One of the key factors in e-commerce success is the first-class delivery experience customers receive. Proper packaging is crucial to ensure products arrive intact and customers are satisfied.
In this article, we share expert tips for proper packaging to ensure safe transport of your products, We also provide tips on how to pack different sized products in the same box, how to close the box properly, how to consider sustainability and recycling, and how to strengthen marketing and company branding through packaging.
1. Proper Product Placement in the Box
The correct placement of different-sized products in the box is crucial. Larger and more durable products should be placed at the bottom of the box and lighter ones on top. It's also good to use filling materials, such as bubble wrap or paper, to prevent products from moving and bumping into each other.
2. Choosing the Right Box
Choose an appropriately sized and durable box. A box that's too large can cause products to move and break while also bringing unnecessary extra costs, while a box that's too small can squeeze the products. The box should also be strong enough to withstand shipping stress. Used cardboard boxes lose their durability.
- Factory packaging is also not sufficient and not designed for parcel traffic, reminds Shipit's COO Sami Hakanen
Heavy Packages
Over 70 kg must always be on a pallet, Posti packages must be packed on a pallet starting from 35 kg. Also remember to attach a HEAVY sticker to packages over 23 kg.
- Note that some shipping companies like UPS may charge extra if the shipment is not packed in a symmetrical box or if the box has handles or wheels, also metal boxes or wooden boxes may cause special handling fees, Hakanen points out.
3. Proper Box Sealing and Package Markings
Use strong tape when sealing the box. Ensure the tape is wide enough and covers all seams. This prevents the box from opening and protects the contents from potential damage.
- H-pattern taping is the best option, tips Hakanen
Make Shipping Markings Clear
Remember to remove old labels and markings, especially old hazardous materials markings. The barcode should be straight, not folded over the edge.
5. Sustainability and Recycling
Use environmentally friendly packaging materials whenever possible.
You can replace plastic packaging bags with recyclable mailing bags and bubble wrap with biodegradable packaging material (kraft paper).
- Additionally, it's worth encouraging customers to recycle packaging materials as part of their share of responsibility, Hakanen suggests.
6. Marketing and Brand Consideration
Packaging offers an opportunity to strengthen your brand and create an unforgettable customer experience. You can use brand colors, logo, or even personalized messages as a thank you to the customer.
- Personal messages engage customers and increase customer satisfaction. It's also worth including your company's social media channels on the cards, as nowadays customers share these small personal touches on their own social media channels and tag companies, thus giving your company visibility, Hakanen suggests.
Summary
Proper packaging of e-commerce shipments is a key part of successful customer experience. It requires precision, carefulness, and attention to detail. By investing in proper packaging, you ensure satisfied customers and avoid product damage during transport.
Shipit's customer service is happy to help with logistics-related questions. Learn more about our versatile services for online stores at shipit.fi/verkkokaupoille.
Our customer service is available on weekdays from 9 AM to 4 PM
+358 (0)20 752 8488
asiakaspalvelu (at) shipit.fi