All you need to know about ecommerce packaging

Simply put, without the use of ecommerce, many businesses would now struggle to sell their goods effectively and ultimately survive.

But this way of business goes a lot further than just taking payments online. As the first physical touchpoint a customer has with your brand, ecommerce packaging plays a key role in your sales and business strategy as a whole.

Read on to find out everything you need to know about ecommerce packaging.

The importance of ecommerce packaging

Let’s be honest, many of us have become accustomed to items arriving in plain and boring cardboard boxes. So why not stand out with your ecommerce packaging?

Not only is ecommerce packaging used to protect goods during delivery, but presents an opportunity to reinforce an exciting, memorable brand.

To put things into perspective, well thought out ecommerce packaging can significantly boost your bottom line. Use of protective packaging materials can reduce volume and cost of returns, while custom branded packaging can introduce an emotional value to that

Ecommerce packaging and sustainability

The need and demand for sustainability across the world has risen tremendously in recent times. Customers are now more environmentally aware than ever before.

Don’t take our word for it, a survey conducted for Futerra shows 88% of 1000 respondents in the UK and USA would like brands to help them become more environmentally friendly in their daily lives.

So, how can you as a business help retainer your customers by supporting their move towards a greener planet?

Minimise material usage

When it comes to optimising your package for sustainable deliveries, the first place to look is with cutting down on materials. Not only can this create more delivery space, but will make disposing of the package a lot easier for your customer.

Use recyclable, biodegradable, and compostable packaging

Using sustainable packaging materials will go a long way with your customers. Especially if you provide clear instructions on how to dispose of them properly.

Avoid using mixed materials

Mixed materials are generally not recyclable. The layers can’t be separated upon disposal, meaning landfill is usually their final destination. 

Give back to nature

Partnering with a packaging supplier that uses FSC cardboard, and/or allows you to offset your paper waste through the planting of trees is a fantastic way to ensure sustainability.

At Swiftpak, our partnership with Ecologi allows businesses to offset their packaging waste in just a few clicks. Find out how you can start your own forest, plant trees, and become more sustainable as a business today.

Types of ecommerce packaging with examples

The type of ecommerce packaging that best suits your product depends on several factors. From the weight, to the size, shape and breakability of your item, your package must ultimately support its contents during delivery.

Corrugate boxes

Corrugated cardboard boxes are the leading choice for ecommerce packaging for a reason. They’re sturdy, eco-friendly and relatively lightweight. We haven’t got anything negative to say.

For heavier or fragile items, double wall cardboard boxes are the way forward. By offering an extra layer of strength to your package, you can increase the protection to ensure a happy and satisfied customer.

Bags and envelopes

For smaller and lighter products, mailing bags and envelopes can do just what you’re looking for. They’re surprisingly strong, easy to store and can be purchased as self-sealing options too.

If you’re shipping clothing orders, try placing a small, branded boxed inside an envelope or mailing bag – there’s no need over-box it.

Padded mailers

Padded mailers take mailing bags and envelops to the next level. With additional protection lined across the inside, this solution is perfect for protecting small, delicate items such as CDs, jewellery and lots more.

Ecommerce packaging from the experts

For more information on ecommerce packaging, visit our ecommerce packaging solutions page. Or, contact one of our packaging experts today and we’ll show you how Swiftpak could revolutionise your packaging operations.