Protecting your products is imperative to creating a positive customer experience. When customers receive damaged or broken products, it not only affects customer satisfaction – it also can tarnish your brand’s image!
This is where custom inserts and packaging fillers can be the heroes your products need. But which kind is best for your business? We’ve compiled this handy guide to help make the choice easier. Read on to learn more!
Packaging Inserts
Here at LeKAC, we offer a variety of packaging inserts that can be custom-made to your box’s unique specifications and product configurations.
Corrugated Cardboard
Corrugated cardboard is one of our most popular insert options for its durability and stability. It’s also our most eco-friendly solution since it’s 100% recyclable!
These inserts come in a variety of styles depending on your needs and how you want your products to be presented!
Use this style for: electronics, ceramics, jars
Foam Inserts
The elevated classic for protection, foam inserts offer a high level of shock absorption without an extreme amount of excess weight. The foam can be cut into intricate shapes with various densities for the perfect, secure fit.
Though many businesses are steering away from foam for eco-friendly reasons, we commonly see this type of insert used for luxury goods or fragile items where presentation is key!
Ideal for: perfume, glassware, jewellery
Cork
Cork is lightweight and able to absorb impact rather than distributing it across the entire surface. It’s lightweight and has a natural finish and feel.
While protecting your products, cork is also a renewable resource, making it one of the more sustainable options available.
Incorporate cork inserts for: cosmetics, soap, wine
Packaging Fillers
Inserts provide direct protection by encapsulating your products, but what if you need something to fill the extra space? Packaging fillers can help fill the void (pun intended)!
Biodegradable Packing Peanuts – The classic packaging filler has gotten an upgrade. Originally made of foam, these biodegradable alternatives are now made from plant-based starches. They degrade in water, and are even compostable, making them a spectacular eco-friendly packaging filler choice.
Shredded Paper/Crinkle Paper – Adding shredded/crinkled paper creates air pockets that help distribute force (see our blog post on cardboard for a more scientific description of how this works). In addition to protecting your packaging, this filler can also be decorative!
Honeycomb Paper – Similar to crinkle paper, honeycomb paper cushions by creating pockets of air to properly distribute force. We’ve seen this style of packaging filler be used in place of bubble wrap or other plastic-based cushioning!
Kraft/Butcher Paper – Whole sheets of kraft or butcher paper can be used to wrap individual items and fill any voids that might cause shifting in transit. The flat sheets are versatile and make it easy for customers to remove their products from the packaging.
More Than Just Protecting Your Products
Beyond just keeping your products safe, custom packaging inserts and fillers can completely transform your customers’ unboxing experience. Think of your packaging as the first physical touchpoint your brand has with a customer after they’ve made a purchase. Creating an intentional, well-thought-out unboxing moment shows you care about every detail. This attention to detail builds trust and reinforces your brand’s quality.
Custom inserts, for example, can be designed to showcase your products in a specific way, while also protecting them. A foam insert might hold a piece of jewelry perfectly in place, creating a “wow” moment when the box is opened. Similarly, a custom corrugated insert for cosmetics can cradle each item securely, preventing movement and presenting the collection beautifully.
Packaging fillers like crinkle paper add a pop of colour and a sense of volume to the box. When a customer opens a box and sees a vibrant, textured filler, it instantly feels more special than seeing a plain, empty space. This small effort communicates a lot about your brand’s personality and values. By choosing eco-friendly options like biodegradable peanuts or recycled paper, you also show your commitment to the environment, which is a big deal to many consumers today – as it should be.
Ultimately, this extra effort can turn a simple transaction into a memorable brand experience. A positive unboxing can lead to repeat purchases and even social media shares, helping you grow your business and build a loyal customer base.
How Do I Choose The Right Kind Of Packaging Protection?
When choosing what kind of insert or filler to use, consider the following:
- Product Fragility – How delicate is your item?
- Product Weight and Size – How heavy is your product? Bigger items will require more support!
- Shipping Distance and Method – Where is your package headed? Longer journeys and more handling equals to more support.
- Environmental Impact – Your packaging isn’t only functional, it can also send a message about your brand’s values and commitment to the environment. Consider eco-friendly alternatives when possible!
- Aesthetic and Presentation – How do you want your products to look when they arrive with your customers?
Not sure which option would work best for your business? Contact us today for a free consultation and we’ll help you make the right choice!
