Ecommerce product packaging covers everything from garment hang tags to mailer cartons, serving a huge purpose. It is not only the first look of your product but also serves as protection during the shipping process. Unfortunately, it is also one of the most overlooked marketing opportunities for online stores.
By 2029, it is estimated that online sales would accumulate to 6.49 trillion US dollars. This growth indicates that with the increasing numbers, it is important to focus on its shipping and packing process as well.
This guide will walk you through the basics of ecommerce packaging, how to find the best possible solution for your product, and an easy step-by-step tutorial to build your dream packaging.
Importance of Good Ecommerce Packaging
Ecommerce packaging serves three main purposes;
- Protecting your product
- Controlling your shipping costs
- Establishing your brand identity
First impressions last a lifetime and they are most important since it is actually the first time that you are seeing the product in real life. The first physical interaction accounts for customer retention. The unboxing experience is the first true impression of your brand.
Your customer expectation is built from simple digital images, but your business is responsible for meeting or exceeding customer expectations.
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Marketing & Branding
From the marketing perspective, ecommerce packaging is extremely important and provides a return on investment if you make proper arrangements.
Using the right design, you can create the perfect and meaningful packaging material that customers will never forget. In today’s competitive ecommerce market, creating a strong brand image is critical to success and packaging plays an essential role in achieving this.
Sharable Unboxing Experience
Unboxing videos are the new bar for good packaging. If a customer is putting in the effort to shoot an unboxing reel, edit it, and share it on their social media, it means that you have done a good job. User-generated content is the digital equivalent of word-of-mouth marketing, which is why it is immensely important to ensure that your brand is good enough for it!
10 Best Ecommerce Packaging Solutions
There are 10 types of ecommerce packaging solutions that your brand can focus on depending on the product.
- Corrugated boxes are durable and sturdy, which makes them ideal for shipping fragile or heavy products.
- Mailer boxes that are compact and branded, great for lightweight products and subscription boxes.
- Padded envelopes & bubble mailers are best for small, delicate items like jewelry or electronics.
- Poly mailers that are lightweight and waterproof, suitable for clothing and soft goods.
- Rigid boxes that are premium, high-end packaging for luxury items and gifts.
- Eco-friendly packaging that includes biodegradable mailers, compostable packaging, and recycled materials.
- Custom printed packaging that adds branding elements like logos, colors, and unique designs for a memorable unboxing experience.
- Tamper-proof packaging that ensures product safety and integrity, common in pharmaceuticals and food delivery.
- Flexible packaging (pouches & wraps) that is used for food, cosmetics, and liquid products, offering resealable options.
- Return-ready packaging that is designed for easy returns with dual adhesive strips or resealable features.
The Perfect Layering for your Ecommerce Packaging
These are the general types of packaging that your products can use, however, it is best if you divide your packaging into three parts.
- Primary packaging
This would be the innermost layer of packaging that comes in contact with your product. Therefore, it could be
- Blister packs
- Hang tags
- Glass or plastic bottles and jars
- Shrink wrap
- Stickers and labels
- Resealable pouches
- Drawstring fabric bags
- Bundling cord or tape
- Air-tight wrapping
- Clamshell packaging
- Paper bands
- Cardboard or plastic tubes
- Shoe boxes
- Jewelry boxes
- Cans
- Paper labels
This mainly depends on your product. For example, if you are working on coffee packaging for ecommerce store, the first layer of packing should be plastic wrap followed by a paper bag.
- Secondary packaging
This consists of the big boxes or bags that would carry the primary packaging. Most of the products require this extra layer so that the product doesn’t spill or chips from the corner. Bags for food items and padded envelopes for small products is your best bet.
Three types of secondary packaging can be:
- Corrugated boxes
- Padded envelopes
- Bags
- Tertiary packaging
This usually depends on your shipping provider, as these are the boxes that are the outermost layer for shipping and distributing the products. It protects products from damage during transit.
11 Steps to Create the Perfect Ecommerce Packaging for your Business
Creating the perfect ecommerce packaging is as important as coming up with the right product. Here is how you can create packaging that is worth documenting.
- Define your brand identity
Your packaging should reflect what your brand stands for. It should rightly demonstrate your brand’s aesthetics, values, and message.
Example: @glossier – Uses minimalist pink and white packaging that aligns with their modern beauty brand.
- Know Your Target Audience
Understanding your target audience plays a huge role in perfecting your ecommerce packaging. Design the first layer that resonates with your customers preferences.
Example: @lush – Uses eco-friendly, zero-waste packaging to attract sustainability-conscious consumers.
- Choose the Right Packaging Type
Select boxes, envelopes, mailers, or bags that best compliments your product needs. For example sturdy boxes or padded envelopes are the best fit for your makeup products.
Example: @apple – Uses rigid, minimalist boxes to enhance the premium unboxing experience.
- Prioritize Functionality & Protection
Ensure the packaging is safe enough for your product and is durable so that nothing gets damaged in transit.
Example: @nike – Uses sturdy shoe boxes with air holes for ventilation and branding.
- Incorporate Sustainable Materials
It is 2025 and if your brand is still not sustainable then you are missing out on a huge demographic. Opt for biodegradable, recyclable, or reusable packaging.
Example: @thebodyshop – Ships products in compostable mailers to reduce plastic waste.
- Create an Eye-Catching Design
Use prominent colors, typography, and visuals that reflect your brand image.
Example: @sephora – This makeup brand sticks to their black and white stripes.
- Add Custom Branding Elements
Include branding elements, such as logo, taglines, and brand story. You can also add seasonal wishes and limited edition illustrations.
Example: @starbucks – Their seasonal coffee cups enhance brand recall with unique illustrations.
- Ensure Clear Product Information
This is one of the most important elements, your focus should always be on making your product the hero when it comes to packaging. You should clearly display the ingredients, instructions, and benefits on the front.
Example: @drunkelephant – Uses bright labels with clean fonts for easy readability.
- Enhance the Unboxing Experience
Add additional elements, such as tissue paper, random stickers, or QR codes for an interactive feel. You can also do paper cuttings and other fun things if your product asks for it.
Example: @fentybeauty – Uses sleek magnetic boxes with product guides inside.
- Launch & Showcase on Social Media
Use Instagram Reels and Stories to highlight packaging and unboxing.
Example: @gymshark – Uses influencer partnerships and customer unboxing videos to showcase their sleek, minimal packaging.
Costing Dilemmas of the Ecommerce Packaging
How to effectively adjust your product pricing to incorporate ecommerce packaging costs?
- Calculate total packaging costs per unit and add it to your product offering while launching.
- Order the packaging in bulk so that you can reduce per unit costs.
- Charge extra for premium or extra packaging material as an add on.
- Highlight why your packaging is an important part of shopping with your brand to justify the pricing.
5 Brands Nailing Their Ecommerce Packaging Strategy
These 5 brands are nailing their ecommerce packaging.
- Apple (@apple) – Minimalist & Sustainable
- Kindle Pink – Pink, Playful & Branded
- Nike (@nike) – Bold & Sustainable
- Sephora (@sephora) – Premium & Stylish
- Allbirds (@allbirds) – Eco-Friendly & Functional
Conclusion – Creating Ecommerce Packages Worth Unboxing
Ecommerce packaging is more than just protection for your product—it’s a powerful branding tool that enhances the customer experience and drives engagement. By investing in well-designed, thoughtful packaging, you can increase customer loyalty, boost brand recognition, and create a lasting impression. Make your packaging an extension of your brand story, and turn every delivery into an experience worth unboxing!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is ecommerce packaging?
Ecommerce packaging refers to the materials and methods used to package products for online retail and delivery. It includes boxes, mailers, protective wrapping, and branded elements designed to ensure product safety, reflect the brand, and create an exceptional unboxing experience.
2. How can I make my ecommerce packaging more sustainable?
To make packaging more sustainable:
– Use recyclable, biodegradable, or compostable materials.
– Opt for minimalistic packaging that reduces waste.
– Choose reusable packaging options like tote bags or boxes.
– Avoid plastic fillers by using paper-based alternatives.
3. How do I choose the right packaging for my ecommerce business?
Consider these factors:
– Product size and fragility: Choose materials that protect products adequately.
– Brand image: Your packaging should reflect your brand’s aesthetic and values.
– Cost efficiency: Balance between quality and affordability.
– Environmental impact: Opt for eco-friendly materials whenever possible.
