When you are starting up a new business, it can be very intimidating to figure out how everything works and get organized. To add to the stress, you need to package your product, and that involves hiring a packaging manufacturer to make boxes or other containers for you. Creating your first packaging run can be confusing, especially if you aren’t familiar with the process or are new to this element of the business world. Keeping these essentials in mind can make it much easier and ensure your first run is a success, no matter how large it is.
Examine the Competition
The very first thing you want to do to prepare for your first packaging run is to look at the competition. Go to your local store and examine the products that are like yours, paying particular attention to successful brands. You will then want to use this information to figure out what works and what doesn’t in your particular industry. Ordering a unique packaging style you didn’t see on any competing products can help you stand apart, but make sure that it will actually work. For your first packaging run, it is better to stick to types of packaging that you know work for the competition and simply change the design so it looks new and is unique to your business and product.
Start Small
If this is your very first packaging run, you should think about starting small. Ask what the minimum order is and consider getting only that number of boxes. This will give you the chance to confirm that the wrapping really does work with your product, keeping it safe and enhancing it. You can even use your first run as a test to see whether your customers like the design and style you picked or if you should keep searching for the ideal combination.
Pick Durability
It can be very tempting to opt for cheap packaging as a way to save money, but you never want to do this. This is just as true if you are doing your first packaging run as when your company has been in business for years. Remember that your packaging has to be strong enough to keep your product together long enough to get to the customer, whether that involves a stop in a warehouse and/or store along the way. Spending a little more for a quality product will be worth it, as you don’t have to worry about issues with the wrapping causing damage to your product or the need to replace it.
Keep It Simple
A final essential for your packaging run is the design of your package, and when it comes to this aspect, you want to keep it simple. Don’t crowd the packaging with too much information; instead, stick to the product name and your brand plus some other crucial information, such as what the product does and how to use it. Remember to pick a legible font in colors that can be easily read.
