Simple Guide To Reinforcing Corrugated Boxes

Corrugated boxes are popular for their lightweight nature and reusability. You can easily flatten and store them for later reuse. They also have good tensile strength which makes them a good option even when shipping heavy items over long distances. However, it is only natural to worry that something could happen along the way to compromise the corrugated box and damage or expose its contents. Here are a few ways you can easily reinforce your box and improve the chances your items will arrive safely at their destination.

Corrugated Boxes – Taping

Taping along the edges and corners of corrugated boxes is a great way to reinforce their structure. These are the areas that suffer the most pressure and are likely to be injured during transit. this reinforcement can also be helpful should the box be exposed to liquids that can weaken the cardboard. Ideally, this should be done on both the inside and outside of the box. Be sure to use a strong option like duct tape. You can even run the tape across the sides of the box severally for even more reinforcement.

Coating

You can coat your cardboard box using paper glue, resin, or epoxy. They can easily be found in hardware stores and require just a paintbrush to apply a thin coating. This coating will help make the box water-resistant. The coating can be applied severally, allowing suitable time in between each coat for the box to dry. The hardened box will not only be unable to absorb moisture but will also be stronger and more resistant to tearing.

Layering a corrugated box

Adding a layer of cardboard to the top and bottom of your corrugated box is a good way to offer better support for the contents in the box and when stacking. The bottom side is especially vulnerable as it is what bears the bulk of the weight. It is also typically made with open flaps that have to be joined when packing. These flaps do not evenly distribute weight, hence the need for an extra layer that will support this and reduce the risk they will come open.

Inserts

This is a good way to strengthen the sides of the box and keep the contents stable while in transit. Businesses can have their box manufacturer customize box inserts that can suitably hold specific products in place. Another simple option would be to use spare cardboard pieces, cut them to an appropriate size and use them to line box corners. Add as many layers as you need to fill empty spaces and strengthen the corners.

Factors For When Making Custom Packaging For Your Small Business

custom packaging
The business world has never been more competitive. New products are steadily entering even the most saturated of markets, creating a tougher environment in which to succeed. For new entrants and even older ones introducing new products, custom retail packaging has become vital in meeting consumers’ high expectations. When deciding on what materials and design of packaging you will use for your products, do factor in these key considerations.

Affordability

Launching a new product can be costly and you need to make savings where you can for a better bottom line. While generic packaging may be the most affordable, there are added benefits from going the custom route, including better brand recognition. You can minimize the cost of custom packaging by shopping around for a packaging manufacturer that offers competitive deals, opting for low-cost flexible packaging, and buying in bulk at a discount. Different strategies can be applied to ensure you get the best value for your money.

Product Friendly

Custom packaging designs should be tailored to be user-friendly according to the product inside. For instance, larger juice cartons now come with a resealable pull tab which allows for easy pouring and storage. This is an improvement on older cartons that required snipping at the corner and would leave the contents exposed if not consumed in one sitting. Whatever the design and materials are chosen, be considerate of the conveniences the customer expects and what the competition is already offering.

Sustainable

Sustainable packaging is great for reducing manufacturing costs. Less energy and materials are utilized, and thereafter they can often be recycled. Consumers also prefer product packaging that is not harmful to the environment. Stick of custom retail packaging solutions that meet this standard to make the right impression on consumers.

Branding

Ensure that the packaging you choose offers a good opportunity to market your brand. It should display information relevant to the product and also about the business you do and how it can benefit them. from sharing contact details to slogans, ensure that the packaging provides a visible platform on which you can make your business more recognizable to your target market.

Uniqueness

As said, the business world is competitive. You need packaging that will help your product stand out from the crowd. Choose a design that affords you this uniqueness so your target market can more easily tell you apart from others offering the same product. Customize your packaging in terms of color, material, branding, and other factors for this. Choose a packaging manufacturer that can help with developing suitable design options you can test against competitors.

Minimizing The Cost Of Gin Packaging

gin packaging
Many new businesses are emerging from the alcohol industry. Craft brewers and distillers have become a niche market that is growing in popularity. To ensure the best value for money in this investment, minimizing cost has become a priority. For those involved in gin making, finding ways to lower the cost of a gin box can help achieve this goal.

Gin packaging plays a key role in marketing the product within and securing it before the customer consumes it. Careful choice of design is necessary to ensure it makes the desired impact for the brand. Here are some cost-saving tips when deciding on this design that should be balanced against the interests of marketing and storage.

Flexible Gin Box

Traditional glass bottles have long been the standard in the gin business. However, younger demographics are proving more open to newer gin packaging designs that can be more affordable to manufacture and easier to carry around. Options like plastic are much lighter to invest in and transport. They can also reduce the need to print labels as information can be printed directly on the packaging, helping to further reduce costs. The shape of the bottles can also be further customized so a larger quantity of products can fill a shipping box or pallet. Boosting packing density is another good way to manage costs.

Choice of Packaging Manufacturer

It is advisable to partner with a packaging manufacturer that uses modern packaging technology and designs, over a more traditional vendor. Those that use modern technologies like digital printing and color management will use resources more efficiently, resulting in a lower cost per gin box. While the savings may seem minimal in the short run, they will be more noticeably beneficial in the medium to long term. Be sure to seek quotes from various packaging manufacturers. Shopping around periodically will ensure you are getting the best value for money and will inform you of emerging technologies that you can consider in updating your packaging.

Sustainable Gin Box

This is a factor that can aid in reducing packaging costs and improve the marketability of the product. Flexible packaging, like liquor pouches, is easier to manufacture and customize. This means less energy is used in their production and therefore less waste. They are also often bio-degradable and recyclable. This makes them more sustainable and better for the environment. A fact that is popular with modern-day consumers that are concerned about their carbon footprint. Even where the product is damaged during shipping, there is less concern about waste and harmful effects with such packaging.

Tips For Packing Dishes In Shipping Boxes

shipping boxes
The dishes we use are typically made of material that is easily breakable like porcelain and glass. While often elegant, this fragility can be a particular problem when shipping to customers or relocating. Extra care must be taken when packing them into boxes for shipping, so they can arrive at their destination in perfect condition. Here are a few guidelines to follow to help improve the chances of safe delivery.

Pad The Bottom

Reinforcing and padding the bottom of the box is important. It will help keep the entire structure rigid throughout its journey. It also reduces the risk of breakage should the shipping boxes be dropped on a hard surface, less than gently. Pad the bottom using a thick foam insert or layer with fabric or newspaper. Reinforce the middle and bottom edges with packing tape.

Wrap Dishes Individually

Through fragile, dishes can also be hard. When in transit, they may end up rubbing against each other and causing scratches and other blemishes. It is best to wrap each dish individually using such material as newspaper. You can use a little tap to keep the paper in place. Rather than lay the plates on top of each other, try to stack them on their side to reduce the weight they would have to bear if stacked one on top of the other. Do not overload the box so it will be difficult to move or can easily come apart in transit.

Use Filler

Once you have packed in the dishes, you need to fill up the empty spaces before you seal the boxes for shipping. Loose filler like packing peanuts are a good option as they can better penetrate wherever there is even a small empty space and provide extra cushioning that will help reduce the risk of breakage.

Pad The Top

Just like you padded the bottom, do pad the top. When adding filler, leave a small space between the top layer and the top of the box. Then fill this with the same kind of padding used at the bottom. This will provide extra cushioning for protection. Even with this, do try to avoid placing anything on top of this box.

Seal Tightly

Once your box is full, seal the top well. Push down the top flaps to flatten them against the packing material within seal the ends and middle with packing tape again. Ensure to properly label the box at the top so all relevant information on what is being shipped is well-displayed. It should include labeling or printing on the box that confirms the contents are fragile and should be handled with care.

Choosing The Right Packaging Company For Your Startup

Business startups are faced with many challenges as they try to carve out a niche in the market for themselves. No matter the product being sold, packaging will play a big role in helping to ensure your brand stands apart from the crowd. Hence the need to partner with a packaging company that understands how to customize in a way that will effectively capture the attention and interest of your target market. Here are key qualities to look for when vetting such companies.

Versatility

There are many packaging options that new businesses should consider before settling on a final design. Not to mention that as the business grows, so too will the products lines, each of which will possibly require its distinctive packaging. It is advisable to work with a corrugated packaging company that can offer multiple options, from mailers to folding cartons, telescopic to suitcase boxes. They should also help in developing designs that better convey the purpose of the product, not just be aesthetically pleasing. Packaging that meets this need will be a bigger help in establishing the brand in the minds of potential buyers of the products.

Market Knowledge

Your packaging company should have a good understanding of the market you are going into, the expectations of the target clientele, and what competitors are already doing. This knowledge will better inform their recommendations on everything from package aesthetics to dimensions. It will also help in ensuring that the final packaging designs for your startup can better stand out.

Affordability

It is important to be judicious in how you spend your capital. While some money will need to go into packaging costs, you should try to set a limit. Work with a corrugated packaging company that will offer you competitive rates for your orders. Comparison shopping with multiple vendors can help in establishing market rates and determine what kind of deal you are getting. As demand for your product increases, they should also be able to offer discount deals on bulk orders as a standard.

Eco-Conscious

Today’s consumers are justly concerned about their impact on the environment. They prefer to buy products from companies that are also concerned about safeguarding the world. Opt for a packaging firm that shares such values and can offer packaging solutions that are sustainably manufactured and Eco-friendly. You will find that where the manufacturing processes include such approaches as recycling, the cost of production will often be lower and lead to greater savings for those buying the packaging.

Reasons to Opt for Carton Packaging for Men’s Apparel

carton
The apparel business is quite lucrative. If you can develop unique, quality, and competitively priced designs, it is possible to grow a successful business. Choosing the right packaging will also have some impact. Carton is a popular choice of packaging material that offers several worthwhile benefits, whether you are a new entrant into the industry or are already well established.

Customizable Designs

Cartons can be made to a wide variety of dimensions. So whether you are shipping a bulk order to a retail store or want to make up smaller boxes for individual pieces being sold directly to consumers online, your box manufacturer should be able to customize to whatever sizing. Being easily foldable also makes the transport and storage of said boxes to buyers easier.

They can also be easily customized in terms of colors, graphics, and other design features. This ability helps in the branding and marketing of the apparel that is being packaged. The packaging can often play a role in attracting the attention of shoppers, making them want to buy an item. The better the quality of the design and construction of the packaging, the better an impression it will make. The versatility of cartons to be designed in whatever way makes them a good option for displaying and marketing men’s apparel.

Visibility

A box can be customized to easily display the contents within. Whether it is by leaving a section open or covered with a clear plastic window, this customizable feature helps make the contents more visible and verifiable. Men tend to want a quicker shopping experience. Once they can verify that a clothing item meets their demands, they will quickly make a purchasing decision. Such designs also tend to make the item more lightweight, which is more convenient for the shopper. Reducing the material put into the packaging can also make it cheaper for the seller.

Protection

Though this kind of packaging can be lightweight, it is also quite durable. It can withstand the stresses of normal transit, ably protecting the contents within. Because men’s apparel is chiefly made up of fabric, there is less risk of damage from the contents within, even if conditions are rough during transit.

Recyclable Cartons

Carton packaging is recyclable. This is a big benefit to the environment and often satisfies modern consumers who prefer to pay for products that do not contribute to the degradation of the environment. It allows the packaging to be reused in making new packaging and provides a good sustainable source of material for manufacturers. Because it is already processed, the repeat manufacturing process is carried out much faster and at a lower cost.

Impact Of Investing In Quality Vodka Packaging

vodka packaging
The spirits business is a competitive one. Walk into any wines and spirits shop and you will find the shelves packed with a huge array of options. Vodka makes a significant portion of this market and for those looking to join in, the presentation should matter. Vodka packaging can be customized in a variety of ways and must be carefully chosen to achieve the desired impact. Here is why you will want to do the necessary research and testing before committing to this investment.

Branding

To entice consumers to buy your vodka product, you need to build a brand presence that resonates with their values. Your brand must impart a strong and positive image that will attract interest and make them want to try the product. If satisfied, the consumer will then have a positive association with the brand and will be more likely to become a repeat customer.

Packaging is vital as in branding. The vodka box they see is often the first connection they will have with the brand and become the key identifier of the product. The quality of the packaging will give an impression of the quality of the contents within, hence the need to invest wisely here.

Also, the more of a positive emotional connection the design makes with consumers, the more likely they will feel motivated to keep purchasing the product. Emotional themes like the spirit of adventure, luxury, and reward often override other considerations when buying a product, like its cost and functionality. Consider what your target market values most and incorporate that in developing a brand they will emotionally connect with and become brand loyal.

Visibility

As said, a visit to any liquor store or section at the supermarket will demonstrate just how congested the wines and spirits business is. There are many brands to choose from, both local and foreign. Being visible to consumers means trying to ensure your brand stands apart from the crowd. Careful market research is needed to ensure that the vodka packaging of the product can effectively draw the eye of observers.

The visual impact of packaging can be more profound than even the taste of the spirit. In many cases, the taste between brands can be quite similar, hence the need to make the brand appear more distinct using packaging design features that will give the impression they are beholding a quality product. From coloring and graphics to the use of embossing and labels, ensure your design reflects the values you want your consumers to associate with your brand.

What To Look Out For When Receiving Food In Gift Boxes

gift boxes
Food gift items are a popular choice, especially around the festive season. They just seem more heartwarming and personal. However, they also entail more risks than other gift options. The risk of food poisoning or other contamination can be quite high so it pays to find out the details of how the item has been packaged and shipped before eating anything. Here are a few details you need to verify to improve the chances your delivery will arrive in a good and safe condition for you to consume.

Keep Refrigerated

Perishable food gift items should always be kept at a temperature of 40 degrees Fahrenheit or lower. The food itself should be wrapped in foam or other insulating material with a cold pack or dry ice before being placed in sturdy gift boxes. The gift box itself should ideally also be made of heavy-duty cardboard that can ably support the weight and will not easily disintegrate if exposed to moisture.

Ship at The Beginning of the Week

Even though many shippers may claim they work 24/7, it is risky to attempt shipping at the end of the week. Check the date the package was sent out for delivery. You may find that those sent towards the end of the week have sat at the shipper’s warehouse through the weekend. More than next-day delivery on some perishable food items can be dangerous.

Same or Next Day Delivery

Expedited delivery is a must when sending out food gift items. Especially if they are of the easily perishable variety like meats, soft cheeses, and fruit. The package should have been delivered within a day of being sent out. Any cold packaging will have a limit as to how long it can hold. Any longer and the contents will warm up and become unsafe to eat.

Ensure Appropriate Labeling

The seller should invest in a custom gift box that clearly indicates that the contents are perishable and should be kept refrigerated. They should have clear labeling that provides this information to the shipper so they know how to facilitate delivery.

Check Ingredients

Most dry and hard baked goods can safely last a few days in transit. But do check the ingredients that have been used. Some are more delicate and perishable, like cream cheese and custard. These can easily form mold and spoil the entire contents. The seller should ideally provide a list of ingredients in the packaging also as a safety measure for those with allergies.

How To Preserve Packing Boxes And Cartons

boxes and cartons
Now more than ever before, people are finding themselves easily accumulating a variety of boxes and cardboard. This is often a result of online shopping and home deliveries. The items they buy often arrive in boxes. If the box is in good shape even after unpacking, it is very tempting to want to preserve it for later use. These boxes can often be a big help when you later want to send out a package or when moving. It is also environmentally friendly to reuse these boxes and when deteriorated, recycling them. And although quite lightweight, these boxes can be very durable. But you need to store them correctly to best preserve them for reuse.

Clear Out Every Content

Before you can put away boxes and cartons for an indefinite amount of time, you have to ensure they are clear of any contents and debris. This can be especially important if they were used to ship food items. Leaving remnants of food in a box can encourage insect or pest activity that can damage the box. Take out any packing materials like packing peanuts or bubble wrap as well. You want to be able to flatten the box easily.

Flatten

Once you have emptied the box you need to open it up at the top and bottom to help flatten it properly. Storing boxes and cartons in the state they arrived in will take up a lot of space, especially if they are of a similar and larger size. Flattening them is a space saver and will allow you to pile up many boxes in even a small space. If you have tape on the box that is scrunched up, try to gently pull it off so it does not damage the cardboard.

Size Them Up

To further save on space, try to pile similar-sized boxes together. Mixing the sizes will likely lead to a waste of space as smaller boxes will end up taking up as much space as the larger ones when flattened. Keeping them organized by size will also make it easier to retrieve the particular size box you want when you need it.

Inspect

Keep going back from time to time to ensure the boxes are still in good condition. Especially if they are stored in an area where pests might get in or they may be exposed to moisture. It can help to stack them on a shelf or pallet that keeps them off the ground and reduces the risk of this possible damage.

Information to Always Include on Shipping Tags

shipping label
When shipping materials from the seller to buyer, there is information you will need to share to facilitate the process. A small mistake when labeling can cause a shipment to get lost and end up costing the seller extra money in having to replace it. The delay can also result in the reputation of the seller suffering. Timely deliveries are a big part of what pleases customers and makes them more likely to order again. Here are some key details you must always include on your shipping tags or labels.

Shipping Tags Full Address

A full address will list the recipient’s name, street address, postal code, and country. Sometimes you may include the city or province alongside the postal code. The absence of any of these details, or wrong information can have the shipment end up in the wrong place or not delivered at all if invalid.

Shipping Tags True Name

Always ensure that the recipient has given you their real name when labeling their shipment. This is because most carriers will require some form of legally recognized identification to allow for pick up. Even where delivery is being made to an address, there are times the shipment may not be dropped off, requiring the person to then visit a collection point where they may be asked for ID. The recipient should preferably provide all names that appear on whatever government-issued ID they use. And the names should be in the same order.

Country on Shipping Tags

Avoid using abbreviations when indicating the country name on shipping tags. Some countries have similar codes and there may be confusion as to whether you are referring to a country, province, or city. Indicate the name of the country in full and using capital letters. This should ideally be on the last line of the address you are giving.

Post Code/City/Province

Some countries have provinces, like Canada and Japan. You need to indicate the province for their postal system to know where to deliver the package. In these cases, abbreviations can be fine as long as it lands in the right country. Be sure to look up the right abbreviation to avoid mistakes. Even one letter off can make the address invalid. In other countries, you may find there are no postcodes. You can usually use zeroes if the shipper requires a postcode anyway. Do a little online research to get a clear idea of how address details normally look for the country you are shipping to. This can help you notice any mistakes in the details the recipient provided and ask them to clarify.