If the packaging provokes viewers' interest, they will continue to watch and may even become customers themselves. Make something that customers will remember and want to choose you for, not just your products but also your packaging.
There are numerous packaging materials and packaging ideas available. Still, the only one that makes it to the market looks good and provides strength to the product to withstand the harsh environment.
There are two types of packaging boxes: stock packaging and custom packaging. Let us go over them in depth so you can easily choose the one you want.
What is Stock Packaging?
Stock packaging is pre-made, generic packaging that can be customized in terms of size, color, shape, and finishing. Stock packaging can be produced in bulk quantities at a low cost, but it is limited to standardized box sizes, colors, and styles that do not reflect a brand's unique messaging or identity.
Stock packaging is readily available packaging that's easy to access and use right away. It's often the default choice from shipping warehouses. As its name implies, stock packaging comes "as is" with little to no customization available. Since it's not designed specifically to your needs, it will have a primary and generic look and feel.
What is Custom Packaging?
Custom packaging is boxing that is carefully chosen for your company and the product you are making and shipping. Custom packaging is a tool that makes a brand stand unique in the market. The custom packaging process includes modifying a package's shape, size, style, colors, material, varnish and other specifications.
It is designed to fit the product perfectly and protect it better than standard and generic packaging. To ensure that the custom packaging works perfectly, it is often necessary to go through the engineering, design, prototype, and testing process.
Importance of custom packaging
Custom packaging is also available in a variety of shapes and sizes. You can personalize nearly every aspect of it – not just the design but also the added printed effects that make your brand and product genuinely stand out and leave a lasting impression.
To summarize, custom packaging is a simple way to increase interest in your products and build excitement around your brand.
Stock Packaging vs. Custom Packaging
When is it appropriate to use stock packaging?
• For testing and introducing
Stock packaging is ideal for initiating new business or test out different marketing options, and you don't want the expense and time of custom printing until you're ready for it.
• Economical
When you're a startup on a tight budget and looking for a cost-effective way to conduct market tests or other promotions, custom packaging is more cost-effective than other packaging methods.
• Availability
Stock packaging is quick and easy to obtain, and it comes in a variety of sizes and shapes (all of which are very broad and not specifically tailored to your product).
When is it appropriate to use custom packaging?
• Increased Brand Value
A product's packaging enhances brand awareness, contributes positively, and improves the customer experience over usual packaging. Packaging is essential in today's world because people are looking for unique and customizable products. Bland and generic packages that do not feel special and fun to the customer are likely to be a huge turnoff and leave a lot to be desired.
The emotional connection will result in long-term and repeat customers, as well as long-term company success.
• Improved Customer Service
Better packaging, as previously stated, results in a better customer experience. Beautifully created and designed packaging stands out and makes customers feel happy and memorable. Ugly, generic, and boring packages will leave them with the impression that something is missing.
• Improved Product Protection
Custom packaging is an excellent option for better shipping protection if you have a product that is a unique shape or is prone to breaking. The last thing you want is for your product to break during shipping because the standard box you're using isn't a tight enough fit or has insufficient padding.
For a first-time product designer, the world of custom packaging vs stock packaging can be confusing and overwhelming. Even if this isn't your first rodeo with product design, it's still helpful to have a knowledgeable team of experts on your side to help guide you and provide advice.