Challenges in eCommerce Packaging

Customers generally prefer online shopping over anything in the current scenario. Additionally, the influence of eCommerce on daily life is only going to increase. Thus, packaging products efficiently and safely is of utmost priority. They must implement better carton packaging so that the product remains safe when shipping to the customer.

In a typical eCommerce transaction and delivery, different people touch the product at least 20 times. The product needs to have excellent quality carton packaging. This requires more cartoning equipment and cartoners to cover all the products that the customers order. 

Furthermore, eCommerce companies also need to focus on the quality of packaging material. The materials they use while packaging are key to the safety of the product inside it.

Online shops are offering economic and sometimes even free delivery to their consumers. However, they need to maintain the image of the brand regardless. Carton packaging and case packaging needs to be top-notch if they wish to compete with other companies on the same platform. Cartoners should ensure that they give each package the same priority and not compromise in any cartoning equipment.

Here are some worthwhile challenges of eCommerce packaging that one must keep in mind at all times.

Maintaining the Reputation of the Brand   

Companies must decide on how to package each of their products in a marketable manner. Along with the safety of the product, promotion must also be the priority. The customers always have to unbox the product they ordered, and good packaging always maintains your reputation. Some businesses spend considerable money and workforce on carton packaging so that the customers are always satisfied. On the other hand, some companies prefer saving costs on the packaging.

If any brand is known for its low costs, it can get away with cheaper packaging since it won't hamper its image. Additionally, the customers' demands change with each brand they opt to purchase from. 

In some premium brands, they may expect more because of the high price they're paying. In comparison, cheaper products do not induce any expectations on the type of packaging.

eCommerce companies should hire better cartoners and invest in top-notch cartoning equipment. In this manner, they can easily adapt to the different challenges that come up with changes in demand.

Protective Packaging

When we talk about packaging, the main concern must be to protect the product from any damage. Generally, it is never easy to do so. eCommerce companies need to consider the overall contact any package goes through during shipping. Furthermore, the shipping journey is turbulent and hence, requires flexible yet sturdy packaging.

The main characteristic of a good package is that it places safety and sustainability at the top of the list. As a good eCommerce company, you must focus on the same. Placing various tools such as air pillows or bubble wrap could indeed ensure the product's safety. Cartoners should also use tamper-evident tapes or induction seal liners regularly.

Some companies make a key mistake of prioritizing promotion over protection. The emergence of new channels of delivering a product has resulted in a greater packaging requirement. Nowadays, consumers demand more products daily. They would be more satisfied if these products arrived at their doorstep in mint condition. Hence, protective packaging materials must be prioritized by eCommerce companies.

The Environmental Effects of Packaging Materials

When it comes to eCommerce packaging, sustainability and environmental effects are crucial areas to consider. Most customers place a high demand that their packaging is made solely of sustainable materials. They want to reduce waste and unnecessary material. Thus, packaging equipment should be developed in such a way that it produces only the needful.

Cartoners must understand that adding unnecessary packaging materials can have heavy repercussions. While ensuring the safety of the product is important, sustainable packaging also has great priority. Carton packaging must be done so that the bare minimum is used in terms of materials.

Brent Nelson, Senior Manager of Worldwide Packaging at Amazon, shares the same ideals. In many interviews and discussions, he has conveyed his concerns about the environment. Additionally, he has exclusively stated that sustainability and producing less waste is a focal point of improvement for him.

Providing a Top-Notch Unboxing Experience

For any customer, unboxing the product is a crucial part of their overall experience. It is the first interaction any customer has with the product they ordered. Unboxing is the initial process where a consumer will make judgments about the brand. Hence, eCommerce companies must offer brilliant unboxing through their carton packaging.

In eCommerce, the expectations of the customers are heightened. They expect even small companies to provide the level of service that major companies like Amazon provide. For many small companies, coming up with an innovative packaging design is a challenge. They need to tackle this challenge by coming up with a package that increases engagement.

If a customer has a seamless or fun experience while unboxing, they would indeed be impressed with the brand. This ideology reflects in their mind while buying products. A clean, neat, and organized package induces a positive response, resulting in a loyal customer.

Ecommerce packaging has to maintain the perfect balance between utility and branding. Companies can induce a positive first impression by using plant-based bioplastics, light gauge printed shrink film or stand-up pouches. These materials not only guarantee sustainability but also offer aesthetic value. These are crucial factors to consider if they wish to 'wow' the customer.

In Conclusion

The eCommerce market has been growing rapidly over the past few years. Packaging designers should look for ways to flourish in the market. Considering the mentioned challenges in eCommerce packaging is a good way to start. Analyzing your customers' demands and keeping your packaging in line with those is an effective strategy. Since these demands keep changing, it is your job to keep looking for creative solutions.