Flexible Packaging Design Tips for Brands
The journey of creating a compelling flexible packaging design starts with gaining insight into your target demographic. Thoroughly understand their needs, preferences, and factors that influence their purchasing behavior. Furthermore, identify their aesthetic inclinations to ensure your design appeals to them directly.
The Power of Branding in Packaging
When it comes to packaging design, each element should echo your brand’s essence. This includes your color palette, logo, font choices, and even the packaging’s shape and structure. Consistent brand representation across every platform and product strengthens your brand recognition and promotes customer loyalty. It’s worth remembering that your product’s packaging serves as a silent salesperson in a retail environment.
Sustainability: A Crucial Design Element
As we progress into an increasingly eco-conscious world, integrating sustainability into your flexible packaging design becomes not only desirable but also necessary. This can range from using recyclable materials to minimizing waste or creating designs that promote reuse or are biodegradable. Incorporating these elements will not only win over eco-conscious consumers but also support your brand’s broader corporate social responsibility initiatives.
Balancing Aesthetics and Functionality
While eye-catching design is important, it is equally essential to ensure that your packaging is functional and user-friendly. The packaging should be simple to open, close, transport, store, and discard. If your product is intended for multiple uses, consider a design that can be easily resealed to preserve the freshness of the product.
Maximizing Shelf Impact
In a market where your product is positioned amidst a sea of competitors, it is vital that your packaging design stands out. Leveraging bold colors, distinctive shapes, clear and concise product information, and high-quality imagery can all draw consumer attention. One effective approach is ‘billboarding,’ where placing multiple packages together creates a larger image or message, enhancing visual impact.
Incorporating Technology for Enhanced Engagement
In today’s digital world, your flexible packaging design can be elevated by the inclusion of elements such as QR codes, augmented reality (AR), or radio-frequency identification (RFID) tags. These technological features can offer consumers additional product details, interactive experiences, or tracking capabilities. This deepens the level of engagement with your brand, fostering a strong customer-brand relationship.
Crafting an Informative Yet Simple Design
Striking the right balance between providing necessary information and maintaining a clean, uncluttered design is key to successful packaging. It’s important to include details about your product – its uses, ingredients, and benefits. However, these should be conveyed in a clear, concise manner to prevent overwhelming the consumer. Make use of easy-to-read fonts and an intuitive layout to enhance readability.
Considering the Production Process
While you might have a plethora of creative ideas for your packaging, it’s crucial to consider the technical aspects as well. Think about how your design will translate during the printing and production process. Some colors and designs might look great digitally but may not come out as expected in print. Consult with your packaging manufacturer to ensure your design is feasible and cost-effective to produce.
Using Design to Tell a Story
Your packaging can serve as a canvas to tell your brand’s story. Is your brand all about being organic and sustainable? Then, perhaps, a minimalist, earthy design would convey this message best. Or, if your brand stands for luxury and sophistication, you might opt for a sleek, premium-looking design. The key is to ensure that the packaging design aligns with your brand narrative, creating a meaningful connection with your audience.
Testing and Iterating the Design
Lastly, never underestimate the value of testing your packaging design. This can involve creating multiple design prototypes and gathering consumer feedback through focus groups or surveys. Based on the results, you can refine your design to better meet your customers’ expectations. Remember, the design process is iterative, and it’s okay to go back to the drawing board to make improvements.
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As budgets tighten in 2026, packaging buyers are under pressure to reduce costs without increasing damage rates. Cutting too aggressively can lead to product loss, higher return rates, and frustrated customers. The key is balancing material use, box design, and supply chain efficiency so that savings do not come at the expense of protection. Where Packaging Costs Add Up Oversized boxes: Drive dimensional weight charges. Excess materials: Overuse of void fill and inserts. Complex SKU mix: Redundant sizes increase inventory costs. Inefficient freight: Poor palletization and stacking. Cost-Saving Strategies That Maintain Protection Right-sizing: Match box size to product dimensions to cut DIM charges and material use. Optimize corrugated grades: Switch to single- or double-wall where appropriate without compromising strength. Consolidate SKUs: Streamline packaging options to reduce inventory overhead. Efficient inserts: Replace foam or excess dunnage with engineered corrugated or molded pulp. Supplier contracts: Negotiate based on annual volumes, not just peak season orders. Testing Before Implementing Changes Use ASTM and ISTA protocols to ensure changes won’t increase product damage. Test for compression, vibration, and drop resistance. Run pilot shipments before scaling across the supply chain. Balancing Sustainability and Cost Eco-friendly doesn’t have to mean expensive: Use recyclable coatings to reduce plastic films. Choose corrugated designs that require less material while maintaining stacking strength. Highlight sustainable solutions in marketing to offset cost concerns. Packaging Solutions with Brown Packaging Brown Packaging helps companies lower costs while protecting products across the supply chain. From SKU rationalization to right-sized corrugated solutions, our team ensures packaging savings don’t compromise performance. Contact us to optimize your packaging program. References Soroka, W. (2009). Fundamentals of Packaging Technology (4th ed.). Institute of Packaging Professionals.ASTM International. (2023). ASTM D4169: Standard Practice for Performance Testing of Shipping Containers and Systems.Sustainable Packaging Coalition. (2023). Packaging Efficiency and Waste Reduction Report. Retrieved from https://sustainablepackaging.org (714)300-0650 request@brownpackaging.com Most Recent Posts: Categories: Corrugated Ecommerce ESD Design Display Flexible Packaging Foam Folding Carton Packaging Plastic Packaging Pouch Printing Protection Retail Rigid Box Thermoform Sustainability Subscribe To Our Newsletter By submitting your information, you agree to our terms and conditions and privacy policy. Custom Packaging Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Pinterest Relevant Posts
Product damage is one of the most expensive risks in packaging. Beyond replacement costs, damaged goods lead to lost sales, returns, and reputational harm. In 2026, complex e-commerce, global shipping, and automation create new challenges for packaging buyers. The right materials, testing, and design strategies are critical to protecting products while controlling costs. Why Damage Prevention Matters Financial losses: Damaged products increase replacement and freight costs. Customer impact: Poor delivery experience reduces loyalty and repeat sales. Sustainability: Returns and waste drive higher carbon footprints. Compliance: Retailers often impose penalties for damaged shipments. Common Causes of Product Damage Compression: Pallet stacking weakens boxes in transit. Vibration and shock: Long-haul shipping increases risk. Moisture exposure: Humidity and rain compromise corrugated performance. Poor right-sizing: Oversized boxes allow product movement inside. Strategies to Reduce Damage in 2026 Right-size packaging: Minimize empty space and movement. Material optimization: Choose the correct corrugated grade for load demands. Protective inserts: Molded pulp or engineered corrugated reduce shock. Moisture-resistant coatings: Defend against water and humidity. Automation-friendly design: Prevent jams that damage products on high-speed lines. Testing Protocols for Damage Prevention ISTA testing: Simulates vibration, drops, and compression. ASTM standards: Validate packaging strength and durability. Pilot shipments: Real-world trials confirm lab results. Packaging Solutions with Brown Packaging Brown Packaging designs solutions that minimize damage across today’s complex supply chains. From right-sized corrugated to ISTA-tested inserts, we help buyers protect products while reducing costs. Contact us to strengthen your packaging program. References ASTM International. (2023). ASTM D4169: Standard Practice for Performance Testing of Shipping Containers and Systems.International Safe Transit Association (ISTA). (2023). ISTA Testing Procedures for Transport Packaging. Retrieved from https://ista.orgSoroka, W. (2009). Fundamentals of Packaging Technology (4th ed.). Institute of Packaging Professionals. (714)300-0650 request@brownpackaging.com Most Recent Posts: Categories: Corrugated Ecommerce ESD Design Display Flexible Packaging Foam Folding Carton Packaging Plastic Packaging Pouch Printing Protection Retail Rigid Box Thermoform Sustainability Subscribe To Our Newsletter By submitting your information, you agree to our terms and conditions and privacy policy. Custom Packaging Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Pinterest Relevant Posts
Retail packaging continues to evolve as brands balance sustainability, supply chain performance, and consumer experience. In 2026, buyers face new challenges shaped by material innovation, compliance requirements, and rising consumer expectations. Understanding these trends helps companies stay competitive while aligning packaging programs with industry standards. Sustainability Becomes Non-Negotiable Greater use of recyclable and compostable substrates. Retailers pushing suppliers toward FSC-certified materials. Minimalist designs that reduce waste without losing impact. Smarter Packaging for Supply Chains Increased adoption of right-sizing to reduce freight costs. Boxes designed for automation and faster fulfillment. Stronger corrugated grades to withstand long e-commerce journeys. Enhanced Consumer Experience Custom graphics for seasonal campaigns and limited editions. Tear strips, resealable closures, and window cutouts for convenience. Premium finishes that elevate gift packaging at retail. Growth of Hybrid Packaging Formats Combining corrugated strength with folding carton graphics. Modular designs for multi-SKU and club store environments. Packaging engineered to serve both e-commerce and in-store needs. Compliance and Testing Standards Retailers demanding ISTA and ASTM testing for packaging durability. Supply chain audits on recyclability and sustainability claims. More pressure for transparent reporting on environmental impact. Retail Packaging Solutions with Brown Packaging Brown Packaging helps brands adapt to evolving retail packaging trends. From sustainable substrates to automation-friendly designs, our solutions balance branding, durability, and compliance for 2026. Contact us to prepare your packaging program for the year ahead. References Forest Stewardship Council (FSC). (2023). FSC Packaging Certification Guidelines. Retrieved from https://fsc.orgSustainable Packaging Coalition. (2023). Packaging Trends and Consumer Insights. Retrieved from https://sustainablepackaging.orgSoroka, W. (2009). Fundamentals of Packaging Technology (4th ed.). Institute of Packaging Professionals. (714)300-0650 request@brownpackaging.com Most Recent Posts: Categories: Corrugated Ecommerce ESD Design Display Flexible Packaging Foam Folding Carton Packaging Plastic Packaging Pouch Printing Protection Retail Rigid Box Thermoform Sustainability Subscribe To Our Newsletter By submitting your information, you agree to our terms and conditions and privacy policy. Custom Packaging Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Pinterest Relevant Posts
Supplier contracts can make or break a packaging program. Without the right terms, buyers risk price volatility, missed lead times, and inconsistent product quality. In 2026, negotiating smart contracts is essential for controlling costs, securing reliable supply, and meeting compliance requirements. Why Packaging Contracts Matter Cost stability: Protects against sudden raw material price spikes. Supply security: Ensures availability during peak demand. Quality control: Aligns suppliers with testing and compliance standards. Operational efficiency: Streamlines purchasing and reduces administrative burden. Key Terms Buyers Should Negotiate Volume commitments: Secure better pricing with accurate forecasts. Price adjustment clauses: Define when and how costs can change. Lead times and delivery windows: Avoid shortages and production delays. Testing and compliance: Require ISTA, ASTM, or FSC certification where applicable. Sustainability commitments: Ensure suppliers align with environmental goals. Risks of Weak Contracts Paying inflated prices during market fluctuations. Receiving inconsistent corrugated strength or print quality. Missed shipments leading to costly expedited freight. Difficulty meeting retailer or regulatory compliance. Best Practices for Buyers in 2026 Leverage data: Use past order history to negotiate realistic volumes. Dual sourcing: Maintain backup suppliers for risk management. Annual reviews: Reassess terms to reflect changes in demand and compliance. Collaborative approach: Treat suppliers as partners, not just vendors. Packaging Solutions with Brown Packaging Brown Packaging helps buyers secure strong supplier contracts that balance cost, quality, and supply chain reliability. Our partnerships and industry expertise ensure your packaging program is protected for 2026 and beyond. Contact us to discuss supplier solutions. References Soroka, W. (2009). Fundamentals of Packaging Technology (4th ed.). Institute of Packaging Professionals.Fiber Box Association. (2024). Corrugated Packaging Market Outlook. Retrieved from https://www.fibrebox.orgSustainable Packaging Coalition. (2023). Supplier Standards for Sustainable Packaging. Retrieved from https://sustainablepackaging.org (714)300-0650 request@brownpackaging.com Most Recent Posts: Categories: Corrugated Ecommerce ESD Design Display Flexible Packaging Foam Folding Carton Packaging Plastic Packaging Pouch Printing Protection Retail Rigid Box Thermoform Sustainability Subscribe To Our Newsletter By submitting your information, you agree to our terms and conditions and privacy policy. Custom Packaging Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Pinterest Relevant Posts
Packaging compliance is no longer optional—it’s a requirement for accessing retail shelves, shipping networks, and international markets. In 2026, buyers must navigate evolving regulations around sustainability, labeling, and testing to avoid costly fines, rejected shipments, or damaged customer relationships. Why Compliance Matters in 2026 Retail requirements: Major retailers demand FSC, ISTA, and sustainability certifications. E-commerce standards: Carriers enforce dimensional weight and package testing rules. Global trade: Export packaging must comply with ISPM 15, ASTM, and ISO guidelines. Consumer trust: Transparency in packaging claims impacts purchasing decisions. Key Compliance Areas for Buyers Material sourcing: FSC-certified corrugated and board for sustainability. Labeling standards: GS1-compliant barcodes and accurate product details. Durability testing: ISTA and ASTM protocols for drop, vibration, and compression. Sustainability regulations: Requirements for recyclable or compostable materials. Chemical restrictions: Compliance with FDA, EU, or state-specific standards. Common Compliance Challenges Keeping up with frequent regulatory changes. Managing multiple certifications across suppliers. Balancing compliance with cost-efficiency. Verifying supplier claims for sustainability. Best Practices for Staying Compliant Audit suppliers annually to confirm certification validity. Run internal packaging tests before scaling. Track regulatory updates for each region you ship to. Work with experienced partners who understand industry compliance. Packaging Solutions with Brown Packaging Brown Packaging helps buyers meet 2026 compliance standards with FSC-certified materials, ISTA-tested designs, and regulatory expertise. Our team ensures your packaging meets retailer, carrier, and sustainability requirements. Contact us to keep your program compliant. References Forest Stewardship Council (FSC). (2023). FSC Certification Guidelines for Packaging. Retrieved from https://fsc.orgInternational Safe Transit Association (ISTA). (2023). ISTA Testing Procedures for Transport Packaging. Retrieved from https://ista.orgGS1. (2024). Global Standards for Packaging and Labeling. Retrieved from https://www.gs1.org (714)300-0650 request@brownpackaging.com Most Recent Posts: Categories: Corrugated Ecommerce ESD Design Display Flexible Packaging Foam Folding Carton Packaging Plastic Packaging Pouch Printing Protection Retail Rigid Box Thermoform Sustainability Subscribe To Our Newsletter By submitting your information, you agree to our terms and conditions and privacy policy. Custom Packaging Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Pinterest Relevant Posts
In 2026, sustainability is no longer just a trend—it’s a buyer expectation. Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certification has become a key benchmark for responsible packaging, signaling that materials are sourced from responsibly managed forests. For packaging buyers, FSC certification is more than a compliance checkbox—it’s a brand value that influences purchasing decisions, retailer acceptance, and customer loyalty. What Is FSC Certification? The Forest Stewardship Council certifies that paper-based packaging materials are sourced from forests managed for environmental responsibility, social benefit, and economic viability. FSC Mix: Packaging contains a blend of FSC-certified and controlled wood. FSC Recycled: Packaging is made entirely from recycled fiber. FSC 100%: Packaging is sourced only from FSC-certified forests. Why FSC Matters to Buyers in 2026 Retail access: Many major retailers now require FSC-certified packaging. Sustainability goals: Aligns with corporate ESG and carbon reduction commitments. Consumer trust: Customers recognize the FSC label and view it as credible. Global compliance: Meets international sustainability regulations. How FSC Certification Strengthens Brand Value Differentiation: Stand out with certified sustainable packaging. Marketing advantage: FSC logos reinforce eco-friendly messaging. Risk reduction: Verified sourcing prevents greenwashing claims. Customer loyalty: Environmentally conscious buyers prefer certified products. Challenges in FSC Implementation Limited supply of certain FSC substrates. Higher costs compared to non-certified materials. Need for supplier audits and documentation. Packaging Solutions with Brown Packaging Brown Packaging partners with buyers to integrate FSC-certified materials into corrugated boxes, folding cartons, and retail packaging. Our solutions support sustainability while maintaining cost efficiency and protection. Contact us to strengthen your brand with FSC-certified packaging. References Forest Stewardship Council (FSC). (2023). FSC Certification Guidelines for Packaging. Retrieved from https://fsc.orgSustainable Packaging Coalition. (2023). Consumer Insights on Sustainable Packaging. Retrieved from https://sustainablepackaging.orgSoroka, W. (2009). Fundamentals of Packaging Technology (4th ed.). Institute of Packaging Professionals. (714)300-0650 request@brownpackaging.com Most Recent Posts: Subscribe To Our Newsletter By submitting your information, you agree to our terms and conditions and privacy policy. Sustainable Packaging Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Pinterest Relevant Posts
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Pouch packaging continues to gain traction across industries due to its versatility, lightweight nature, and eco-friendly potential. In 2025, brands will adopt innovative and sustainable pouch solutions to meet consumer expectations for convenience and environmental responsibility. Below are the top pouch packaging trends expected to shape the market in 2025: Sustainable Materials Flexible and Refillable Pouches Eco-Friendly Printing Technologies Lightweight and Space-Saving Designs Customizable Branding and Personalization Recyclable and Compostable Pouches Resealable and Reusable Features Smart and Interactive Packaging Monomaterial Pouch Designs Cost-Effective Pouch Solutions Sustainable Materials Pouch packaging in 2025 will see an increased shift toward sustainable, eco-friendly materials. Pouches made from plant-based plastics, biodegradable films, and recycled materials will dominate as brands seek to reduce their environmental impact while offering packaging that’s durable and reliable. Flexible and Refillable Pouches Refillable pouches will become more common, especially in industries like personal care and cleaning products. These pouches offer a convenient, eco-friendly alternative to single-use containers, allowing consumers to refill and reuse the packaging multiple times, reducing plastic waste significantly. Eco-Friendly Printing Technologies In 2025, brands will turn to more sustainable printing methods for pouch packaging. This includes water-based inks, digital printing, and other low-impact printing technologies that reduce harmful emissions and chemical waste. These solutions also offer high-quality graphics that enhance the visual appeal of the pouch without compromising sustainability. Lightweight and Space-Saving Designs Pouches are already popular for their lightweight and space-saving advantages, and this trend will continue into 2025. The reduced material usage in pouches helps lower shipping costs and carbon emissions, making them an eco-conscious choice for businesses looking to streamline their packaging while maintaining product integrity. Customizable Branding and Personalization Customization will continue to play a key role in pouch packaging, with brands offering unique designs that enhance consumer experiences. From limited-edition graphics to personalized messages, digital printing allows for flexible design changes that meet consumer preferences for personalized, eye-catching packaging. Recyclable and Compostable Pouches Pouches made from recyclable and compostable materials will become standard in 2025 as companies strive to eliminate non-recyclable plastics. Advances in monomaterial technology will make pouches easier to recycle, while compostable alternatives will provide eco-friendly disposal options for consumers. Resealable and Reusable Features Resealable pouches continue to be a popular choice due to their convenience and ability to maintain product freshness. In 2025, more brands will adopt these features to meet consumer demand for packaging that extends product life while also offering the potential for reuse, adding both convenience and environmental benefits. Smart and Interactive Packaging The integration of smart technology, such as QR codes or NFC chips, in pouch packaging will continue to rise in 2025. This technology allows consumers to engage with the product through interactive content, track the product’s journey, or access detailed sustainability information. It also helps brands communicate transparency and build consumer trust. Monomaterial Pouch Designs Monomaterial pouches, made from a single type of plastic, will be more prevalent due to their recyclability. The simplified composition of monomaterial pouches makes them easier to process in recycling systems, reducing waste and improving the sustainability of flexible packaging. Cost-Effective Pouch Solutions Cost efficiency will remain a driving factor for pouch packaging, with businesses seeking ways to balance sustainability and affordability. Advances in manufacturing technology will allow brands to produce pouches at lower costs while maintaining the high-quality features consumers expect, such as resealability, durability, and design flexibility. Pouch packaging is evolving to meet both sustainability goals and consumer convenience. In 2025, brands that embrace these trends will be better positioned to deliver eco-friendly, cost-effective, and innovative packaging solutions to a market increasingly focused on sustainability and customization. If you’re interested in pouches for 2025, whether they are custom or stock, then partner with Brown Packaging today to get started. (714)300-0650 request@brownpackaging.com Most Recent Posts: Categories: Corrugated Ecommerce ESD Design Display Flexible Packaging Foam Folding Carton Packaging Plastic Packaging Pouch Printing Protection Retail Rigid Box Thermoform Sustainability Subscribe To Our Newsletter By submitting your information, you agree to our terms and conditions and privacy policy. Custom Pouches Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Pinterest Relevant Posts
Packaging design is a crucial aspect of any product’s marketing strategy. It serves as a visual ambassador for your brand and plays a pivotal role in attracting and engaging your target audience. In this blog post, we will explore how marketing teams can build an effective packaging design tailored to their audience. Understand Your Audience The first step in designing packaging that resonates with your audience is to thoroughly understand who your audience is. This involves: Conducting market research: Gather data on your target demographic, including their preferences, buying behaviors, and lifestyle. Creating buyer personas: Develop detailed profiles of your ideal customers, considering factors like age, gender, income, interests, and values. Analyzing competitors: Study how your competitors are packaging similar products and identify gaps or opportunities to stand out. Define Your Brand Identity Before delving into design, ensure your team has a strong grasp of your brand identity. Your packaging should consistently reflect your brand’s values, mission, and personality. This includes: Brand messaging: Define the key messages you want to convey through your packaging. Is your brand known for sustainability, luxury, or affordability? Color palette and typography: Establish a consistent color scheme and font style that align with your brand’s personality. These elements should be recognizable and evoke specific emotions. Logo placement: Decide where your logo will be prominently featured on the packaging. This ensures brand recognition and reinforces your identity. Focus on Functionality Effective packaging design isn’t just about aesthetics; it also needs to be practical and functional. Consider the following aspects: Product protection: Ensure your packaging provides adequate protection for the product. Fragile items may require cushioning, while food products may need tamper-evident seals. Ease of use: Make it easy for customers to open, access, and use the product. User-friendly packaging can enhance the overall customer experience. Storage and shelf space: Design packaging that is stackable and doesn’t take up excessive shelf space, as this can impact retailers’ willingness to stock your product. Incorporate Storytelling Packaging is an opportunity to tell a story and connect with your audience on a deeper level. You can achieve this through: Visual storytelling: Use imagery and graphics to convey your brand’s story, values, and product benefits. Visual elements should be consistent with your brand’s narrative. Content writing: Craft compelling and concise copy that engages consumers. Highlight key features, benefits, and unique selling points. QR codes and augmented reality: Incorporate technology to provide customers with an interactive experience, such as access to additional information or videos related to your product. Sustainability Matters Today’s consumers are increasingly eco-conscious, and sustainable packaging design can be a significant selling point. Consider the following: Eco-friendly materials: Explore sustainable packaging materials such as recycled paper, biodegradable plastics, or reusable containers. Reduce waste: Minimize excess packaging and opt for minimalist designs that reduce material consumption. Communicate your efforts: Highlight your commitment to sustainability on the packaging to resonate with environmentally conscious consumers. Test and Iterate Once your packaging design is ready, don’t rush into production. Conduct testing and gather feedback from focus groups or surveys. Use this feedback to make necessary improvements and refinements. Iteration is key to ensuring your packaging design is as effective as possible. Collaborate with Design Professionals While marketing teams have valuable insights into their brands and audiences, it can be beneficial to collaborate with design professionals, especially for complex or specialized projects. Graphic designers, packaging engineers, and UX designers can provide expertise that complements your team’s efforts. If you are interested in packaging solutions, then partner with Brown Packaging today to get started. (714)300-0650 request@brownpackaging.com Most Recent Posts: Categories: Corrugated Ecommerce ESD Design Display Flexible Packaging Foam Folding Carton Packaging Plastic Packaging Pouch Printing Protection Retail Rigid Box Thermoform Sustainability Subscribe To Our Newsletter By submitting your information, you agree to our terms and conditions and privacy policy. Custom Packaging Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Pinterest Relevant Posts
There are many factors that can contribute to the cost of packaging with freight being no exception. Freight is the process of transporting your product from the manufacturer/distributor to the customer. Generally, freight costs consist of labor, mileage, fuel, wear and tear on a vehicle, special requirements (if applicable) and a company’s markup. These costs can be influenced by a variety of factors including external factors and a packaging design. For this blog, we will cover how packaging design can affect your freight costs and provide you with solutions to help alleviate these costs. Packaging design is how your packaging is built and shaped. This includes the weight of your package, structural integrity and dimensions. Packaging design can affect your freight costs by: Weight Dimension Structural Integrity Weight The weight of your package can dictate how much you pay for freight costs, as some carriers may charge by weight of the load in addition to mileage. This is because heavier cargo requires more cost in fuel and often slows down transportation. Slower transportation results in higher costs of labor. In addition, trucks are limited to carry a certain amount of weight, which may require your loads to be transported separately or by multiple trips if needed. In addition, sea and air transportation usually charge by volumetric weight and distance traveled. In some cases, packaging material is not heavy enough to affect the total weight. However, if you would like to minimize the risk, then you want to resort to lighter packaging solutions such as plastic, chipboard, or paperboard products. Perhaps, you may want to look into your carrier’s shipping options and pick the best option that aligns closest to your packaging needs. You may want to also work with a packaging expert that can help you reduce the weight of your packaging design, while maintaining the structural integrity of your packaging. Structural Design The structural design will impact the way it is shipped, which may also influence the cost of freight. A package’s structural design consists of the packaging size (length, width and height) in addition to how the packaging will fold together. Typically, a finished packaged product or packaging material orders are usually shipped on a pallet. The shape and size of your pallet can influence how much you can fit in a truck, plane, or naval ship. For example, if the packaging has non-uniformed edges, then it will take up more surface area. In addition, packaging that is not easily foldable or stackable can cause an issue in how much inventory you can transport at one time. Irregular shaped pallets can accrue additional cost by adding extra trips, which can contribute to more labor, fuel and other costs. Not to mention, the purchasing of stronger stretch film to hold the merchandise more securely. To solve this issue, it is recommended that you carefully design your product to an optimal structure. In addition, you can better allocate your packages via transportation with CAPE software. CAPE enables you to optimize your pallet and truck loads to maximize your efficiency. This may warrant you to work with a packaging specialist. Structural Integrity The structural integrity plays a huge role in the success of your packaging project. It ensures that your product will get to the end user presentable, undamaged, and within standard. However, this is not always the case as packaging and products inside can become damaged with wear and tear, as they are vulnerable to external environments. Wear and tear is eventually going to happen, however it can be limited or postponed with a proper packaging design and material selection. Packaging can become secure with adequate material strength and thickness. Inserts, dividers and edge protectors help hold your product in place during shipment. Despite these being additional costs, it may greatly reduce your product loss, which will offset your investment. In addition, it is important to keep in mind if your product will require special handling during transport. As some products such as food, beverage, and pharmaceuticals are sensitive to specific temperatures, which can cause them to become spoiled. Ultimately, this may require you to receive some cold chain packaging solutions. To help prevent product loss, you should get your product tested prior to mass producing it. Some tests may offer you certification and quality assurance such as the compression, drop, vibration, and environmental simulation. Furthermore, you want to be sure that the material you use to hold your products can support your product’s weight. Summary: Packaging Design and Freight Costs Ultimately, your packaging design has a very direct influence on freight costs. To avoid these additional costs it is important to be mindful of your packaging’s weight, structural design and structural integrity. To best address each of these potential issues on freight costs, you should reach out to your packaging specialists. If you are interested in stock or custom packaging solutions and would like the most optimal packaging design, then contact Brown Packaging today to get started. (714)300-0650 request@brownpackaging.com Most Recent Posts: Categories: Corrugated Folding Carton Display Packaging Rigid Box Subscribe To Our Newsletter By submitting your information, you agree to our terms and conditions and privacy policy. Custom Packaging Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Pinterest Relevant Posts