Picking the right box to send your product is as easy as picking the right shoe to wear. In fact, if you pick the wrong box for your product, you are likely to have issues with packaging prior to the shipment reaching your customers.
As there are so many different types of cardboard boxes available, you want to choose a box that will effectively protect your product, take up less space when packing, and make the overall process of shipping easier.
Choose The Right Size
Just because a cardboard box is large doesn’t mean it’s the best choice. If the box is significantly larger than the product, you will have to use more bubble wrap, paper, etc. to completely fill all of the empty space. This can still allow the product to shift while being shipped.
Conversely, using a cardboard box that is too small for your product can create issues as well. When you force an object into a tight box, you increase the likelihood of creating damage to both the item and the sides of the box.
When selecting a cardboard box, you should look for one that allows sufficient room for your product and some additional padding (bubble wrap, paper, foam, etc.) without excessive amounts of unused space.
Consider Weight
The size of the product is important when choosing a cardboard box; however, weight is equally as important. A light item may require no more than a standard corrugated cardboard box; whereas heavier items will probably require a stronger cardboard box designed to handle greater weights.
If you frequently ship heavy items, consider utilizing double-wall cardboard boxes. These offer even greater strength and protection against potential damage.
Consider The Journey
Your product may travel through numerous hands prior to reaching its destination. As such, the box itself must be able to withstand the rigors of being stacked in a truck, moved by conveyor belt systems, or having another package place atop it. Therefore, when choosing a cardboard box for your product, it is imperative that you select a sturdy enough box to survive the entire journey – from the time it leaves your desk until it reaches your customer.
Utilize Packing Materials Wisely
While a suitable cardboard box will serve as a foundation for protecting the contents within, additional support may be necessary. Bubble wrap, packing paper, foam, etc. can be used to occupy any empty areas within the box to prevent objects from moving around during transit.
Prior to closing the box, gently shake it. If you can see/hear movement of the products inside, you may require more cushioning.
Simplify The Packaging Process
Selecting the proper cardboard boxes can greatly simplify the packaging process while ensuring that products arrive at their destinations unscathed. To start this process begin by determining the dimensions/weight of your product. Consider what type of protection it requires as well as what potential dangers/products could encounter during shipping.
In most cases an ideal cardboard box will not need to be complex. An effective cardboard box should ideally meet three criteria:
* Be large enough for the product
* Provide adequate protection for the contents
* Survive the transportation route