How to source corrugated boxes for FMCG

How to source corrugated boxes for FMCG

Packaging is critical for FMCG (fast moving commercial goods). The first priority of the  packaging is protecting the product and getting it on the shelf promptly. If your business is entirely online, the packaging of your product is representing your brand almost as much as your website, so quality is key. 

Consider these questions when looking at packaging options for your FMCG:

1. Does the packaging need to be retail-ready or is it going directly to your customers?

2. For retail-ready, how much assembly or disassembly can occur?

3. What are the requirements of the product? 

Retail-Ready

If your product needs to be retail-ready, then the strength and stackability of your packaging is paramount to the branding of the product itself. 

It’s a common sight: you’re at the supermarket looking at boxes of pasta. You decide what kind of pasta you want and reach to the shelf, only to find that the box you’re reaching for is crunched in the corner. What do you do? Choose a different box of pasta, of course. Ensuring that your product arrives at the retailer in excellent condition is critical. We discuss box strength below, so keep reading. 

Assembly and disassembly are also important elements to consider. If your retailer is a multiple, your packaging must be sturdy yet easily disassembled. If your retailer is a smaller store, without high shelves, disassembly can involve boxes within boxes so that individuals can lift them. 

Direct to Consumers

As an ecommerce business, you know that the unboxing experience is part of your customers’ interaction with your brand. This means that the box that arrives on your customers’ doorstep needs to represent your company just as well as the product inside. This can be as simple as putting your logo on the outside of the box; think of all the “smiling” boxes that Amazon delivers, for example. When your customer receives the product they ordered, let the experience start before the box is even opened. 

You can use the packaging to tell a story; for example, if your product is coffee beans, you might share what inspired this particular flavor, or tell clients where and how each bag of beans is grown, harvested, and prepared, and then include directions for recycling the packaging. Show your customers that you’ve thought of everything, because you have!

Product Requirements

This question asks about the needs of the particular product. Bags of dried fruit require different packaging than canned fruit, which require different packaging than frozen fruit.

• How strong does the box have to be for this product?
• How much jostling can the product tolerate?
• What temperature range is best for this product?

Corrugated packaging is excellent for keeping products safe, protected, and insulated. The defining characteristic of corrugated packaging is the flutes that rest between the layers of liner; the flutes give the packaging strength, built-in cushion, and a decent amount of insulation. 

When it comes to weight capacity, the best box is the sweet middle area: not too delicate that the box doesn’t protect the product, and not excessively thick so as to cost you more for transit. 

NPP knows that a one size fits all solution doesn’t work for many companies, especially when shipping FMCG. We believe in the strength and sturdiness of our products. Contact us to find out how we can tailor a custom solution for you.