When it comes to custom eco-friendly packaging, the choice of the right size is a crucial decision for businesses, both in terms of sustainability and cost-efficiency. At EcoPackables, we are committed to providing sustainable packaging solutions, and we understand that the process of selecting the perfect packaging size can be tricky. With complete customizability at your fingertips, it's understandable that you might not know where to start. In this article, we will guide you through the process of finding the right size packaging to meet your specific needs. For those who have been using conventional packaging for some time and are now transitioning to eco-friendly alternatives, this presents an excellent opportunity to reevaluate your packaging strategy, with a focus on cost reduction and minimizing your environmental footprint. From sampling our existing stock sizes to evaluating industry standards and considering the typical orders you ship, we've got you covered.
Analyze Typical Orders
Consider the typical orders you ship out. Do your customers tend to purchase one product at a time, multiple products, or does it vary? Understanding your customers' buying habits is essential. Depending on your findings, you can determine whether it makes sense to have a one-size-fits-all packaging solution or multiple sizes to accommodate different order scenarios.
Start with Samples
When you're unsure about what size packaging to use, a great place to start is with samples. At EcoPackables, we offer a sample pack that allows you to get a feel for different packaging sizes and styles. This is particularly helpful when you have a range of products, or if your products don't have a rigid form, like clothing. Sampling our existing stock sizes not only helps you assess the physical fit but also allows you to experience the overall look, feel and functionality of the packaging. It's important to be mindful that sustainable packaging, whether composed of compostable or recycled materials, possesses unique characteristics compared to its virgin counterparts. Being aware of these distinctions and understanding how they may impact your eco-conscious packaging strategy is crucial.
Learn from Competitors and Consumers
One valuable strategy is to examine the packaging used by your competitors. Analyzing their choices can provide insights into what works in your industry and what doesn't. While you should never copy directly, understanding the common practices within your market can help you make informed decisions about packaging size. Listen to your own customers, as well as those of your competitors to see where the pain points are and where there is room for improvement.
Consider Industry Standards
In some industries, there are established industry standards for packaging. For example, coffee pouches often come in specific sizes to maintain product freshness and ensure compatibility with common equipment. Investigate whether your industry has similar standards and assess whether adopting these sizes makes sense for your business.
Visualize Your Packaging Needs
When it comes to packaging products like boxes, especially for subscription boxes or orders containing multiple products, a practical approach is to visualize your packaging needs. Lay out a typical order on a piece of paper, arranging the products exactly how you'd want them to be presented in the box. This exercise allows you to visualize the ideal packaging size. Measure the dimensions of this layout and use this as a starting point.
Factor in Void Fill
Don't forget to consider the use of void fill materials. Void fill, like packing paper or paper shred, can help protect your products during shipping. If this is a part of your sustainable packaging plan, make sure to account for the space these materials will occupy within your packaging when determining the appropriate size.
Custom Sizing for Sustainability and Cost-Efficiency
When deciding on a custom packaging size, aim to get as close to exactly what you need. This not only minimizes waste but also reduces your material costs and, ultimately, your shipping expenses. Custom sizing is a sustainable choice that might require a little extra work, but it is absolutely worth it when considering the environmental and economical advantages.
Conclusion
Selecting the right size packaging is a critical aspect of your business's sustainable packaging strategy. With the customizability options available at EcoPackables, you have the flexibility to meet your specific needs. Following these steps will help you make informed decisions that are both sustainable and cost-effective. If you’re in need of assistance, our team of experts are ready to help!