Box Printing is a powerful and versatile tool for small and large businesses alike. Companies that understand the potential benefits of using custom kraft packaging boxes will find an easy way to connect with their customers, improve brand awareness and gain more exposure – all without breaking the bank. But before you jump on the bandwagon, there are some common mistakes you want to avoid so your company can maximize its return on investment. Here are our top three.
Not considering the total cost.
The price of one box may be inexpensive, but once you purchase different sizes or quantities, shipping fees and handling charges…your costs will add up quickly! To make sure your business receives the best possible price, you need to know exactly what you want before making any commitments.
Deciding on the cheapest options
The benefit of using custom printed boxes is that they can help your business stand out from the competition. But if your box looks cheap or is flimsy, all it will do is hurt your credibility and turn off potential customers. Make sure to choose a reputable source that uses high-quality materials that are water-resistant and durable.
Forgetting about size & weight restrictions
You may think it’s no big deal if your company chooses standard-sized shipping boxes, but with today’s increased focus on recycling, some carriers are starting to limit the types of containers they’ll accept. This means you could end up paying a recycling fee, which will negate any savings you achieved by going with a discounted product.
Not making sure the box is customized.
This may seem obvious, but many people fail to realize that in order for a custom printed box to be effective, it has to stand out from the other packages on the truck or conveyor belt. Make sure you choose an option that utilizes bright colors and/or your company’s logo, so they are highly visible, even if they’re small. This also helps prevent theft since anyone checking them out can immediately tell they belong to your company.
Choosing the wrong shipping material
Polymailers should not be used for items that will need temperature control, while cardboard boxes are preferred when heat protection is necessary.
Not enough postage
Customers will often underestimate the weight of their order and not apply enough postage, which can lead to delays in delivery or even returned packages. Make sure you consult with your carrier about the correct postage for your order to avoid these issues.
Improper labeling
This can be another reason why packages are delayed or sent back. Be sure that all of your shipping information is correct and legible, including the return address.
Incorrect dimensions
If your package doesn’t fit through the mail slot or into the drop-off box, it will have to be taken back to the post office, which can delay its arrival. Double-check your dimensions to make sure they are correct.
Air space is not allowed.
You may think you’re saving money by adding some air pockets, but the post office won’t be able to accept it, and they will send it back. There can only be one layer of protection between items, or if bubble wrap was used, the bubbles must all face the same direction.
Unapproved packaging
This means your package is not in a box with at least four flaps that are glued down instead of taped. However, some loose items such as pens and pencils do not need to be sent in a box as long as they are carefully wrapped for safe transport.
Package marked as ‘FRAGILE’ (or otherwise marked as containing breakables)
Marking a package or envelope as “fragile” is one of the worst things you can do to ensure it arrives safely at its destination. This damages the fragile items and tells shipping employees that they should handle them carefully. Always write “handle with care” on international packages unless your item specifically states ‘fragile’ or ‘breakable.’ International mail cannot have more than two extra labels, so any other marking will need to be handwritten by you.
Package taped together
Packages must be able to stand upright, which means no tape holding them together from side-to-side or top-to-bottom. Packing tape is not designed for this purpose, but bubble wrap will help keep contents in place.
Customs Declaration
The customs declaration is a document that you must fill out when sending items internationally. It can be found on the back of the package and has three sections:
Description of contents
This section is for you to list what is in your package. Be as specific as possible, including the weight and value of each item. If your package contains any food or plants, you will need to declare them here.
Declared value
The value of your package. This is not the same as the cost of shipping. It is the value of the contents only. You will need to provide this information even if the total cost of shipping is more than the value of your package.
You will need to declare a total declared value for all packages you are sending out, not just individually. When you provide your address details at the post office or parcel shop, they will ask for this information on every package that is listed under your name.
These are the only things you are required to provide, though there are some other things that can make processing easier if they are mentioned.
Conclusion
Get the best kraft packaging boxes from a Custom Packaging solution. After you’ve been through all the steps to get your custom printed boxes, it would be a shame if they weren’t perfect. Their team of experts can help ensure that your packaging is top-notch and ready for shipment by watching out for these 15 common mistakes that people often make when ordering their customized boxes.
