Finding the right packaging supplier for your company can be quite a challenging, time consuming, and frustrating process, since not all packaging companies are the same. Packaging companies can vary among quality standards and capabilities to products, services, who they serve and where. For your company’s success it is important for you to select the right packaging provider for your business as it can have a direct impact on your company’s operations. A good packaging supplier should be able to meet all of your packaging needs in one place and on time (within industry standard). A quality packaging supplier will improve your business operations with efficient packaging solutions, which will help your bottom line. Typically, a poor packaging supplier will not be able to fulfill your order to your specifications or requirements. Usually, a poor packaging supplier will provide a poor experience with delivery delays, quality issues, billing roadblocks, which will essentially cost you time and many lost opportunities for your business. Ultimately, your packaging provider’s products, services, capabilities, quality standards, who they serve and where, should align with your company’ needs. In order to find this information, you have to ask questions to potential suppliers you are considering working with. Overview: 10 Questions You Need To Ask Your Packaging Provider What Packaging Products Do You Offer? Do You Offer Any Services? Are You A Manufacturer or Distributor? What Is Your Expected Lead Time? Is There An Order Minimum? Can You Supply Me With Samples, If Needed? Can You Meet Retailer Requirements? Do You Have Any Recommendations Or Concerns For My Project? How Much Does It Cost For Delivery? Are You Experienced In Projects Similar To Mine? What Packaging Products Do You Offer? Not all packaging suppliers provide the same packaging products, as there are a large variety of packaging supplies in the market. Some suppliers focus on stock or standard products, others do custom packaging and some do both. Not every packaging supplier will sell the same product. For example, some packaging companies focus on POP displays, some will supply foam, others focus on corrugated or chipboard boxes. You will find that some packaging companies may only offer one product and specialize in that product, while others can offer you a wide selection of stock and custom packaging. Ultimately, depending on what packaging company you choose to question, their answer should vary from one another. It is important to keep in mind that you are looking for a packaging partner that can help you and fulfill your packaging needs. Do You Offer Any Services? Like products, services and capabilities of the packaging supplier can vary from one another. Services can be delivery, product and material sampling/testing, consulting, structural design, graphic design, fulfillment, and more. Some of these services can be offered in-house by the packaging supplier or it may be outsourced. Services are usually most required when you are purchasing a custom packaging product. Stock products generally do not require services as often. Delivery services are usually universally provided by packaging suppliers. Pick a packaging service provider that works best for you. If your supplier does not offer your desired services, then this may require you to involve another party or to find a supplier that does everything for you under them. Are You A Manufacturer or Distributor? Buying from a manufacturer versus a distributor can be completely different. Manufacturers tend to only provide only one or few products and services, while a distributor can provide you a wide variety of products and services. Purchasing from a manufacturer is best when you are buying in bulk and are only seeking one item. It is important to mention that some manufacturers only work distributors and may not supply products to you. Distributors are ideal when you are unsure about what packaging product you will need, as they can supply and recommend a variety of packaging products. If you need multiple packaging products, for example, packaging tape, boxes, edge protectors, stretch film and labels, then a distributor can help you get all that in one place. In addition, they work with a variety of manufacturers and vendors to help provide you a wide range of outsource services that you may need. Hybrid suppliers can provide some of these services in-house in addition to what a distributor can provide. What Is Your Expected Lead Time? It is important for you to meet your project deadlines, prevent shortages, and missed opportunities due to poor lead times. By asking your supplier when they expect your packaging order to be complete, should be a main focus on whether you choose that supplier. Lead times can tell you a lot about your packaging supplier such as their purchasing power in the market, relationship with other suppliers, and how attentive they are to your order. This does not mean you should create unrealistic deadlines, as packaging can be complex and take time to create, however you should see if it’s comparable to other vendors you are trying to get a quote from. In general, stock packaging products have a much lower lead time, while custom packaging products have a much longer lead time. Is There An Order Minimum? Manufacturers and distributors typically require order minimums when placing an order. This is because in order to remain profitable, competitive, and in business, they have to cover all costs of creating or supplying your packaging, while including a markup. Order minimums are subjective to suppliers, some are more efficient than others in small quantities, while others are better in medium or large quantities. This is based on machinery and company capabilities, networking (for distributors). In addition, order minimums will vary based on what materials you order. Depending on how much packaging product you will need will help influence which packaging provider will work best for you. Can You Supply Me With Samples, If Needed? Product and material sampling is key to a successful packaging transaction. Before placing such a large investment, it is recommended you sample your product

Custom packaging stands as a pivotal element for brands looking to differentiate their products in a crowded market. It is tailored specifically to meet the unique needs of a product while enhancing brand identity and consumer experience. Unlike standard packaging available to all, custom packaging is designed with specific graphics, sizes, shapes, and features unique to one brand, offering a myriad of benefits from protection to marketing. What is Custom Packaging? Custom packaging involves creating packaging solutions that are not only functional but also distinctively designed to reflect the brand’s identity and meet precise product specifications. This includes selecting appropriate materials, employing advanced printing techniques, and incorporating innovative structural designs to enhance both the aesthetic appeal and the protective capabilities of the packaging. Popular Types of Custom Packaging Corrugated Boxes: Known for their strength and durability, used for shipping heavier items like electronics and appliances. Folding Cartons: These are cost-effective, lightweight, and ideal for packaging a wide range of consumer goods from food to pharmaceuticals. Pouches: Flexible and perfect for packaging small, lightweight items like snacks, powders, or liquids. Foam: Added to packages for cushioning and to keep products secure during transit. Blister Packs: Excellent for product visibility and security, commonly used for small consumer goods, electronics, and pharmaceuticals. Clamshells: Ideal for retail display, offering clear visibility and secure packaging for a variety of products. Poly Bags: Flexible bags used for lightweight, non-fragile items, often seen in retail settings. Corrugated Box Stand up Pouch Blister Pack with Corrugated Tray Uses and Benefits of Custom Packaging Enhanced Product Protection One of the primary functions of custom packaging is to improve product protection. This is achieved through: Design: Tailoring the package’s size, shape, and materials to fit the product perfectly, minimizing movement and the potential for damage. Inserts and Dividers: These components are critical for keeping items in place and preventing contact that could lead to damage. Thermoform Insert Foam Insert Branding and Market Differentiation Custom packaging allows for complete control over the presentation of your product, which is vital for standing out on the shelf. It serves as a powerful marketing tool by incorporating: Graphics Design: This includes logos, brand colors, and other graphic elements that reinforce brand identity. Structural Design: Unique packaging shapes and structures can catch the eye of consumers, making the product more noticeable and appealing. Corrugated Box and Folding Carton Rigid Box Efficiency and Sustainability Custom packaging can be designed to be both efficient and sustainable, helping brands align with environmental standards and reducing waste. It offers: Optimal Use of Materials: By using materials that are exactly required for the packaging, brands can minimize waste and reduce costs. Learn how to select the right packaging materials. Sustainable Options: There are opportunities to use materials that are recyclable, biodegradable, or sourced from sustainable practices. Compliance and Safety Ensuring that packaging complies with local, state, or federal regulations is crucial, particularly for products that require specific safety standards. Custom packaging can be tailored to meet these requirements, ensuring that products are not only safe to use but also compliant with regulatory standards. Conclusion: The Strategic Advantage of Custom Packaging Custom packaging is more than just a way to contain a product; it is a strategic tool that enhances product safety, boosts brand recognition, and supports marketing efforts. It allows businesses to convey their brand story, protect their products effectively during transit, and present their goods in the most appealing way possible. By investing in custom packaging, companies can improve customer satisfaction, enhance product visibility, and ultimately, drive sales. For any brand looking to make a significant impact in the marketplace, custom packaging provides a compelling solution. It’s an investment that pays dividends in brand loyalty, customer satisfaction, and overall brand value. If you’re considering custom packaging for your products, partnering with a seasoned provider like Brown Packaging can ensure that your packaging needs are met with expertise and creativity. (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