How to Properly Label Corrugated Boxes
Labeling corrugated boxes correctly is not just a matter of organization; it’s a vital component of the shipping and handling process, ensuring that your products reach their destination safely and efficiently. Proper labeling is also crucial for compliance with shipping regulations, inventory management, and providing important product information. This blog post will guide you through the best practices for labeling corrugated boxes effectively.
Understanding the Importance of Correct Labeling
Proper labeling of corrugated boxes serves multiple purposes, from aiding in efficient handling and shipping to ensuring regulatory compliance and enhancing customer experience. It minimizes the risk of loss or damage during transit and streamlines inventory management.
Key Elements of Corrugated Box Labels
- Shipping Information:
- Include the recipient’s name, address, and contact information.
- For international shipments, include relevant customs information and international codes.
- Return Address:
- Always include your business’s return address in case the package needs to be returned or is undeliverable.
- Tracking Numbers:
- If applicable, ensure tracking numbers are visible and scannable.
- Handling Instructions:
- Clearly mark any specific handling instructions such as “Fragile,” “This Side Up,” or “Handle with Care.”
- Weight Indication:
- Indicating the package’s weight can help handlers use the appropriate methods for lifting and stacking.
Best Practices for Labeling Corrugated Boxes
Placement and Visibility:
- Place labels on the largest side of the box, ensuring they are easily visible and readable.
- Avoid placing labels over seams, corners, or closures where they might get damaged or become illegible.
Type of Labels:
- Use high-quality, durable labels that can withstand various environmental conditions like moisture, temperature changes, and handling.
- Consider using adhesive labels that strongly adhere to corrugated surfaces.
- Print Quality:
- Ensure all printed information is clear and legible. Use high-contrast text and background for better readability.
- If using barcodes, they should be high quality to ensure easy scanning.
- Information Accuracy:
- Double-check that all information on the labels is accurate and up-to-date.
- For repeated shipments to the same address, ensure old labels are removed or covered to avoid confusion.
- Compliance with Regulations:
- Familiarize yourself with and comply with shipping and labeling regulations, especially for international shipments.
- Include any necessary regulatory information, symbols, or warnings.
- Technology Integration:
- Consider integrating technology such as QR codes to provide additional information, such as assembly instructions or product details.
- Label Protection:
- Use clear packing tape or label protectors to cover the entire label, protecting it from moisture and handling.
- Environmental Considerations:
- For businesses focusing on sustainability, use eco-friendly labels made from recycled or biodegradable materials.
If you are interested in labels and/or corrugated boxes, then partner with Brown Packaging today to get started.
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
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When it comes to packaging and transporting bicycles, one type of corrugated box stands out as the ideal choice: Full-Overlap (FOL) Corrugated Boxes. These specially designed boxes offer superior protection and structural integrity, ensuring that your valuable bikes reach their destination in perfect condition. In this detailed blog, we’ll explore why Full-Overlap Corrugated Boxes are the right choice for bikes, discussing their unique features, benefits, and why they outshine other packaging options. Understanding Full-Overlap Corrugated Boxes Full-Overlap Corrugated Boxes are a type of corrugated packaging specifically engineered for robustness and durability. They are characterized by their design, which involves flaps that fully overlap when the box is closed. This design provides exceptional strength and protection, making them ideal for safeguarding items like bicycles during transit. Why Full-Overlap Corrugated Boxes Are Ideal for Bikes Superior Protection: FOL Boxes provide a high level of protection due to their sturdy construction. They effectively shield bikes from impacts, vibrations, and external forces during shipping. Structural Integrity: The overlapping flaps of these boxes enhance their structural integrity, preventing crushing or deformation, which is crucial when shipping bicycles. Customizable Sizing: FOL Corrugated Boxes are available in various sizes, ensuring a snug fit for different bicycle types and sizes. Custom sizing minimizes excess space, reducing the risk of damage due to movement during transit. Shock Absorption: These boxes are designed to absorb shocks and vibrations, preventing potential damage to delicate bicycle components like gears, brakes, and frames. Secure Closure: Full-Overlap Corrugated Boxes typically feature secure closures, such as adhesive tape or strapping, ensuring that the box remains closed throughout the shipping process. Cost-Efficient: Despite their advanced protection capabilities, Full-Overlap Corrugated Boxes are cost-effective, providing a balance between safeguarding your bikes and managing shipping expenses. Eco-Friendly Options: Many Full-Overlap Corrugated Boxes are made from recyclable materials, aligning with eco-conscious packaging practices. Branding Opportunities: These boxes can be customized with your brand logo and information, enhancing your company’s visibility and professionalism. Other Considerations for Bike Packaging While FOL Corrugated Boxes are the ideal choice for bike packaging, it’s essential to consider a few additional factors: Padding and Cushioning: Use appropriate cushioning materials, such as foam and corrugated inserts or bubble wrap, to further protect delicate bike components. Customization: Consider customizing the interior of the box to accommodate specific bike models or accessories securely. Labeling and Documentation: Clearly label the boxes with shipping information and handling instructions. Include relevant documentation, such as assembly instructions or warranty information, if applicable. Shipping Method: Choose a reliable shipping method and carrier to ensure that your bikes are handled with care during transit.Top of Form If you are interested in bike packaging, then partner with Brown Packaging today to get started. (714)300-0650 request@brownpackaging.com Most Recent Posts: Categories: Corrugated ESD Design Foam Folding Carton Packaging Plastic Packaging Pouch Printing Protection Retail Sustainability Subscribe To Our Newsletter By submitting your information, you agree to our terms and conditions and privacy policy. Bike Boxes Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Pinterest Relevant Posts
In today’s competitive market, understanding and optimizing the cost of your packaging is crucial for maintaining profitability and enhancing overall business performance. A thorough cost analysis of your packaging can reveal opportunities for cost savings and efficiency improvements. This blog post provides a detailed guide on how to conduct a cost analysis on your packaging. Understanding the Importance of Packaging Cost Analysis Before diving into the analysis, it’s essential to understand why it matters. Packaging costs can significantly impact your product’s price and your company’s bottom line. An effective cost analysis helps in identifying areas where expenses can be reduced without compromising quality or customer satisfaction. Step 1: Identify All Packaging Components Start by listing all elements that make up your packaging, including: Primary Packaging: The immediate packaging that holds your product. Secondary Packaging: Additional layers like boxes or wrappers for protection and branding. Tertiary Packaging: Bulk packaging used for transportation and storage. Labeling and Graphics: Costs associated with branding, labeling, and graphic design. Step 2: Calculate Material Costs Assess the cost of materials used for each packaging component. Consider: Unit Costs: Calculate the cost per unit of each material used. Bulk Discounts: Factor in discounts for bulk purchases, if applicable. Sustainable Materials: Compare costs of traditional materials with sustainable alternatives. Step 3: Include Design and Development Costs This includes: Design Fees: Costs paid to designers for packaging design. Prototyping Costs: Expenses for creating sample packaging for testing. Testing and Compliance: Costs associated with ensuring packaging meets industry standards. Step 4: Factor in Storage and Handling Costs These are often overlooked but crucial: Warehouse Storage: Costs for storing packaging materials. Handling Costs: Expenses related to the handling and management of packaging materials. Step 5: Consider Shipping and Distribution Costs Calculate the cost of getting your packaged product to the market: Transportation Costs: Freight and shipping expenses. Packaging Efficiency: Consider how packaging size and weight impact shipping costs. Step 6: Assess Environmental Impact Costs Evaluate costs related to the environmental impact of your packaging: Recycling and Disposal: Costs of disposing of or recycling packaging materials. Carbon Footprint: Potential costs or savings from environmental impacts. Step 7: Analyze and Optimize With all data gathered, analyze where costs can be reduced: Compare Suppliers: Look for cost-effective suppliers without compromising quality. Efficiency Improvements: Identify ways to streamline the packaging process to reduce costs. Bulk Purchasing: Consider larger orders to reduce unit costs. If you are interested in cost effective 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
Choosing the right corrugated box size is crucial for product protection, shipping efficiency, and cost savings. Whether you’re packing a single item or multiple products, knowing how much space you need inside the box ensures that products remain secure, undamaged, and optimized for storage and transportation. Step 1: Measure the Dimensions of Your Product(s) To determine how much space is required inside a corrugated box, start by measuring your product’s length, width, and height: Length: The longest side of the product. Width: The shorter side when placed flat. Height (Depth): The vertical measurement. For multiple products, consider how they will be arranged inside the box—whether stacked, side-by-side, or separated with inserts. Step 2: Add Space for Protection and Cushioning Corrugated boxes often require extra space to accommodate protective packaging materials like bubble wrap, foam inserts, or dividers. To ensure adequate protection: Add at least 1-2 inches around the product for cushioning. If using dividers for multiple items, consider the thickness of the divider material. For fragile items, factor in reinforced corners or inserts that prevent movement. Step 3: Determine the Optimal Box Style Different box styles offer varying levels of internal space efficiency. Common options include: Regular Slotted Container (RSC): Standard box with flaps for easy packing. Full Overlap Box: Adds extra strength for heavier products. Die-Cut Box: Custom-fitted designs for exact product sizing. Mailer Boxes: Compact and stylish for eCommerce shipments. Selecting the right style ensures that space is maximized while minimizing excess voids. Step 4: Consider Stacking and Shipping Constraints If your product needs to be stacked or palletized, box dimensions should align with standard pallet sizes to maximize storage efficiency. Additionally, consider: Weight distribution to prevent box crushing. Dimensional weight pricing from carriers like UPS and FedEx, where oversized boxes cost more to ship. Warehouse storage limitations for bulk packaging. Step 5: Test with a Sample Box Before committing to a final box size, order a prototype or sample box and perform a test fit. This helps verify: The fit and protection level of your product. Whether additional cushioning materials are needed. How easy the packaging is to assemble and seal. Final Thoughts: Optimizing Space in Your Corrugated Box Finding the right amount of space inside a corrugated box is a balance between product fit, protection, and shipping efficiency. By measuring accurately, accounting for protective materials, and testing with samples, businesses can reduce shipping costs, minimize damage, and improve packaging efficiency. Need help designing the perfect corrugated box for your products? Contact Brown Packaging today to find the best packaging solution for your needs! (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 Corrugated Boxes Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Pinterest Relevant Posts