The right packaging can wow customers and boost brand image. But the costs can add up.

Inefficiencies in any process chew up time and money. This is especially true with product packaging design.

Consider a few cost-effective packaging ideas to streamline production. Add-ons like logo stickers and custom labels make shipping a breeze and help reemphasize brand identity.

Recycled Paper Bags

Recycled paper bags are a great way to build your business image as an eco-friendly company. Unlike plastic bags, most types of paper bags are recyclable, including those that contain grease or food. Recycled paper is turned back into new forms and other products, helping to limit the greenhouse gas emissions that cause global warming.

Often, paper bags can be recycled in your area’s curbside recycling programs alongside newspapers and cardboard. You can also drop them off at local recycling centers. Kraft paper bags are especially easy to recycle since they’re made from the waste left over after sugarcane is processed. Whether running a restaurant, deli, boutique, or market, paper bag packaging shows your customers that you’re committed to being green in your small business.

Mailer Boxes

Mailer boxes are a great option for small businesses promoting their brand while keeping costs low. These boxes can be printed with a custom design that reflects your company’s theme and color scheme, which helps build a positive customer response.

The beauty industry is one of the biggest users of mailer boxes, as they can easily transport makeup and cosmetics while adding a touch of elegance. They’re also durable and offer more space than standard carton boxes, making them a better choice for heavier products.

A well-designed mailer box can elevate your business and help ensure your product arrives to your customers in perfect condition. You can further enhance the appearance of your chest with custom printing and finishing options like spot UV, which adds a glossy texture to your packaging.

Customized Inserts

Customized inserts are a simple way for small businesses to boost their brand. They can include a product sample, a coupon, or an invitation for social media interaction. Inserts can also tell a story about the product, such as instructions or styling tips. They can also be a great way to ask customers for reviews and feedback, as Frank Body does with their coffee-based body scrub.

A custom packaging insert can help keep products safe while en route by cradling them just right. They can also be a powerful marketing tool that helps create loyal customers. For instance, Warby Parker incorporates a return shipping label into their product packaging. This makes it easy for customers to return items they don’t like and provides a strong sense of brand loyalty.

Eco-Friendly Printing

When it comes to printing, there are many options to choose from. Choosing eco-friendly printed packaging and design solutions will help you reduce resource depletion, energy use and waste production.

Using eco-friendly inks like soy or vegetable will also help with environmental protection. These inks don’t have the petroleum or plastic base that traditional inks do and are not as harmful.

Look for PCF (Process Chlorine Free) paper or made of post-consumer recycled fiber. This reduces the chemicals and water used in bleaching printed materials to clean white sheets of paper.

Consider using compostable inserts or a single layer of packaging for your product. For example, Rothy’s shoe company ships their shoes in their box, reducing the number of layers of packaging and allowing their customers to recycle or reuse their box.

Custom Design

Incorporating custom design into your product packaging is a great way to create a memorable unboxing experience. This will help your brand stand out and attract more customers.

Printed stock boxes are another cost-effective way to add a custom touch to your packaging. These boxes take a stock box and add your company’s logo to the outside, saving you money.

Adding a handwritten thank you note or offering cards to your e-commerce orders is an inexpensive way to humanize your relationship with your customers. This will help your customers feel connected to your brand and prompt them to return to your site. Your thank you notes should be manageable and stick to your company’s branding guidelines.