Do Printed Boxes Lose Their Appeal After Shipping?
Printed boxes are an excellent choice for enhancing brand visibility and creating a memorable unboxing experience for customers. However, a common concern is whether they maintain their aesthetic appeal after enduring the shipping process, which often involves rough handling, exposure to dirt, and environmental factors.
In this blog, we’ll explore the challenges of keeping printed boxes looking great during shipping and share actionable tips to ensure your packaging stays pristine and professional, no matter the journey.
Why Do Printed Boxes Get Dirty or Damaged During Shipping?
Shipping environments can be harsh on packaging, especially when boxes are subjected to:
- Rough Handling: Boxes are frequently tossed, stacked, and dragged, which can cause scuffs, tears, or dents.
- Environmental Exposure: Rain, humidity, or dusty conditions can leave marks or stains on your boxes.
- Extended Transit Times: Longer journeys increase the risk of damage due to repeated handling and exposure.
These factors can affect the appearance of printed designs, potentially diminishing the customer experience.
How to Keep Printed Boxes Looking Great During Shipping
Choose Durable Materials
The quality of your box material plays a key role in protecting its appearance.
- Use corrugated cardboard with a robust outer liner for extra durability.
- Opt for laminated or coated surfaces to resist dirt, water, and scratches.
- Consider using kraft exteriors for rugged protection, with printed branding on the interior for a surprise-and-delight unboxing moment.
Protect Your Print Design with Finishes
A protective finish can safeguard your printed design against smudges, scratches, and moisture. Popular options include:
- Gloss Lamination: Adds a shiny finish that repels dirt and fingerprints.
- Matte Lamination: Offers a sophisticated, non-reflective look while protecting the print.
- UV Coating: Provides extra durability and is ideal for vibrant colors.
Use Protective Shipping Features
Additional shipping precautions can help reduce wear and tear.
- Add shrink wrap or polybag covers to shield boxes from dirt and moisture.
- Use double-boxing for high-value shipments to protect printed boxes during transit.
- Include void fillers like packing paper or air pillows to minimize movement inside the box.
Avoid Overly Dark Designs on High-Impact Areas
Dark colors, especially on corners or edges, are more likely to show scuffs or scratches.
- Reserve darker hues for less exposed areas of the box.
- Use lighter, neutral tones or patterns that help conceal minor wear.
Choose Strategic Placement for Printing
Where you print on the box matters.
- Print your branding or designs on the top and sides, leaving the bottom unprinted to reduce visible wear.
- For a luxury feel, consider printing inside the box to protect your design while providing a clean unboxing experience.
Why Maintaining Box Aesthetics Matters
The appearance of your packaging has a direct impact on your brand perception:
- First Impressions: A box that looks professional upon arrival reassures customers about your product quality.
- Brand Visibility: Pristine printed boxes keep your logo and messaging clear, acting as mobile advertisements during transit.
- Customer Loyalty: Packaging that withstands shipping challenges shows customers you value their experience.
Conclusion
Printed boxes can maintain their beauty and functionality during shipping with the right materials, finishes, and protective strategies. By investing in durable designs and smart shipping practices, you can ensure your packaging arrives looking as great as when it left your facility.
If you are interested in quality printed corrugated boxes, then partner with Brown Packaging today to get started.
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