Forums: Discussions for entrepreneurs and small business.

I`m wondering if there are such a thing as a packaging consultant and if anyone knows one to recommend?  Specifically, I need help determining how our product should be packed for shipment to keep it from being damaged.  Currently, the product is packed with styrofoam corners as I directed.  However, my latest sample that was sent to me from the factory arrived majorly damaged so obviously this isn`t sufficient.  The styrofoam corners seem quite hard and I wonder if they need to be softer to absorb more of the shock if the box is dropped.  It would be best if I could give our factory very clear specs of what is required for packaging.  Is there someone who can advise me technically speaking on packaging?  I could give more specifics to such a consultant offline.  We`re still in startup phase so our budget is rather modest.

 

On the other side of packaging, I could probably use some consulting on the design of the outer packaging as well from a marketing standpoint and could use the help of an expert in that area as well.. 

Hi Janet,

 

If location isn`t a problem, check out the Clemson University Packaging Science program.  I belive that for a reasonable price you can have them work on your project.  I have not used them personally but I hear that they do good work.

 

By the way, I love your website.  It is beautiful!  Who is your designer?

 

Tracy

Working in distribution and engineering, I can tell you that 18 inches is the normal drop test used.  That means from 18 inches high, drop it on a corner and this is what is expected to pass to be a quality packing.  That helps, but putting it on a desk and knocking it off is much more realistic for you.

 

As far as packaging materials, I guess that is more preference, although I have personally never liked any kind of paper for packing.  Usually the paper or packing materials go in last.  My recommendation is to flip the box upside down immediately and open it.  Chances are there is more room again. 

 

To see what your box really needs to go through, just go to a UPS warehouse and watch them throw the boxes to each other or into the trucks when they are in a hurry or mad.

We are a packaging company that offers branding, design, and production out of China. We have full testing labs, and can work with paper or plastic packaging. If we can be of service let me know.

 

Thansk
gary

 

 

Are there any companies that do what you do?  When we were looking into packaging & shippers we looked at what our competition uses.  And I can tell you we tried to cut corners on shippers and it piad off with re-shipments and damaged orders and finally we realized that it is much cheaper to pay up front to ensure your product arrives in good condition. 

As for packaging all I can tell you is I have learned a lot since I first had packaging done.  Pay attention to packaging!!  It is amazing what ideas you can get from others. 

Good luck and as hard as it is to not do it don`t skimp!

I own a packaging consulting company.  We help our clients save money, when it comes to the packaging they use.

Next time you need help, I`d be happy to assist you!

 

I wish the best for you!

 

Dave

 

Dave Willhite

Integrity Pkg.

Office (630)890-9890

Fax (888) 837-8804

dave@integritypkg.com