Packaging is an essential cost for your business, but that doesn’t mean it has to be a big expense. There are plenty of simple ways to reduce your packaging costs, and a few tricks of the trade too. As part of our commitment to keep costs low and quality high, here are Echo Cartons’ expert tips for reducing your packaging costs.
Reduce the box size
Let’s start with an easy one – a smaller box means less materials and cheaper costs. It doesn’t have to be a large reduction either. Even 10-15% smaller can mean that you fit an extra print per sheet, which in turn means you can purchase fewer sheets overall.
There are other benefits to a smaller box too – such as a snug fit which protects your products in transit and fitting more boxes on a pallet which can help reduce shipping costs. If you’re not sure how small is too small, contact our team for advice. We’ll be happy to talk you through it.
Deeper is cheaper
There’s another trick of the trade when it comes to box sizing. It’s a little-known fact that deeper boxes are cheaper. They use less board overall, but still have the same volume and carrying capacity.
This tip won’t work for every business – for example, if you’re delivering bottles that can’t be double stacked. But, for durable items where you can double stack or package them on their side – this could be a game changer.
Optimise your board grades
Once you’ve optimised your box sizing, it’s time to turn to the cardboard options. The smaller your flute size, the lighter your boxes will be. Make sure your boxes are using the lightest option available to minimise shipping costs, while still offering enough protection.
There is an exception to this rule. Choosing the standard board grades, like a classic C-flute, can be cheaper because it’s more readily available. Manufacturers typically pay less for sheets in the standard grades, which means these savings can be passed on to you.
Minimise colour printing
When a client comes to us with budget concerns, one of the first places we look to cut back is design printing. The more complex your box design is, the more colours you’ll likely use and the more materials you’ll have to pay for. Dropping from four colours down to just one or two can make a big impact on your bottom line.
Choose stock packaging
Ready-made stock boxes remain the cheapest option, compared to custom design. They aren’t a good fit for every industry. For example, shelf-ready packaging requires a custom design. But, if they suit your needs – you can save plenty by going for a standard box without design or custom features. You can order stock boxes any day of the week from our online store.
Find a local manufacturer
When you’ve maxed out the savings on your box design, you can still look at other ways to lower costs. One option is choosing a local box manufacturer. The closer your supplier is, the faster they can get your boxes delivered and the less you’ll have to pay for them.
Based in Melbourne, Echo Cartons offer delivery across the metro area – utilising our own fleet. Delivery into Country Victoria, NSW and South Australia can also be arranged. View our delivery areas for more.
Ask our experts for cost reduction tips
Budget concerns have to be some of the most common questions that we face at Echo Cartons. And we understand why – reducing costs can make a big difference to your business. It can help you invest back into your business growth and means more profits to go around. We can’t promise the cheapest prices every time, but we are committed to working with customers on cost-effective solutions. Contact us to find out how we could help reduce your packaging costs.
