This post will be sharing 15 small business packaging ideas.
I recently became an eBay seller—the first step before venturing into e-commerce—and needed packaging and shipping supplies.
Like I do with my blogging journey, I’ll document all the steps I’ll take into e-commerce.
One of the most important things you need when starting a small business selling products is packaging supplies.
You probably have been inspired by some cute packaging you have seen on TikTok and saved it on your Pinterest board, hoping that someday, when you start your business, you can afford those kinds of packaging.
That’s not a bad idea at all.
But the reality is, when starting out, you might not be able to afford certain types of packaging until your business grows to a certain level.
So, don’t be afraid to start small with unbranded packaging.
If you’re looking to start a small business selling products and are unsure what kinds of packaging you can choose from, this post is for you.
Here Are 15 Must-Have Small Business Packaging Ideas You Need.
In no particular order;
Bubble Mailers
If you sell small, fragile items or small parcels, as we call them in the UK, that don’t require boxes, you should get bubble mailers.
They come in various sizes and colours and can conveniently fit any small order.
If you are selling products that can spill, wrap them well in extra bubble wrap before slotting them into the bubble mailers for shipping.
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9x6x2″ Shipping Boxes
Before buying shipping boxes or any packaging supplies, ensure you have products for them.
If you have an e-commerce brand with your own website, you can buy them ahead.
But if you are an eBay reseller still experimenting with products to sell, don’t buy them until you actually need them.
Poly mailers
Poly mailers work very well for irregular products that can’t fit a bubble mailer or are too big for shipping boxes.
Again, make sure they are well wrapped and sealed to prevent spillage if necessary during shipping.
Transparent Poly Bags
Large clothing items like jackets, coats, bedding, etc, are best well-packaged in a transparent poly bag.
They are self-sealing and tamper-evident.
This means that once they are sealed, they can’t be reopened without causing some damage.
Drawstring Organza Bags
Organza bags are your best bet if you sell jewellery, lip glosses, wedding favours, crafts, or other mini items.
Aside from being cute, they’re stylish and economical.
Plus, you’re able to save money on unnecessary shipping costs.
Resealable Mylar Storage Bags
Another option for mini items is these resealable mylar storage bags.
They’re like tiny, see-through Ziploc bags that hold items like candy, hair accessories, dried fruits, nuts, coffee beans, etc.
They are made of non-toxic and reliable polyethene, so they’re perfectly safe for edible items.
5x5x5 Cardboard Shipping Boxes
These easy-to-assemble recyclable shipping boxes are compact, versatile and lightweight.
If you sell items like customized mugs, skincare or haircare products, gift boxes, etc.
When shipping these boxes, ensure they are well-padded with bubble wrap or shredded paper to keep them sturdy.
Heavy Duty Packing Tape
You will need heavy-duty packing tape if you use shipping boxes for your products.
Trust me, it has come in so handy for me several times.
This packing tape helps keep your package in place while it is moved, shipped, or stored until it reaches its owner.
Also, try to buy in bulk so you never run out.
Plus it is cheaper.
Digital Shipping Scale
Another must-have packaging equipment for your small business is your shipping scale.
Accurately measuring your package can help you save on shipping costs in the long term.
Instead of paying an estimate, you’ll pay the exact amount.
Tagging Gun
If you sell branded items and want to include your tag on your products, you will need a tagging gun.
You can use it on products such as your shirts, jeans, socks, jeans, and just about any clothing item.
It is durable and pretty easy to use.
It comes with six needles and 1000pcs 2″ Standard Barbs.
Bubble Cushioning Wrap Roll
Bubble wraps are an absolute necessity for packaging and shipping orders.
It is perfect for moving delicate, fragile items that easily break or spill.
It also provides additional reinforcement when your packages move through the post office.
Depending on what kind of packaging you use, always use extra bubble wrap to secure your product.
Crinkle Cut Shredded Paper
One of my favourite small business packaging ideas that you will find helpful is crinkle-cut shredded paper.
If you prefer to add a personal touch to your orders and go the extra mile to make them even more presentable, you can package your products with crinkle-cut shredded paper.
Dymo Thermal Label Printer
The biggest and best investment you’ll make for your business is getting a thermal label printer.
It saves you so much time, ink, paper and money printing shipping labels. If you ever had a printer, you would know that ink/toner cartridge prices add up quickly.
So, to save those expenses in the long run, make that investment today.
This thermal printer was explicitly created for those who are into e-commerce to simplify the shipping process.
You can literally print hundreds of labels in minutes.
All you need to do is to cut and stick them on your packages.
Dymo Black & White Shipping Label
Aside from getting a thermal printer, you must also get extra labels.
You don’t want to run out between orders or when you have a backlog of orders to fulfil.
60″ Portable Photo Studio with Tripod
If you have an e-commerce website, you’ll understand how vital product photography is.
You’ll also know that hiring photographers every single time adds up quickly.
So, you’re better off getting a portable photo studio with a tripod.
You can use it at home or in the office without extra expenses.
In Conclusion,
If you want to get into eCommerce, I hope this list of small business packaging ideas is handy.
With this list, you will have one less thing to worry about and be able to focus more on your business.
This is really helpful. Many thanks.
Hello Ebun,
Thank you for sharing these packaging tips. It’s very helpful as I begin my eCommerce journey.
May I offer you a grammatical tip? The correct term is “besides” not “asides.” 🙂
Best wishes to you and your business ventures!
May I ask what label maker you use in your video?
Thank you so very much for sharing your information and helping totally strangers along the way, may your journey be blessed!
Can you make a DIY version because I can’t buy I’ve reached my budget but these are awesome ideas!