I was recently reminded not every box needs to be as beautiful as we can make it. Some people just need a shipping box that will protect the product during shipment and maybe not draw too much attention. That may sound strange to most e-commerce people who are all about packaging that looks great and makes a great impression.
Porch Pirates and Other Shipping Problems 
You can easily find on social media dozens of videos of people stealing delivered USPS, UPS, or FedEx boxes from someone’s front door. I am surprised they are not always deterred by video door bells or other security systems, but it happens more often than you think. The bigger and more elaborate the box, the more likely it is to attract unwanted attention. So, in a way, it is back to basics for some of our customers who prefer effective, rather than decorative shipping containers.
Much depends on the product being shipped. For example, you can spot a CHEWY box from a block away, but who is going to risk being arrested for stealing dog food, treats or toys? The Chewy brand is very successful, and their packaging reflects that pride they have in that brand. Not to mention their commercials, which are incredibly well done. Any fan of “their peanut butter box” commercial will undoubtedly agree.
Shipping Safety and Security
Forgetting the box esthetics for a moment, what is most important to these industrial or non-retail shippers who are simply not focused on appearance? Based on a few decades of experience, I would suggest these are the top four priorities:
- Size – Oversized boxes often result in product movement (within the box) during shipment and often results in shipping damage. Read the related post below about right sizing.
- Protection – Using the correct size is important but creating internal packaging can save time and the cost of ancillary packaging such as foam, paper, etc.
- Cost – Right sizing, protective inserts, as well as board type, grade, etc. can all impact the cost per unit.
- Assembly – We review all facets of cost which go well beyond material expense. How quickly a box and insert can be formed, filled and sealed is important as are procurement and storage cost.
Experience Matters
You can see we look at your packaging from every perspective. You may overlook something that ends up costing you much more than you realize or expected. We solve problems before they happen because after 19 years and millions of boxes, we know where the potholes in the road are.
You can trust Salazar Packaging so call us at 630-551-1700 or contact us via this link. Our application review people are experienced non-commission, so your satisfaction is first and foremost. As we like to say, the correct, best custom box for any application, at the lowest possible cost.
Related posts:
https://www.salazarpackaging.com/e-commerce-packaging-what-it-means-to-be-application-driven/
https://www.salazarpackaging.com/services/structural-and-graphic-design/
https://www.salazarpackaging.com/even-amazon-makes-e-commerce-packaging-mistakes/
https://www.salazarpackaging.com/beginners-guide-to-e-commerce-packaging-design/