As an e-commerce retailer, you know shipping can either make or break your business. Today, more people than ever before are shopping online. They’re buying everything from clothes to electronics online.
Not only do these online shoppers expect quick delivery times, they also expect their products to be delivered without damage. This is especially true around the holiday season when customers are buying gifts for loved ones and may not have time to send damaged items back and wait for good-condition items to return.
Customers expect their purchases to come in tip-top condition the first time around. That’s why you can’t skimp on your packaging supplies. If you do, you’ll risk losing the trust of your loyal customers—and their repeat orders.
If you’re an e-commerce retailer, make sure you’re stocked with these must-have packaging supplies to ensure a pleasant customer experience for your users.
1. Multiple Box Options
Depending on the type of product you sell online, it might make sense to carry a few different box sizes. Rather than using the same box dimensions for each product regardless of its size, you should be strategic about the sizes of the packaging materials you carry.
In particular, you’ll want to ensure you have some smaller boxes on hand. This is because most couriers will charge you based on the size and weight of the package. Smaller boxes can save you and your customers on shipping and packaging costs. Plus, you won’t have to use up as much bubble wrap to secure the item. This can effectively boost your profit margin.
At the same time, having larger box options also ensures you’re not squeezing large items into too-small boxes, which could increase the risk of damage.
Boxes should be used to mail heavier items, so make sure the boxes you use are strong enough to safely deliver the packages.
2. Bubble Mailers
If your product is light and small, it likely doesn’t need a box. Smaller goods can be delivered safely in padded bubble mailers. They take up much less space, require less cushioning, and save you money on shipping costs compared to boxes. These bubble mailers offer a moderate level of protection.
3. Poly Mailers
Poly mailers are ideal for non-breakable items that require a bit more protection than bubble mailers. They protect your products more effectively from rain and other harsh elements since they’re moisture resistant. Plus, they’re lightweight and tear-resistant, too.
4. Cushioning
Whether you’re using paper, air pillows, bubble wrap, or another type of cushioning, it’s critical not to skimp on these packaging supplies. This cushioning is vital to ensure your packages are delivered to customers intact and undamaged. Cushioning is an inexpensive insurance policy.
5. Custom Packages
Today, packaging is tied to your brand. Do you really want to ship out dull, unmemorable brown boxes? You should seriously consider investing in custom boxes instead. Though this might just seem like an added expense, it can do wonders for your marketing. When your boxes are unique in shape and size, as well as display your logo and brand colors, you can stand out from the competition and even generate more business.
You can continue to wow your customers when you use custom boxes and make opening the package an event of its own. For this reason, custom boxes are key to success in the e-commerce industry.
There you have it. The five must-have packaging supplies all big and small e-commerce retailers need on hand in order to ship and deliver their products safely. With these packaging supplies, you’ll delight your customers and beat out the competition.
