Questions to Ask Yourself When Buying a Box

When it comes to packaging, choosing the right box is crucial. Whether you're shipping fragile items, packing for storage, or sending products to customers, the type of box you use can significantly impact protection, cost, and efficiency. But with so many options available, how do you know which one is best for your needs?

To help you make the right choice, here are some essential questions to ask yourself before buying a box.

What Am I Packing?

The first question to consider is what you’re packing. Are you shipping delicate glassware, heavy machinery parts, or lightweight clothing? The type of product determines the box strength, material, and size you need to ensure safe delivery or storage of your items.

• Fragile items require double walled boxes or reinforced boxes to prevent breakage along with warning tape to indicate that fragile items are within the box.
• Heavy products need sturdy corrugated boxes that can handle the weight.
• Lightweight items will be fine in a single wall cardboard box which doesn't require re-enforced cardboard.

What Size Box Do I Need?

Size matters when it comes to packaging. A box that is too big increases shipping costs and requires excessive void fill material, while one that is too small may not offer enough protection. Therefore the best thing to do is measure your items and choose a box that allows for a little cushioning space but isn’t excessively large.

Firstly measure the length and the width of your items, which will form the footprint of your box. Secondly, measure from the top to the bottom, which will give you the height of your box. Finally, for irregularly shaped items, imagine drawing straight lines around the outermost edges of your product(s) to create a rough outline. Then measure these dimensions for a rough idea of the box that will fit.

Using the correct box size helps:

• Reduce shipping expenses
• Minimise damage risks
• Optimise storage space

What Level of Protection Do I Need?

Different products require different levels of protection, so it's important to assess how sturdy your box needs to be. If you’re shipping fragile, heavy, or high-value items, extra precautions are necessary to prevent damage during transit or storage. If your shipping items such as clothes, paper based items or plastic items however you will not require as much protection.

• Fragile items (glassware, electronics, ceramics) need double walled boxes and bubble wrap for cushioning.
• Heavy items require reinforced corrugated boxes with strong fluting to prevent bending or collapse.
• Lightweight items however do not require as much protection, a single walled box will be sufficent for any item that is not deemed heavy or fragile.

Choosing the right box with the correct level of protection helps prevent damage, reduce returns, and ensure your items arrive safely.

Will the Box Be Used for Shipping or Storage?

Before purchasing a box, it's essential to determine whether it will primarily be used for shipping or storage, as both require different features.

For shipping, durability and impact resistance are key. The box should be able to withstand handling during transit, stacking in warehouses, and potential exposure to different weather conditions. Look for corrugated cardboard with strong fluting for extra strength. If you're shipping internationally, consider whether the box meets postal or courier regulations for weight and size restrictions.

For storage, the main considerations are stack ability, longevity, and environmental conditions. If the box will be stored in a damp area like a garage or warehouse, you may need moisture-resistant coatings or plastic-lined boxes. For businesses that keep boxes in long-term storage, it’s also important to choose crush-resistant designs that won’t collapse under the weight of other stacked boxes.

Additionally, if you need boxes that serve both purposes, opt for double walled or reinforced cardboard boxes that offer the best of both worlds - durability for shipping and strength for stacking in storage.

Is the Box Environmentally Friendly?

Sustainability is becoming increasingly important for businesses and consumers alike. If eco-friendly packaging matters to you, consider:

• Recycled materials – opt for boxes made from recycled or FSC-certified cardboard which most of our boxes are.
• Biodegradable options – some boxes are designed to break down naturally.
• Reusable designs – sturdy boxes can be repurposed multiple times even after the first, second and sometimes third use.

Do I Need Custom Branding?

If you’re a business, your packaging is an extension of your brand. Whether you’re an e-commerce business, a retail store, or a subscription box service, custom printed packaging can enhance customer perception and make a lasting impression.

Why Consider Custom Branded Boxes?

• Boost Brand Recognition: A well-designed box featuring your logo, company colours, and branding elements makes your business more memorable. When customers receive a branded package, they instantly recognise your company.
• Enhance the Unboxing Experience: With the rise of social media, an attractive, branded package can lead to organic marketing. Customers are more likely to share visually appealing packaging on platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube, giving your business free exposure.
• Improve Customer Perception: A high-quality, custom printed box conveys professionalism and adds a premium feel to your product. It shows that you care about presentation, which can increase customer trust and satisfaction.
• Stand Out from Competitors: In industries where packaging is standard, adding unique branding can set your business apart. If your competitors are using plain brown boxes, a branded package with your company logo and slogan can make a huge difference.
• Include Important Information: Custom printing allows you to display key details such as handling instructions, QR codes for tracking, social media links, or promotional messages directly on the box.

Custom printed packaging isn’t just for large companies, many small UK businesses are using branded packaging to enhance customer engagement and build a strong brand identity.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right box is about more than just picking any container - it’s about protection, cost-effectiveness, and efficiency. By asking yourself these key questions, you can make an informed decision and ensure your packaging works for your specific business needs.

Here at Parcelsend UK, we can offer you a wide range of high-quality packaging supplies, specifically cardboard boxes, that are perfect for safe and secure shipping and will meet all your shipping needs. Contact us today to learn more about our packaging solutions and find the best option for your business.