1. The Function of Packaging
Packaging serves many functions, far beyond mere protection. During the design process, it is essential to clarify which function is paramount and adjust your packaging accordingly.
- Is the packaging suitable for secure transport?
- Does the packaging allow for convenient storage?
- Does the pouch enable safe and easy use?
It is also crucial to distinguish between the function of primary packaging (in direct contact with the product) and secondary packaging. Both types of packaging must be coordinated to create a uniform image.
For more information on this type of packaging, see our article “Primary and Secondary Packaging: What Differences for Your Product?”
2. Choosing the Appropriate Shape
The shape of the packaging plays a crucial role in the perception and practicality of your product. Different types of flexible packaging are available, each designed to meet specific needs.
- Stand-up pouches offer an attractive vertical presentation, ideal for products such as snacks or small-sized items.
- Doypack pouches, equipped with a reinforced base, ensure optimal stability, making them suitable for liquids or heavier products.
- Flat-bottom pouches offer a stable surface when placed, ideal for products that require maximum visibility on shelves.
- Finally, the film reel is versatile, allowing for the creation of custom packaging for various shapes and sizes of products.
The choice between these types of packaging depends on the nature of your product and the preferences of your target consumers. A thorough understanding of the function of each type of packaging will enable you to make the best choice.
3. Select the right packaging dimensions
Determining the right dimensions for your packaging is a crucial step to ensure the logistical efficiency and aesthetics of your product.
To do this, it is essential to consider several aspects.
- First, assess the amount of space your product needs inside the packaging to avoid any waste.
- Also, consider the issue of transport, taking into account the volume necessary to minimise logistical costs.
A practical tip is to conduct filling tests to determine the ideal dimensions for your product. At ePac, we understand that it can sometimes be difficult for young brands to determine the right packaging dimensions, which is why we offer free packaging samples to our clients.
4. Packaging Materials
The choice of material must primarily be suited to the specific requirements of your product.
- Is it sensitive to light?
- Should moisture be avoided for your product?
- What durability should the materials have?
The choice of packaging material is a crucial decision that affects the protection, durability, and appearance of your product. Opting for recyclable materials has become imperative in the current sustainability-focused context. The use of recyclable packaging films, such as polyethylene (PE) or kraft paper, helps reduce the environmental footprint of your product.
Moreover, for products sensitive to air and moisture, packaging films with barriers like EVOH (ethylene vinyl alcohol) are an effective solution. EVOH offers additional protection by preventing the penetration of oxygen and other gases, thus preserving the freshness and quality of the product for a longer period.
5. Ease of Use
The ease of opening and using your packaging is an essential element to provide a convenient experience for your consumers. Different options can be considered to meet these needs.
- The addition of a zip closure on the packaging offers a practical solution for consumers who wish to easily reseal the product after use, thus ensuring its freshness and integrity.
- The incorporation of a tear notch is another important point. This ensures that the consumer can access the product without difficulty, thus facilitating their user experience.
- Hanging holes are also a practical option, allowing your product to be optimally displayed on shelves.
6. Mandatory mentions
The information on the packaging plays a crucial role in providing essential details to consumers and complying with labelling regulations. Several elements must be included on your packaging. Labelling rules for food products are particularly strict and require special attention.
The mandatory information includes the net quantity, the place of origin of the product, barcodes, the manufacturing number, the name and address of the company, health claims (such as allergens), the expiration date, as well as the ingredients and nutritional value of the food.
For detailed advice on labelling rules, discover our article: labelling rules on food product packaging.
This article provides valuable information on the specific requirements related to labelling and the current regulatory standards.
7. Design
First and foremost, the design of your packaging must align with your brand and product. To successfully stand out from the competition, it is also wise to adopt current design trends. There are countless techniques to create an unforgettable experience for your customers with packaging: colours, typography, metallic effect, transparent window, and many more.
To guide your choice of colours and design, we offer you an informative article: meaning of logo colours: which ones to choose for your brand?.
This article provides an in-depth analysis of the meanings of colours and how they can influence consumers’ perception of your brand.
8. Packaging Budget
Depending on the available budget, you should consider this factor very early in your decision. The price of your packaging bags is influenced by:
- Materials
- Type of printing
- Quantity of packaging
An important aspect to consider is the minimum order quantity, often abbreviated as MOQ (Minimum Order Quantity). MOQs represent the smallest quantity of packaging you can order. Although this may seem restrictive, MOQs are important. Indeed, they allow manufacturers to optimise production, reduce unit costs, and offer competitive prices.
By choosing appropriate MOQs, you benefit from better economies of scale, which can contribute to more effective budget management. However, it is essential to find a balance between the quantity needed to meet the current and future demand for your product, and your company’s budgetary constraints.