Tips and Tricks to Take Your Brand’s Custom Packaging to the Next Level
Last Updated on May 19, 2025 by Kira Andrus
Written By: Megan Curtis
Those age-old adages stick around not only because they come to mind at seemingly random times, but also because they are, by nature, true. “Dress for the job you want, not the job you have” and “You never get a second chance to make a first impression” are as applicable to your attire as they are to the custom packaging of your product. Afterall, you and your product represent your brand.
Because these are well known sayings, how do you get your brand to stand out if everyone is focused on making a good first impression? The answer is to create custom packaging that enhances your brand identity and perception – what people associate with your brand. By making small (or large) adjustments to how you package your product, you can differentiate your packaging from competitors in an overwhelming market.
Here are five ways to take your custom packaging to the next level:
1. Provide Minimalist Luxury
Deliver simple but premium packaging for a refreshing and high-end experience. Siegel+Gale, a brand strategy and design company, reports “brands that provide remarkably clear and unexpectedly fresh experiences garner greater customer loyalty and increase revenue. The same research revealed that 63% of customers are willing to pay more for simpler experiences.” Custom product packaging doesn’t need to be complicated with lots of layers. For example, most standard mailing boxes are designed for general use, and leave too much unused space in the package that is filled with extra paper or plastic. Custom packaging boxes that fit the product well and aren’t overly large better protect the product and increase the perceived value of the item. Minimalism uses custom packaging to highlight your product.
2. Highlight Sustainability
Reducing the amount of packaging you use is trendy. Use your custom packaging boxes to demonstrate your brand’s commitment to the environment. Use QR codes and labels to show how your packaging can be recycled, composted, or reused. Note how you are using less packaging to protect the environment while still providing quality packaging. Even using custom packaging tape can highlight your brand’s sustainability efforts. Custom packaging products don’t have to be bland or neutral to be sustainable. Graphic designer Henny Kel for Designhill notes, “Sustainable does not mean ugly.” Advancements in technology mean that plastic and paper packaging can be designed with bold colors and high-end finishes while still being environmentally friendly. With “74% of consumers [who] are willing to pay more when it comes to sustainable packaging”, the move to sustainable, custom packaging could be a great option.
3. Offer a Limited Edition
If beloved carbonated drinks can change up their flavors during the summer and winter, your product can mix things up for holidays, local events, or company milestones too. Besides appealing to collectors, limited edition packaging and products make events more engaging. With an established brand and custom logo, consumers can easily identify branding even if the custom packaging is different. Remember, your custom product packaging doesn’t have to be complicated to be more fun and interactive. Enhancing colors or getting playful with textures or shapes can be enough to catch attention without complicating the unboxing experience. Clear space can let your product speak for itself, and custom packaging bags can capitalize on seasonal themes with built-in marketing potential.
4. Tell Your Story
Create an emotional connection with your customers that communicates your brand’s identity. Share the core of your brand – your mission, what you stand for, and what problems you are solving. Focusing on building your brand identity over simply being different will set you apart from the competition. As quoted in Marketoonist, Byron Sharp and Ehrenberg-Bass stated: “Branding lasts, differentiation doesn’t.” Taking the time to create a brand identity and conveying that brand to your customers will build a solid foundation for your company and product. Consumers who know the brand will seek out your products time and again, especially if they believe in your brand’s mission.
5. Make Packaging Personal
Research shows that an overwhelming majority of Americans believe that small businesses have a positive impact on the economy and people’s lives. Thus, people like to support small businesses. Custom product packaging can be taken to the next level by showing a personal touch like thank you notes, product-specific details, and even simply adding the customer’s name on the order. You can connect with consumers by making your custom packaging bags and boxes interactive with QR codes, contests, special discounts, or even “easter eggs” (discreet, cleverly hidden messages or images the consumer can find). These interactive elements can elevate custom product packaging and create word-of-mouth marketing.
If you are just getting started on your custom packaging journey, begin by asking yourself what your goals are with your packaging. Key details like size needed for packaging, printing options, desired features, timeline, and budget drive your options. However, don’t forget that custom product packaging can also reduce labor and time in packaging, and custom packaging provides opportunities for growth through increased retail appeal and expanded market reach. Get personalized service on your custom packaging with ClearBags today!
