If your web site is the most effective method of communicating with potential customers, your e-commerce packaging is certainly the best way to impress and retain existing customers.
The challenge is determining how to best accomplish it on your DTC shipping boxes. Over the course of eighteen years, we have helped thousands of customers do that by lending our experience and guiding them to the best results. Here are a few questions to keep in mind as you develop your packaging graphic design.
- Seek guidance to determine the best printing process for your specific needs.
The vast majority (probably 75%) of the boxes we produce are printed using our flexographic print process. It offers the lowest cost, and it uses water-based inks, making it the most environmentally friendly print option. Recent advances in printing equipment technology result in higher speeds, two-sided print capabilities, and low minimums resulting from fast changeovers. Modern flexo equipment also produces high quality printing that rivals more expensive litho and digital printing.
- Are the rules different for the inside versus outside of a box?
There are no “rules” per se, but we usually encourage inside print on any type of e-commerce boxes. While a box exterior is typically soiled and damaged when it is received, the inside is usually clean and pristine. Since the inside of the lid on a die cut mailer is the first thing a customer sees when they open their box, it is a great place to print important graphics. Another great reason to print both sides of any box is the growing number of two-sided simultaneous print equipment we have available today. This means that printing in and out adds minimal cost, so why not? Even just a flood coat of color can make your product stand out and enhance the unboxing experience.
- When is too much copy counterproductive?
Years ago, a potential customer sent me his desired graphics which were approximately two pages of text he wanted to print on the outside of his DTC box. He referred to it as his “manifesto”, and that was a remarkably accurate name for it. I knew to fit all his copy on to the relatively small box, the characters would have to be tiny, making the copy difficult to print using a flexo print process, but more importantly difficult to read for the consumer. I also reminded him about the road wear, as well as the labels and tape that would partially cover his printed words. I was blunt and told him it was very unlikely his customers would ever want to or be able to read his copy. He took exception to it, and decided to go elsewhere, but I knew I was right. Customers are far more interested in the contents of the box they receive, not the printing on the exterior of it.
Creating and printing a custom printed e-commerce box can be expensive and full of costly pitfalls, especially for the inexperienced client. However, we provide options and information, so everyone can make an informed decision. Check out our gallery to see a small sample of the work we have done for others.
What is most important to you? Sustainability? Cost per unit? Allow our experienced, non-commission, branded packaging experts help you through every step. Call us at 630-551-1700 or contact us through this web site to discuss your project.
Related posts:
https://www.salazarpackaging.com/five-ways-to-reduce-the-cost-of-your-new-custom-e-commerce-box/
https://www.salazarpackaging.com/the-unboxing-experience-still-matters-in-2025/
https://www.salazarpackaging.com/salazar-packaging-gallery-updated-whats-new/
