While it would make sense for firms to use appropriately sized packaging, the opposite is usually the case. DHL reports that the typical package is 40% larger than necessary. This is due in part to the fact that corporations frequently purchase stock packaging in big quantities in an effort to lower unit prices. Because of this, they only provide a limited variety of package sizes across their whole catalog. The items are then placed in the next largest box for shipment. This results in the costly and inefficient practice of transporting not just the object itself but also the air surrounding it. If the 40% surplus volume cited by DHL were eliminated, it would result in 24 million fewer truckloads each year in the United States.
When it comes to packaging, size does matter. Too small and your product will get lost in the shuffle; too large and you’ll be wasting materials and money. That’s why finding the right size packaging is so important.
The first step is to determine what your product is and how it will be used. This will help you to identify the right dimensions for your packaging. Once you have the basic dimensions, you can start to play around with different packaging options to find the one that best fits your product.
There are a few things to keep in mind when you’re selecting packaging. First, you want to make sure that your packaging is durable and will protect your product during shipping and handling. Second, you want to consider the environmental impact of your packaging. And finally, you want to choose packaging that is easy for your customers to open and use.
Take your time to find the right sized packaging for your product. It will save you money and help you to create a more sustainable business.
A Definition of “Right-Size” Packaging
Using the right amount of material for items without compromising on protection or the quality of the packaging as a whole is what is meant by “right-size packaging.”
It’s not only about having a sturdy box or folding carton made especially for your goods. Right-sized packaging accomplishes several goals in this way. It enhances shelf presence—you can stock more goods in the same amount of space—while minimizing transportation costs, material consumption, and environmental impact.
Value-Added Features of Just-Right Packaging
Beverage companies are a good source of information about right-size packaging since they produce some of the most widely consumed products in the country. These companies have taken steps to lessen their reliance on plastic by coming up with innovative designs, using recyclable (or recycled) materials, and promoting their eco-friendly ethos.
Let’s use Aquafina as an example. The amount of plastic used to produce the company’s 20-ounce water bottles has been reduced by 40%. Labels have been shrunk and packaging has been rethought to reduce waste, both of which are visible signs for eco-conscious shoppers.
Right-size packaging is becoming increasingly popular, and even Coca-Cola is joining in. SodaStream has released a 13.2 ounce bottle made from recyclable plastic. Coke’s eco-friendly message is highlighted while the compact size appeals to on-the-go consumers. Coca-North Cola’s America Operating Unit VP/GM of Sustainability Alpa Sutaria noted, “Our packaging is our greatest, most visible advertisement” while announcing the bottle.
Aquafina and Coca-activities Cola’s are indicative of a larger trend that may be applied to brands in a variety of sectors. Small adjustments may have a big impact on your carbon footprint.
Consider the implications of a seemingly negligible change—say, a 1/8-inch reduction in the breadth of your folding cartons—across the course of a long print run. You’ll save money on transportation costs and reduce emissions by packing more goods into each delivery vehicle.
Using a different type of board and partnering with a company that is certified for green energy and a transparent chain of custody can further increase the environmental friendliness of right-sized packaging.
In addition to the obvious advantages, you’ll also improve your standing in the eyes of your target audience. This includes highlighting the eco-friendliness of your packaging choices and responding to customer complaints.
Constructing packaging that is simple to open and throw away is only the beginning (in many ways, Amazon led the way with its frustration-free packaging programs). The unique unpacking experience it provides is wowing clients.
Clever doorways and a streamlined design that gives the impression that you’re not afraid to sacrifice style for efficiency will be well received. Your product’s value is mirrored in the care with which it was packaged. That might be the deciding factor in gaining a customer’s loyalty in a highly competitive industry, such as the health and beauty industry.
When it comes to packaging, what does “just right” mean?
If your package is the proper size, it will show from the minute customers see your items on store shelves until the moment they open them. Stacking the goods is a breeze. You get the impression that there is neither too much nor too little of anything. They make the most of the real estate to showcase eye-catching brand names. In a nutshell, effective packing is packaging that is the correct size.