Choosing the Right Tape for Packaging

Tape may seem like a little thing but it’s actually important for securing packaging.  Not all of them are equal, and here, we’ll go over the most common types of tape for packaging. 

Self-Adhesive Kraft Paper Tape 

This is a natural tape that’s made from materials that are natural and has been a popular one for a lot of eco-conscious people. It’s an adhesive that offers the strongest hold while also providing a very gentle response to the environment.  Finding a tape that aligns with the values and sustainability is important, and you’ll get this with kraft paper tape. 

When choosing packaging, the materials that you want should be both eco friendly and effective, but self-adhesive kraft paper tape ticks all of these boxes. 

It’s made from a renewable resource, and is a tape that’s not just biodegradable, but easy to recycle too, so you’ll be able to dispense it without harming the world around you. 

Kraft paper is basically a type of strong paper that’s natural and made from certain paper pulp that’s ideal for packaging. It’s good for sealing boxes and even parcels too and offers a very strong hold. 

Polypropylene Tape 

Next is polypropylene tape, which is versatile, and known for strength and durability. It withstands the handling that’s rough, and also the extreme temperatures that are there so it’s ideal for businesses and shipping goods that might encounter harsher conditions in its wake. 

Polypropylene tape is reliable for those that want to secure the packaging that they need to ensure that the packaging is there. 

When choosing packaging, you need a high-quality material, and polypropylene tape is made for the ultimate protection and security of these items. It’s robust in construction, and ensures that it withstands these transportation rigors, whether it’s shipped across a country, or even outside of there too. 

It’s durable, and this is specifically made to withstand many of the demands that packaging has, due to the tensile strength, so it can be subjected to a lot of wear and tear. 

It’s also really good for being resistant to humidity and moisture and is important when you’ve got goods that might have to go through a damp environment or even harsher weather. 

Vinyl Tape 

This is a tape that’s good for moisture. It’s great because for those that get exposed to liquids and water in the transit process, vinyl tape offers a tighter seal, so the goods are dry and safe. Even unpredictable weather can’t stop this. 

When choosing packaging protection, you want to go with something that’s strong. 

This tape is one of the strongest against water damage to packaging, and it can be transported even through spills. 

It also is versatile too, and works with plastic, cardboard, and even metal in order to keep things secure. It’s a reliable solution for all types of packaging experiences, whether sealing envelopes, boxes, or even bundling various items. 

Customized Tape 

Finally, we have customized tape, which is branded tape that’s made for customers to engage and interact with one’s brand. It does set the stage for the inner packaging, boosting excitement when they see the customized tape.  It’s a great way to build an unforgettable impression. 

If you’re putting together unboxing experiences or want to make the customer feel like they’re really included, this is the best option, as it will build a better, stronger bond with the brand, in ways you may never have thought possible. 

Tape is important and these are some of the top picks for brands to use to secure the packaging. 

Digital Vs. Offset Printing

 If you’re looking to print something, you’ve got two types of options. Usually. You’ve got regular detail printing that is printed to the way things look on the screen, or offset, which is something that uses color output in order to help get the right design. 

While some may prefer one over the other because of the prices, there can be costly mistakes, which play a role in the future options that are there. 

Below, we’ll go over each of these, what they are, and the benefits and drawbacks of both. 

Offset Printing 

Offset is basically where you utilize plates onto sheets that are colored, letting them sit in a rapid kind of succession, stamping it directly onto the paperboard. It’s how newspapers, along with magazines get made. 

They offer great image quality, but they are best for print runs that are large volume. Low volume projects won’t want to use this because of the excess time to get it done. 

Digital printing 

Digital printing is basically the printing that’s does the same type of printing that a normal printer or other type of medium you have at home works for this. 

It’s quicker, and also doesn’t really impact the quality for lower-level jobs. 

It’s also much easier to create different printing runs through the printing press. 

The problem with this, however, is that it impacts the fidelity of the color, and the flexibility of the material that traditional offset printing provides in some cases. 

This is something that some people like to use for lower volumes, since it definitely does not look as high of quality, and that of course, can impact the use of this in a lot of cases as well. 

Printing Methods: what’s best 

Offset is best for very large orders, or something that’s over 1000 different units. Digital is good for the smaller types of jobs. 

If you’re going to use paperboard packaging for the item that you’re selling, you’ll want to go with offset printing. That’s because offset offers better output for printing that has to be smaller, and for designs that are a bit smaller for the package. 

The goal is to offer concise, clear packaging for this, as this is vital for making sure that you get the best information possible for many of the customers that are there. 

If you’re someone that is making a smaller order for corrugated packaging, then use digital for this. Offset is great for much larger volumes of running, and the turn time usually is around the same, but it does cost a bit more, so digital is the way to go. 

When you compare the color depth on this, offset printing definitely does outperform the digital printing options, so if you need something bright, or with the color depth that really highlights the product, then you’re best to go with that. 

Offset printing does use the Panton Matching system of color to make sure that the inks are perfectly matched, but digital printers are limited, since the utilize color calibration that is more approximate than anything. 

Offset also is very good for kraft paper products that need white ink. Digital cannot offer this.  Offset is good if the color is more attractive, crisp and clean. For those that have smaller, simpler orders that are not really in the budget for something this large, then just spend the money on a digital printer. 

Both are good, but one does have a better option for color, and for many ecommerce people, understanding the difference can impact the packaging, so keep this in mind when choosing one over the other for your packaging needs. 

Old paperboard transport boxes made cardboard

The very first box made for shipping was a paperboard box. These boxes were flimsy, prone to getting destroyed by the elements, and overall poorly made. In 1817 a man who lived in England by the name of Cronchuck wanted a way to safely transport items from place to place. This desire made him design the very first shipping boxes, the paperboard box. After a few years, a man named Sir Malcolm Thornhill improved upon the paperboard boxes to make what we know and use today, corrugated cardboard. 

As the name suggests, these boxes were made from paper, so we can infer they were not that strong. Cronchuck wanted to have a way his company could transport items in a more safe way rather than carrying them from place to place and leaving them to the elements. This need made him begin to think of ways he could accomplish just that. He came up with the idea of paperboard boxes after seeing his son fold some paper to form a rectangular box. With this new idea, he got to work making these boxes as best as he could with the materials and machinery he had at his disposal. Unfortunately, the boxes were still paper, so it was not all that strong, but it got the job done. 

After a few years, Sir Malcolm Thornhill improved upon his design by accident. While at his paper smith job making paper bags, a ruler used to measure and accurately cut and fold the paper shifted. This shift caused the paper to fold and crease. He used this accidental discovery to make the paperboard boxes better. By putting this piece of wavy paper between two others, he made the first corrugated box. This idea was not able to be put into full effect until the turn of the twenty-first century as materials became more available.

With this new discovery, cardboard boxes were the next step in improving the quality of paperboard boxes.  With the newly discovered technique to make corrugated boxes, the shipping industry changed. Now they were able to fit more into the sturdy boxes without fear of the box falling apart. There was still the problem of boxes falling apart in the rain so to try and fix that, and wax was placed on the exterior of the boxes in hopes of repelling the water. Today we laminae the boxes to do just that, protect from moisture.

If it were not for Thornhill’s accidental discovery, would we still be using paperboard shipping boxes? The poor quality of these boxes probably would not last in today’s world. The need for something better is always there so, and it is a good thing both Cronchuck and Thornhill invented what they did when they did. We still use Thornhills corrugation discovery to this day. It is odd how paper can be made into something as sturdy as cardboard, all things considered. It amazes me how Cronchuck and Thornhill were able to come up with these ideas and mass produce them given the time period. Back then, materials for crafting were few and far between. Some materials were left undiscovered for years. Not to mention the machinery they had then versus what we have today and were still able to come up with such a helpful product that is still used to this day.

Why Custom Packaging is the Fastest Way to Get Ahead

A lot of ecommerce businesses are popping up everywhere and there are more and more every single day. Each of these does vie for your attention, so the messages and branding does need to get ahead of the game, to offer some good awareness for the long-term and the short-term, which offers better, repeat orders.

The packaging is something that customers want to have, and if it’s bland, they feel like they didn’t get their money’s worth. Custom packaging is a better way to go about doing things, and we’ll go over why that is here. 

A Better Customer Experience 

Yes, having generic packaging is something that’s cheap, and it’s simple, but the thing is, it’s not really you, or your products. Custom packaging is the opposite, as it’s made for those products specifically, to offer the best branding experience, and offers value, and appreciation to others. Customers can also get their purchases further personalized too through the packaging, and when you say their name, or even a small, special message, it adds some unique value to this as well.

Differ from Others 

A lot of the current competing businesses don't use this, so everything’s a sea of bland and boring packaging, but when you use custom packaging, this creates a brand identity that's cohesive, that’s recognizable to many people. With packaging becoming the new extension of various branding identities, you want to make sure that you do decide to make it different, and it’s important.

Plus, when you offer custom packaging, this as well reinforces the branding too. Having a cohesive brand identity is something that makes you very recognizable to other people, and remember, you want the packaging to be a unique extension of such, which is why you want to offer a packaging that’s uniform, and also shows off the aesthetics that you’re going for too.

It offers Better Value 

When customers see the boring, generic packaging, it’s not perceived as high, and it usually doesn’t give that impression that these things are luxurious and also exclusive, and most of the time, they may not want to purchase it due to that. But with custom packaging, you get that. 

It shows off better quality products too. When you use materials that are custom made, it’ll withstand the wear and tear that’ll sometimes happen when you’re shipping it, and it also showcases the product quality that’s there.

For instance, for luxury packaging, you have to make sure that you’re using materials that showcase this. Leather, velvet, and the like are good and they usually can be made in an affordable way to offer a stylish, and a sleek way of designing things.

Brings More Customers and Shows the Identity of the Brand 

If you’re looking to improve the relationships with those that buy from you, and boost that loyalty, this is the best way to do this. That’s because custom packaging shows a higher standard in the consumer’s eyes, and offers a long-lasting, beneficial result from this.

You want to make sure that you include everything that you can in this. Those little details of what's on the packaging, and also having these nice little qualities, all play a major part in building a fun packaging experience.

The best way to improve your packaging is to go custom, for it offers a high-quality, branded experience, and you’ll be glad to see this. 

So next time you’re looking to decide on boring brand packaging, or something a bit more unique, go for the latter, and see how it makes you feel as well.

Ideas for Sustainable Luxury Packaging

For a lot of companies, especially those that deal with luxury packaging, the other question of how to be sustainable does play a role in this. When you have an opulent box, you will generate interest from customers, but some of them might be more wary of the packaging due to the fact that it might not be sustainable.

If you have a market that is growing towards sustainability, then you’re not alone. Here, we’ll go over some of the ideas for sustainable packaging, and what to consider. 

Elements of Sustainable Luxury Packaging 

When making your packaging luxury and eco friendly, there’s a few things that you need to consider.

The first thing, being the materials. Corrugated cardboard is a common one, and some might even use bioplastics and other unique types of items to help be more eco friendly.

As for the finishes, while lamination might seem like the right thing for some, it does create a problem for those worried about the environment. Eco Friendly varnishes and inks, such as vegetable inks and water-based inks might be options for building luxury packaging.

There are also design elements that come with this.   The luxury packaging can still look good and high quality, but also uses a functional design that will really shine.   Some might even consider the outlet of reusable packaging, especially if you're someone who is interested in making their packaging different and bolster the excitement of sustainable forms of packaging.

You have to think outside the box for this, but there are some materials that work well for luxury packaging, and are worth mentioning, which we’ll go over next. 

Rigid Boxes 

Rigid boxes are the first step. 

There are, of course, rigid boxes that you can unfold and put together, or even two-piece rigid boxes, where you can open up and get the item inside. 

Some of them may even have a magnetic closure, or even a luxury element to them, such as a slide-out box.   There are also luxury box packaging that are rigid boxes, which are used for bookends, candles, and other types of unique products.

Overall, rigid boxes are the best way to show that you are willing to put the money in, while also being eco friendly. They are made from corrugated fibers, and they’re strong. You don’t have to worry about the item getting messed up in transit with these and are considered a favorite for a lot of luxury brands such as jewelry brands. 

Kraft Paper 

Kraft paper is another one. It’s recyclable, and it looks good. If you want to advertise as a sustainable brand, this is a great way to do so. It does accommodate minimalism as well, so a lot of times, people will enjoy putting different items in there. skincare brands especially love their kraft paper bags because of the unique elements that are there. 

Woven Bags 

Woven bags are another one. These are made with natural fibers, including hemp, and are simple to close. Some luxury brands are getting into the habit of using this because it’s easier on the environment, and they can be reused for other things. a lot of new age and younger brands like this, because it’s reusable, rather than recycled. 

Non-Plastic Bags 

Bioplastics and other unique materials such as paper might be a great option too. These are like the bags that we know and love, but are better for the environment, because they aren’t just generating a ton of plastic.

Overall, using these options for your luxury packaging is the way to go, especially if you want to really stand out.

Moving Again? try these tips

If you are going to be on the move this year or may even be helping some family or friends that is a wonderful thing.  I think moving into a new area or getting the chance to help someone on the next stage of their life is a great boost.  Sometimes people are moving all their possessions and sometimes it is not for a good reason.  Having a helping hand and a should to lean on and help is something that I am always honored to be a part of.  So if this is something you are going to be doing I want to go over my experience with it and maybe give some helping tips to you.

 

The first thing is to be positive! Moving is filled with stress and random things that can go wrong.  Be in good spirits and even if you are not do your best to lift others up.  It may be a harder time for them than you and it is always nice to have a positive person working on big tasks.  Many people are very sad when they have to order shipping supplies to move all they own.  It can be daunting or simply too emotional for some people to handle. So a calm, helping hand is a wonderful thing to have in this situation.  Not everyone processes emotions the same way and sometimes the moving day is a crazy emotional day. 

 

The next step I have learned is to buy some new moving boxes.  If you are moving or even helping I have found that using old boxes causing injuries and breaks items.   A New heavy-duty moving box is really a surprisingly nice thing to have and can be picked up rather cheap.  I now go to my local shipping supplies store online and get a moving package for myself or any family and friends that are moving.  It comes loaded with boxes, tape, and markers for all different occasions. I find that this really is a great way to help people out even if they don't think its a nice gift.  In the end, they always appreciate the boxes and tape.  Plus no one gets injured due to a flimsy box with too much weight in it shifting.  Not nearly as many things get broken with good equipment and that helps spirits stay high!

 

Now I always say that you should attempt to find a trailer with a walk on-ramp.  This is worth renting if you have a vehicle to move it.  The ability to walk furniture and heavy items up a small ramp and not have it go in a truck is amazing.  So much less damage happens usually and people seem to find it so much more simple to move with a trailer. My father in law taught me this and I have tried to make sure to have one on each move I have done since.

 

Now It is always good to bring extra supplies along and I have found that picking up a really thick packing tape is an amazing help for these moves.  Most packing tape is rather thin and takes a few strips, but the thick stuff is available from specialty stores and it can save a lot of time and even money by getting the right product the first time.  I hope these tips help!

All about mailer Boxes

 Mailer boxes are a form of packaging made to transport and protect goods. They’re made from corrugated types of cardboard, which are materials known for strength and overall durability. Corrugated designs, featuring fluted sheets that are placed in between two types of linerboards, offer better cushioning for the items inside. 

This makes it the perfect choice for shipping overall. 

The biggest feature that these mailer boxes offer is what’s called self-locking designs. Unlike other box types which require some tape or other adhesives, you’ll be able to craft mailer boxes with built-in mechanisms to lock them too. 

This isn’t just accessible and very secure, but it provides a better unboxing experience. Due to customers being able to open up the boxes without tools or other aids, it helps to make this easier for a lot of customers too. 

Mailer Box Types 

Which most mailer boxes have certain characteristics, there are a few types made specifically for this purse. 

The most common is of course the regular slotted containers, full overlay containers, and finally die-cut mailers. RSCs tend to be the most common type for this, and feature flaps that sit in the middle. FOCS are also flaps that’ll overlap to give more durability and strength. 

The die-cut ones are more custom-cut, and designed to fit various products, in order to create the ultimate in unique sorts of branding experiences. 

Most of these are made with in-line flexographic printing or slotter folder glue which has one specific operation: to print, fold, cut, and glue these corrugated pieces to more final shapes.  The packaging then gets palletized and are ready to be shipped to other customers. 

Every single one of these do have advantages and different aspects to consider. While RSCs for instance are super cost-effective due to the protection they offer to products, there’s not as much branding chances out there as compared to die-cut sorts of mailers. 

However, die-cuts tend to be the more expensive of these three. But with the customization there, it can be good. 

Materials used 

The most common one of these is corrugated cardboard. It’s chosen because of the durability, strength, and credentials to the environment. Corrugated types of cardboard is made from both recycled and virgin fibers, so it’s ideal for businesses. 

However, other types of materials used in this also play a part. Some may choose to utilize plastic mailers for this. While plastic is not as environmentally friendly, it does offer better protection for different products. This is especially true for electronics, or anything exposed to moisture. 

Customizable Mailer boxes 

One big advantage that this has over other types of packaging is the chance to customize this. businesses can print the logos on there, colors for the branding, and various other designs along the exterior.  It turns the packaging into better marketing tools. 

This not only reinforces the identity of the brand, but creates a better, more memorable sort of unboxing experience. 

Customization also extends to the box interior. Businesses may choose to print messages or designs along the inner parts of the box.it also incorporates branded tissue, stockers, and various other unique inserts. They also offer an added benefit of surprise to customers, to make unboxing feel not just more special, but also way more personal too.

Mailer boxes are ideal for you to get strong and sustainable types of packaging. Here, we went over a few aspects of them, and why they are the best for not just the current packaging experience you have, but future experiences that you might choose to have too.