Packaging Needs: Stock Packaging vs. Custom Packaging

Should you go with stock or custom packaging?

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It is a difficult choice to make for product packaging, particularly when you consider the following:

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• According to a 2022 Dotcom Distribution survey, more than 42% of those polled claimed premium packaging makes consumers more excited to open the package.
• 34% of these online customers stated that if a company utilized superior packaging, they would be more inclined to purchase from them again.
• 51% consider premium packaging makes a brand seem more upscale
• 43% of the survey who are younger shoppers find premium packaging most enticing and more likely to share in their social networks
• Two in three online shoppers cite eco-friendly packaging (Post Consumer Recycled materials, sustainable ink, etc.) as the environmental factor most likely to make them shop with a brand.
• 69% consider sustainable packaging when shopping with a brand

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You'll be able to confidently make this selection and provide your goods with the most remarkable possible impression on your consumers if you grasp the distinctions, advantages, and downsides of stock versus custom packaging. Here's what you should know before deciding between stock and custom packaging.

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What is Stock Packaging?

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Stock packaging is pre-made, generic packaging with little to no customization in size, color, form, or finishing.

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Stock packaging may be created in large quantities at a low cost, but it is confined to predetermined box sizes, colors, and designs that do not represent a brand's distinctive messaging or identity.

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Stock packaging is readily available, easy to source, and can be used immediately. It is frequently the default option for shipping warehouses as the main purpose of the packaging is to contain the product.

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As the name indicates, stock packaging is provided "as is," with very minimal to no modification options. Expect it will have a basic and generic appearance and feel because it was not explicitly built or customized for your requirements.

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If you need to get your product into customer's hands quickly and aren't worried about the impression your packaging will make on them, you should absolutely consider using stock packaging.

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Stock packaging is quick, inexpensive, and available in various sizes and forms (all of which are very broad and not specifically tailored to your product). It's also cost-effective, so stock packaging might be the answer if you're seeking ways to save money.

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What is Custom Packaging?

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Packaging manufacturers may necessitate tests such as bursting strength, edge crush, puncture resistance, and the like to establish vulnerability and compatibility with the material it will contain.

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Creating custom packaging may require unique tooling or dyes and a distinct set-up as part of the production process.

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Some companies may wish to include a branding statement on their packaging, which may need digital printing capability from the manufacturer. Often during the developmental stage, numerous prototypes are frequently required before a final design becomes acceptable. Hence, it's clear to understand why custom packaging is more expensive than stock packaging.

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Custom packaging can help accentuate your product's unique size or form. Consider, for example, the packaging used in toys, perfumes, and even Starbucks mugs.  These products don't use an ordinary box; otherwise, buyers won't be able to sense, see and feel what the product can offer.

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Good custom packaging can give more than the primary protection or containment of the item; it enhances or compliments the value of the product sold. Designed custom packaging should “catch" the customer's attention.

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Excellently woven custom packaging designs can promote the product further, increase the product's perceived value, and differentiate it from your competitors.

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Custom packaging comes in various forms and sizes. You can personalize practically every aspect of it - not just the design but also the extra printing effects that make your brand and product stand out and create a lasting impression. This may include matte or gloss lamination, foil stamping, embossing or debossing, or spot UV.

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Try searching "unboxing" a product on YouTube, and you will be flooded with how much people adore gorgeous customized packaging. According to a recent Dotcom Distribution survey, branded or gift-like packaging improves the coveted customer experience, and younger shoppers are especially receptive to such tactics.

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Stock Packaging vs. Custom Packaging: When To Use Which?

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Differentiating between stock and custom packaging can be difficult because each option has its own advantages and disadvantages.

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To make things easier for you, we've developed a list of cases in which one solution is likely preferable.

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Utilize stock packaging when you want to test out various marketing choices but don't want to spend the money and effort on custom printing until you're ready.

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• You're a company with a limited budget searching for a cost-effective approach to perform market testing or other marketing.
• You have a manufacturing shortfall and need to get the available goods out the door as soon as possible.
• You're getting ready to hand out trade fair samples to guests.

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As you can see, the key to stock packaging is that it is quick, inexpensive, easy to get, and usually always accessible.

When you have a luxury product and want to create a "refined look," you should employ custom packaging.

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• You want to make the most of your product's custom box design or form choices.
• You want people to unbox your goods and post their views on social media.
• You want packaging that is unique and different, and you are willing to spend more for practically endless customization possibilities.
• You want a considerable volume of printed packaging and every aspect of your package production to be adapted to your requirements.
• You own a subscription box business or an e-commerce site and want to advertise your product in an unusual way.

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Stock packaging is fast to produce, reasonably inexpensive, and simple, but it sacrifices several advantages you may not have considered.

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Custom packaging opens us to a new world of design and personalization possibilities, as there are many printing processes and resources available to help you provide an exceptional consumer experience to differentiate the product from the competition.

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As you can see, the "question" between stock and custom packaging isn't a discussion at all. When you evaluate the glaring contrasts between what stock packaging offers and what custom packaging may provide, there are occasions when one is a better option than the other.

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When it comes to custom packaging, it is critical to get it correctly. For a first-time product designer, the world of custom packaging can be confusing and overwhelming. Even if this isn't your first time designing a product, it's still nice to have a team of experts to help guide you and advise so that your packaging perfectly shows off the best parts of your product and brand.

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