eCommerce has emerged as one of the most successful and profitable businesses. It is expected that the eCommerce market will grow by at least 25% per year, which could lead to an increase in entrepreneurial activity in every country. Nevertheless, in order to succeed, every business has to face some challenges.

In this article, we will discuss one of the biggest challenges in the e-commerce industry and common packaging mistakes that must be addressed, as it may have an impact on your brand’s image and longevity over time. The problem is none other than packaging, which is often overlooked in this field and can easily lead to huge losses if neglected.

Below, we’ll discuss some of the most common packaging mistakes made by e-commerce businesses, along with how to rectify them. But first, let us understand what eCommerce packaging is.

What is eCommerce Packaging?

eCommerce packaging is how you protect your product, establish your brand identity, and control your shipping costs. It can both enhance your customer’s experience and improve your profitability.

Now that we know what packaging is, let’s look at some common packaging mistakes made by eCommerce businesses.

Common packaging mistakes you must avoid:

There are many businesses in the e-commerce market that commit common packaging mistakes every day that eat into their profits and sales.

One of the most common complaints consumers make is that their orders were not properly packaged and even arrived damaged. This is why we have prepared a list of the most common packaging mistakes made by e-commerce businesses that you should be aware of before starting your own business.

Complex packaging –

Packages that are hard to open and include extra wrapping ruin the unboxing experience of a customer. Too much packaging and excessive use of sticky tape also make it more difficult to open the package. 

Also, companies sometimes wrap flexible products, such as clothing and other fabric products, in complicated packaging, which is unnecessary and should be avoided.

Not spending enough on the packaging –

Packaging may not appear to be an essential part of a business at first. However, as time passes, you will realize that you neglected a critical step by not focusing on the packaging.

Most firms in the sector make this mistake by not spending enough in the early stages. As a result, they receive numerous complaints from customers, lowering their market reputation.

Usage of low-quality materials –

Companies in this field frequently purchase low-cost materials in bulk and utilize them for packaging, which may become a big mistake in the long run. Such cheap materials are more prone to damage during the logistics process, and they are more likely to retain moisture, which may damage the goods inside.

As a result, it is essential to use high-quality packing materials from reliable vendors. It decreases the possibility of the goods being returned, which may eventually cost you more which is one of the common packaging mistakes.

you can also go through the various ways to improve your product packaging

Inappropriate box size –

Using the wrong size boxes to package products is also a common packaging mistake made by eCommerce companies. Brands often ship small products in large boxes, which causes damage during shipment when there is too much movement. This also raises the overall cost of packaging.

Similarly, some companies use small-sized packaging to cover their products. These packages are prone to breaking or revealing their contents during shipping. As a result, it’s critical to select boxes that are of the correct size according to the product measurements.

Packaging without branding-

Branding your package is an important way to expand your reach. But many eCommerce firms skip customizing their packages. Even a simple personalized label or branded packaging tape can help you communicate your company’s identity.

Customized packaging can help you enhance brand recognition and sales. You can include personalized messages such as thank you cards, samples, and marketing inserts to provide your customers with a memorable unwrapping experience.

Ignoring return packages –

If you own an eCommerce business, you must already be aware that product returns are unavoidable. Customers may make a mistake when ordering, or the firm might make a mistake that leads to the product being returned.

Many firms make these costly blunders by making package returns difficult, which might cost them money in the long run. Therefore, return orders must be easy to process.

For example, shipping envelopes once opened cannot be reused. Instead, try perforated mailing bags or envelopes with an extra sealable “flap” that allows returned goods to be sent back in the same envelope quickly.

How to increase sales with good packaging?

Many e-commerce firms use a variety of methods to differentiate themselves from the competition and make their packaging stand out. This strategy helps them build a substantial social media following, which results in a significant increase in sales.

Here are some tips and tricks you can use to improve the packaging of your brand’s products, resulting in more sales and greater customer loyalty.

Make your packaging more eco-friendly –

If you take the initiative to be more eco-friendly with your packaging, you will be able to make your packing more cost-effective. And, as consumers have become more concerned about the environment, your customers will appreciate your efforts.

Design recyclable packaging –

Some foreign firms have joined this trend by changing their packaging to serve various functions.

The company makes reversible packaging that can be used to wrap gifts  for different occasions. Such innovative ideas will keep your brand picture in the consumer’s mind every time they see this package.

Include a thank you note in your package –

This strategy is used by many successful businesses and does a fantastic job of interacting with clients. It enhances the unboxing experience for your customers, and they are more likely to become emotionally linked to your brand. As a result, they are more likely to stick with your brand for a long time.

Mention your social media presence on the packaging- 

Informing your customers about your social media presence will increase your followers. Your social media accounts can provide customers with more information about your brand and products.

This will substantially improve your future advertising. And it will also facilitate a more personal relationship between you and your clients.

Conclusion:

Now that you have a better understanding of the common packaging mistakes made by firms, we hope you won’t make these mistakes yourself. And just like packaging, logistic aggregators also have a crucial role in an eCommerce business. If you’re looking for aggregators that are cost-effective, reliable, and ship your products securely without damaging them, Parceldeck is the answer to all of your eCommerce shipping problems.

And if you want to learn more about packaging your products securely, no need to worry; We have already covered in one of our blog.Check out our other blog, “eCommerce Packaging Tips to Deliver Products Securely,” for more information.