The Major Practical Factors You Need To Consider When Choosing Product Packaging

There was a time when packaging was considered a necessary evil – the only advantages that packaging offered was to protect the product during shipping and to make it easier for storing. Things have changed a lot since then; the packaging industry has gotten much more sophisticated, and it’s not uncommon for companies to spend more money on the packaging than on the production of the actual product itself.

If this sounds strange to your ears, then perhaps you need to review the art and science of packaging as it is done in the modern, very competitive business world. The packaging is no longer a method of protecting the product. The packaging is about promotion, advertising, giving information, and complying with government regulations. So how do we design a package? Here are the major practical factors you need to consider when choosing product packaging.

Functional Requirements

The main purpose of the packaging is functional – there’s no way around it. Yes, your packaging should entice the consumer to try your product, and yes, your packaging acts like a billboard and advertising stunt – but the design should first of all be practical. Your colors and graphic design should come later. Focus first of all on in-store requirements, production demands, convenience and let the advertising and labeling come after.

In-store Requirements

It should be safe – your customers should not hurt themselves because of the packaging (in other words, no sharp edges or dangerous materials). It should also be easy to carry, easy to bring to the counter, and convenient to place on the shelves. Focus on this first of all.

Production Demands

You may think that an original shape will attract more customers – and maybe it will. However, simple shapes are easier to produce and are cheaper regarding production demands than out-of-the-ordinary outlines. Packaging can be quite expensive, so when it comes to shape, it’s often more practical to go with the traditional.

Convenience

Your product must be safe, but it should also be easy to get to. Furthermore, it should be handy around the house. For example, a re-sealable package for food is convenient because the product doesn’t have to be transferred and can be stored as is. Think of the convenience of the customer.

Advertising and Labeling

Now that you have the practical issues figured out, it’s time to lure customers. Design it well and use professional labels such as those from www.labeller.co.uk. At www.labeller.co.uk, you can choose from a variety of services with the most advanced labelling machines.

It’s no wonder companies spend a lot on a well-designed packaging solution – it needs to be functional. It needs to be practical. It needs to serve a purpose and serve that purpose very well. A great packaging solution must adhere to many requirements, so it’s truly in the manufacturer’s best interest to think the whole process through carefully.