attention and encourage people to engage through social media via pictures and posts.
2. Pick a good location. Considering the area of placement is one of the most critical parts of determining a successful retail store display. New products and bestsellers should be placed in high-traffic areas, whereas impulse buy or add-on items are excellent near the checkout counter, where the customer is just about to leave.
3. Show pricing. Showing the price lets customers know if it is within their price range. If they can’t find it, they may assume the product is too pricey and skip over it, resulting in a loss of sales.
4. Change regularly. Changing retail product displays regularly keeps your store looking new and fresh with each visit and helps customers find new products.
5. Maintain your displays. Maintenance is equally essential as the design and regular changes of in-store displays. It is crucial to keep them clean, evenly spaced, and organized so customers and access these products without problems.

Pros and Cons of Using Custom Store Displays

Now that you have a deep understanding of all the options and considerations you must make when deciding and designing the perfect store display, it is necessary to cover the advantages and disadvantages of including retail displays in your store.

First, let’s look at the advantages in-store displays have for your business. Retail displays offer a variety of benefits to your business if done creatively and correctly. When done right, retail displays play an integral role in the marketing and merchandising strategy. 

As mentioned before, careful design and layout can significantly increase sales and can mean the difference between attracting or losing a customer to competitors. Retail displays should naturally attract customers, build a positive brand impression, and effectively communicate promotions and sales while offering good value for money; good displays cost money but can pay back tenfold!

But on the opposite side of the coin, the need to constantly maintain and update in-store displays requires a lot more time management for planning layouts, increased money investment, and increased staff demands for maintenance and updates to keep up with the constant movement of merchandise, changing of seasons, promotions and sales. However, keeping up with these challenges will enable your business to reap the full benefits!

Put Your Best Face Forward With Store Displays

Store displays play a crucial role in any business’s visual marketing and merchandising strategy. With a better understanding of how these displays attract customers and the limitless options you have at your disposal, we hope to have provided enough information so that you are confident to take the next step forward.

If you are ready to take the next step or have more questions about custom display stands, please contact us or request a quote now. PakFactory specialists are always prepared and eager to help in your journey!

When using custom packaging, the prepress printing process needs as much attention as the design. This process is vital in determining the overall look and feel of your packaging, so getting this part right and having a standard procedure in place is imperative.

In this article, we’ll take you through the steps of correctly making dielines for prepress, but before we jump into our step-by-step guide, let’s take a moment to understand the basics.

What is a Dieline?

Dielines can be created by graphic designers, die cutters, or a printer and are abundantly used to produce many types of packaging. They are vector files and essentially the blueprint of your finished packaging. They act as a guide when making cuts, scores, and indentations in the die-cutting process to construct your packaging. Dielines include:

• Packaging size, scale and dimensions
• Location of visual elements
• Placement of creases, cutlines, tabs, folds, and other connection points
• Manufacturing notes
• Bleed requirements

Knowing that dielines are the blueprint for your final package is enough to understand their importance, but if you would like to learn more about what a dieline is in packaging, we have an in-depth explanation here.

Source: PakFactory

But now that you better understand what a dieline is let’s dive into the step-by-step guide to preparing your dielines for prepress and print!

Considerations Before Preparing a Dieline

Before creating packaging dielines, there are a few essential things for you to consider.

Size

The first thing you need to determine is how big you need the packaging for your product. Ideally, your packaging should be the minimum size your product needs to sit comfortably inside.

Dielines are usually printed on sheets that fit industry standards, so make sure you are not opting for astronomically large packaging sizes, as printers may not accommodate the larger sheets required for the die-cutting process on oversized projects.

Weight

The weight of your product also needs to be considered. Heavier products may require thicker stock like corrugated cardboard to hold and protect products adequately, which affects the type of dieline you require.

The Purpose

Finally, the purpose of your packaging needs consideration as it will affect how your box dieline will look. Are you an e-commerce business that relies on shipping your products? Or are you a retail business that needs to create a strong shelf impact in-store?

For example, e-commerce businesses will likely choose thicker card stock like corrugated paperboard to protect products in transit. As an e-commerce business, It’s important to consider how your packaging will arrive at your customers’ locations, so its dielines may include some additional flaps or tabs to account for extra cushioning when constructed.

Source: PakFactory

On the other hand, retail businesses are likely to choose folding cartons or rigid boxes for packaging lighter-weight products, meaning the dieline may feature fewer flaps and tabs.  

Understanding how your packaging will serve your industry gives you a better idea of what to expect when making your dielines. But now that you have the details set, it’s time to translate that into a blueprint the printer and die-cutting machine can understand.

Creating A Dieline Template

When creating a box dieline, many technical details must be kept in mind, making it challenging to understand. Custom packaging companies or manufacturers usually provide their own dieline templates to ensure the structural design of your packaging works. This way, all you have to do is position your artwork and logos to ensure the colors match for printing.

To better understand how to do this, we’ve provided a free dieline template for your usage:

To place your artwork design onto the dieline, you’ll need Adobe Illustrator to open the file, which, as mentioned earlier, should be a vector file. The dieline will also feature several differently colored lines correlating to instructions for the die-cutting machine.

When placing and positioning your artwork designs, it’s essential to understand what these lines mean. Please remember that each company will have its standard for the colors mentioned, but the ones outlined are related to PakFactory’s standard for dielines. With that in mind, let’s look at what each color and line means.

Cutting Lines

Marked in black, cut lines are probably the most crucial part of your dieline. They communicate where to cut your dieline to construct your final packaging.

Crease Lines

Crease or fold lines are usually marked in red and communicate where to fold your packaging. The red dotted lines ensure ease of construction for your packaging once complete.

Bleed Lines

Bleed lines are marked in green, separating excess space from the space that will ultimately feature your artwork design. Bleed lines help prevent any obscuring of your artwork and ensure your packaging design remains how you planned it on your vector file!

All artwork should ‘bleed’ over into the next panel or onto the excess space beyond the cutting lines to prevent a white border from forming around the design’s edge.

Safe Zone

The safe zone is marked as a green dotted line and indicates to the printer which areas are guaranteed to be seen on your custom-printed boxes. Safe zones help printers align, ensure printed artwork is placed correctly on the finished project, and account for any stock movement during printing.

Glue Tabs

Your glue tabs will be shown as green crisscrosses to indicate where glue needs to be placed in the construction of your packaging. Do note that some packaging structures, like auto-lock bottom boxes, do not require a glue tab as they are designed to work without glue or tape.

Prepress Workflow and Proper Artwork Design

We mentioned the prepress printing process before, but what exactly is prepress?

Prepress involves all the printing processes and procedures between designing the print layout and the final print. Follow the below prepress workflow to ensure the best accuracy and quality of your dieline designs.

1. Dieline: DO NOT flatten/scale/resize dieline templates.
   
2. Color: Artwork files need to be formatted for the CMYK colorspace. CMYK will provide the most accurate color results when transferring your designs from the computer to a printer. PMS color code must also be indicated along with a swatch.
   
3. Artwork: When designing your artwork, ensure any artwork ‘bleeds’ into the bleed areas to prevent white spaces but have your main artwork and information within the borders to avoid cutoff. Also, ensure that any thin lines in your artwork be at least 0.25pt.
   
4. Images: Embed any images you use and set the resolution to 300 DPI to avoid blur.
   
5. Fonts: Place fonts last after all artwork, images, and color are complete. Ensure the text size is at least 6pts, and for black text, QR codes, or UPC barcodes, use 100% K value. Finally, convert all fonts to outlines. Outlining ensures the inclusion of your selected typeface and avoids issues of missing fonts. Select your text and find “Create Outlines” under the type menu to do this.

When submitting designs to PakFactory, we have provided a simple checklist to follow that will help you. But now that you’ve finished your dieline, it’s time to consider the printing method.

Read more on how to prepare your artwork on Adobe Illustrator.

Choosing the Right Printing Method

As previously discussed, dielines are printed on large sheets of the material of your choice before being cut out and constructed. Linking back to the size of your packaging, opting for bigger sizes of your dieline may not be effective, as it may not hold its shape after construction, and printing may not be possible on sheets as large as you would need.

So, once again, it’s essential to consider the minimal size your product needs to comfortably sit inside the packaging so your dieline is at a reasonable size for printing.

Source: PakFactory

Other things to consider are the vibrancy and complexity of your artwork designs. If your artwork designs are vibrant and complex, you’ll likely opt for offset printing to ensure the highest quality results. This is also important for designs that feature a lot of text, as it needs to be easily legible for customers.

Alternatively, for designs that are more minimalistic or don’t require exceptional clarity to be impactful, digital printing may be more suitable for your packaging design.

Getting Ready for Manufacturing

Once you finalize your dieline design and choose your printing method, it’s pretty easy to feel 100% confident in your project and send it off for mass production. However, it’s essential to put your packaging through quality control checks to ensure it can withstand any conditions it may face before mass production.

Source: PakFactory

Work with your manufacturer to prototype your final design before mass production. This way, your packaging designer or manufacturer can alter your box dieline depending on any structural issues it may have faced during the quality control process.

Ordering a sample of your finished design will allow you to physically interact with your packaging and reposition and fix any errors in artwork design or text that may appear on your final package. Read more on why ordering samples is important for your packaging.

But once you have approved your prototype samples and made any necessary changes, that’s it! Your packaging dieline is ready for mass printing and production.

Final Dieline and Prepress Checklist

Creating packaging dielines can be daunting, which is why packaging design and structural engineering services are helpful! PakFactory has a lot of experience working with different businesses across industries on their packaging designs, and dielines are no exception. Hopefully, we’ve made preparing a packaging dieline for your project more manageable with the above information and checklist.

However, if you have questions or want to continue your journey into custom packaging further, contact one of PakFactory’s product specialists today!