As a buyer, it’s important to get the best price for your packaging.  Price is by far the biggest factor buyers consider when choosing packaging for their product.  The mistake some buyers make is they use price as their only factor in determining who to buy from.  They assume that just because two parts look alike, they are the same.  This couldn’t be further from the truth.  Veteran buyers have seen this first hand and can tell you that you need to do more that focus on price.  Here are some things to consider…

Don’t Sacrifice Quality for Price
Have you ever bought something that was inexpensive, got it home, used it once, and then it broke?  Your good deal didn’t seem like a good deal anymore, did it?  In all industries, you need to pay attention to the quality level your suppliers can perform to.  Does the supplier’s packaging meet the expectations of your brand, or are you sacrificing the look of your brand because you are getting a good deal on packaging?  The thing to understand is…consumers know quality when they see it.  If a products packaging is damaged on the shelf, red sirens and flashers signal to the consumer, “beware of this product.”

Understand the Consumer’s Expectations For Your Product
As consumers shop, they have an expectation of how something should be packaged.  For instance, do you think it makes sense to put a pair of blue jeans in a clamshell?  Consumers have an expectation that blue jeans will be folded neatly and accessible so they can be easily tried on.  Toys will be packaged so kids can try them out, and electronics will be packaged so they don’t get damaged or stolen.  My point?  Know your product so you can meet or exceed the consumer’s expectations!

Know the Part Specifications
When comparing similar packaging, ask for specific material specifications along with the price of the components.  Don’t fall victim to down gauging for price reductions when the material quoted will not meet the requirements or keep the integrity of your product while on the store shelf.

The bottom line is to know what you are paying for.  Don’t sacrifice quality for cost.  Good packaging suppliers will be able to tell you what materials you  need to keep the integrity of your product’s packaging.  Quality packaging equals quality product!
For more information or for any questions, please contact: Brian Pankratz.  bpankratz@mercuryplasticsinc.com