When buying corrugated packaging, there are a few things to keep in mind and consider:
1. What is the purpose of the packaging?
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Is the carton simply for protection during transportation of product and then immediately discarded?
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Would the carton serve as storage for a continuous use product?
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Will package be used as a point of purchase / point of sale advertising?
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Should the packaging be reusable / returnable?
2. What product am I putting in the carton?
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What is the product's weight, value and density? (50# of BB's or 50# metal block)
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Is pilferage a concern?
3. How soon do I need my corrugated packaging?
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Is lead time adequate for a custom design and manufacturing?
4. Will the carton be printed?
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Should your company name or product information be on the box?
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Will the box have advertising impact -- either retail or wholesale?
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Are general handling/shipping requirements necessary (fragile, UP arrows)?
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Is the product hazardous?
5. If used for shipping, how am I going to ship the carton?
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Will product be shipped individually (UPS, US Postal Service) from customer, or will it go bulk to end destination?
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How will boxes be palletized? Will loads be double / triple stacked in transit or in storage?
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What environmental conditions will the box be exposed to (humidity, salt air, heat, cold)?
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Is returnable / reusable packaging required?
6. Will my product need additional inner-packing for cushioning?
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Can the product rub / bump together?
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Is the product available to customize a packaging design?
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Will the product bear its own weight?
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Will slots for each piece speed packing and quantity control?
7. Is my product hazardous?
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Some products are considered stable individually but when bulk shipped they are deemed hazardous. Example: hair spray - 1 can is not a problem but when it is shipped in pallet loads UN testing is required.
8. Is my product food?
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Will food contact the carton?
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Will food be bagged first?
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Will products be refrigerated?
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Will your goods be stored in a humid or refrigerated environment? You may want to consider Waterproof Adhesive (WPA) / or Water-Resistant Adhesive (WRA).
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Are vent holes or gaps on flaps required?
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Are wax or grease resistant coatings required?
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Are water-resistant liners needed?
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What markings must be on the outside of the carton? Requirements vary from state to state.
9. Corrugated comes in different grades. What board grade will my package require?
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All of the above will determine the best material for your product.
10. Can WPC help me redesign my package to be more effective?
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We have the knowledge, experience, education and training to create the best corrugated packaging for your needs! Learn more about our Custom Design Packaging services or Contact Us today.