Is It Time for Custom Packaging? How to Know What Your Business Really Needs

Is your team constantly cutting down boxes, stuffing voids, and adjusting materials just to make things fit? If so, your packaging is creating more problems than it solves.  

As order volumes grow and shipping demands shift, generic supplies lead to inefficiencies that drain time, increase waste, and chip away at the customer experience. Maybe the boxes are too big, the tape doesn’t hold, or the presentation lacks impact. Whatever the case, everyday frustrations point to a larger opportunity.

Custom packaging helps reduce product damage, lower shipping costs, and create a more consistent and efficient process. It also strengthens your presentation and reinforces your brand with every order.  

The challenge lies in recognizing when your business has outgrown off-the-shelf solutions and identifying what custom options will bring the most value. 

In this article, we outline the practical benefits of using a stretch wrap machine, introduce two reliable models, and guide you to the right fit for your shipping environment. 

What Standard Packaging Might Be Costing You 

Before making any changes, it helps to understand what generic packaging may already be costing your business in terms of time, money, and missed opportunities. 

4 Signs You’ve Outgrown Off-the-Shelf Supplies 

1. Frequent use of void fill or extra tape.
   Your team spends valuable time compensating for packaging that doesn’t fit.
   
   
2. High product damage or return rates.
   Generic packaging often lacks the stability needed to protect your items in transit.
   
   
3. Inconsistent presentation or unboxing experience.
   Irregular packaging sends mixed signals to your customers and weakens brand identity.
   
   
4. Missed opportunities for branding on shipments.
   Plain materials don’t promote your business or create a memorable impression. 
   
   

Packaging Waste Adds Up 

The consequences of using standard supplies often extend beyond the surface. 

• Oversized boxes increase dimensional shipping fees.
  Carriers charge by volume and weight, so extra space means extra cost.
  
  
• Non-optimized tape or box styles slow down fulfillment.
  Employees lose time making supplies work that weren’t made for the job.
  
  
• Generic packaging limits your perceived value.
  First impressions count, and plain or awkward packaging can undermine your product’s quality. 

What Custom Packaging Can Do for You 

Making the shift to custom packaging can eliminate those inefficiencies while boosting your brand experience. 

Improve Product Protection and Fit 

Custom solutions are designed to match your specific product dimensions and requirements. 

• Right-size boxes reduce movement in transit.
  Tighter fits improve load stability and protect your products during shipping.
  
  
• Fewer damaged goods and less reliance on excess fillers.
  When packaging fits well, you can cut back on foam, paper, and bubble wrap.
  
  
• Better stacking and storage for warehouse efficiency.
  Consistent sizing improves shelf storage and pallet loading during fulfillment. 
  
  

H3: Elevate Brand Experience 

Your packaging communicates your brand before the box is even opened. 

• Branded tape, boxes, or labels make an impression.
  Customized touches help your product stand out and reflect your identity.
  
  
• Reinforces trust and professionalism.
  Customers notice when you present your product with care and consistency.
  
  
• Enhances customer retention with consistent packaging.
  Memorable unboxing experiences increase the likelihood of repeat purchases. 
  
  

If strengthening your customer relationships is a priority, you’ll also want to consider how packaging plays a role in loyalty. We cover that in more detail in our blog on how custom shipping helps build brand connections and repeat business. 

Where Custom Packaging Makes the Biggest Difference 

If you're not sure where to start, focus on the packaging elements that deliver the most immediate benefit. 

Custom Tape and Branding Supplies 

Small changes leave a big impact. 

• Add logos, messages, or color to elevate your unboxing.
  Customized tape or labels improve recognition and visual appeal.
  
  
• Tamper-evident features for extra security.
  Give customers peace of mind that their shipment is safe and untouched. 
  
  

Custom-Sized Boxes and Inserts 

Designed around your products, these components simplify packing and reduce waste. 

• Built to fit your product dimensions.
  Minimize empty space while maximizing protection.
  
  
• Reduce cost on fillers and increase shipment density.
  Tighter packaging means more product per load and lower shipping costs. 
  
  

Product Kits or Fragile Items 

Complex shipments benefit from additional structure. 

• Customized dividers or foam inserts.
  Separate fragile items or multi-part orders with precision and care.
  
  
• Prevent shifting and reduce return rates.
  Secure packaging reduces the risk of damage and lowers returns. 

Questions to Help You Decide 

Answering a few key questions can help you figure out whether it’s time to upgrade your packaging strategy. 

Do You Ship a High Volume of Similar Items? 

• If yes, custom sizing can drastically reduce waste and cost.
  Standardization creates faster more consistent packing processes. 
  
  

Is Customer Experience Part of Your Brand Strategy? 

• Custom tape or branded boxes can help you stand out.
  Thoughtful packaging can become a valuable marketing tool. 
  
  

Are You Paying Too Much in Dimensional Weight Charges? 

• Oversized or under-filled boxes are often the culprit.
  Right-sizing packaging could lead to measurable cost savings. 
  
  

Does Your Team Spend Time Over-Packing? 

• Extra steps in packaging usually signal the need for a better fit.
  Excess materials, tape, or rework are all signs of poor fit. 

Let AMS Help You Customize with Confidence 

At AMS, we make custom packaging straightforward and worth the investment. 

What to Expect with Custom Packaging Orders 

We work closely with you to create the right solution for your needs. 

• Collaborative quoting and design process.
  Share your product specs and goals, and we’ll help design the right fit.
  
  
• Low minimums available on many items.
  You don’t need to commit to high volumes to see the benefits. 
  
  
• Fast turnaround and trusted supplier partnerships.
  Our supplier relationships keep your orders moving quickly and reliably. 
  
  

Common Business Types That Benefit 

Custom packaging is a strong fit for a wide range of industries. 

• E-commerce brands.
  Create recognizable, memorable deliveries that drive loyalty.
  
  
• Food and beverage shippers.
  Protect items from temperature changes, moisture, and impact.
  
  
• Health and wellness products.
  Maintain safety and showcase a polished, premium look.
  
  
• Electronics or fragile goods companies.
  Secure delicate items with inserts that prevent movement and breakage. 
  
  

Make the Switch to Custom Packaging with AM Shipping Supplies 

If your team is spending more time compensating for bad packaging than fulfilling orders, it’s time for something better. 

At AM Shipping Supplies, we’re ready to help you explore custom boxes, tape, inserts, and other smart solutions. We provide collaborative service, quick turnarounds, and packaging that works as hard as you do.

Contact us today to get started with packaging that fits your product, your brand, and your goals. 

If you are interested in upgrading your business's shipping experience, click here to reach out to the AM Shipping Team today!       

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