Any business owner knows that first impressions matter, and your packaging plays a huge role in this. It’s not just about protecting your products, it’s an essential marketing tool that can elevate your brand’s image. Custom packaging helps your business stand out and reinforce your brand’s personality. 

Whether you’re an ecommerce business, a manufacturer, or a retail brand, investing in printed custom packaging can offer long-term benefits that go beyond aesthetics. In this blog, we explore the main reasons why custom packaging is a smart choice for businesses of all sizes. We also take a look at what it is and the different types available.

What is custom packaging?

Custom packaging essentially refers to any type of packaging that is specifically tailored to suit your product. This can include its size, shape, functionality, and brand identity. Unlike standard or stock packaging, it’s made with your business in mind. This allows you to control not only how your product is protected, but also how it’s perceived by your customers.

It can involve something as simple as adding your logo and brand colours to a cardboard box, or as advanced as creating bespoke packaging designs to fit your product. 

Custom packaging can be used across a wide range of industries, including retail, ecommerce, manufacturing, food and drink, and healthcare for example. Ultimately, investing in custom packaging is a powerful extension of your product and your brand.

What are some types of printed custom packaging?

There are a wide range of printed custom packaging options available depending on your product type and brand style. Some of the most popular options include:

• Printed cardboard boxes - these are ideal for ecommerce shipping and retail businesses.

• Branded mail boxes - perfect for subscription products, gifts, and luxury items.

• Custom-printed envelopes or padded mailers - great for clothing, books, or flat items.

• Printed paper tape and labels - an affordable way to add branding to standard packaging.

• Internal branded elements - this can include tissue paper, thank-you cards, or printed inserts for example.

Each of these options allows businesses to reinforce their branding while delivering a polished, professional look.

What are the benefits of custom packaging?

Custom packaging offers a multitude of benefits that can boost your brand’s presence and consumer experience. Here are some of the most notable benefits:

Brand recognition

Custom packaging makes your brand instantly recognisable. By incorporating your logo, colours, and typography, you reinforce your visual identity at every stage of the customer journey.

This kind of visibility builds trust and familiarity, and acts as a mobile billboard for your brand. The more consistent and professional your packaging looks, the more memorable your business becomes.

Improved customer experience

If you're an ecommerce business, packaging is one of the only physical touchpoints customers have with your brand. With well-designed custom packaging, it can elevate this experience. It can make your product feel premium and the delivery feel personal.

Elements like branded tissue paper, inserts, or a printed thank-you message can create a positive emotional response and add a perceived value to your product. This kind of attention to detail can set you apart and lead to glowing reviews and social shares.

Differentiation from competitors

In crowded markets, generic or plain boxes do little to stand out. But with custom brand packaging, it reflects a higher level of professionalism and care.

By using distinctive shapes, colours, or design features, you communicate your brand personality and values. Whether you have eco-conscious, luxurious, fun, or functional values, custom packaging helps you tell your story at a glance.

Better protection of goods

Custom packaging isn’t just for looks, it’s also about performance. When packaging is tailored exactly to your product, it provides a snug, secure fit. This reduces the need for excessive void fill, minimises movement during transit, and lowers the risk of damage.

For fragile, high-value, or oddly shaped products, custom solutions can be designed with inserts, partitions, or reinforced materials to ensure safe delivery. This ultimately reduces the cost and hassle of returns.

Cost effective

While custom packaging can seem more expensive initially, it can often result in long-term savings. The right-sized packaging reduces shipping costs by eliminating wasted space and weight. It also allows for better palletisation, improved storage, and less resilience on secondary packaging materials.

As well as that, it results in fewer damaged products which leads to better custom satisfaction, reduced return rates, and fewer complaints. All of these can positively impact your profitability.

Customer loyalty

People remember how you make them feel, and packaging plays a big part in that. When a customer receives an order that feels thoughtful and aligned with your brand, they’re more likely to return.

This emotional connection can encourage repeat business, brand advocacy, and social sharing. This shows that printed custom packaging doesn’t just make a good impression - it keeps customers coming back for more.

Looking to add custom packaging to your operations?

Investing in custom packaging is a strategic move that can lead to a whole host of benefits. These can include increased sales, enhanced customer satisfaction, and potential cost savings in the long run.

At Plus Packaging, we supply a wide range of packaging solutions that can be easily customised with your branding. Whether you’re a small business exploring branded mailers, or a larger operation in need of scalable solutions, we can help you find the right fit. Don’t hesitate to contact our team today to discuss your requirements in more detail.

Custom packaging FAQs

Is custom brand packaging only for large businesses?

Not at all. Custom brand packaging can benefit businesses of all sizes - from startups to established retailers. Many packaging suppliers, like Plus Packaging, offer scalable solutions, so you can start small and increase your order volumes as your business grows.

Can custom packaging help reduce shipping costs?

Yes. The right-sized custom packaging eliminates excess space, which can reduce shipping weights and dimensional charges. It can also reduce the need for additional void fill materials, saving both money and waste.

Is custom packaging eco-friendly?

It can be. Many suppliers offer sustainable materials and recyclable options, and this is something we offer here at Plus Packaging. By reducing excess materials and designing packaging that fits your product better, custom options can help you reduce your environmental impact.

How do I get started with custom packaging for my business?

The best place to start is by speaking with one of our experts who can assess your product, branding, and operational needs. From here, we can explore different styles and materials with you to find the right solution for your business.