The packaging of your product is your first opportunity to make a good impression on a potential buyer. Packaging can convey a lot about your brand and the quality of the items inside. Custom rigid boxes allow you to explore a wide range of product packaging and display opportunities. How do you achieve the most desirable outcome from this process, though?
There are many steps to executing a custom rigid box project successfully, but knowing how to proceed can reduce stress and let you focus on the most critical elements. Let's review each of those steps and what you should consider.
What's the Purpose of the Boxes?
Step one requires you to determine what type of product you'll package into a custom rigid box. There are many possibilities, from jewelry and accessories to coffee mugs, wristwatches and even food items. Use the type of product you'll offer to settle on the general form factor of the box you need.
Likewise, you should also consider your audience at this early stage. What kind of expectations do they have for the packaging? A luxury-styled product demands a more elegant appearance, while other consumer goods look fine in simpler stylings.
What Style of Box Do You Want?
There are many styles of rigid boxes, each with applications best suited to different product styles. For example, shoulder and hinged-lid boxes are often best for luxury items that benefit from building anticipation for the unboxing experience. Collapsible boxes are ideal for situations where you need to store bulk packaging in a smaller space. Explore the various styles available and imagine your product in them.
Know Your Material Options
Next, you'll need to choose which material you want for the custom rigid boxes. The right supplier can offer various options, from basic paper to sturdier card stock. It's possible to apply special finishes to the box, such as unique colors or glow-in-the-dark elements. Relate your material selection to the product you'll sell in the box. Keep weight and product dimensions in mind to deliver the aesthetic impact you want and the protection your product needs.
Match Box Dimensions to Your Product's Size
Using your product measurements, explore your options for different box sizes. A box that is too large requires additional internal support to protect products, which can unnecessarily increase costs. A box that's too small may not fit your product appropriately or leave so little room that any shock could damage the items inside. Find a balance between the two.
Explore Custom Design Elements
Now, you can start thinking about making your box look even more attractive with decorative design elements. Different printing techniques are the first area you could explore. For example, consider how to enhance the impact of product presentations through embossing, debossing or foil-stamping elements onto the box. You could even apply a UV coating that gives the box a sleek, modern look. The second area you must consider is your own branding and graphic design. From logos to well-executed typography, these elements elevate boxes and offer an attractive image to consumers.
Think About What Functional Features Your Box May Need
Custom rigid boxes can feature functional design elements as you require them. Foam inserts, for example, can anchor products securely or provide support to prevent items from sliding around. Compartments offer similar stability while also enhancing the display of products when opened.
Think about other functional features that can also enhance the box and the customer experience. For instance, ribbons provide a touch of elegance perfect for gifts, while magnetic closures deliver an upscale experience to indicate premium product quality.
Should Sustainability be a Factor?
For some consumers, sustainability and eco-friendliness are of paramount importance. Consumers may be more receptive to brands that they see making positive environmental contributions and engaging in efforts to reduce waste. As you explore box designs, consider whether you might opt for boxes made using recycled materials or other sustainably sourced elements.
Emphasizing the reusability of a box can also be a part of your sustainability efforts. Some customers may prefer a box they can use and reuse for other gifts or storage once they remove your product.
Try a Prototype or Two to Get Started
Don't roll the dice on an untested design. Prototyping matters in product development, even in the packaging. Before you invest in max production, order prototypes to evaluate how all the different design elements combine. What works and what doesn't? You may need to go back to the drawing board to find the solution best matched to your product, branding, and sales strategies. Engage other stakeholders to gather feedback, then make adjustments until you have a prototype design that satisfies your needs.
Pick a Supplier of Custom Rigid Boxes You Can Trust
Finally, the supplier you select will significantly impact the outcome of your rigid box order. Evaluate your options carefully, looking for information that indicates quality and reliability. How long has the company been around, and what experience does it have with product customization? Evidence of prior successful projects in the form of a design portfolio is an advantage. So, too are positive reviews from other customers who acquired quality boxes.
Choose a supplier that prioritizes good communication and doesn't leave you in the dark. Design support is essential; you should be able to tap into someone else's expertise to help bring your idea to life. You must also consider how quickly a supplier can complete your project and at what price. Don't miss out on comparing to see which supplier can offer you the best service and price.
With a plan in mind and a clear path to follow, creating custom rigid boxes to suit your products can be easy and even fun. Give your products their best chance to stand out to consumers. Connect with a trusted supplier today.
Likewise, you should also consider your audience at this early stage. What kind of expectations do they have for the packaging? A luxury-styled product demands a more elegant appearance, while other consumer goods look fine in simpler stylings.
