Packaging in California vs. the Rest of the United States
Packaging plays a crucial role in product presentation, preservation, and sustainability. While packaging regulations across the United States generally adhere to federal guidelines, California stands out for its unique and stringent packaging laws. In this blog, we will explore the differences between packaging in California and the rest of the United States, examining regulations, sustainability initiatives, and their impact on businesses and consumers.
California’s Packaging Regulations: A Unique Landscape
California is known for its proactive approach to environmental protection, and its packaging regulations reflect this commitment. The primary difference between California and the rest of the U.S. lies in the state’s comprehensive and strict regulations aimed at reducing packaging waste and promoting recycling.
California’s Rigid Container Law
One of California’s standout packaging laws is the Rigid Plastic Packaging Container (RPPC) Act, which requires manufacturers to minimize packaging waste. This law mandates that RPPCs meet specific recycling criteria, such as using a minimum percentage of recycled content and being labeled with recycling symbols. Non-compliant products may face penalties.
Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) Programs
California has been at the forefront of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) programs. Under EPR, manufacturers bear responsibility for the entire lifecycle of their packaging, from production to disposal. They must participate in recycling programs, fund collection systems, and meet specific recycling and recovery targets.
Plastic Waste Reduction Laws
California has implemented multiple laws aimed at reducing single-use plastics. Bans on single-use plastic bags, straws, and expanded polystyrene (Styrofoam) food containers are examples of such regulations. These measures have significant implications for packaging choices, particularly in the food and beverage industry.
Packaging Regulations in the Rest of the U.S.
While California leads in packaging regulations, the rest of the United States primarily follows federal guidelines established by agencies like the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). These guidelines cover issues such as recycling labels, nutrition facts, and product safety.
Federal Recycling Labeling
Recycling labeling guidelines provided by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) are used nationwide. These guidelines ensure consistency in recycling symbols and terminology. However, California may have additional requirements for products sold within the state.
Variability in State Regulations
Beyond federal guidelines, individual states may have their own packaging regulations, but they generally tend to be less stringent than California’s. States may focus on issues like bottle deposits or recycling programs but typically do not have laws as comprehensive as California’s RPPC Act or EPR programs.
Implications for Businesses and Consumers
Compliance Costs
Businesses operating in California face higher compliance costs due to the state’s strict packaging regulations. They must invest in sustainable packaging materials, meet recycling targets, and navigate complex reporting requirements. These costs can affect pricing and profitability.
Consumer Awareness
Consumers in California tend to be more aware of packaging sustainability due to the state’s active promotion of recycling and reduction of single-use plastics. This can influence their purchasing decisions and product preferences.
National Brands vs. Local Brands
National brands often create standardized packaging to comply with various state regulations, including California’s. Local or smaller brands may find it challenging to navigate the patchwork of state-specific requirements.
Sustainability Initiatives
California’s stringent regulations have spurred innovation in sustainable packaging materials and practices. These initiatives have the potential to influence packaging trends and best practices across the nation.
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
Sustainability is now a top priority for packaging buyers. Retailers, regulators, and consumers are all demanding packaging solutions that reduce environmental impact without sacrificing performance. In 2026, buyers must balance eco-friendly materials, cost, and compliance to build programs that are both effective and future-ready. What Buyers Need to Know About Sustainable Packaging Regulatory pressure: Governments are enforcing stricter rules on recyclability and plastic use. Retail mandates: FSC certification and recyclable packaging are becoming standard requirements. Consumer expectations: Customers increasingly choose brands with visible sustainability commitments. Sustainable Material Options Recycled corrugated: High recycled content while maintaining compression strength. Compostable films: Suitable for select food and retail applications. Molded pulp inserts: Replace foam or plastic for protective packaging. Water-based coatings: Enhance moisture resistance without harmful chemicals. Balancing Cost and Performance Right-size packaging: Reduces material waste and shipping costs. Hybrid solutions: Combine eco-materials with corrugated for balance. Life cycle analysis: Evaluate true environmental impact, not just marketing claims. How to Evaluate Sustainable Suppliers Verify FSC, SPC, or ISO certifications. Request testing data for durability and recyclability. Audit supply chains for consistency and transparency. Ensure claims meet local and international compliance standards. Packaging Solutions with Brown Packaging Brown Packaging helps buyers implement sustainable packaging programs that balance cost, performance, and compliance. From recycled corrugated to eco-friendly coatings and inserts, we deliver solutions that meet 2026 sustainability goals. Contact us to explore sustainable packaging options. References Forest Stewardship Council (FSC). (2023). FSC Certification Guidelines for Packaging. Retrieved from https://fsc.orgSustainable Packaging Coalition. (2023). Packaging Sustainability Trends and Buyer 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. Sustainable Packaging Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Pinterest Relevant Posts
Choosing the right packaging material is one of the most important decisions buyers face. Single-material packaging offers simplicity and recyclability, while multi-material designs provide enhanced performance and protection. Understanding the trade-offs helps companies balance cost, functionality, and sustainability goals in 2026. What Is Single-Material Packaging? Single-material packaging uses one substrate—such as corrugated board, folding carton, or plastic—for the entire structure. Advantages: Easier to recycle and dispose. Lower material costs in many cases. Streamlined sourcing and inventory. Supports sustainability messaging. Disadvantages: Limited barrier protection. Less customization for fragile or complex products. May require added thickness for strength, increasing weight. What Is Multi-Material Packaging? Multi-material packaging combines two or more substrates—such as corrugated with foam, or paperboard laminated with film—to achieve specific performance outcomes. Advantages: Greater protection against moisture, oxygen, and impact. Allows for premium finishes and enhanced graphics. Ideal for fragile or high-value products. Customizable for unique supply chain conditions. Disadvantages: More difficult to recycle due to material separation. Higher cost and longer lead times. Complex sourcing and inventory management. When to Use Each Approach Single-material packaging: Best for products with low fragility, strong sustainability requirements, or cost-driven programs. Multi-material packaging: Best for high-value, fragile, or regulated products requiring advanced protection. Balancing Performance and Sustainability Buyers must weigh performance needs against eco goals: Use recyclable coatings to extend single-material performance. Choose hybrid designs that separate easily for recycling. Apply multi-material solutions only where risk of damage outweighs cost. Packaging Solutions with Brown Packaging Brown Packaging helps buyers evaluate when to use single- vs. multi-material packaging. Our team balances sustainability, performance, and cost to deliver solutions tailored to your supply chain. Contact us to explore the right approach for your products. References Forest Stewardship Council (FSC). (2023). FSC Packaging Certification Guidelines. Retrieved from https://fsc.orgSoroka, W. (2009). Fundamentals of Packaging Technology (4th ed.). Institute of Packaging Professionals.Sustainable Packaging Coalition. (2022). Design for Recyclability and Multi-Material Packaging 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
One of the biggest challenges in sustainable packaging is balancing environmental responsibility with product protection. Buyers often worry that switching to eco-friendly materials means sacrificing durability or driving up costs. In 2026, new material technologies allow brands to meet sustainability goals without compromising strength or supply chain performance. Why Protection Still Matters Damaged products create more waste than packaging ever could. Returns increase logistics costs and carbon emissions. Retailers and e-commerce platforms expect packaging to deliver both sustainability and reliability. Eco-Friendly Material Options Recycled corrugated: Maintains stacking strength while reducing virgin fiber use. Molded pulp inserts: Cushion fragile items while replacing plastic foam. Water-based barrier coatings: Add moisture resistance without plastic films. Compostable films: Ideal for short shelf-life or single-use applications. Paper-based mailers: Replace poly mailers for e-commerce shipments. How to Balance Eco Goals and Protection Use right-sizing to reduce material volume while improving fit. Apply hybrid solutions (corrugated + pulp) for high-value goods. Conduct ISTA testing to validate protective performance. Match material choice to product fragility and supply chain conditions. Examples in Action Electronics: Molded pulp trays replacing EPS foam. Food and beverage: FSC-certified corrugated with recyclable coatings. Retail e-commerce: Recycled paper mailers protecting apparel. Packaging Solutions with Brown Packaging Brown Packaging develops eco-friendly solutions that protect products while meeting sustainability requirements. From recycled corrugated to innovative coatings, our team ensures you never trade protection for environmental impact. Contact us to explore eco-material options. References Forest Stewardship Council (FSC). (2023). FSC Certification Guidelines for Packaging. Retrieved from https://fsc.orgSustainable Packaging Coalition. (2023). Eco-Friendly Packaging Materials and Case Studies. Retrieved from https://sustainablepackaging.orgASTM International. (2023). ASTM D4169: Standard Practice for Performance Testing of Shipping Containers and Systems. (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. Custom Packaging Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Pinterest Relevant Posts
In today’s competitive market, packaging affordability doesn’t start with cheaper materials — it starts with smarter design. Every score, fold, and insert decision affects not only how a box looks and feels, but how efficiently it’s made, shipped, and used. Structural engineering is the silent driver of cost efficiency — optimizing strength, space, and performance before the first sheet is ever printed. Why Structure Matters More Than You Think The most impactful cost savings in packaging rarely come from supplier discounts; they come from structural efficiency.A box that uses 10% less board but maintains the same compression strength directly reduces both material and freight cost. A redesigned insert that eliminates the need for secondary packaging saves time and labor at the line. Every cut line and fold path tells a story of cost, sustainability, and brand care — and when those align, affordability becomes part of your brand’s DNA. Designing for Efficiency, Not Excess In a market saturated with overbuilt packaging, engineering restraint is a competitive advantage. Structural teams now rely on 3D CAD modeling and virtual prototyping to simulate performance before production — identifying unnecessary material use and structural redundancies. Through precision die-line planning, engineers can improve sheet yield, reduce assembly time, and minimize void space — the dead air that drives up freight bills.It’s not about doing less; it’s about doing smarter. Balancing Protection and Presentation The temptation to “overprotect” products is common — especially in fragile or high-value goods. But protection doesn’t have to mean bulk. Strategic reinforcements, engineered fluting, and interlocking designs can maintain crush resistance and shock absorption while reducing total board weight. For e-commerce and shelf packaging alike, brands can achieve premium presentation with structural simplicity — a key to making packaging both sustainable and affordable. Prototyping to Prevent Waste Prototyping isn’t just for aesthetics — it’s a safeguard against costly production errors.With short-run sample testing and performance mockups, brands can evaluate fit, function, and protection early in development. Adjusting dimensions by fractions of an inch can save thousands in material waste and prevent rejected runs down the line. Smart packaging buyers now view prototyping not as an expense, but as a cost-control strategy that pays dividends in scale. How Structural Design Supports Brand and Budget Affordable design doesn’t mean compromising brand identity — it means integrating brand goals into structure. A well-engineered box reinforces trust, ensures product consistency, and communicates value through precision and fit. When structure, design, and production align, packaging stops being a cost and starts becoming a business asset. That’s where the real savings live — and where long-term brand equity begins. The Brown Packaging Difference At Brown Packaging, every packaging solution starts with structural intent — not guesswork.Our engineering and design teams collaborate to create packaging that performs across shipping, retail, and automation lines, balancing protection, brand visibility, and cost efficiency. We don’t cut corners; we cut waste.That’s how our clients achieve packaging that’s not just affordable — it’s engineered to perform. References Soroka, W. (2009). Fundamentals of Packaging Technology (4th ed.). Institute of Packaging Professionals. PMMI. (2024). Optimizing Structural Design for Packaging Efficiency. Packaging World. (2025). Engineering the Future of Cost-Effective Packaging. Smithers. (2025). Packaging Innovation and Material Efficiency Trends. (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
Every brand is feeling the squeeze — higher raw material costs, volatile freight rates, and a consumer base more price-conscious than ever. But cutting packaging budgets blindly can lead to damaged goods, compliance issues, and eroded brand value. Smart brands aren’t chasing cheaper boxes — they’re making smarter packaging decisions that balance performance, cost, and perception. The difference between saving money and losing value comes down to how you evaluate your packaging, not just what you pay for it. Beyond Unit Price: Understanding Total Packaging Cost A low unit price might look great on paper — until you factor in assembly time, damage rates, and freight efficiency. Smart packaging evaluation considers the total cost of ownership, including: Material yield (how efficiently sheets convert into boxes) Pallet and trailer utilization (freight optimization) Labor efficiency (ease of assembly or automation compatibility) Product protection (damage rates, replacements, and returns) When buyers assess all these metrics, the lowest-cost box often isn’t the best-value box. Material Selection That Saves in the Long Run Switching materials isn’t just about cutting cost — it’s about reducing waste and improving performance. For instance, moving from double-wall to a high-performance single-wall with better flute structure can cut weight and shipping cost without sacrificing protection. In folding cartons, substrate optimization — using a lighter caliper SBS or switching to coated recycled board — can yield savings that scale across production runs. And for rigid boxes, structural tweaks like thinner chipboard paired with strong wrap papers can preserve presentation while reducing material use. Every small change adds up when you scale across thousands of units. Design Efficiency: The Overlooked Cost Saver A smart structural design can eliminate cost before production even starts. Simplifying folds, reducing glue flaps, or reengineering inserts can cut assembly time and material waste. Modern packaging engineers use CAD-based dieline analysis to optimize layouts — ensuring maximum sheet yield and minimal offcut. For e-commerce and retail brands alike, right-sizing packaging improves shipping efficiency and reduces filler materials while maintaining the brand’s polished look. It’s not just design — it’s design that earns its keep Printing Smart: Matching the Process to the Purpose Not every job needs premium litho or complex spot varnishes. A good packaging partner matches print method to scale and brand intent: Flexo printing for high-volume, cost-efficient runs. Digital printing for short runs, personalization, and multi-SKU campaigns. Litho laminating for high-end visuals in rigid or premium retail displays. By choosing the right print method early, brands can avoid over-engineering — saving both time and money without compromising quality. Data-Driven Decisions: The New Standard for Packaging Buyers Leading companies now use data to guide packaging spend. Damage rate metrics, SKU-level freight analysis, and consumer perception studies all contribute to smarter choices. Smart buyers are no longer asking, “What’s the cheapest box?” They’re asking, “What’s the most efficient box that protects the product, ships well, and supports brand goals?” This mindset shift is what separates cost-cutting from cost control. The Brown Packaging Approach At Brown Packaging, we help brands make smarter packaging decisions by combining engineering analysis, supplier network leverage, and real-world testing. Our process aligns packaging performance with total cost goals — from box design to print selection and logistics. The result: stronger packaging, lower waste, and sustainable cost savings that scale with your business. Because in today’s market, smart packaging isn’t just a cost center — it’s a competitive advantage. References PMMI. (2025). Operational Cost Efficiency in Packaging and Logistics. McKinsey & Company. (2024). Total Cost of Ownership in Consumer Goods Packaging. Packaging World. (2025). Data-Driven Decisions in Packaging Sourcing. Soroka, W. (2009). Fundamentals of Packaging Technology (4th ed.). (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
By submitting your information, you agree to our terms and conditions and privacy policy.
Corrugated boxes are a staple in the packaging world, known for their strength and versatility. However, maximizing their durability is key to ensuring products reach their destinations safely. This blog post explores effective strategies for enhancing the durability of corrugated boxes, ensuring they withstand the rigors of shipping and handling. Understanding Corrugated Boxes Before diving into durability enhancement, it’s crucial to understand what corrugated boxes are. Made from corrugated fiberboard, these boxes consist of a fluted corrugated sheet and one or two flat linerboards. The flutes between the liners offer strength and cushioning, making these boxes ideal for a wide range of products. Selecting the Right Material The choice of material is fundamental in determining a box’s durability. Flute Profiles: Corrugated boxes come in various flute sizes – A, B, C, E, and F. Each offers different levels of strength and compression resistance. For instance, A-flute provides the highest cushioning, while B-flute is more rigid and excellent for printing. Board Grade: The strength of the corrugated board, measured in terms of the bursting strength and edge crush test (ECT), is also vital. Higher ECT-rated boxes are more durable and withstand higher stacking pressures. Optimal Design and Construction The design and construction of the box significantly impact its durability. Box Style: Choose a box style suited to your product. For example, Regular Slotted Containers (RSCs) are a standard choice for many products, but for heavier items, a Full Overlap (FOL) style can offer extra strength. Wall Construction: Consider using double-wall or even triple-wall corrugated boxes for added durability, especially for heavier or more fragile items. Proper Sizing and Fit Ensuring that your product fits well within the corrugated box is essential. Avoid Oversizing: Too much space can cause the contents to shift and become damaged. Use appropriate void fillers if necessary. Custom Sizing: Custom-sized boxes reduce the need for additional packing materials and provide better protection. Sealing and Closure A strong seal is critical to maintaining the integrity of the box. Quality Adhesives: Use high-quality tape or glue. Reinforced water-activated tape is often a strong choice for sealing corrugated boxes. Proper Sealing Techniques: Apply tape evenly across the box’s center seam and down the sides to reinforce the box’s edges. Handling Instructions Clearly marked handling instructions can enhance the durability by ensuring proper handling. Label Appropriately: Use labels such as “Fragile,” “Handle With Care,” or “This Side Up” to encourage careful handling during transit. Visibility of Instructions: Place labels and instructions prominently to ensure they are easily seen by handlers. Climate Considerations Environmental conditions can affect the durability of corrugated boxes. Moisture Resistance: In humid conditions, consider using a moisture barrier such as a wax or plastic coating to protect the box. Temperature Fluctuations: Be aware that extreme temperatures can weaken the adhesive bonds in corrugated boxes. Regular Testing and Quality Checks Conduct regular testing to ensure the boxes meet your durability standards. Drop and Compression Tests: Regularly perform these tests to evaluate the box’s ability to withstand shocks and stacking pressures. Continuous Improvement: Use the test results to make ongoing improvements to your packaging strategy. If you are interested in maximizing the durability of your corrugated boxes, 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 Corrugated Boxes Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Pinterest Relevant Posts
We all want to protect our products during shipment, but are not quite sure on which product to use, often many of us find ourselves selecting either bubble or foam. Both are similar in purpose as they serve as a packaging protective solution, but they differ in application or in use. By understanding the difference between the two, you can better optimize your packaging efficiency and protection. What Is a Bubble Roll? Bubble Roll is a plastic sheet consisting of air bubbles that are designed to protect objects by restricting movement and absorbing damage. Bubble roll is available in a variety of sizes, thicknesses, applications, and additives. To apply a bubble roll, lay it out with the bubble side up and cover the product with wrap. When To Use Bubble Roll Fragile items: glass, dishes, lights, mirrors, TVs, artwork, figurines, and other items susceptible to damage. Sensitive electronic products: bubble roll can be made with anti=static agents used to protect electronic devices from electrostatic discharge in addition to cosmetic damage. Furniture: bulking, odd shaped, or fragile furniture such as table tops, glass doors, coffee tables and other furniture often require plenty of protection against vibration and shocks. Sentimental Items: products that are of high value emotionally to consumers are often wrapped in bubble material to ensure the utmost care when shipping products or while placing them in storage. For example, jewelry made with your loved ones’ fingerprints engraved into it. What You Should Know Before You Buy Bubble Roll A Bubble roll is not the ideal solution for every packaging application. If you are not careful, then you can limit your packaging potential and accrue more overhead than you anticipated. You should be also mindful of the thickness of the bubble rolls as they can vary in size and strength. Typically, when a product is wrapped in bubble material it becomes harder to stack that object. In addition, the air bubbles of the wrap take up a lot of free space that can be used to package more items. It can be quite costly to limit the amount of product you can send due to the drawbacks of bubble rolls. However, there are many applications where bubble rolls are needed. It is very adaptable, versatile and can be used more than once. Its lightweight design makes it easy to handle for the manufacturer and end user. If you are interested in bubble rolls, then contact Brown Packaging today to get supplied. What Is a Foam Roll? Foam rolls are made from expanded polyethylene with insulating and cushioning properties, which gives the wrap a dense, lightweight, thin and flexible design. It is manufactured into a roll that contains sheets of foam that can be cut into any size or shape. Like a bubble roll, foam can be designed with anti-static properties and other additives. When To Use Foam Roll? Kitchenware: knives, forks, glass cups, dishes and small, sensitive and fragile kitchen appliances. Consumer goods: decorative items made with glass, small mirrors, picture frames, and other items. Cosmetics and personal care products: lotions, creams, oils, makeup, and other small and fragile items. Other fragile and sensitive items: medical devices, electronics, furniture legs, glass, ceramic, and other items. What You Should Know Before You Buy Foam Roll Before you buy foam rolls you should select the right thickness for your product. This may require you to ask the packaging provider what thickness is recommended for your size product, as thickness can vary from one supplier to another. The benefit of foam rolls is that they are easier to stack and take up minimal space. However, it may be more expensive than using a bubble roll. Summary: Bubble Vs Foam Rolls Selecting between bubble and foam can be a difficult choice. They both have their uses and drawbacks. Ultimately, you want to package bulker, heavier, and extremely fragile products with bubble rolls. Foam can also be used for sensitive and fragile products, but can cost you more. You can offset these costs and be more efficient if you plan on stacking items on top or fitting a larger quantity within a shipment. However, be mindful of how you package and ship your products as they may become damaged. It may be best to seek the help of a packaging professional. If interested in bubble, foam, or cushioning packaging, then contact Brown Packaging today. (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. Cushioning Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Pinterest Relevant Posts
In today’s competitive market, businesses need to constantly look for ways to cut costs and increase efficiency to remain profitable. One area where businesses can save money is in their packaging costs. Packaging is an essential part of any business, but it can also be a significant expense. In this guide, we will explore some tips and strategies that businesses can use to reduce their packaging costs, as well as the potential tradeoffs that come with those savings. Cost Reducing Packaging Strategies to Use Right-Size Your Packaging To right-size your packaging, businesses should take accurate measurements of their products and choose packaging that fits those dimensions, leaving just enough space to protect the product. Using packaging that is too large can waste materials, increase shipping costs, and take up unnecessary space. Choosing the right size packaging can save businesses money on materials and shipping costs while reducing their environmental impact. Use Lighter Weight Materials Choosing lighter weight packaging materials can significantly reduce the cost of materials, shipping, and energy used during production. For example, switching from a traditional corrugated box to a padded envelope or lightweight mailer can save on materials, weight, and shipping costs. Businesses can also consider using eco-friendly materials like recycled plastic, paper, or biodegradable materials that are lighter and cost-effective. Optimize Your Packaging Design Businesses can optimize their packaging design by selecting packaging that is durable, easy to use, and visually appealing. By using a unique design that fits the product, businesses can reduce the amount of material needed, use more cost-effective materials, and reduce shipping costs. Additionally, using packaging that is easy to open and store can reduce the likelihood of damaged products and improve customer satisfaction. Use Sustainable Materials Switching to sustainable materials like recycled plastic, paper, or biodegradable materials can reduce costs and improve sustainability. While sustainable materials can be more expensive, businesses can reduce costs by purchasing in bulk, using eco-friendly packaging designs that require fewer materials, and sourcing materials locally to reduce shipping costs. Sustainable materials can also help businesses appeal to customers who are environmentally conscious. Buy in Bulk Purchasing packaging materials in bulk can help businesses take advantage of volume discounts, reduce shipping costs, and ensure they have enough packaging on hand for peak sales seasons. Buying in bulk can also help businesses negotiate better pricing, improve lead times, and reduce the risk of running out of materials when demand increases. By implementing these strategies, businesses can reduce their packaging costs without sacrificing quality, sustainability, or customer satisfaction. However, it is essential to consider potential tradeoffs and weigh the benefits of each strategy to determine which is best for their unique business needs. Potential Tradeoffs To Cutting Packaging Costs Quality Reducing packaging costs can sometimes lead to lower quality materials, which can impact the appearance and safety of the product. Using low-quality packaging materials can result in damaged products, increased returns, and harm to a brand’s reputation. Therefore, businesses should consider the balance between cost savings and the quality of packaging materials to ensure they are not sacrificing quality for cost savings. Sustainability While sustainable packaging materials can reduce a business’s environmental impact, they can be more expensive than traditional packaging materials. Therefore, businesses must weigh the benefits of sustainable packaging against the higher costs. Choosing sustainable materials can help businesses appeal to environmentally conscious customers, but it is essential to ensure the cost is reasonable and the materials provide the necessary protection for the product. Brand Image Packaging plays a critical role in shaping a brand’s image. Choosing packaging that is low quality or visually unappealing can negatively impact a brand’s image and harm sales. Therefore, businesses should consider the potential impact of packaging changes on their brand image and take steps to ensure they are not sacrificing brand image for cost savings. Customer Satisfaction Packaging is often the first impression customers have of a product. Poor quality or unappealing packaging can negatively impact customer satisfaction and harm a brand’s reputation. Therefore, businesses must consider the potential impact of packaging changes on customer satisfaction and ensure they are not sacrificing customer satisfaction for cost savings. Summary: Cutting Packaging Costs and Tradeoffs In conclusion, reducing your packaging costs can provide many benefits for your business, including cost savings, increased efficiency, and improved sustainability. However, businesses need to carefully consider the potential tradeoffs and balance cost savings with the need to maintain quality, sustainability, and brand image. By taking a strategic approach to packaging, businesses can reduce their costs without sacrificing quality or customer satisfaction. (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