Something which comes up an awful lot in the packaging channels of this world, is how best to design packaging suited to a subscription service.

Given our love of all things design and packaging, we thought we’d share some core tips on the sorts of things you need to consider about your packaging designs.

Using the example of a box, this will range from the dimensions of the box to the type of box used.

We follow with some pointers around graphic design and also cover the often overlooked aspect of enhanced advertising.

Many businesses will tell you that it’s often very easy to get carried away with the design elements of a new packaging idea.

While it’s fundamental to the success of a brand’s image and perception, it’s not all about design – choosing the right style and size of the box can hugely impact your profitability.

Size Matters – Think Inside The Box

Make sure you’re clear on exactly what will be going in the box or packaging each time you send it and try to use as small a box as possible.

This will help you in a number of ways:

Lower costs on manufacturing and materials (namely cardboard).

A smaller box, and subsequently a reduction in the weight of the box, leaves more allowance for weight of the items themselves, resulting in lower overall shipping costs.

Client retention: customers will perceive the contents to be of greater value – the smaller the box, the fuller it seems

Whereas, if your box is too big and there’s too much space for your products, it will seem underfilled.

In cases where you need to send larger packaging to accommodate an anomaly item, go for two!

Even with two on the odd occasion, you’ll find that you still achieve a saving on your shipping costs – 11 months smaller box and 1 month two boxes.

What’s Your Style?

There are a lot of factors to consider here:

Is your box suitable to ship as it is, or will you need a secondary box to ship it in?

What about the style?

Keep in mind your budget here: 2-piece trays tend to give an impression of higher quality but this might mean you need to use a secondary shipping box – increasing your shipping costs.

On the other hand, tuck-fold closures are great for rapid production. You can cut down on labour and packing time by packing in advance.

One great tip is to use the shipping label as the securing tape.

Holding on to the pennies? Then the classic stock box aka one-piece folder cut-out might be the right option for you.

However, if you want a custom, non-stock shape then you may find you need to purchase the box-shape-cutter itself, once you’ve had it made.

Think Outside The Box

The best way to think of your box is as a piece of directly mailed advertising with a 100% engagement rate!

It’s like sending an email you know is going to be opened.

This is your opportunity to sell through your packaging.

It’s completely up to you what elements you include, whether calls to action, offers or incentives.

Think social media sharing prompts, upsell offers or refer a friend options as great ways to increase sales.

Whatever it is, remember to test and measure.

Graphic design & Artwork

Creating your own artwork is extremely rewarding but equally time consuming and difficult to do if you want a really professional finish.

If you don’t have an in-house graphic designer, then don’t despair!

We have a team dedicated to designing and producing fully bespoke, personal designs that are the perfect representation of your brand.

Generally speaking, on the graphic design and printing front, the more varied and full of colour your design, the more it’ll cost to print.

Using laminate coverings can create a very clean cut finish suited to more premium-styled packages.

Stay aware of the different features, forms and styles as these will either hurt or boost your bottom line in different ways!

Partner Up!

At Takeaway Packaging we provide a completely custom packaging service to suit any brand.

With our packaging and design expertise alongside our legendary joke-telling and enviable good looks, we make the perfect partner for your subscription packaging service.

To find out much more about the options available, drop us a line and let’s chat!