25th February 2025

Establishing successful ecommerce packaging partnerships

Ecommerce packaging is a term used to refer to any type of packaging that supports online purchases.
For the team at Cardboard Box Company, and the wider Logson Group, this can take the form of many different styles of boxes, cases and envelopes all designed to be easy to pack goods into, protect product through the supply chain and give a positive unboxing experience to the consumer.

With the third biggest ecommerce market in the world being here in the UK, the amount of packaging required to facilitate this is significant. Getting those goods from warehouse, retail outlet, distribution centre or workshop is a slick operation worth billions of pounds and corrugated is right at the heart of it all.
Understanding what is required from all parties in the process is key to establishing successful ecommerce partnership and we work closely with our customers to make this happen without exception.

What do businesses need from ecommerce packaging?
Businesses require ecommerce packaging to be functional, fit for purpose and cost efficient. We consider how easy the solution is to assemble, pack and open as all parts of the process need to suit be appropriate.
We understand customers need their ecommerce packaging to also protect products through the supply chain, reducing the risk of damage and the chance of customers being unhappy when receiving damaged goods. This also protects the reputation of the business supplying the products.
We also consider the diversification of the product range and how the packaging solutions we create can be adapted to keep the range as sleek as possible without shipping fresh air, requiring additional void fill and without complicating the shipping process unduly.
Sustainability is a big consideration for business and corrugated is one of the most sustainable packaging materials available to business to support their ecommerce operations.
Finally, depending upon the markets they operate in and the customer base they have, business may want their brand reflected in a variety of ways ranging from simple logo representation to a whole unboxing experience.
Achieving the balance of all these requirements is key to success and to delivering a superior customer experience.

What do consumers need from ecommerce packaging?
Consumers typically have specific distinct needs and expectations when it comes to ecommerce packaging and these will change in priority depending upon the product they have purchased. For example, if a customer has ordered a microwave the minimum expectation will be for the packaging to protect the product so it arrives intact. However, if they are purchasing a high end product on line they will expect the product to not only arrive intact but also give them a pleasurable opening experience.
Ease of opening is also another critical factor consumers. Packaging which is difficult to open or require tools to open (which can damage products within) can be very frustrating and negatively impact on the consumers experience. This is why achieving the balance of business, product and consumer friendly packaging is non-negotiable.
Consumers also like aesthetically pleasing packaging, especially when buying luxury or non-essential products. Attractive packaging that reflects the brand’s identity and adds an element of excitement to the unboxing process can significantly enhance the consumer experience. This visual appeal can create a memorable moment for the consumer, encouraging them to share their experience on social media, which in turn benefits the brand.
In addition, sustainability is becoming increasingly important to consumers. Many are more environmentally conscious and prefer packaging that is recyclable, biodegradable, or made from sustainable materials. Eco-friendly packaging not only aligns with their values but also impacts their purchasing decisions, as they are more likely to support brands that demonstrate environmental responsibility, and this is why corrugated packaging is preferred by brands and consumers alike.

Why corrugated is best
Corrugated can meet these expectations of both business and consumers and this is why it is the preferred choice for many ecommerce businesses. For those who don’t currently use corrugated, there continues to be a growing shift as businesses seek more sustainable solutions to meet their own ESG goals and align with consumer demands for eco-friendly solutions.
When correctly designed by qualified professionals it is infinitely durable and its adaptability allows businesses to achieve the balance of product protection, easy packing and opening and aesthetics as required.
It also offers the ability for a range of print solutions to be applied to it bringing a whole other range of possibilities for businesses to choose from to find a corrugated packaging solution that optimises all elements of the supply chain and delivers a solution which meets the demands of the ecommerce industry.