When businesses have been set up, they have to keep the customer in mind at all times. The public wants their product to arrive in one piece and to be nicely packaged. This applies whether the item is posted locally or internationally.
Any failure to maintain a good standard may result in a loss of business. In fact, one survey revealed that 20% of people will walk away if they receive anything broken in the post. There are a number of key considerations to think about when it comes to packaging, and that’s what this article is all about.
Use Professional Materials
Some of the materials e-commerce companies require will be cardboard boxes, polystyrene, styrofoam, paper, card or bubble wrap.
There’s no mileage in utilising pre-used boxes as they may be dented and structurally compromised. According to the manufacturers at https://thefirthgroup.com/plastics-sourcing-manufacturing-vietnam/ businesses frequently look online to get plastic packaging, pallets or medical packaging. Companies make phone calls to discuss their specific requirements, and also to discuss costs in advance.
Think About Protection
Before companies dispatch their products, it’s important to assess how fragile they are. Boxes frequently fall off the back of trucks or get dropped by busy postmen. Automated sorting machines can be heavy handed too. Businesses frequently conduct the ‘four foot test’ which assesses whether the item would break if it fell from this height.
In some cases it is wise to double-box and double-tape an item, and to add other packaging inside. If something rattles around in empty space it will be more at risk of damage. Pack things tightly and don’t post air!
Temperatures are also an important factor to consider. If applicable, use cold-weather tape. If something needs to remain cool or dry, use insulating materials or poly mailers.
Consider What Could Go Wrong
Some people get frustrated when their deliveries are so heavily taped and boxed that they are difficult to open. In some cases, however, this is a better option than receiving a broken item.
When people receive things in battered or dented packaging, they feel it is a reflection of how much they are valued as a customer. People don’t like having a delay in their delivery because they had to return an item for a replacement, or to seek a refund. Folk may take their services elsewhere, lodge a complaint or give a terrible review.
If the packaging is compromised, it may be tampered with, things may fall out or the address label may come off. In the worst case scenario it may never arrive at its destination.
Make Unboxing A Pleasant Experience
Whilst it may be the cheapest option to send a blank box with an address label, a customised box will look more impressive. Branded wording and colours could be printed on the packaging, or custom tapes featured using fun colours.
Customers love to be able to open things quickly, and sigh when they have to go and get a pair of scissors. If an item is strong and sturdy, it may not need to be packaged excessively. If the product is for an elderly person they may not have as much strength to open the box. If it has built-in tear strips it will be easier to dismantle.
Include Surprises
People love the personal touches, and that’s why the words ‘delight your customer’ are frequently used. Imagine how you would feel if there was a ‘thank you for purchasing’ card inside – and it was signed by a person and not a computer.
This is the perfect time to include marketing materials – perhaps a freebie or sample, or a discount voucher or coupon. Remember: it is easier to keep an existing customer than to find a new one.
Do It With Costs In Mind
Alongside all we have said so far, costs have to be borne in mind with packaging. You’re trying to make a profit after all! The weight and dimensions of the item will affect the postage bills, so the smaller and lighter the packaging, the better. If a parcel can be just an ounce lighter it can all add up to make savings.
Interestingly, mailer envelopes and corrugated boxes match each other in strength. If self-seal strips are used the items will be quicker to pack. The same thing is true if a ‘fold and lock’ box is utilised. Ultimately, companies have to balance costs with product protection. When the customer experience is good, there may be more business to come.