How to Measure Boxes

If you’re shipping items, you want to make sure that you know the costs of the box, and also, what you need to use. Knowing this is important because it tells you how products will fit. Here is what you need to know to ship out items using boxes.

First, you need to understand the box dimensions.

You want to make sure that before you begin, you’ve got a ruler or some measuring tape.  This is beneficial for also calculating the different dimensions of boxes that are larger.

But you need to understand the box dimensions and what they’re referring to. The length of course is the long part of your box, and usually, it’s the one that’s got the flap near the top in order to secure this.

Then you’ve got the width of this box, which is the horizontal part with the flaps on there. This can be different usually, but it tends to be shorter. The height is also the depth of the box. This is the part without the flaps that are there. This usually is the largest dimension, but this also is dependent on the box shape.

Measure first length, width, then the height.

In order to measure out the length, you want to grab the measuring tool, placing this against your box to measure the part that’s the longest with your flaps. This is in inches, or even centimeters. Usually, this is the first measurement.

Then, you want to do the same with the width, the part that’s across, and write this down. 

Finally, measure out the height by measuring the height of the box that’s standing from the bottom, all the way to the top of this.

You want to write this as length x width x height for your records. 

The Exterior and interior measurements.

Another thing to consider as well, is the interior and the exterior measurements that are used with this.

This is because, while it might fit on the outside, the internal portions of this may be different. Sometimes, the box may be perfect based on those measurements, but when you throw it in there it tends to be too small.

This is due to the fact that external measurements might mean that it’s too big.  You want to make sure that it fits the product, while also not being too small.

You want to follow the same steps as before, getting the length, width, and then the height of what’s going on inside of the box.

If you’re someone who is struggling to do this, you’re not alone. A lot of people are very used to the measurements being simple. But when it comes to a product, the right measurements can make or break a packaging process. There are tons of materials to ship out, and customized boxes that are there for you to look at. 

If you’re still having issues with your packaging, and you need a bit of help in order to help with this, then you can contact a packaging supplier for you to do the job. They can help you with putting together the right product, and their measurements will be accurate as well. they usually know how to measure this, and they can deliver to you the highest packaging materials that you can use, and one that’ll improve the experience as well.

Get the measurements right when choosing a box. If you don’t do this, then you’re going to; mess up the product, and it can make or break literally, the box that’s within. Try it now and see what you get from this.

Why your boxes collapse

You pick up a packed box, and it feels fine. Then halfway through the day, something changes. You go to move it again, and the bottom dips slightly. The sides feel softer than before. Not enough to panic, but enough to notice. That’s usually how it starts.

Most box failures don’t happen all at once. They build slowly, then give out at the worst time. A big reason is weight. Every box has a limit, even if it’s not clearly labeled. When you load it past that point, the cardboard begins to stretch. It may not be obvious at first, but you can feel it if you pay attention—like standing on a thin piece of wood that bends under pressure.

How the weight sits inside matters just as much. If one side is heavier, all that pressure concentrates on a single corner. Over time, that area weakens faster, and the box starts to lose its shape. Once the structure shifts, the overall strength drops quickly.

Stacking adds another layer of stress. Boxes are often placed under other packages, and that downward pressure pushes on the top flaps. If the box isn’t built to handle that load, the top begins to sink, causing the sides to bow outward. At that point, the box is no longer performing the way it should.

You can catch these issues early. Look at the edges—are they staying straight, or starting to curve? Press lightly on the top—does it hold firm, or give more than expected? These small signs can tell you a lot before a failure happens.

The solution comes down to using the right materials and packing method. Heavier items need stronger, thicker-walled boxes. Not all cardboard is built the same, and choosing the right one from the start prevents problems later.

It also helps to distribute weight evenly. Place heavier items toward the center and add support if needed so the load doesn’t focus on one spot. A balanced box maintains its shape much better throughout the journey.

Sealing is just as important. Even a strong box can fail if the bottom seam is weak. Reinforcing the seam properly helps distribute the load and keeps everything intact during handling and transit.

When all these elements come together—strong materials, balanced weight, and proper sealing—the box holds up the way it should. No sagging, no shifting, no surprises. You don’t have to handle it differently or worry about how it will hold up. It simply does its job.

Shipping boxes are built to handle more than we think—but only when they’re used the right way. Once you see the difference, it becomes hard to go back to anything less.

How to Design your Direct to Consumer Packaging

Direct to consumer packaging is exactly what it is.  it’s directly to the consumer, and allows for greater touchpoints. This type of packaging focuses on the journey that a customer might see their package go through. It isn’t just a box that they open up and forget about, but it can tell brand stories, engage with your customers, and thereby educate these customers too. 

When you design DTC packaging, a lot of customers will actually share their packaging to bring that branding and personality to life and build the ideal relationship with customers that they could. Here, we’ll talk about the different types of factors to consider with DTC packaging. 

What DTC Packaging Needs 

Lots of times, DTC packaging needs to include minimal factors in this section.

You want to use every avenue for new information on the packaging that tells the consumer about the brand. Iconography and logos, photography, and videos will provide a visual brand for storytelling, exciting the customer so that they can learn about your brand overall.

You also want to educate the customer in a manner that’s quick in an above the fold type of manner, or on the pack.   This is good for listing out the product’s different benefits, building anticipation within customers. 

With DTC, you want to add extras that will tell the story. Postcards for instance can be used to tell people a little more about who you are through a website. It can also be used to provide coupons, which customers love. Information cards, and other small freebies will also be great.  This is where the thank-you notes and free samples of future products come in.

You also want to think about the thumbnail of the packaging.   Some brands forget that the packaging will be on a computer screen as a thumbnail. Sure, it looks great in person, but if it looks bad on the computer, people won’t’ buy. So, make sure that you also give the person looking at the photo a high-quality image that translates into the high-quality packaging you offer. 

Other Considerations 

We mentioned the brand storytelling and different aesthetics, but there are other factors to consider. 

First, you want the shipping and handling to be quick.   People don’t want to sit here and twiddle their thumbs, waiting for your packaging.   You want to give it to them in a manner that’s quick, but also doesn’t break the bank in shipping costs.

The other challenge is also sustainability, or some value in the packaging. If you’re a brand that is eco friendly, you might want to capitalize on this, because this is a huge factor that not enough people consider. 

You want to in general, balance out the costs of the packaging, combined with the overall stability. You want to be ready to give people who buy from you the same experience, no matter if they’re a first-time customer, or one that’s longtime and loves your packaging.

Adding personalized elements to this is also great. Look at the names of those that are buying from you. creating a personalized note that thanks them directly, letting them know where their money is going towards, and how they’re contributing to a cause is really good.

The DTC market is all about being personalized, and also giving customers a meaningful experience. Rather than just giving them some boring retail experience, this one is made specifically for them, with their own experience at the helm, giving them everything that they need to.   The consumer impact is immersive and provides the business with greater success.

Sugared Almonds and their Packaging

 One thing that’s ideal for every single occasion are sugared almonds. It’s very common to give to different groups after events, including weddings, christenings, first communions, even graduations and parties. It’s usually a thank-you gift for guests. A lot of people have started to make different wedding favors that they can enjoy.  Another one is bonbons which are given out at weddings and other parties.  A lot of tables have these on there, usually containing a mixture of both bonbons and sugared almonds.

A lot of event planners, guests of honor, and newlyweds will use these, but you want to make sure that all of the details are there creating a harmonious impact for others at parties. 

There’s a big reason why boxes that are one size fits all for these sugared almonds don’t have the charm to them, but rather the almonds speak for themselves but, here are a few things that you can do to create a better, more exciting, sugared almonds gift basket. 

Bespoke Boxes 

One of the newest things that a lot of packaging firms have started, is a customized packaging experience for these sugared almonds.  You can get the exact amount you need, and you can even get these shipped out real fast with fast shipping. There isn't a middle ground anymore for these, but rather, they’re the ideal solution.

With just a bit of imagination, packaging that’s simple can become quite beautiful.  For instance, you can get sugared almonds for graduation parties. A cap box that’s unique, with a small handle made of paperboard along the top, is a great option, and provides the best in terms of packaging experience. 

You can also do these for different wedding favors too, with a similar style and different types of story too. 

You can go to the extreme with the customization, where you can even put pictures and names on the top. For a baptism for example, you can get bespoke boxes, and also double walled trays as the ideal means of hideaway from the little trinkets inside. You can use this for almonds, but other small favors, and it will enhance, beautify, and really ignite the experience that you’ll have too. 

The key thing to think about here is the image you’re looking to create, and the strategy for marketing that you have as an idea. There are a lot of people who will use these boxes, and a lot that’ll really benefit from this when you use this too.

For many people, especially those interested in getting the most that they can out of their boxes, will love this.  they’re given a chance to really highlight and beautify the packaging that they can get.

With parties, graduations, and other major celebrations happening, now is the time to consider your packaging when you’re looking to improve the overall aspects of this. Many people are happy with the results of their efforts, and so many people are able to craft the ideal packaging that they can.

Simplify the packaging that you have and stop settling for the most generic packaging on the planet. Instead, opt for something unique, fun, and something that really showcases everything that you’re all about. Custom boxes, especially for the little trinkets and other packaging that are there, will definitely be the best thing for you to do. If you're ready to really shine, and to bring the best that you can, talk to a representative, and try to see if there is a means for you to get the best packaging that you can, and in a way that’ll make it easier for you.

Testing Packaging samples

Packaging samples are a vital part of the designing of your items. Before you begin with actual production of the packaging, it’s vital to test out the packaging samples thoroughly. Testing allows one to identify the weaknesses of possible issues that may arise during storage and shipping.

Through carrying out this testing, one can ensure that the products arrive directly to the destination. It also prevents the possibility of things being bad, and the customer being upset with this. 

Packaging Functions to consider 

There are five main functions of packaging, so we’re going to use this as a major guide to your samples: 

• Is it contained properly 

• Are they protected from various damage that can happen 

• Is it easy to ship, store and pack 

• Does it convey the key information that you need 

• Is it sustainable and leaves a good impact on your environment 

Now that you know the basics, let’s go over the different parts in detail. 

Containment 

This is a key part of packaging. The last thing you need is a package that’s poorly fitted and puts everything at risk. We want to adhere to the manufacturing tolerances of a couple millimeters in size. They do need to be factored in when assessing packaging to fit the needs that you have. Most of the designs do use closures and sealing, but if you do this, make sure that it is properly secured. If you do need tape, add it in there. 

Protecting 

Safe, secure packaging is important for products. We do recommend that you think about the packaging and how it will work. It also means testing the packaging in environments.  The first way is to ship packaging in sample boxes back to you! Once they get there, examine the effects of the postal network on the packaging contents. 

Then, you want to work with packaging for retail. Handle this and examine the effect if someone does move it around. Make sure that the packaging doesn’t bend, buckle, or open up suddenly, but instead is protected and not damaged. If you’re still not sure, use the drop test.  This is important for seeing the damage to the outer packaging, but also the inner contents. 

If the package does need more cushioning after this, look at void fill options to protect these goods. Whether it’s recycled paper, bubble wrapping, or even fittings that are customized. 

Convenience of Packaging 

You want to make sure that the packaging is efficient, convenient, and easy to use for every party along the supply chain that’s there. 

The pack and dispatch parts are how long the packaging takes to put together including inserts and fittings. When applicable, consider if it’s suitable to package and dispense on a larger scale. 

The end user is the next part.   There is a positive experience for consumers that extends past the box.  Think about how easy it is for the boxes to be unboxed and taken out.   Consider this factor.

Finally, there are displays for countertops and retail ready packaging. Make sure that it’s convenient to stock, restock, and be handled by multiple people. 

Communication 

Finally, you want the packaging to communicate brand values. Use different fonts, coloring, and graphics for communication, in order to increase the overall packaging design. The product visibility that’s communicated through strategic cutouts and windows allow for users to glimpse on the product prior to opening the package. Check the zing, shape, and the overall positioning of samples before you give them to customers. 

How antibacterial and Self-Cleaning Packaging are Creating Healthy Packaging in a Post-Pandemic World

It’s been years since the COVID-19 pandemic began, but there are still many who are health-conscious. These days, we still wash our hands a whole lot, and we make sure to sanitize and prevent the spreading of germs.   Did you know that we do the same for our packaging?

Self-cleaning and anti-bacterial packaging is a response to the demand from customers that want safer products. With more awareness of this, people clamor  for it, which is why safe products are something that a lot of people want.

Here, we’ll go over some of the different aspects of this type of packaging, and how it will help with preventing the spread of bacteria. 

Silver Ions

Silver irons are now used as a coating for some products, and also for packaging.

Silver alloys naturally release various silver ions. This naturally inhibits the growth of microbes, and are used in catheters, coverings for wounds, and devices that are implanted.

We see this right now in medical equipment, but there’s also the spread of packaging, which means that, with packaging, the silver naturally releases and will help with prevention of said growth on the items. 

There are some risks, but you can use this to help improve the safety on all fronts. 

Copper Coatings for Packaging 

This is a much newer type for packaging coating that’s seen in international packaging. The premise behind this is to extend the shelf life of food, but it’s also being used in medical and health packaging.

Copper naturally reduces the spread of bacteria as well, and it provides a new preservation of fresh and processed items. 

This is a form of advanced packaging that’s become much more prevalent as a preventative measure. 

UV Activated Surfaces 

Some packaging utilizes UV rays to show off the particles. 

UV activated packaging works in a unique manner.   When you get it, you can shine a UV light on it.   this will show if there’s any product tampering. 

Alternatively, there is also UV coatings that can be put atop and are there and activated.   That way, if there is tampering of the internal components, it will be able to show off this immediately. 

There are other types of materials as well, such as blister or tamper-evident packaging. But the goal of all of this is to prevent food contamination, and contamination in personal care and medicinal products. 

Why Do This 

A lot of people care more about their product hygiene and safety, especially after how rough covid has been.

Some people are so conscious that they’re still wearing masks, washing hands, and taking these preventative measures. With packaging that’s like this, it improves the safety features, bolstering confidence in the product that’s so special for this.

There are a few things you need to be mindful of. Mostly, just balancing out the complexity and costs of these technologies and incorporating even the self-cleaning technologies in this.

They’re pretty advanced, and these days, we see this in the realm of medicine and hygiene. But, once they’re put in, they can offer a lot of benefits to those that are interested in this.

It offers real-world packaging results, and other various aspects that will really shine in the grand scheme of things. 

If you’re a brand who does have customers that are mindful of this, please take some time to add this in. it could make all the difference in the overall results of your packaging and gives those who are dedicated to your branding the chance to get the ideal packaging that they can have.

VCI Bubble Bags

A lot of metal items aren’t easy to ship.  Unlike say a plastic item or something that’s made of paper, metal itself is subject to other challenges. One of them is rust. This is due to the fact that if there is humidity, or rapid changes in temperature and moisture, that can form during the transit process.

While this can be a problem, there are solutions. VCI bubble bags can be your best friend. For those that don’t know, VCI is an acronym for volatile corrosion inhibitor, and it’s a substance that’ll help with protecting these metals so that they’re ready once you take it out of the package.

Ever wondered how these work though? Well, we’ve got those answers, and also some good examples of items that get shipped through this means. 

How it Works 

VCI is a volatile corrosion inhibitor, which is a substance that essentially decreases the rate of corrosion in the material that you’re shipping. This is used in order to prevent rusting of liquids, or even any surface treatments that otherwise might not be practical, or even wanted.

VCI creates a compound that is released directly into spaces, and automatically it prevents corrosion through forming a very strong bond with the surface that’s there.  This is usually metal.  This keeps the oxide layer that’s naturally on top of the metal in place. VCI is invisible, dry, and it will not compromise the metal in any way.

This is usually used in the form of VCI film, but there are also bubble bags that contain this film, which have a saturation of different formulations. The goal of this is to stop those vapor molecules from further condensing on these metal parts.

They’re great for preservation of a lot of projects, but there are a few materials that are far better than others might be. 

VCI bubble bags contain the products with these materials. 

• Stainless steel 

• Brass

• Carbon steel 

• Iron copper

• Silver

• Silicon steel 

• Cast iron 

• Aluminum 

VCI packaging is ideal for any metal items, including nuts, bolts, parts of a machine, even handles for doors and other items. The bags are sized in a way that you can throw these objects in there, and then seal these up to protect them. 

The shipping inventory will be protected, and these bags will protect the item in ways that make customers pleased. 

Ship Jewelry Safely 

One application of those that a lot of people like is the jewelry world. 

If you’re someone who sells high-quality jewelry that customers expect to be in top-level condition, then you need a VCI bag for this. 

They can be put in there, and deterioration will be fought off.  Sterling silver necklaces for instance will arrive just as shiny and as perfect as they were when you initially sent this out to the customer. 

Automotive Parts Protected 

If you’re a car dealership or someone who does sell parts, this is a great way for you to make sure that the parts stay safe.

This, of course, helps a lot of people, especially those who expect the parts to be perfect. The last thing one needs is for a customer to get items that are corroded when shipping, especially if they're not stored correctly.

That’s why shipping stuff in VCI bags is great, because it saves you a lot of money in the long haul.

Stop the corrosion of your precious metal products today and start to prevent the rusting for products in the long term by shipping stuff out with a VCI bubble bag today!