Your packaging is the first interaction your customer has with your product. Whether that’s seeing it, or picking it up, holding it, and reading about your product inside.
Choosing the right packaging will tell your customer about the product’s quality, importance, and what to expect. That means your packaging is just as important as your product.
With all the packaging and box options available in the market, it can be difficult for brands to pick the best choice for their products. This blog will give you an understanding of the various options available to you, and which you might choose.
Contact Bennett today about your packaging needs
Understanding the differences between various levels of packaging is critical to understand what is best for your product.
Read on to get a quick overview of all three types of packaging.
This is the type of packaging that your customer comes in direct contact with.
This is the retail packaging that secures your product.
Primary Packaging is best designed to make your product look more appealing.
You should invest most of your budget into this packaging type.
This packaging is used for stock-keeping, typically referred to as a SKU.
It is focused on securing your primary packaging (and your product) in a stack to facilitate movement and storage.
It also provides additional protection to your packaging and products.
This is focused on safely moving primary packaging and protecting it from damage.
These can also serve as small shipments, and are used regularly in e-commerce.
Secondary packaging has multiple components: a box, padding, separators, reinforcements, bags, paper, and more. It is customized to your product and packaging.
Finally, this packaging is used typically as bulk or transit packaging.
This is focused on moving larger quantities of units during freight / shipping.
During shipping, your products are handled as “distribution units”, and the packaging is focused on moving large and heavy loads efficiently.
Paperboard is a lightweight, but solid, paper-based material. It’s great at making custom shapes and structures, and can be quickly cut and manipulated.
This makes it extremely suitable for customized packaging. It is made into pulp by turning and then bleaching fibrous materials that come from wood or recycled waste paper. It comes in different grades, each appropriate for various requirements for packaging.
There are two main options, SBS (bleached) or Kraft / CUK (unbleached “brown”) paperboard. Both options are commonly used, but Kraft is more eco-friendly.
But Kraft is less moisture resistant, which makes it less suitable for wrapping food-related items or frozen goods.
Corrugated actually refers to what is typically called cardboard. Cardboard boxes are most known as the large shipping, shoe, storage boxes, and moving boxes.
It consists of three layers of paper. An outside liner, an inside liner and a corrugated medium (called fluting). This corrugation gives the cardboard its strength and stiffness.
This packaging is made of raw material that is mostly recycled. The great news about this packaging is that it can be recycled multiple times!
There are various kinds of corrugated boards, single-faced, double-faced, twin wall, and triple wall. They can be used to manufacture packaging with distinct features, performance and power.
For e-commerce and product packaging, it has become a common packaging option as well. It’s cheap, lightweight, and cost effective at protecting packaging in the mail.
Next, this packaging is typically used for luxury items, or high end electronics. Think Apple, Tiffany, Rolex, etc.
It is similar to corrugated, but it’s stronger because it’s made out of highly condensed paperboard. It’s 4x thicker than a standard folding carton!
This is one of the most expensive corrugated options, but for good reason. It signals to the customer that your product deserves the upgrade in cost.
A big downside of this packaging is the difficulty in efficiency. Apple has done a great job, but not every can maximize the air-reduction inside the box, and are therefore shipping empty space.
This type of packaging is used in a variety of industries. Typically seen in electronics, medical, food, cosmetics, and even some beverages.
Another type of paperboard made out of reclaimed paper stock, it can be cut, folded, and formed into almost any shape. That makes it an extremely cost-effective option.
Chipboard comes in a variety of densities and strengths, but it’s not useful for heavy items. This is typically for lightweight items like cereal, tissue boxes, and other household items.
Storage can also be an issue. Due to moisture problems, chipboard structures can quickly weaken, and fall apart. So it’s best if your product is already sensitive.
A Poly Bag, (aka Pouch, Plastic Bag), is manufactured out of compact, thin, plastic film. It is one of the most popular packaging styles and can hold a wide variety of items.
Think food products, chemicals, fertilizers, magazines, flowers, etc.
These are very durable, lightweight, flexible, and sometimes reusable. They are a very simple structure to make, which makes them excellent at branded customization - while remaining a cost-effective option.
One thing to note is that not all Poly Bags are created equally. Depending on the construction you choose, they can be recyclable.
The positives are obvious: security features, hanging holes, handles, and more. This helps your product stand out, feel secure, and catch the customer’s attention.
If you have fragile items, this is one of the safest packaging options out there.
This packaging contains shock absorption built-in to its structure, shielding the contents from any shocks, vibration, and some options even protect against moisture, humidity, and dust.
For fragile electronic goods, or an unstable chemical, this heavy-duty packaging is one of the best options.
What’s important is finding the balance of safety, protection, and cost-efficiency with your packaging.
Now Shrink Wrap can be either primary or secondary packaging, and sometimes even both. You can Shrink Wrap your products, and a pallet of shipping boxes that tightly pack them all together during shipping.
This provides your packaging with protection against puncture and abrasion, and increases its impact resistance. When you individually wrap your products in Shrink Wrap, it can give them a greater visual appeal to customers.
It is one of the most commonly used packaging options out there, and one you should consider.
Finally, Vacuum Packaging is a wonderful choice for products that need to be safely sealed. That includes retail products and perishable food items.
Vacuum packaging is a great option for goods that need to be sealed, which makes it a preferred option for perishable foods. Food that arrives with vacuum wrapping can remain fresh longer in the freezer than food packaged in other container forms.
This is also used for medical materials, and other health related products. By Vacuuming the products and sealing them, you eliminate all oxygen - preventing any bacteria from developing.
Bennett is a premier packaging and retail displays manufacturing company striving to protect and promote our clients' products with customized corrugated solutions. When you work with us, you’re part of the family. We will partner with you every step of the way.
With our fully-integrated design-to-delivery process, we can be the single supplier source. We are an award-winning manufacturer of virtually anything corrugate. We offer everything from plain brown shipping boxes to sophisticated, high-graphic printed point-of-purchase displays, and everything in between.
Contact Bennett today about your packaging needs
What’s the difference between “Solid Board” and “Corrugated Packaging”?
There are 2 main types of product packaging. Solid board (also referred to as carton board) is a solid material used to create boxes such as those used by Apple (for its iPhones / iPads etc.). Corrugated packaging is made from cardboard). Both are suitable for retail applications.
What packaging is best for my product?
The style of box chosen for your product depends on a number of factors. This includes the size, shape, weight, and fragility of your product - and even your target market. At Bennett, we can offer the full spectrum of box styles that will take your brand from plain to premium.
What Printing Styles do you offer?
We are able to produce Litho, Flexo, and specialize in Digital. We were one of the first manufacturers to invest in Digital Printing, and that’s put us ahead of the curve. Typically customers think Digital is only useful for small runs, but Digital allows you to create printing variations and create multiple runs of different targeted designs - using some of the latest innovations in marketing!
Product packaging is more than just a means to protect and contain a product – it’s an art form that can captivate consumers, leave a lasting impression, and elevate a brand’s identity.
In a highly competitive market where visual appeal matters, exceptional packaging design has the power to make products stand out from the crowd and create a memorable and positive first impression for customers.
From sleek and minimalistic designs to bold and vibrant creations, the world of product packaging is filled with extraordinary examples that push boundaries and redefine what it means to be visually striking.
In this article, we’ll dive deeper into remarkable product packaging and showcase some of the best examples that demonstrate extraordinary design. And if you want to get more specific about what makes packaging so great, check out our roundup of this year’s biggest packaging trends.
20 best product packaging examplesThe packaging design of the iPhone is renowned for its meticulous attention to detail, sleekness, and overall user experience. Every aspect of the packaging is carefully crafted to reflect the brand’s dedication to simplicity and elegance.
The clean, minimalist white box with subtle branding creates a sense of anticipation. Opening the box reveals a perfectly organized arrangement of the iPhone, accessories, and documentation, with each item placed precisely to enhance the customer experience.
There’s a pull-tab for easy removal, hidden compartments for cables, and a protective plastic film, all adding to the user-friendly design. Apple’s iPhone packaging stands out for its commitment to delivering a premium and memorable unboxing experience that sets it apart from competitors.
Source: oneclub.com
The packaging design of Coca-Cola is an iconic symbol recognized worldwide. The brand’s commitment to consistency is evident in its unique contoured bottle shape, which is so on brand that it’s become synonymous with the product.
The vibrant red color of the packaging perfectly communicates energy and passion, capturing attention on the supermarket shelf. Coca-Cola’s logo, prominently displayed on the packaging, evokes a sense of familiarity and nostalgia. The use of glass and recyclable materials aligns with the brand’s sustainability efforts.
Coca-Cola often introduces limited edition packaging, collaborating with artists or featuring special designs, which adds a collectible and personalized touch. The distinctiveness and timelessness of Coca-Cola’s packaging design contribute to its enduring popularity and recognition globally.
Source: foodbusinessafrica.com
Pukka Herbs’ tea packaging is truly unique thanks to its exceptional attention to detail and commitment to its brand values.
The vibrant colors, intricate illustrations, and patterns on the packaging captivate the eye and reflect the herbal ingredients in their tea.
Pukka Herbs’ packaging also stands out by providing informative elements, helping customers make informed choices based on the tea blend’s ingredients and benefits. This combination of aesthetics, brand identity, and sustainability makes Pukka Herbs’ tea packaging standout in the market, appealing to both conscious consumers and tea enthusiasts alike.
Source: bodykind.com
The packaging design of Oreo cookies is instantly recognizable and has a unique charm which makes it a unique example of food packaging. Oreo’s packaging features a classic blue background with the iconic logo prominently displayed, creating a sense of nostalgia and familiarity.
Oreo’s packaging design is simple yet effective, capturing the essence of the beloved cookie and enticing consumers with its timeless appeal. It’s a testament to the brand’s commitment to delivering a delightful and convenient snacking experience.
Source: pinterest.com
Adidas packaging design is known for its boldness and innovation, reflecting the brand’s sporty and dynamic identity. The packaging often incorporates vibrant colors, striking graphics, and sleek typography to create a visually impactful experience.
Adidas shoe boxes are particularly notable, featuring creative opening mechanisms and interactive elements that add an element of surprise and engagement.
The packaging design reinforces the brand’s commitment to performance and style, capturing the attention of consumers and showcasing the product in an exciting and memorable way.
Source: retaildesignblog.net
Glossier’s packaging design is characterized by its minimalist aesthetic and modern simplicity. The brand embraces clean lines, pastel hues, and a soft color palette that exudes a sense of effortless beauty.
Glossier’s packaging often features sleek, compact designs that are travel-friendly and easy to use. The brand’s logo and typography are elegantly integrated, creating a cohesive and recognizable look. Glossier’s attention to detail extends to the unboxing experience, with thoughtful touches such as protective seals and custom-designed stickers.
The overall effect is a packaging design that aligns perfectly with Glossier’s ethos of natural beauty and authenticity.
Source: trendhunter.com
KitKat’s packaging design is instantly recognizable and showcs its unique features. The iconic KitKat logo, combined with the distinct red and white color scheme, immediately captures attention on store shelves.
The packaging design cleverly mimics the sound of breaking a KitKat bar, with individual snap-off sections clearly depicted. This innovative design element not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds functionality to the packaging.
The stackable shape of KitKat’s packaging is distinctive and stands out among other candy bars. KitKat’s packaging design is a testament to the brand’s playfulness, simplicity, and focus on creating an enjoyable snacking experience for consumers.
Source: cretiveblog.com
Harry’s packaging design stands out for its sleek and sophisticated approach. The brand’s commitment to simplicity and quality is reflected in their packaging. Harry’s shaving products feature clean lines, minimalist designs, and a refined color palette that exudes a sense of modernity.
The packaging is designed to be practical, with thoughtful details such as magnetic closures and precisely fitted compartments that keep the products secure. The use of high-quality materials adds a touch of luxury to the overall experience.
Harry’s packaging design embodies the brand’s dedication to delivering a premium shaving experience, making it a standout in the grooming industry.
Source: youtube.com
Method’s packaging design is recognized for its combination of eco-friendliness and visual appeal. The brand’s commitment to sustainability is evident in their choice of materials, often utilizing recycled plastics and other environmentally friendly options.
Method’s packaging features vibrant and eye-catching colors, playful graphics, and clean typography that convey a sense of joy and positivity. The ergonomic design of the bottles and pumps ensures ease of use and minimizes waste.
The unique shape and tactile elements of the packaging make it stand out on store shelves while making sure that the brand stays true to its mission of creating products that are both effective and eco-conscious.
Method’s packaging design is a perfect harmony of style, sustainability, and functionality.
Source: thedieline.com
Absolut Vodka’s packaging design is renowned for its distinctiveness and artistic collaborations. The iconic bottle shape, inspired by an old Swedish medicine bottle, immediately sets Absolut apart.
But, what truly makes their packaging unique is their commitment to collaborations with renowned artists. Absolut regularly features limited edition bottles with artistic designs, transforming their packaging into collectible works of art.
From vibrant and abstract patterns to intricate illustrations, these collaborations add an element of creativity and exclusivity to the brand. Absolut’s packaging design embodies their innovative spirit and dedication to pushing boundaries, making it a standout in the world of vodka.
Source: theabsolutevodka.com
The brand is also known for its clever and funny commercials – one even made the cut in our roundup of the best video ads!
Hershey’s Kisses packaging design is instantly recognizable and has a charming uniqueness. The small, plume-shaped foil wrappers that encase each Kiss evoke a sense of anticipation and delight.
The iconic silver foil with the signature Hershey’s logo and the little paper tag at the top create a whimsical and nostalgic appeal.
The distinctive shape and packaging design of Hershey’s Kisses have become synonymous with the brand, making it easily distinguishable and evoking a sense of joy and indulgence in chocolate lovers worldwide.
Source: hersheysland.com
Starbucks’ packaging design is known for its distinctive and recognizable brand identity. The giant’s coffee packaging often features a minimalist design with a clean and iconic logo prominently displayed.
The use of the iconic green color, inspired by the original Starbucks logo, further reinforces brand recognition. Starbucks’ packaging is practical and functional, with cups and sleeves designed for easy handling and on-the-go convenience.
Plus, the brand’s commitment to custom packaging is evident in the option for baristas to write customers’ names on the cups, adding a personalized touch.
Starbucks’ packaging design effectively captures the essence of the brand, evoking a sense of familiarity, quality, and the comforting experience of enjoying their beverages.
Source: packagingeurope.com
Nintendo Switch’s packaging design is notable for its simplicity and practicality. The box features a clean and minimalist design with the Nintendo Switch logo prominently displayed.
The packaging is designed to showcase the product and its accessories effectively, with a clear view of the console and detachable Joy-Con controllers. The design also emphasizes the versatility of the console, highlighting its ability to be played both in handheld and docked modes.
Nintendo Switch’s packaging design is straightforward yet impactful, reflecting the brand’s focus on fun, innovation, and user-friendly gaming.
Source: gamedeveloper.com
Nivea’s packaging design is characterized by its clean and understated elegance. The brand’s commitment to purity and trust is reflected in their simple and timeless packaging. Nivea products often come in white or blue containers, conveying a sense of purity and freshness.
The packaging features minimalistic designs with the Nivea logo prominently displayed, creating a cohesive and recognizable look across their product range. The focus on functionality is evident in the practical design of their bottles and tubs, making it easy to dispense and use the products.
Nivea’s packaging design embodies their commitment to delivering high-quality skincare products that are reliable, gentle, and accessible to all.
Source: packagingsouthasia.com
Ikea’s packaging design is renowned for its efficiency and practicality. The brand’s flat-pack furniture shipping boxes revolutionized the industry by optimizing space and reducing transportation costs. Ikea’s packaging is designed to be compact, allowing customers to easily transport and assemble their furniture at home.
The unique packaging boxes feature clear labeling and instructions, making the assembly process straightforward and accessible. Additionally, Ikea’s packaging often incorporates minimalistic and modern designs that align with their Scandinavian aesthetic.
The brand’s commitment to sustainability is also evident in their use of recycled materials and efforts to minimize waste. Ikea’s packaging design exemplifies their mission to provide affordable, functional, and stylish furniture solutions to a global audience.
Source: stocholmdesignshop.com
Amazon’s packaging design is characterized by its focus on convenience, efficiency, and customer satisfaction. The company’s frustration-free packaging aims to simplify the unboxing experience for customers, minimizing excess materials and reducing waste.
Amazon’s mailer boxes are designed with practicality in mind, with easy-open features and intuitive packaging layouts. The use of standardized box sizes and robust packaging materials guarantee the safe delivery of products and a standardized packaging management process.
Plus, Amazon’s commitment to sustainability is evident in their efforts to use recyclable materials and reduce packaging waste. The distinctive smile logo and branding elements on their packaging create a sense of trust and familiarity.
Amazon’s packaging design prioritizes a seamless and delightful experience for customers while using cost effective packaging methods which helps them reinforce their position as a leading e-commerce retailer.
Source: aboutamazon.com
Pringles’ packaging design is instantly recognizable and distinctive. The brand’s iconic cylindrical tube shape custom boxes set it apart from traditional chip bags. The packaging showcases vibrant and eye-catching graphics that reflect the variety of flavors available.
Pringles’ product packages aren’t just visually appealing but also practical, as the unique shape prevents the chips from breaking during transportation. The resealable plastic lid helps maintain the freshness of the chips, allowing for convenient snacking on-the-go.
The stackable nature of Pringles’ packaging makes it easy to store and share. Pringles’ packaging design combines functionality with a unique and recognizable aesthetic, making it a standout in the world of snack foods.
Source: packagingnews.com
Aesop’s packaging design is distinguished by its minimalist elegance and commitment to high-quality materials. The brand’s skincare products often come in apothecary-style amber glass bottles, exuding a sense of luxury and authenticity.
Aesop’s packaging design focuses on simplicity, with clean typography and minimal branding that allows the product to take center stage. The tactile experience of handling the sturdy glass bottles enhances the overall sensory experience.
Aesop also incorporates thoughtful details like pump dispensers and droppers for precise application. The brand’s packaging design successfully combines form and function, reflecting Aesop’s ethos of creating skincare products that are both effective and aesthetically pleasing.
Moleskine’s packaging design is characterized by its timeless and sophisticated appeal. The brand’s notebooks often come in simple, yet elegant, packaging that reflects the brand’s heritage and commitment to craftsmanship.
Moleskine’s packaging features a minimalistic design, with a distinctive black cardboard sleeve or a wrap that protects the notebook inside. The use of high-quality materials and attention to detail create a sense of luxury and durability.
The unboxing experience is enhanced by the smooth texture of the packaging and the iconic elastic band closure. Moleskine’s packaging design exemplifies the brand’s dedication to creating refined and functional stationery that appeals to creatives and professionals alike.
Source: aesop.com
GoPro’s packaging design is characterized by its durability, practicality, and focus on the adventure experience. The brand’s packaging is designed to protect its action cameras and accessories during travel and outdoor activities.
GoPro’s packaging often includes sturdy and waterproof cases that safeguard the products from impact, water, and dust. The packaging design features clear compartments and custom-cut foam inserts to secure the contents and ensure easy organization.
Additionally, GoPro’s packaging showcases vibrant graphics and action-packed imagery that evokes a sense of excitement and inspires adventure. GoPro’s packaging design reflects their commitment to delivering rugged and reliable products that capture unforgettable moments in the most challenging environments.
Source: gopro.com
What is product packaging?Product packaging refers to the process and materials used to enclose, protect, and present a product. It involves designing and creating containers, boxes, or other forms of packaging that hold and safeguard the product during storage, transportation, and sale.
Packaging serves multiple functions, including protecting the product from damage, providing information to consumers, promoting the brand, and facilitating convenient handling and use.
It encompasses both the physical materials and the design elements, such as graphics, labeling, and branding, that are incorporated to create an appealing and functional package for a product.
Six functions of product packaging designNo matter for what type of product you’re creating a packaging design, you always have these six functions of product packaging in mind:
Whether you’re a professional designer or a business owner who wants to easily streamline their packaging design process, the simplest way to get your design from start to finish is with the help of a packaging design software like Filestage.
Filestage allows you to upload your designs in a few clicks and receive in-context feedback from all your important stakeholders in one place. This way you can avoid consolidating messy feedback from various sources and make sure that the final and best version of your design gets sent out to the print.
Try Filestage for free and see it for yourself!