In the world of ecommerce and small business branding, first impressions matter—and your packaging plays a leading role. The right box, bag, or container doesn’t just protect your product; it tells your brand story, elevates your image, and helps your business stand out in a crowded market.
As online packaging suppliers become more accessible, many entrepreneurs turn to the web to order custom boxes. It’s convenient, cost-effective, and offers endless options. But it’s also full of potential pitfalls if you’re not careful.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the top mistakes to avoid when ordering custom packaging online—and how to make sure you get it right the first time. Let’s save you time, money, and stress.
🚚 Why Ordering Custom Packaging Online is a Smart Move
Ordering your packaging online gives you:
- 🔄 More flexibility in size, material, and design
- 🕒 Time savings—no back-and-forth visits to print shops
- 💡 Creative freedom with thousands of design combinations
- 🌍 Global access to suppliers with competitive pricing
But only if you plan smartly.
❌ Mistake #1: Not Measuring Your Products Accurately
This is one of the most common—and expensive—mistakes. Ordering packaging that doesn’t fit your product properly can lead to:
- Product damage
- Higher shipping costs
- Wasted materials
✅ How to Avoid It:
- Measure your product dimensions precisely, including width, length, height, and any add-ons like inserts or padding.
- Factor in the protective space needed around fragile items.
- Request a custom dieline from your supplier to visualize fit.
💡 Need help with packaging design? Check out our guide: How to Design Custom Boxes That Make Your Brand Stand Out
❌ Mistake #2: Skipping Samples or Prototypes
Sure, mockups look great online. But what happens when the actual box arrives, and it doesn’t match your expectations?
Whether it’s color inconsistencies, weak materials, or poor finishing, skipping the sample stage can lead to costly reprints.
✅ PackCrafted Pro Tip:
We always recommend getting a digital mockup and, if possible, a physical prototype before a large order. This gives you a chance to feel the texture, test the strength, and see the print quality in real life.
❌ Mistake #3: Focusing Only on Price
We get it—every dollar counts when you’re growing a brand. But cheap packaging often comes with hidden costs:
- Faded or misaligned printing
- Weak structures that damage your products
- Long delivery times and poor service
Remember, your packaging is part of your brand experience. Don’t compromise quality for a small cost saving.
💰 Read: Luxury Packaging for Small Business: A Cost-Effective Approach
❌ Mistake #4: Not Checking Minimum Order Quantities (MOQs) & Lead Times
Many online suppliers don’t make their minimums and timelines clear upfront. You might place an order only to learn:
- There’s a 5,000-box minimum
- Production takes 6–8 weeks
- There are rush fees
✅ What You Should Ask:
- “What’s your minimum order quantity?”
- “How long does production take?”
- “Is expedited delivery available?”
At PackCrafted, we specialize in low MOQs and quick turnarounds, perfect for startups and seasonal campaigns.
📦 Still unsure? Compare your options here: Custom vs. Stock Packaging: Which One is Right for Your Business?
❌ Mistake #5: Overlooking Packaging Materials & Sustainability
Your product might be amazing, but if it’s wrapped in non-recyclable plastic or thin, flimsy cardboard, it sends the wrong message.
Common Mistakes:
- Choosing glossy finishes when your brand is eco-friendly
- Using plastic instead of biodegradable or compostable options
- Ignoring the feel and strength of the box
✅ Our Green Tip:
We offer packaging made from:
- FSC-certified kraft paper
- Recycled cardboard
- Compostable mailers
- Soy-based inks and water-based coatings
🌱 If you’re a candle maker, this guide is gold: Custom Candle Boxes
❌ Mistake #6: Poor Communication with Your Supplier
Miscommunication can derail even the best packaging project. If you’re vague with your instructions, your supplier might:
- Use the wrong file type or size
- Apply the design incorrectly
- Print with wrong colors or finishes
✅ Be Clear and Detailed:
- Use precise terminology: CMYK, matte finish, embossing, etc.
- Ask your supplier for a checklist of required design assets.
- Confirm file types (PDF, AI, dieline template).
- Communicate through email or chat for clear records.
With PackCrafted, you’ll always talk to real packaging experts—not bots. We walk you through every step.
❌ Mistake #7: Forgetting the Branding Experience
Even if your packaging fits perfectly and looks clean, it still needs to feel on-brand.
Questions to Ask Yourself:
- Does it include your logo and colors?
- Is there space for a thank-you note or QR code?
- Would it look good in a customer’s unboxing video?
Your packaging is your chance to create a memorable first impression. Don’t let it fall flat.
🎨 Dive deeper into design strategy here: How to Design Custom Boxes That Make Your Brand Stand Out
❌ Mistake #8: Not Reading Return & Refund Policies
Let’s say something goes wrong—what now? Many businesses forget to review:
- Who’s responsible for misprints or damage
- Whether reprints are free
- How long returns take
✅ Avoid the Headache:
- Always read the terms and conditions.
- Clarify who pays for shipping in the event of a return.
- Save all order details and design proofs.
With PackCrafted, we stand by our quality. If we mess up, we make it right—period.
🔄 Bonus Mistakes to Avoid
- Ordering last-minute during peak seasons (plan ahead!)
- Not checking reviews or testimonials
- Not keeping extra inventory for returns or emergencies
- Failing to consider international shipping restrictions
- Using outdated branding or logos
🧠 How PackCrafted Helps You Avoid All These Mistakes
We’ve worked with hundreds of small businesses, and we know what can go wrong. That’s why we’ve built our process to make your life easier, not harder.
✅ Low minimums for small batches
✅ One-on-one support with packaging experts
✅ Custom dielines and design help
✅ Eco-friendly materials and modern finishes
✅ Fast turnaround times (we know you hustle)
📣 Ready to Get It Right the First Time?
Avoid the common traps of online packaging—and partner with a supplier who cares about your success.
👉
Get a Free Custom Packaging Quote from PackCrafted
No pressure. Just real advice from real experts. Let’s build packaging that grows your brand.
📚 More Packaging Tips & Resources
- Luxury Packaging for Small Business: A Cost-Effective Approach
- How to Design Custom Boxes That Make Your Brand Stand Out
- Custom Candle Boxes
- Custom vs. Stock Packaging: Which One is Right for Your Business?
