The start-up path · under 100 units
Your first packaging, without the guesswork.
You don't need thousands of custom boxes to look professional. These chapters cover what matters when you're starting out, in the order you'll need them.
The short answer
Start with packaging that fits and protects your products: stock packaging in two or three sizes is usually enough. Order samples and test them with your real product before you buy more. Then brand it with stickers, tissue and a thank-you card. When you're ready for your own printed boxes, digital printing starts from just 25 units.
Test, protect, then brand
- Test first. Order samples and send one to yourself with your product inside. It's the most affordable packaging lesson you'll get.
- Protect and fit. Choose a box that fits snugly and protects the product. Stocked items dispatch in 1–3 business days, subject to availability, so you can order small quantities as you learn.
- Then brand it. Tissue, a sticker and a thank-you card make stock packaging feel like yours.
Your chapters, in order
Work through these in order, or jump to what you need. Your progress is saved on this device.
- 01Primary, secondary and shipping packaging explained7 min
What is the difference between primary, secondary and tertiary packaging?
- 02How to measure your product for packaging6 min
How do I measure a product to find the right box size?
- 03Tight fit or wrapped: how much space to leave6 min
How much space should I leave around a product in a box?
- 04Satchel or box?5 min
Should I ship in a satchel or a box?
- 05Courier sizes and cubic weight6 min
What is cubic weight and how does box size change shipping cost?
- 06Stock vs custom packaging6 min
Should I buy stock packaging or custom packaging?
- 07Samples and prototypes5 min
Should I order a sample before buying packaging?
- 08Custom printed tissue, ribbon, labels and tape5 min
What is the cheapest way to brand packaging?
- 09Start-up packaging on a budget4 min
How can a new business get great packaging on a small budget?
- 10Designing the unboxing experience5 min
How do I create a memorable unboxing?
- 11Digital printing for packaging6 min
When is digital printing the best choice?
- 12Your first custom packaging order5 min
What should I know before my first custom packaging order?
What most businesses at this stage order
Starting out? We'll help you choose.
Tell us what you're selling and roughly how many. Our Melbourne team replies within 1 business day.