Industry Insights

As online shopping continues to grow, so does the demand for smarter, sustainable ecommerce packaging solutions.

Consumers expect brands to reduce waste, use eco-friendly materials, and minimize their carbon footprint. In response, businesses are adopting greener supply chain strategies, focusing on right-sizing, reducing plastics, lightweight corrugated materials, and innovative labeling methods.

With companies making sustainability a priority, packaging is evolving to be more efficient, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly. One of the ways packaging companies like Buckeye Corrugated, Inc. (BCI), are embracing sustainability is its adoption of the Paper and Packaging Board’s “Box to Nature Program”, which educates consumers on ways they can recycle their packaging.

Let’s look at some of the other key ways ecommerce packaging design is changing to meet these new demands.

RIGHT-SIZING: LESS WASTE, MORE EFFICIENCY

Right-sizing has become a practical mainstay in product packaging design. Instead of using oversized boxes filled with unnecessary filler materials, brands now tailor packaging dimensions to the product size.

Benefits of Right-Sizing:

• Reduces shipping costs by eliminating excess weight.
• Minimizes material waste, cutting down on carbon emissions.
• Creates a better unboxing experience for customers.

Amazon, for example, has implemented machine-learning algorithms to optimize box sizes, significantly reducing material waste across its supply chain. By embracing right-sizing, businesses can reduce their environmental impact while improving logistics efficiency.

REDUCING PLASTIC USE IN ECOMMERCE PACKAGING

Plastic pollution remains a significant concern in retail and ecommerce packaging design. Many brands are phasing out plastic in favor of biodegradable, compostable, and recyclable alternatives like corrugated packaging.

Sustainable Alternatives to Plastic:

• Mushroom-based packaging that decomposes naturally.
• Cornstarch-based bioplastics used for protective packaging.
• Recyclable paper mailers replacing traditional plastic mailers.

Major retailers like IKEA and Patagonia are leading the way by using plastic-free packaging solutions. The shift away from plastic not only benefits the planet but also enhances a brand’s reputation for sustainability.

LIGHTWEIGHT CORRUGATED PACKAGING: A SMART SOLUTION

Corrugated packaging is evolving to be lighter yet durable, reducing shipping costs and environmental impact. Brands are switching to recyclable, lightweight corrugated materials to improve sustainability without compromising protection.

Advantages of Lightweight Corrugated Packaging:

• Reduces fuel consumption in transportation.
• Cuts down on material usage and costs.
• Maintains durability and product safety.

Many packaging design companies now offer graphic packaging solutions that blend functionality with sustainability. As a result, custom corrugated packaging continues to gain traction in ecommerce.

INNOVATIVE DELIVERY AND LABELING METHODS

Beyond materials, businesses are also innovating their delivery and labeling processes to minimize waste. Smart labeling, QR codes, and ink-reducing printing techniques are gaining popularity.

Sustainable Labeling Trends:

• Water-based, nontoxic inks replacing traditional chemical-heavy printing.
• QR codes providing digital receipts and tracking instead of printed inserts.
• Minimalist packaging design reducing excess branding materials.

As consumers become more environmentally conscious, brands that embrace eco-friendly packaging design services will gain a competitive edge.

PARTNER WITH BCI FOR SUSTAINABLE PACKAGING SOLUTIONS

Businesses aiming to improve their ecommerce packaging design need a packaging partner that prioritizes sustainability. BCI specializes in custom packaging solutions that optimize supply chain efficiency while reducing environmental impact. From right-sizing strategies to eco-friendly materials, BCI provides innovative, high-quality packaging design services tailored to your business needs.

Contact BCI to explore how their product packaging design services can help your business transition to a more sustainable future.