In the booming world of subscription boxes - from skincare kits and snacks to socks and self-care bundles - it’s not just what you send that counts, but how it arrives. Custom printed packaging can turn a routine delivery into a delightful unboxing experience, and it plays a huge role in customer loyalty, referrals, and brand perception.
So what actually works? Let’s break it down.
📦 1. Choose the Right Style of Box
Before diving into colours and logos, make sure your box does the job.
- Mailer Boxes (with tuck-in flaps): A fan favourite - secure, neat, and perfect for subscriptions. They’re sturdy enough for shipping and stylish enough to open on camera.
- Large Letter Boxes: Ideal for letterbox-friendly products like beauty samples, stationery, or accessories. Plus, they help reduce shipping costs.
- FlexHold™ Void Fill Boxes: Want a box that offers an all-in-one void fill solution? View our range of FlexHold™ boxes here.
👉 Tip: Choose a style that protects your product and gives you space to brand creatively.
🎨 2. Invest in Full-Colour Printing (Even If It's Just the Outside)
Plain brown or white packaging will scream "budget", whereas bold, custom printed boxes shout "premium experience".
- Go full-colour outside for a strong first impression.
- Add interior printing for extra “wow” when opened.
- Include your logo, tagline, and a key brand colour (even one well-placed colour can boost brand recognition).
🧠 3. Design for the Unboxing Moment
Think beyond protection - think performance. Your packaging should guide the customer’s unboxing like a well-rehearsed reveal.
- Add layering: zigzag shredded paper, branded stickers, or a card on top.
- Use dividers or trays to keep items in place and elevate the presentation.
- Surprise your customer - include a thank you note, discount code, or handwritten message.
🌍 4. Don’t Forget Eco-Friendly Options
Today’s customers expect more than pretty packaging - they want sustainable too.
- Use recyclable cardboard mailers.
- Swap plastic void fill for paper shred or Hivewrap.
- Consider paper tape instead of plastic.
♻️ Bonus: Brag about it! Make sure to mention your eco-credentials somewhere on the box or insert.
🧪 5. Test, Tweak, Repeat
No box is perfect the first time around.
- Order yourself some printed samples (or ask us to) and actually unbox them.
- Ask real customers what they think (or run a small test group).
- Review feedback regularly to improve - maybe the flap rips too easily or the inserts could be better aligned.
Packaging is as much about experience as it is about function.
🚀 Final Thoughts: A Great Box Builds a Better Brand
Custom subscription box packaging isn’t just a container - it’s a branding powerhouse. From the moment it hits the doormat, your box sets the tone for what’s inside and what your business is all about.
At Fast Printed Packaging, we help startups and scale-ups create custom packaging that ticks all the boxes: bold design, eco-conscious materials, and practical performance. Explore our custom printed packaging range here.
