Fragile items are common in the world of packaging. From vases to necklaces, to even priceless heirlooms, there are a lot of fragile products that you’ll want to ship to others. But this does create problems, especially when they need to travel long distances.
You need a safe and secure package to keep the integrity, but how do you make this happen? Here’s a look at packaging for items that are fragile in order to ensure integrity and safety are paramount.
Elements of Protective Packaging
There’s a few elements that go directly into packaging protection worth mentioning.
First, is the cushioning materials, such as foam, bubble wrapping, and air pillows. These are put in there to help adequately secure the package, and give the package something to lay on, so that it doesn’t get thrown around.
The second thing is the structure of the boxes. Your box matters. While simple cardboard boxes work for some stuff, if you want something strong, go corrugated, and you can get corrugated double walled boxes for even the most fragile of items.
There’s also reinforced corners, which are corners that are made stronger, so that when they get hit, they don’t bang the item that’s inside.
Overall, all of these work together to help with ensuring that the package gets exactly what it needs.
Challenges and Benefits of Fragile Packaging
Obviously, the biggest benefit to this type of packaging is that you’ll be able to adequately protect the item from the get-go. You’re not going to have to worry about some of the problems commonly associated with packages, such as the item getting thrown around and hurt. You’re saving money on returns and replacements, and also improving the overall repute of the business.
Breakage and returns account for a lot in the world of packaging, but with the right fragile packaging means, you’ll be able to reduce this issue immensely.
However, that doesn’t mean that they’re always easy to put together. A big problem with this is balancing the costs of fragile types of packaging. Sometimes, the fragile packaging costs way more, and this can eat into the profits that you have.
The other challenge is the environmental impact. These packaging protectants can be harmful for the environment, hence why it’s important to consider other means for your packaging. You can use air pillows that are biodegradable, or cornstarch packing peanuts to aid with this. Changing out your regular corrugated boxes for recycled ones are another means to ensure this.
How to Design Protective Packaging
The best way to design protective packaging, is to do the following:
- First you want to assess your package, in order to ensure that the item will fit in the box. Have enough room to throw some foam or inserts in there, but also don’t leave too much room.
- If the box is too big, opt for something smaller.
- After, take the packaging filler that you plan to use, such as packaging peanuts, or even the forum, and lay it in there.
- Create a bed and put the item on top. Then fill the rest of it with the remainder of the void fill.
- Ensure that the corners are properly taped up, and from there close the box.
Overall you want to ensure that you’re not overusing some of the packaging items, and from there, focus on the sustainability of the items at hand. You’d be amazed at the difference this makes, and the unique elements that come with utilizing this packaging experience for you to enjoy too.
