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As the New Year approaches, many businesses are gearing up for a fresh start—and that includes refining their shipping processes. How you package and ship your products during this last window of the holiday season can significantly impact both your bottom line and customer satisfaction. With the increased shipping demand and expectation of timely deliveries, optimizing your packaging is the best way to ensure your packages arrive safely and on time for the festivities. 7 Tips to Improve Your Packaging for the New Year’s Shipping Rush 1. Right-Sized Boxes Just like during the holiday season, New Year’s shipping requires careful attention to the size of your packaging. The right-sized box ensures that you’re not paying extra for empty space or wasting packaging materials. This is especially important for customers returning or exchanging items after New Year’s, as proper packaging prevents damage and helps streamline return processes. 2. Protective Packaging for Fragile Items The end of the year often sees a burst of last-minute purchases, including fragile or high-ticket items like electronics, glassware, or decor. Proper protective packaging materials (bubble wrap, foam inserts, anti-static bags) are essential to prevent any damage during shipping, which could negatively affect customer satisfaction and return rates after the New Year. 3. Modular Packaging Design Modular packaging can be adjusted to fit various product sizes. For instance, inserts or dividers can be rearranged based on the shape of the item(s) being packaged. This can reduce the need for multiple box sizes and simplify your packing process, especially when packaging multiple items for a single order. 4. Clear Shipping Labels and Proper Label Placement There can be a lot of confusion in shipping logistics both during and after the holiday rush, and misdirected packages are a common occurrence. Placing shipping labels properly and ensuring all information is correct will help avoid delays or mistakes in delivery. This is particularly important for orders that need to arrive by New Year’s Eve or New Year’s Day, as it may take weeks to sort out a misdirected package issue. 5. Sealing Your Packages Properly To help combat the surge in returns after the holidays, proper sealing of packages is essential to prevent damage during transit. Strong, quality packing tape and effective sealing methods will ensure that your packages are secure, reducing the chances of damage, tampering, or late arrivals. 6. Sustainable Packaging Many customers make resolutions to be more eco-conscious, and New Year’s is a great time to highlight any sustainable practices in your packaging. Using recyclable or biodegradable materials and minimizing packaging waste can help your brand align with the growing trend of sustainability, making customers feel good about their purchase. 7. Branded Packaging with a Festive Touch Stand out this New Year by combining branding with seasonal appeal. Custom-branded packaging or a New Year’s-themed design can create a memorable unboxing experience. Add a small, thoughtful touch like a thank-you note, a coupon for future purchases, or a resolution-themed message to show appreciation for your customers and encourage repeat business. Start the New Year off Right with Solutions from Preferred Packaging Products Since 1985, we have been the preferred packaging, logistics, and automation solution for businesses along the Colorado Front Range. We specialize in custom package development to help our customers maximize product protection, minimize material waste, and optimize shipping costs for their products. We also provide a wide selection of high-quality generic packaging products and materials to suit all of your packaging and business needs. Some other ways Preferred Packaging can help your business include: To see how Preferred Packaging Products can help your business, give us a call at (303) 444-4774 or get in touch with us online to get started.

The holiday season is a time of joy and excitement, but for ecommerce businesses, it’s also the busiest and most demanding time of the year. With order volumes surging and customer expectations at an all-time high, preparation is essential to meet these challenges head-on. Whether it’s ensuring your packaging process runs smoothly or partnering with multiple shipping carriers to prevent delays, scaling your logistics effectively can make the difference between a successful season and a stressful one. In this article, we’ll explore seven strategies that will help you scale your packaging and shipping processes, delight your customers, and make the most of the holiday rush. 7 Ways to Scale Your Packaging and Shipping for the Winter Holiday Rush 1. Streamline Your Packaging Process One of the most effective ways to prepare for the holiday rush is to streamline your packaging process. One way to save time is to identify your best-selling items and keep a number of them pre-packed and ready to ship as soon as an order comes in. Easy-to-use packaging materials like self-sealing mailers or protective envelopes can also save time and effort. It’s also important to avoid oversized packaging as it requires more filler materials, which can slow down your process. 2. Stock Up Early Supply chain issues are common during the holiday season, so stocking up on essential materials in advance is critical. Order plenty of packaging supplies, such as boxes, tape, bubble wrap, and labels, well before the holiday rush begins. Similarly, monitor your product inventory to ensure you don’t run out of popular items at a crucial time. Analyze past holiday sales data to better predict demand and adjust your inventory levels accordingly. Being prepared will help you avoid disruptions and ensure a smooth workflow. 3. Organize Your Workspace A well-organized packing station can significantly improve packaging efficiency. Dedicate a specific area for packaging and stock it with all the necessary supplies, such as tape, scissors, labels, bubble wrap, and shipping boxes. Arrange the materials in a logical sequence so they’re easy to grab while packing. If possible, set up separate areas for product storage, packing, and labeling to prevent congestion. Clear workspace organization will not only speed up your process but also minimize mistakes, such as incorrect labeling or forgotten items. 4. Plan for Shipping The surge in shipping demand during the holiday season can be a major bottleneck if not prepared for properly. Partner with multiple carriers to mitigate the risk of delays caused by relying on only one provider. Use shipping software to automate tasks such as label printing and rate comparison, saving you time and effort. It’s also important to prominently display cut-off dates for holiday delivery on your site in order to help manage customer expectations. 5. Hire Temporary Staff The holiday season often demands more hands on deck. If your workload increases significantly, consider hiring temporary staff to assist with packaging and shipping. Look for people who can work part-time or during peak hours to keep labor costs manageable. Ensure everyone is trained in your packaging and shipping process to maintain quality and efficiency. Even hiring just one or two extra workers can make a significant difference during high-demand periods. 6. Communicate with Customers Clear communication is key to maintaining customer satisfaction during the holidays. Update your website with estimated delivery times, cut-off dates, and any delays caused by high demand. Send order confirmation emails with tracking information so customers can monitor their packages. Offering this level of transparency not only reduces the number of customer service inquiries but also builds trust with your audience. If delays occur, proactive communication can turn a potentially negative experience into an opportunity to show your dedication to customer care. 7. Monitor Performance Finally, keep a close eye on your operations during the holiday rush. Use tools to track orders, monitor shipping times, and identify snags in your process. Regularly review customer feedback to address any recurring issues, such as delayed shipments or damaged packages. Making adjustments in real-time can prevent small problems from escalating. By staying vigilant, you’ll not only maintain efficiency but also deliver a consistently positive experience to your customers. ———- Be Prepared for the Holiday Shipping Rush with Solutions from Preferred Packaging Products Since 1985, we have been the preferred packaging, logistics, and automation solution for businesses along the Colorado Front Range. We specialize in custom package development to help our customers maximize product protection, minimize material waste, and optimize shipping costs for their products. We also provide a wide selection of high-quality generic packaging products and materials to suit all of your packaging and business needs. Some other ways Preferred Packaging can help your business include: To see how Preferred Packaging Products can help your business, give us a call at (303) 444-4774 or get in touch with us online to get started.

As the holiday season approaches, businesses and individuals alike face the high-stakes challenge of getting gifts and goods to loved ones on time. While this may not be much of an issue when shipping within the US, sending packages internationally can take much longer depending on the destination region and country. Regardless of the destination, timing is everything to avoid delays and disappointment. Each carrier has various cut-off dates for services in order to better guarantee that packages will arrive in time for the holidays. However, with a range of shipping options—from economy to express—these cut-off dates vary widely depending on the destination and service type. In this guide, we’ll break down the must-know 2024 holiday shipping deadlines for each major US shipping carrier, ensuring you’re prepared to spread holiday cheer without a hitch. Key Shipping Dates for The 2024 Holiday Season FedEx Shipping within the US: Shipping Internationally: UPS Shipping within the US: Shipping Internationally: USPS Shipping within the US: The shipping deadlines for the contiguous United States are: For Hawaii and Alaska, the deadlines are: Shipping Internationally: DHL: A Popular Option For International Shipping Although nowhere near as prevalent in domestic US shipping compared to USPS, FedEx, or UPS, DHL is an incredibly popular shipping carrier outside of the US. This is due to its extensive global network of over 220 countries and territories, as well as their expertise in cross-border logistics. This could make DHL an appealing option for shipping packages internationally, especially to locations where other carriers may not have as much of a presence. DHL’s exact international cut-off dates for the holiday season vary by region and destination country. Many locations have final holiday cut-offs around December 15 for standard international services and closer to December 18-20 for Express options. Due to differences in regional holidays, specific restrictions may apply around December 24-26 for countries in Asia, Europe, and other destinations. The best way to ensure on-time international delivery with DHL is to consult their official site or customer support for precise destination dates​. Protect Every Gift and Deliver Holiday Cheer with Preferred Packaging Products Since 1985, we have been the preferred packaging logistics, and automation solution for businesses along the Colorado Front Range. We specialize in custom package development to help our customers maximize product protection, minimize material waste, and optimize shipping costs for their products. We also provide a wide selection of high-quality generic packaging products and materials to suit all of your packaging and business needs. Some other ways Preferred Packaging can help your business include: To see how Preferred Packaging Products can help your business, give us a call at (303) 444-4774 or get in touch with us online to get started.

The holiday season brings with it both excitement and challenges for businesses. As the busiest time of the year, it requires careful planning and strategic adjustments to meet heightened customer expectations and the surge in shipping activity. Ensuring that every aspect of the business, from logistics to customer service, can handle the pressures of this busy time will lead to both satisfied customers and a prosperous end to the year. In this article, we’ll provide some helpful tips to make sure you are prepared to meet the increased shipping demand during the holidays: 7 Ways to Prepare Your Business for the Holiday Packaging Season 1. Inventory Management Managing your inventory effectively is one of the most essential parts of handling the holiday season. Start by evaluating past holiday seasons and recent purchasing trends to forecast demand accurately. Ensure optimal stock levels of both products and packaging materials. Overstocking things could tie up cash flow, while understocking risks running out of popular items (or packages to ship them in) during peak times. 2. Shipping Carrier Coordination Build strong relationships with shipping carriers early on. Many carriers, like UPS, FedEx, and USPS, face surges in demand during the holidays. It’s crucial to negotiate rates, understand cutoff dates for holiday delivery, and establish contingency plans for potential delays or capacity issues. 3. Packaging Efficiency Shipping costs can increase dramatically during the holiday rush if your packaging isn’t optimized for size and weight. If generic packaging solutions aren’t helping to meet your expectations, consider designing custom packaging to provide maximum protection and minimum shipping costs. 4. Clear Communication with Customers Clearly communicate shipping deadlines, expedited delivery dates and times, and any holiday-specific shipping promotions. Setting realistic delivery expectations can help reduce customer complaints and manage last-minute order pressure. Provide tracking information and regular updates to customers throughout the shipping process. 5. Team Preparation and Flexibility The holiday season often requires additional staffing to handle the seasonal rush. Cross-train employees to handle various aspects of the packaging and shipping process to maintain flexibility during busy periods. Ensure that your team is prepared for extended work hours or increased workload, and consider temporary hires if needed. 6. Technology and Automation Streamline your packaging process by investing in automated packaging systems if possible, or by pre-packaging popular items. Use software to automate shipping labels, tracking, and order fulfillment processes. Integrating your e-commerce platform with shipping carriers can reduce manual work, minimize errors, and speed up fulfillment. 7. Sustainability Considerations The holiday season generates a lot of waste, so consider using eco-friendly packaging materials. Customers are increasingly mindful of sustainability, and offering environmentally friendly options can also enhance your brand image during the holidays. Help Prepare Your Business for the Holiday Packaging and Shipping Surge with Preferred Packaging Products Since 1985, we have been the preferred packaging logistics, and automation solution for businesses along the Colorado Front Range. We specialize in custom package development to help our customers maximize product protection, minimize material waste, and optimize shipping costs for their products. We also provide a wide selection of high-quality generic packaging products and materials to suit all of your packaging and business needs. Some other ways Preferred Packaging can help your business include: To see how Preferred Packaging Products can help your business, give us a call at (303) 444-4774 or get in touch with us online to get started.

As online shopping continues to grow, so does the need for smarter packaging solutions. Traditional stock packaging, while widely used, may not fully protect products during transit, can increase material and shipping costs, and also fails to take advantage of key opportunities to promote your brand. This is where fitted packaging comes into play, custom packaging solutions that can address these issues and are quickly becoming the go-to choice for better packaging. In this article, we’ll explore how fitted packaging is transforming shipping practices and why it’s a game-changer for businesses looking to stand out in a crowded market: 7 Reasons to Consider Custom Fitted Packaging for Your Products 1. When You Ship Fragile or High-Value Items For delicate items such as electronics, glassware, or medical devices, fitted packaging provides the necessary cushioning and protection to prevent damage during shipping. High-value items also benefit from the extra protection, reducing the risk of loss due to damage. 2. When You Ship Oddly-Shaped or Custom Products When products have unique shapes or sizes that aren’t well-suited for stock packaging, fitted packaging ensures a snug fit, minimizing movement and potential damage. Custom products, in particular, often require custom packaging design in order to ensure safety during shipping. 3. When You Want to Improve Your Branding and Customer Experience For businesses that prioritize branding and want to create a memorable unboxing experience, fitted packaging allows for a tailored design that aligns with brand aesthetics. This is especially important for luxury goods, subscription boxes, and other products that rely heavily on customer perception. 4. When You Want to Reduce Shipping and Material Costs Fitted packaging design optimizes overall package size and weight, which generally leads to lower shipping costs. By eliminating excess space and materials used in their packages, businesses also save on material costs. 5. When You Must Comply With Product Safety Regulations Certain industries, like electronics or pharmaceuticals, may have certain regulations regarding packaging to ensure product safety during transport. Custom packaging designed to meet these regulations allows businesses to avoid fines or penalties. 6. When You Want to Reduce Return Rates Products that are frequently damaged during shipping will inevitably lead to high return rates, which can be both costly for businesses and damaging to their reputation. Fitted packaging can significantly reduce the likelihood of damage, leading to fewer returns and increased customer satisfaction. 7. When You Want to Promote Green Business Practices Custom packaging can be designed using eco-friendly materials, as well as optimized for package size and material usage. This can help businesses reduce both material waste and their carbon footprint during shipping. The Benefits of Fitted Packaging vs Stock Packaging Options Fitted packaging is custom designed specifically for the product’s dimensions, ensuring a snug fit that minimizes movement during shipping. The packaging materials can be selected based on the product’s needs, such as moisture resistance, impact protection, or anti-static materials. Fitted packaging allows businesses to optimize package size and weight, which can reduce shipping costs. The enhanced protection that custom packaging provides also reduces the likelihood of damage during shipping, leading to fewer returns and replacements, saving on associated costs. Fitted packaging can be custom designed to create a memorable unboxing experience. Beyond aesthetics, custom packaging also allows for functional enhancements, such as easy-open features, resealable designs, or built-in instructions, adding additional value to the customer experience. Fitted packaging design uses less material than oversized stock packaging and filler materials, which reduces waste. Smaller, lighter packages also reduce the overall carbon footprint associated with transportation. Additionally, businesses can implement eco-friendly materials in their custom packaging design to further minimize their environmental impact. Custom packaging offers a unique opportunity to differentiate your product from competitors. A well-designed package can make a strong first impression and contribute to brand recognition. The tailored fit, along with branded designs, also adds to the product’s perceived value and enhances customer satisfaction. Examples of Custom Fitted Packaging Solutions ———- Make Sure Your Packaging Leaves a Lasting Impression with Preferred Packaging Products Since 1985, we have been the preferred packaging, logistics, and automation solution for businesses along the Colorado Front Range. We specialize in custom package development and can help you optimize your packaging to maximize product protection, minimize material and shipping costs, and keep customers happy. We also offer a wide selection of high-quality generic packaging materials and products to suit all of your packaging and business needs. Some other ways Preferred Packaging can help your business include: To see what Preferred Packaging Products can do for your business, give us a call at (303) 444-4774 or get in touch with us online to get started.

In the bustling world of online shopping, first impressions matter more than ever. When a customer receives their package, it’s not just about what’s inside–nowadays packaging has become a key part of a brand’s identity. From the look and feel of premium materials to the thrill of the unboxing experience, quality packaging can make customers happier, build brand loyalty, and even boost the product’s perceived value. In this article, we’ll dive into how quality packaging materials and design can turn a simple delivery into an unforgettable experience for your customers: 6 Keys Ways in Which Packaging Affects Customer Happiness 1. First Impressions and Brand Perception Packaging plays a significant role in first impressions and brand perception. Quality packaging can make a huge difference in how customers see your brand. An awesome unboxing experience with aesthetically pleasing and well-crafted packaging can leave a lasting impression. Well-designed and sturdy packaging also improves brand perception by showing that you value your packaging just as much as the products inside. 2. Protection and Security Packaging also serves as the primary protection for products during shipping. Investing in high-quality packaging materials leads to fewer cases of damaged goods and happier customers. Features like moisture-resistant materials, anti-static protection, and tamper-evident seals can also go a long way in giving customers peace of mind knowing their items are secure. 3. Convenience and Usability Convenience is a significant factor in customer satisfaction. Packaging that is easy to open can greatly enhance the user experience. There’s nothing more frustrating for a customer than struggling to open a package, especially if it requires tools or excessive effort. Additionally, for products that aren’t used all at once, resealable packaging is a huge plus. Considering these types of little conveniences in your package design can make a big difference in overall customer satisfaction. 4. Sustainability and Environmental Impact In today’s eco-conscious world, customers appreciate packaging made from sustainable, recyclable, or biodegradable materials. Utilizing environmentally-friendly materials can show that you align with customers’ values, leaving them satisfied in choosing your business for their purchases. Minimalist packaging is a popular implementation of eco-friendly design principles, utilizing clean, simplistic designs to avoid unnecessary waste. 5. Information and Presentation Quality packaging isn’t just about protection and aesthetics; it can also be used to provide valuable information. Clear, concise information on the packaging helps customers understand and use your products better. Having all necessary info about a product, such as assembly instructions or how to set up a smart device, displayed on the inside of the packaging when opened can be much more eye-catching and effective than using a normal instruction manual. 6. Brand Loyalty and Repeat Purchases Memorable packaging can make your brand hard to forget, encouraging customers to consider you first for future purchases. Studies have shown that 56% of customers stay loyal to brands that “get them”, and that almost 65% of a company’s business comes from existing (i.e. repeat) customers. A great unboxing experience can also lead to customers sharing their experience with family, friends, or social media, which provides powerful (and free!) word-of-mouth marketing for your company. Make Sure Your Packaging Leaves a Lasting Impression with Preferred Packaging Products Since 1985, we have been the preferred packaging, logistics, and automation solution for businesses along the Colorado Front Range. We specialize in custom package development and can help you optimize your packaging to maximize product protection, minimize material and shipping costs, and keep customers happy. We also offer a wide selection of high-quality generic packaging materials and products to suit all of your packaging and business needs. Some other ways Preferred Packaging can help your business include: To see what Preferred Packaging Products can do for your business, give us a call at (303) 444-4774 or get in touch with us online to get started.

Packaging used to be an afterthought of the e-commerce industry; something that would ensure products arrive at their destination safely. For years, finding the cheapest boxes and filler materials was a good way to save on shipping costs and maximize profits. Thankfully, the industry has become more conscious that product packaging, and the quality of materials used, can have an incredible impact not only on protecting products, but affecting the company’s image, customer confidence, and even our environmental footprint. In this article, we’ll break down seven key reasons why it’s important to invest in high-quality packaging materials for your e-commerce business: 7 Reasons Why Quality Packaging Materials Are Important for Businesses 1. Improved Product Protection High-quality packaging materials provide better protection for products during transit. This reduces the risk of damage caused by shocks, drops, rough handling, environmental factors, and accidents. Guaranteeing that products arrive in perfect condition ensures customer satisfaction and minimizes costly returns or refunds. 2. Better Brand Image and Reputation A product’s packaging is often the first impression that a customer gets for a product and your company as a whole. Choosing cheaper, low-quality packaging materials can have a serious impact on your brand image and reputation. High-quality, well-designed packing can create a positive first impression and be used to reinforce the brand’s image and values. Choosing quality packaging materials shows that the company cares about its products and the customer experience, which can lead to increased brand loyalty. 3. Enhanced Customer Experience and Confidence Customers appreciate receiving their orders in excellent condition, and high-quality packaging plays a large part in this experience. Packaging can also enhance the unboxing experience, making it memorable and shareable, which can lead to positive word-of-mouth and social media promotion. 4. Long-Term Cost Efficiency While high-quality packaging materials may have a higher upfront cost, they can actually save money in the long run. Better protection means fewer damaged goods, which reduces the costs associated with returns, replacements, and refunds. Additionally, durable packaging materials can reduce the need for excessive filler materials, leading to further savings on material costs and reduced material waste. 5. Improved Sustainability and Environmental Impact Many high-quality packaging materials are designed to be eco-friendly. Investing in sustainable packaging materials can reduce the company’s environmental footprint, appeal to environmentally-conscious consumers and comply with regulatory requirements.This can also improve the company’s image and attract a broader customer base. 6. Ensures Compliance with Shipping Standards Different industries have specific regulations regarding the packaging of products, especially for hazardous or perishable goods. Quality packaging materials are generally designed to meet these stringent requirements. This is especially important for businesses that ship internationally, as quality packaging can avoid issues with international shipping standards and customs. 7. Good Synergy with Marketing Efforts Packaging is an extension of a company’s marketing efforts. High-quality, visually appealing packaging can grab people’s attention, convey important information about the product, or even tell a story that resonates with consumers. Quality packaging can help the product to stand out from competitors and become an integral part of your products as a whole. ———- See The Difference That Quality Packaging Materials Can Make With Preferred Packaging Products Since 1985, we have been the preferred packaging, logistics, and automation solution for businesses along the Colorado Front Range. We specialize in custom package development and can help you optimize your packaging to maximize product protection, minimize material and shipping costs, and keep customers happy. We also offer a wide selection of high-quality generic packaging materials and products to suit all of your packaging and business needs. Some other ways Preferred Packaging can help your business include: To see what Preferred Packaging Products can do for your business, give us a call at (303) 444-4774 or get in touch with us online to get started.

Shipping costs can be a significant expense for businesses, often impacting their bottom line more than anticipated. There are a variety of factors that influence shipping costs, including package dimensions and weight, shipping options, and carrier choices. Understanding these factors can help businesses select the most cost-effective options and streamline their shipping processes, ultimately saving money. In this article, we’ll explore the key factors that affect shipping costs and what you can do to keep expenses manageable: The Key Factors That Affect Shipping Costs 1. Package Characteristics The primary factor in determining shipping costs is package weight. Heavier packages cost more to ship, so it’s important to minimize package weight as much as possible. Using lightweight packaging materials and avoiding overpacking are the best ways to reduce weight and minimize costs. The size of a package also affects shipping costs. Carriers use dimensional weight pricing for packages, which includes its length, width, and height. Businesses should choose appropriately-sized boxes and consider custom-sized packaging in order to optimize shipping dimensions. The type and quality of packaging materials used can also influence shipping costs. Materials that add significant weight or require special handling tend to increase shipping fees. Investing in high-quality, durable materials will ensure that packages are as small and lightweight as necessary. Special handling requirements for fragile items, hazardous materials, and the like can increase shipping costs due to the need for extra care or regulatory compliance. It’s important to clearly label packages and work with carriers to ensure proper handling, which will reduce the risk of damaged items or issues caused by non-compliance. 2. Delivery Specifications The distance between the origin and destination of a package greatly impacts shipping costs. Having to travel longer distances and shipping zones generally results in higher shipping fees. Using regional fulfillment centers is a good way to reduce shipping distances and costs. The delivery speed selected (overnight, two-day, standard) also significantly affects shipping costs. Offering customers multiple shipping options and encouraging customers to choose standard or ground shipping can significantly lower shipping costs. Shipping to rural or more remote areas can be more expensive than shipping to urban or suburban areas. International shipping tends to be even more expensive due to customs and tariffs. Using shipping calculators will help to estimate shipping costs accurately, and businesses should also consider charging extra for remote or international shipping to offset the higher costs. 3. Carrier and Service Options Different carriers (USPS, FedEx, UPS, etc.) have varying rates for their services. Comparing carriers and their service rates will allow businesses to find the most cost-effective options for their needs. Adding insurance and tracking to shipments increases costs but provides extra protections and peace of mind to customers. However, certain non-fragile items may not necessarily need insurance if the chances of arriving damaged are low. It’s important to evaluate the necessity of insurance and tracking based on the type of product and value of the shipment. Most carriers apply fuel surcharges that fluctuate with the price of fuel. Staying informed of carrier fuel surcharge policies will allow businesses to better plan their shipping budget. 4. External Factors Peak seasons (e.g., holidays) tend to increase shipping costs due to higher demand. Planning ahead for peak season and negotiating rates with carriers can help to offset these seasonal variations, which can lead to huge savings during the holiday rush. International shipments often incur customs duties, taxes, and additional handling fees. Researching the destination country’s regulations and including these costs in your pricing strategy will help to avoid surprises for both you and your customers. Ensure That Your Packaging Is Optimized for Shipping with Preferred Packaging Products Since 1985, we have been the preferred packaging, logistics, and automation solution for businesses along the Colorado Front Range. We specialize in custom package development and can help you optimize your packaging to maximize product protection, minimize material and shipping costs, and keep customers happy. We also offer a wide selection of high-quality generic packaging materials and products to suit all of your packaging and business needs. Some other ways Preferred Packaging can help your business include: To see what Preferred Packaging Products can do for your business, give us a call at (303) 444-4774 or get in touch with us online to get started.

Because of the fast-paced, “click and forget” nature of e-commerce, the process of packaging and shipping products is often an afterthought in the minds of most consumers. However, this process is made up of a complex web of costs that businesses must untangle in order to make a successful delivery. It’s essential that businesses understand the true costs of packaging in order to minimize their expenses while still providing quality packaging that protects their products during shipping. In this article, we’ll break down packaging costs and some of the hidden factors that impact both businesses and consumers alike: Exploring the Costs of Packaging and Shipping 1. Packaging Materials Packaging materials are the foundation of any business that ships products. There are a wide variety of packaging materials, including corrugated cardboard, bubble mailers, and padded envelopes, each better suited for certain products than others. Package size plays a major factor in material costs. Optimizing package sizes is the best way to minimize material costs and reduce material waste without sacrificing product safety. Purchasing packaging materials in bulk is also a good way to lower unit costs, but businesses also have to consider the higher upfront costs as well as having the space to store large volumes of materials. 2. Filler and Cushioning Materials Filler materials play a vital role in keeping products safe during transit. Bubble wrap, packing peanuts, air pillows, and more all provide essential cushioning, but costs can quickly get out of hand if they’re not used efficiently. Although the number one priority should be product safety, it’s important to find cost-effective options that provide adequate protection. Eco-friendly alternatives such as recycled paper and biodegradable packing peanuts can help manage costs while also promoting sustainability. 3. Tape and Labels Adhesive tape and labels are essential items for being able to secure packages and ensure that they reach their destination without issue. The costs associated with these items can add up quicker than one might think, especially for businesses that ship in high volumes. It’s important to invest in high quality tape and labels, so businesses should try to purchase these items in bulk or explore reusable alternatives to offset these costs. 4. Shipping Costs Shipping often takes up a significant portion of a company’s expenses if it is not handled properly. There are a variety of expenses that play into shipping costs, including package dimensions, weight, and destination. Packaging choices can greatly affect shipping costs, so it’s crucial that businesses optimize their package size and weight to cut down on shipping costs without sacrificing product safety. 5. Additional Considerations In addition to the upfront costs of packaging materials and shipping, there are other “hidden” expenses that can affect costs for businesses and prices for consumers, including: These hidden costs can significantly impact overall business expenses, so they shouldn’t be overlooked when developing packaging strategies. ———- Maximize Your Savings on Packaging and Shipping with Preferred Packaging Products Since 1985, we have been the preferred packaging, logistics, and automation solution for businesses along the Colorado Front Range. We specialize in custom package development and can help you optimize your packaging to maximize product protection, minimize material and shipping costs, and keep customers happy. We also offer a wide selection of high-quality generic packaging materials and products to suit all of your packaging and business needs. Some other ways Preferred Packaging can help your business include: To see what Preferred Packaging Products can do for your business, give us a call at (303) 444-4774 or get in touch with us online to get started.

What is Connected Packaging? In today’s digital age, packaging isn’t just a means to contain and protect products–it’s a gateway to a world of connectivity and enhanced consumer experiences. Connected packaging represents the fusion of physical products with digital technologies. It works by integrating IoT (Internet of Things) features such as QR codes, RFID chips, and smart sensors either on or within packaging to provide extra features or information. Connected packaging offers nearly limitless content possibilities, such as digital user manuals, links to similar products on the company’s online storefront, and even interactive games. These technologies allow people to interact with products in new and exciting ways, building a better connection between consumers, products, and companies. Examples of Connected Packaging 1. QR Codes and NFC Tags QR codes and NFC tags can be used to provide consumers with a treasure trove of information. Detailed product descriptions, instruction manuals, promotional offers, customer reviews, and other valuable content can all be accessed instantly via a quick scan or tap. 2. RFID Tags RFID tags can be integrated into packaging to allow businesses to track products through the supply chain. This can greatly improve inventory management while also safeguarding brand image by acting as a deterrent against counterfeiting, tampering, or theft. 3. Smart Labels Smart labels can be used to store digital documentation like shipping manifests and customs declarations on packages for more efficient shipping. Smart labels can also monitor environmental conditions such as humidity, temperature, and shocks/vibrations while in transit. Businesses can also use smart labels with tamper-evident features to enhance product security and reduce the likelihood of tampering or theft along the supply chain. 4. Augmented Reality (AR) Packaging Augmented reality packaging can transform ordinary packaging into an immersive and interactive experience. Scanning a package can provide consumers with interactive product demonstrations, like being able to see how a piece of furniture or appliance would look in someone’s home by overlaying virtual models onto their camera feed. AR packaging can also be used for storytelling and brand engagement, like taking consumers on virtual tours of production facilities or showcasing the company’s origins and values. Why Connected Packaging is Essential for Businesses 1. Enhanced Consumer Engagement One of the main advantages that connected packaging brings to businesses is that it creates opportunities to connect with consumers on a deeper level. Interactive experiences and personalized content add perceived value and quality to products, helping to improve customer retention and brand loyalty. 2. Data-Driven Insights Connected packaging can give businesses valuable insights into consumer behavior, preferences, and usage patterns. Businesses can use this data to develop more effective marketing strategies, supply chain optimizations, and even new products in order to respond to consumer demands. 3. Supply Chain Efficiency and Transparency Connected packaging is an incredibly powerful tool for businesses to facilitate better monitoring and efficiency across the supply chain. Businesses can track product and raw material movements in real-time, promote better communication and collaboration among supply chain partners, and optimize their inventory management. 4. Differentiation and Competitive Advantage Connected packaging can help set brands apart from competitors by offering unique and memorable experiences and providing added value to products. Businesses can incorporate these technologies into their packaging to create a better sense of quality, value, and trust, helping to differentiate their products and establish a competitive edge. Explore How You Can Integrate Technology Into Custom Package Design with Preferred Packaging Products Since 1985, we have been the preferred packaging, logistics, and automation solution for businesses along the Colorado Front Range. We specialize in custom package development and can help you optimize your packaging to maximize product protection, minimize material and shipping costs, and keep customers happy. We also offer a wide selection of high-quality generic packaging materials and products to suit all of your packaging and business needs. Some other ways Preferred Packaging can help your business include: To see what Preferred Packaging Products can do for your business, give us a call at (303) 444-4774 or get in touch with us online to get started.