Ordering boxes can seem fairly straightforward, but making an informed choice for the type of box you need will take forethought and attention to detail. Whether you are buying boxes for shipping products, moving somewhere new, storing things, or packaging retail product, buying the right size, material, and quantity can save you money as well as minimize damage to your product. This step-by-step guide will take you through the process of ordering boxes, from figuring out what kind of box you require to confidently placing your final order.
Identify the Purpose of the Boxes
The first step in ordering boxes is to identify what they will be used for. Boxes used to ship fragile items will be constructed differently than boxes for storage or moving purposes. Shipping boxes will generally need to withstand the rigors of handling, stacking, and transportation, while storage boxes are likely to emphasize durability and space efficiency. Retail packages usually require an attractive look in addition to sturdiness. Having a clear definition of purpose will allow you to choose boxes that will perform well under real-world conditions while protecting your items effectively.
Measure Your Items Accurately
Whenever possible, measure your products accurately before ordering boxes. Accurate measurements should include the length, width, and height of your items.
You should make a measurement of the full outside dimensions of your items before you start measuring how big a box to order. If a box is too small, there will be damage to the contents. If the box is too large, it will cost more to ship and take up unnecessary space. Accurate measurements allow you to find a box that will fit well and hold your product properly.
You should make a measurement of the full outside dimensions of your items before you start measuring how big a box to order. If a box is too small, there will be damage to the contents. If the box is too large, it will cost more to ship and take up unnecessary space. Accurate measurements allow you to find a box that will fit well and hold your product properly.
Select the Appropriate Box Material & Strength
The materials used to create a box can affect not only how well it will last but also how well it will perform. Corrugated cardboard has been the most common box type for many years due to its strength and light weight. A single wall box will work well for most items that weigh less than 20 lbs., but a double wall or heavy-duty cardboard box will better protect heavier and delicate items. If the boxes will be subjected to moisture, temperature fluctuations or an extended shipping distance, a higher quality box should be chosen. Proper selection of the box strength will reduce the risk of collapse and protect the contents of the box from damage.
Choose the Correct Box Style & Design
Boxes can be found in all shapes and sizes, and by selecting the correct box style it will be easier to pack. Regular slotted container boxes make up the majority of boxes used in commercial shipping and are often used for storage as well. Mailer boxes or die-cut boxes are used more often in e-commerce and retail packaging. There are boxes with features such as handles, self-locking bottoms, and easy open tabs for convenience. Custom printed boxes are often used if presentation and branding is important.
Understanding Box Quantity
The box quantity can be determined by considering the type of business you run and how often do you use your box(es). You want to make sure not to order an excess (too many) boxes, nor do you want to limit your collection (too few). The correct box size can be determined by taking accurate measurements of the items, then adding extra space for cushioning. A box that fits snugly allows for less movement during shipping, resulting in lower shipping costs.
Review Customization & Branding Options
Having a unique box for your brand will differentiate you from your competitors and aid in developing a first-class brand image. The box should represent your brand’s mission and values and create customer loyalty. In order to achieve this goal, many suppliers provide printing services including branding logos, colors, and products. The use of a customized box not only creates your brand image and allows customers to quickly identify a quality product, but it also enhances your product at retail venues (stores).
Place the Order & Confirm Details
After determining the box style, size, and supplier of the box(es) you wish to order, you are now ready to place your order. First verify the specifications of your order (size and material of the box(es)). Verify the method of delivery and the expected cost of the shipment and delivery date. Verify that you clearly stated all of your requirements for the box(es) as well as any other specifications to avoid errors and delays in shipping. Heavy-duty or double-wall corrugated boxes are ideal for shipping heavy items, since they have more strength and durability during transport than regular corrugated boxes.
Frequently Asked Question
In order to assist you in making an informed decision regarding your custom mailer box solution, we have compiled some of the questions that we are most commonly asked.
How do I know what size box to order?
In order to determine what size box to order, be sure that you have taken appropriate measurements of your product(s) and also added extra padding for the protection of your product(s). A box that fits properly will allow for minimal movement and will result in lower shipping costs.
What type of box is best to ship heavy items?
The best boxes to ship heavier items are double-wall or heavy duty corrugated style boxes. These provide additional strength and durability when transporting heavier items.
Can I order smaller quantities of custom printed boxes?
There are many suppliers that provide minimum quantities for custom printed boxes, but the pricing for these custom products will usually be somewhat higher than bulk pricing.
Do bulk boxes cost less than standard box pricing?
Generally speaking, bulk pricing is lower per unit than standard pricing. Therefore it is usually more cost-effective to place bulk orders from a supply company if your business has a regular need for products of the same type.
How long does it take to get ordered boxes?
The length of time it will take to receive ordered boxes will vary depending on whether the boxes are normal stock boxes or custom boxes. Normal stock boxes can usually be shipped within a few days while custom boxes could take several weeks to ship.
What do I do if I receive a shipment of damaged boxes?
Upon receipt of a shipment of damaged boxes, you should inspect the shipment as soon as possible and then contact the supplier to provide them with photographs of the damaged boxes along with an explanation of what happened. Most suppliers will replace damaged boxes and offer a solution.