In today’s competitive business world, brands must make an everlasting impression on consumers. Custom packaging boxes are one of the most effective ways to achieve this.
Custom boxes protect your products and serve as a marketing powerhouse. In addition, you can make your brand recognisable through custom packaging.
A key example is QR codes, which have recently seen an uptick in retail packaging as they establish consumer interaction with the products.
But the time and attention to detail required to create custom packaging is no small feat. Here's how businesses can adopt this into their branding.
What is a custom box?
A custom box is a packaging solution that is specifically designed to meet the specific needs of a product or brand. Unlike standard traditional packaging, custom boxes are designed with the product's dimensions, shape and branding elements in mind.
What are the advantages of custom box packaging for expanding businesses?
• Enhancing brand identity
Custom packaging allows brands to showcase their products elegantly. Brand values can be showcased by incorporating company logos, designs and colours.
• Creating a memorable unboxing experience
Unboxing experiences can be elevated for customers through custom packaging boxes with the addition of personalised messages, inserts, or other special touches.
• Differentiating from competitors
In the modern saturated market, standing out from the competition is crucial. Custom-printed boxes provide an opportunity to win the hearts of potential buyers at first sight.
Design considerations for custom packaging boxes
• Understanding your target audience
The first step to designing custom boxes is understanding the target audience. Conduct market research and deeply analyse their preferences. This information will guide decisions on which design should be picked for the product’s packaging.
• Choosing the right materials
Choosing the right materials for your custom packaging boxes is essential to ensuring your products' safety. When selecting materials, consider elements such as sturdiness, sustainability and affordability.
For example, brands must know how to measure box dimensions before making packaging boxes and shipping them.
Moreover, consumers who care about the environment are increasingly interested in eco-friendly packaging options. Therefore, looking into environmentally friendly materials such as recycled cardboard or biodegradable choices can help brands keep up with modern consumer trends.
• Balancing aesthetics and functionality
Balancing visual appeal and functionality is an important factor in custom packaging. The packaging should look visually appealing and be practical for shipping. Consider the size, shape and structural integrity to ensure your packaging protects the product.
The custom packaging design process
Here are the main processes that are involved in making custom packaging boxes:
1. Defining objectives and requirements
You must outline your objectives and requirements before designing your product’s packaging. Consider the budget, timeline, branding guidelines and product specifics. This information will be the foundation for the design team to create packaging that aligns with company objectives.
2. Collaboration with design professionals
Collaborating with an experienced packaging manufacturer for custom box packaging can greatly enhance the outcome. Their expertise in designing the box will ensure that the packaging stands out on retail shelves. Wholesale packaging boxes should also be purchased to save time and money.
3. Iterative design and prototyping
Multiple iterations and prototyping stages are usually involved in the design process. Designers will develop preliminary concepts based on product specifications. Feedback and suggestions should be provided for changes. Prototyping allows for tests of the packaging's functionality and visual appeal. This iterative approach ensures that the final product meets expectations.
Custom packaging boxes offer businesses a valuable opportunity to enhance their brand identity. This packaging type creates memorable unboxing experiences and aids brands in differentiating themselves in the market. Businesses should invest in high-quality design and collaborate with industry professionals.
About the author: Hamza Ahmed is a content marketing manager at OXO Packaging, which specialises in product and packaging printing.
