In an ever-growing retail market, every small detail counts. Here, John Armstrong, Director and Co-Owner of Custom Planet shares four packing tips that are bound to make an impression with your customers.

2020 has been hailed as the year of the start-up, with 35,608 new online and mail-order retail businesses created last year alone, according to data from Tyl by Natwest (Business Matters). It’s certainly no surprise considering over 2.14 billion people worldwide are expected to shop online in 2021 (Statista). By taking your company online, you could get your products and services in front of a wider audience.

But, with so many other businesses taking advantage of the ecommerce boom, it can be a little trickier to make yourself stand out from the crowd. Attention to detail counts. Even small aspects like your packaging can make an impression on customers and can encourage them to share your brand on social media, leave rave reviews, and recommend your business to their family and friends.

What’s more, fantastic packaging could earn you more shares on your own social media posts too. Small business packing videos are cooking up a storm on platforms like TikTok, with many brands showing off the care and creativity that goes into fulfilling their orders. So, it’s well worth adding a little bit extra to your orders to help you show off your business, and I’ll be sharing my tips for doing just that.

Create an aesthetic for your brand

Before you do anything else, your first step will be deciding on a ‘look’ for your business. While you will want to make sure your packaging lines up with the rest of your branding, in the form of a colour palette and style, you should also consider your audience. This can determine what kinds of materials and extras you include in your parcel.

Fashion and beauty customers may want their order to feel luxurious as they unpack it. Tissue paper, ribbon, and printed or embossed stickers can create that sense of indulgence. On the other hand, if you know your customers are more environmentally conscious, then minimal packaging printed with recycling tips may suit them better.

Include your business card and promotional products

Who doesn’t love a freebie? Including a small token of thanks in your packages can help boost customer satisfaction, and customers will feel like they’ve gotten great value for their money. The best way to make the most out of a freebie is by giving away something with your brand name on, like printed stickers, a notebook, or pen. This way, your customers will be advertising your business every time they use your gift.

It might also be helpful to include your business card in your orders. Be sure to add all your contact info, as well as tips for finding you on social media. This means customers know immediately how they can contact you if there’s a problem with their order, and know how to share your products on social media. Plus, they can give your card out to their family and friends as they recommend your business.

Offer a discount code or voucher

Discount codes and vouchers are a great way to encourage repeat custom and brand loyalty. There are a few ways you can do this. You can offer a site-wide discount code, a discount on specific items, or offer customers a discount when they recommend a friend. Whichever option you choose, giving customers a way to save money on future purchases is a fantastic way to encourage them to keep coming back.

Offering a one-time or limited-time only code gives the illusion of exclusivity, and customers are more likely to rush back to your store to make the most of the savings while they still can.

Add handwritten notes

Adding handwritten notes to your order can add a lovely personal touch that your customers are sure to appreciate. Brands that do this often see customers mention it in their reviews, which shows that it’s made an impression.

If you’re thinking of sending out handwritten messages, consider getting your own stationery printed with your branding. This can add an extra professional touch to your packaging.

Your message doesn’t have to be long, and a simple “thank you for your order” can be enough. Keeping it short and sweet will save you time, but customers will love the extra element of care you’ve put into fulfilling their order. You could even offer a few tips on how to best enjoy your product. This is a great idea if you’ll be using branded stationery, as customers are more likely to keep your handwritten message for future reference.

In the world of ecommerce, even small touches to your packaging can make a big difference. By following my tips above, your orders are sure to leave a lasting impression on your customers, and you’ll benefit from great reviews and more social shares.