How to Choose Packaging Insert

When the packaging box is much larger than the product, the product is likely to move around inside, which not only increases the chances of wear and tear but also significantly increases the probability of damage. Most of the time, brands of higher-priced products use inner packaging to keep the product securely in place within the box and to enhance the overall presentation and perceived quality of the product.

Types of packaging insert

The packaging insert can be functional, designed to provide protection and security for the product. It can also serve as a versatile advertising or promotional card.

Box inserts

Some of the functions of the box inserts include:

• It effectively prevents products from shaking, secures one or more items inside the packaging box, and reduces or eliminates potential impacts and damage that may occur during storage, transportation, and handling.
• Separate the multiple products to prevent friction and collision between them.
• This reduces the cost and labor involved in separately adding protective films or other filling materials.
• Enhance product presentation to provide a better unboxing experience.

The following are common types of packaging inserts:

Corrugated carton

These corrugated cardboard inserts typically separate the product from the sides of the box.  Their grooves provide cushioning during storage, transportation, or manual handling, reducing the impact of shocks and bumps. Due to the thickness of the corrugated inserts, they are not suitable for primary packaging of small or irregularly shaped products.

Rigid board

Cardboard inserts are typically used with cardboard gift boxes. Although cardboard is not easily folded, it can be cut and glued to create the desired regular shapes. This type of packaging is suitable for expensive products or fragile items such as glass.

Card paper

Card paper insert is thinner and softer than corrugated and rigid board, but this characteristic makes card paper insert more versatile. You can easily fold and customize them into your desired shapes and sizes. They are also suitable for high-quality printing. It is also one of the cheapest insert materials and pairs well with card boxes.

Paper pulp

Pulp is made by combining recycled paper and cardboard and molding it into various shapes and sizes. It is commonly used to secure products such as glassware, electronics, and ceramics. Traditional egg cartons and wine packaging often utilize this type of insert packaging.

Foam

There are many types of foam, varying in hardness and material. However, they all share the common characteristics of being lightweight and easily customizable to fit the specific shape of a product. They are particularly suitable for products that are easily damaged or broken, such as jewelry, wine glasses, wine, whiskey, knives, and computers. Foam can serve as both cushioning and protection.

Plastic

Plastic liners are a customizable material, typically requiring high minimum order quantities and the creation of specialized molds. They are plastic products formed through thermoforming or heat treatment. This is more suitable for products with high production volumes or generic products that are sold consistently over the long term.

Promotional insert

Thank you card

More and more businesses are expressing their gratitude for customers’ choices through thank-you cards. This is especially effective for small businesses and startups in building relationships with customers and promoting their brand image. Handwritten cards, especially those personalized with the customer’s name, can make customers feel appreciated and increase conversion rates.

Coupon and discount

When consumers repeatedly order certain products from a particular brand, they naturally expect to receive corresponding discounts or special offers. If a company provides coupons or discounts, it perfectly meets consumer needs and directly encourages them to make repeat purchases. For first-time buyers, offering coupons in exchange for positive reviews also increases the likelihood of them making future purchases.

Social share and product review

These inserts can increase interaction with consumers after an order has been placed. Online interaction can be enhanced through consumer social media sharing or order reviews. QR codes can also be included to direct consumers to a landing page for order reviews. Furthermore, consumers can be encouraged to follow the company’s store to receive timely notifications about new products and promotional offers.

Sticker

Many companies like to produce stickers featuring their brand logo or cartoon characters as promotional gifts for consumers, such as those in the coffee, bakery, cosmetics, and electronics industries. This not only increases interaction with consumers but also enhances brand awareness.

Instructions for Use and Maintenance

If customers must strictly follow specific instructions for the correct use, cleaning, and maintenance of a product, then the company has an obligation to provide consumers with accurate usage and maintenance instructions. This is not only a matter of responsibility to consumers but also a way to genuinely provide solutions to their problems and increase customer loyalty. Examples include food, leather goods, clothing, electronics, home appliances, and household products.

Warranty card

If you are able to provide warranty service for your product, then a warranty card will be necessary. Consumers will then need to present the warranty card as proof to claim warranty service from the company.