A new packaging project involves many departments: marketing, product development, purchasing, logistics and often management too. Without clear planning, delays, extra costs and compromises loom. With the right structure, on the other hand, the project becomes a success. Here is how to plan step by step.
What should the new packaging achieve? More attention on the shelf, a more premium brand image, lower costs, more sustainability or better protection in shipping? Clear goals help you make decisions later and measure success.
Appoint a project lead who holds everything together. Clarify who makes which decisions and who gives the print approval. Too many people involved without clear roles is one of the most common reasons for delays.
Include all cost items: design, one-off tooling, samples, production, delivery, storage and licence fees. Ask for several quantity tiers to be calculated. More in our article What factors determine the price of packaging?.
Many companies have the design created first and only then ask the manufacturer for a quote. It is better to involve the manufacturer early on. It can recommend construction, material and finishing that work technically and are economical. This avoids a design that can only be produced at extra cost.
Start with the date on which the packaging must be ready for use, and count backwards:
Build in buffers, especially for review rounds and before seasonal peaks. Our article Planning Christmas packaging in time shows a concrete example.
Define when each approval must take place: construction, design, sample and print approval. Each approval should be given in writing by the responsible person.
Test the sample with the real product, on the filling line, on the shelf and in shipping. More in our article Why is a print sample important before series production?.
Was the goal achieved? What worked well and what did not? How are customers and retailers responding? The insights help with the next project and with reorders.
Our article How is custom packaging made? shows how the individual production steps work. We support you from the first consultation to free delivery, with a fixed contact person and a binding fixed price. You will receive a quote within 24 hours.
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