Packaging Blog Page

Choosing the right packaging online can be tricky. 📦 Photos and measurements can only tell you so much, especially when you’re trying to figure out which box will actually fit your product. That’s where our Sample Packs come in! We’ve just added two NEW Sample Packs (Pink & Black). We know that many of our customers don't live in Cape Town and want to test out which packaging is best without having to buy packs of 10 of each size. Each pack contains 9 different boxes from the range, so you can physically compare different sizes, styles and shapes before committing to full packs of 10. Click here to shop the Black Sample Pack Click here to shop the Pale Pink Sample Pack

These two boxes were such a hit that we've decided to bring them back. This is your second chance to get your hands on two of our most popular custom box options. Here's how it works✔ No setup fees ✔ Free Artwork Placement✔ Black or white print only✔ VAT-inclusive pricing✔ Lead time: 7–10 working days ⏳ There are limited slots so make sure you secure yours before it's too late. Email sales@in-the-box.co.za to secure your spot.

Starting small doesn’t mean thinking small. 📦Sample-sized products can be of huge benefit to small businesses owners and online store owners. Sample packaging allows businesses to test before they scale, minimise unnecessary investment and offer customers convenient smaller-sized products. Consumers are often bombarded with decision fatigue. If you have a wide range of products on your site then having samples can help narrow it down for your consumers. Our sample range includes:• 10ml spray bottles — ideal for samples, testers and travel-sized products• Tins — great for smaller quantities of candles, balms, creams and more• Jars with lids — perfect for samples or smaller product sizes• 30ml bottles — a practical option for liquids, oils, serums and other products• Super-small boxes — because even the smallest products deserve great packaging!Whether you're launching your first product or testing your next big idea, the right packaging can help you start small while leaving room to grow.

You might be ready to start buying in bulk Buying packaging in bulk can be a smart move for small businesses but only if you’re buying the right products, in the right quantities, at the right stage of your business. If you’re constantly running out of boxes, mailers, bags or other packaging supplies, it might be time to consider whether buying in larger quantities could save you money and make your fulfilment process easier. 📦 The benefits of buying in bulk 1. Lower cost per unit One of the biggest advantages of buying packaging in larger quantities is the potential saving per item. The more you buy, the lower your cost per unit can become. For businesses sending out orders regularly, those small savings can add up over time. 2. You’ll always have packaging on hand Running out of your go-to box just when orders start piling up is the last thing you want. Keeping a healthy stock of your most-used packaging means you can pack orders without constantly having to place emergency top-up orders. 3. More consistent branding If you use the same boxes, bags or mailers for every order, buying in bulk helps you maintain a consistent look and feel across your customer experience. And if you’re ready to take things a step further, bulk orders can also make custom-branded packaging more practical. 4. Less time spent reordering Instead of regularly checking your stock and placing small orders, buying in bulk means fewer trips to your packaging supplier. This gives you more time to focus on your actual business. 🤔 But is buying in bulk always a good idea? Not necessarily. 1. It ties up your cash Buying 500 boxes might give you a better price per box, but you’re spending more money upfront. If you’re still growing or have other important business expenses, that upfront cost may not be worth the saving. 2. You need somewhere to store it Packaging takes up space! Before buying in bulk, think about where you’ll keep your stock. If your spare room, garage or office is already overflowing with boxes, buying another 1,000 might not be the best move. 3. Your packaging needs could change This is especially important for newer businesses. If you’re constantly changing your product sizes, branding or packaging style, buying a huge quantity could leave you with packaging you no longer need. 4. Don’t buy more than you can realistically use A cheaper unit price isn't necessarily a saving if the packaging sits unused for years. The goal is to buy enough to benefit from the savings without overstocking. 💡 So, when does bulk buying make sense? A good rule of thumb is to consider buying in bulk when: ✔️ You use the same packaging consistently✔️ You have predictable sales and packaging requirements✔️ You have enough storage space✔️ The lower unit price makes a meaningful difference✔️ Buying upfront won't put pressure on your cash flow If you’re still testing products, changing your packaging frequently or have unpredictable sales, smaller quantities may make more sense for now. Did you know that we have a bulk pricing structure? +350 units = 5% less +500 units = 10% less +1 000 units = 15% less Contact us at sales@in-the-box.co.za for a bulk enquiry Ready to stock up? Explore our range of packaging here and find the quantities that work for your business.

From a Plain White Box to a Bold Branded Box The box started out as a standard white shipper box, measuring 330×240×92 mm. Rather than simply printing the Cherry on Top logo in red onto the white surface, we used a negative print technique with red ink. This involves printing the surrounding area while leaving the logo itself unprinted. Because the original box is white, the unprinted areas of the design remain white, creating the appearance of white branding against a red box. The result is a striking, high-contrast finish that gives the packaging a much more premium and distinctive appearance. What is a negative flood coat? A negative flood coat is a clever way to create the appearance of a coloured box while still using a standard white box. Instead of printing the logo itself, the surrounding area is covered with ink. The white of the original box then becomes part of the design. For Cherry on Top, the combination of the vibrant red ink and the white logo created a bold look that perfectly complements their brand. Your Brand Colours, Your Way One of the best things about custom screen printing is that you're not limited to the standard colours you see on a printer's colour chart. We can mix ink colours to closely match your brand's colours, helping you create packaging that feels consistent with your existing branding. Whether your brand uses a soft pastel, a bright statement colour or a deep, sophisticated shade, we can work towards creating an ink colour that complements your visual identity. This means your packaging can become more than just something that protects your products. It can become an extension of your brand. Why Custom Printed Packaging Matters For small businesses especially, packaging is an opportunity to make an impression. Think about the customer experience: your product arrives at their door, and before they've even opened the package, they've already interacted with your brand. A custom-printed box can help you: Build brand recognition with every delivery Create a memorable unboxing experience Make your products look more professional Stand out from generic packaging Create a consistent brand identity Turn your packaging into part of your marketing And you don't necessarily need complicated full-colour printing to achieve this. As the Cherry on Top project shows, one carefully chosen ink colour can completely transform a standard box. Watch the BTS of us making this box: https://youtube.com/shorts/73ECdAaASYk

Celebrate Women's Month with us and stand a chance to WIN a R2,500 In The Box Packaging Voucher! Behind every small business is a story of determination, resilience, late nights, big dreams and countless moments of perseverance. This Women's Month, we're celebrating the incredible women who continue to build, create and inspire through their businesses. Whether you're handcrafting candles, baking beautiful treats, creating skincare, designing clothing, selling online or growing a business you're proud of; we want to hear your story That's why we're launching She Means Business, a competition dedicated to empowering women-owned small businesses. 🎁 The Prize One deserving woman-owned small business will receive a R2,500 In The Box Packaging Voucher to invest in packaging that helps their products stand out, delight customers and grow their brand. How to Enter Round 1: Nominations Getting started is easy! Simply comment on our She Means Business announcement post and nominate a woman-owned small business. You can even nominate yourself! Once you've entered, encourage your customers, friends and family to support you by liking your nomination. The five nominations with the most likes will move on to the final round. Round 2: Tell Us Your Story Our Top 5 finalists will be invited to create a short video showcasing their business. This is your opportunity to tell us: What inspired you to start your business. The journey you've been on. What your business means to you. Why you deserve to win. Your video should also feature your In The Box packaging somewhere in your story. We'd love to see how our packaging is helping bring your products to life! Choosing Our Winner We'll be looking for videos that combine: Creativity Storytelling Quality Engagement Most importantly, we want to celebrate the passion and purpose behind your business. Ready to Enter? Head over to our She Means Business announcement post, leave your nomination in the comments and start gathering those likes! This Women's Month, let's shine a spotlight on the incredible women proving every day that she really does mean business. 💜 Click here to enter

Choosing the right packaging shouldn't involve endless measuring, comparing product pages, or second-guessing your choice. That's why we've launched our new Box Finder. It's a simple tool that helps you find the best-fitting box for your product in just a few clicks. Here's how it works: Enter your product's length, width and height. Our Box Finder instantly recommends the best-fit boxes from our range. Choose your favourite and order with confidence. Whether you're packaging candles, skincare, clothing, baked goods, gifts or something completely unique, we'll help you find the right fit, saving you time and reducing the chance of ordering the wrong size. Why you'll love it ✅ No more guessing box sizes✅ Save time searching our website✅ Find the best fit for your products instantly✅ Perfect for small businesses shipping with confidence Ready to try it? Click here to try our new Box Finder today and discover the perfect packaging for your products. 👉 [Find Your Perfect Box]

Your packaging does more than get your products from A to B. It protects your products, represents your brand, and creates a memorable first impression. Here are 7 common packaging mistakes and how to avoid them. 1. Choosing the Wrong Size Box Using a box that's too large means spending more on packaging, filler, and shipping. Too small, and your products could arrive damaged. ✔ Tip: Click here to use our new 'Box Finder' search function to find the best fit for your products 2. Forgetting Product Protection No matter how beautiful your packaging looks, it's not doing its job if your product arrives broken. Fill the open spaces with box fillers to prevent damages. 3. Missing a Branding Opportunity Every parcel is a chance to market your business. We live in a digital age where everyone shares everything. Pretty packaging is more likely to be shared. 4. Spending Too Much Too Soon Premium packaging isn't always necessary when you're just starting out. Sometimes it's better to stick to the basics in the beginning.  5. Ignoring Sustainability More and more customers are now looking for packaging that's recyclable and responsibly sourced. Luckily, most of our packaging is already recyclable. 6. Being Inconsistent Different boxes, colours, and materials for every order can make your brand feel less professional. Try to stick to a colour palette and general theme. 7. Not Including Packaging Cost In Selling Price It's easy to forget that the box your product goes into is part of the cost price. Forgetting to include the packaging price in your cost price could mean that you're missing out of profits. Whether you're shipping candles, skincare, baked goods, clothing, gifts, or subscription boxes, choosing the right packaging can save you money, protect your products, and help your brand stand out.

Ever opened a new pair of shoes or a bottle of vitamins and found a little packet labelled "Do Not Eat"? That's a silica gel packet and it's one of the simplest ways to help protect your products. What is silica gel? Silica gel is a moisture-absorbing material (called a desiccant). It removes excess humidity from the air inside a sealed package, helping to keep products dry during storage and shipping. Why should small businesses use silica gel? Adding a silica gel packet to your packaging can help: Prevent moisture damage during shipping and storage. Reduce mould and mildew growth caused by trapped humidity. Protect product quality by keeping items dry and fresh. Extend shelf life for products that are sensitive to moisture. Improve the customer experience by ensuring products arrive in excellent condition. Great for products like: Candles and wax melts Handmade soaps and bath products Clothing and textiles Leather goods Jewellery and accessories Electronics and small gadgets Printed materials and stationery Food products (when used correctly with suitable packaging) A small addition with a big impact Silica gel packets are inexpensive, lightweight, and take up very little space, but they can make a significant difference in protecting your products from humidity; especially during rainy weather, long-distance shipping, or extended storage. Sometimes it's the smallest packaging details that make the biggest difference. Click here to shop.

Your packaging says something about your business before your product ever does.Whether you're shipping skincare, candles, baked goods, apparel or subscription boxes, custom packaging helps turn every order into a memorable brand experience Here's what we can do with our screen-printing process:📦 Single-colour logo printing – Choose the ink colour that best represents your brand.🤍 Negative printing – Print onto white boxes while allowing the natural white of the board to become part of your design, creating a clean, modern look.🎨 Solid colour printing – Cover the entire box in a bold brand colour for maximum shelf and unboxing impact.🌿 Kraft or white boxes – Select the finish that best suits your brand aesthetic, from natural and earthy to crisp and premium.Every box in this photo was created for a different business, proving that great packaging doesn't have to be one-size-fits-all.

What Is Pudo? PUDO is a parcel locker and delivery service in South Africa operated by The Courier Guy. It's usually cheaper than door-to-door courier services. You don't need to be home for delivery and many lockers are available 24 hours a day. This makes it great for sending small business orders, online purchases, gifts, and documents. Here are a few boxes we recommend for each locker size: Click here to shop our shipper boxes Don't Forget About Box Fillers... If you're sending a parcel via PUDO or any courier service and there is empty space in your box, your items are at risk of being damaged in transit. Sometimes it's hard to find a box that fits your product exactly. That's where box fillers come in. We have a wide variety of box fillers for you too choose from, each serving their own purpose. Click here to shop box fillers

Looking to elevate your packaging without breaking the budget? For June & July, we've marked down the prices on our 5 most popular boxes for custom printing. These are the boxes included: Large Shipper 285x226x84mm - R3350 for 100 units White Perfume Box 42x42x127mm - R1900 for 100 units Candle Box 108x108x126mm - R2460 for 100 units Pillow Pocket 155x110x30mm - R1980 for 100 units Kraft Shipper 237x158x58mm -R2250 for 100 units Whether you're launching a new product, refreshing your packaging, or preparing for a busy season, now is the perfect time to get your brand into customers' hands. What's included?✔ No setup fees✔ FREE artwork placement✔ Black or white print only✔ VAT-inclusive pricing✔ Lead time: 7–10 working days   ⏳ Limited printing slots available and once they're filled, the promotion ends. Ready to secure your spot? Contact us at sales@in-the-box.co.za and we'll help bring your packaging to life.

Our new white bags are fully recyclable with a twisted handle carrier. They are available in three different sizes: 295x210x120mm 375x375x110mm 370x280x145mm

The Bloom Buddy is our very first flower carrier!  Not only do they make carring bouquets much easier, they also look great while doing it. They can be customised with stamps, ribbons and even stickers. The Bloom Buddy is available in Kraft and White

If you're looking for a gift idea for your mother this Mother's Day, you can never go wrong with the Gift Carrier Box. They are easy to assemble and easy to jazz up. In this picture: Moeder Gift Tag Gift Carrier Box 175x80x90 Lilac Satin Ribbon

Available in both White an Kraft, these vases are perfect to package a bouquet of flowers. Pair it with some ribbon and a cute Mother's Day gift tag and you have the perfect Mother's Day gift! Shop our Multipurpose vase here

Today, on Earth Day, we’re reflecting on the small choices that make a big impact  We believe that sustainability isn’t a once-off campaign; it’s something we actively build into the products we offer every day. Our commitment to more conscious packaging includes: – A full range of E-flute corrugated shipper boxes that are fully recyclable – Paper gift bags designed for reuse and easy recycling – A variety of recyclable box fillers like mandini paper, honeycomb paper, dimple paper, woodwool, shredded paper, and tissue paper – Our range of board boxes are also fully recyclable We know packaging is a necessary part of doing business but it doesn’t have to come at the cost of the environment. This Earth Day, we encourage businesses to rethink their packaging choices. Small shifts add up, and together, we can move towards more responsible, sustainable solutions. For Today Only, we are running a 15% off sale on our Shipper Boxes Use Code: EARTH15 at checkout Valid until midnight 

Packaging just got a whole lot more exciting. We are proud to introduce The Colour Club! A bold new range of colourful boxes designed to elevate your brand, captivate your customers, and make every unboxing moment unforgettable. Meet the First Three The Colour Club launches with three striking shades, each carefully chosen to suit different brand personalities and aesthetics: Pink – soft, pastel, and easy on the eye Gold – elegant and luxurious, ideal for creating a premium unboxing experience Black – timeless, sleek, and effortlessly sophisticated These colours are just the beginning. The Colour Club is an evolving collection, with more shades set to be released. You are bound to find the perfect match for your brand. Why Colour Matters In a world where first impressions count, your packaging is more than just a box; it’s part of your brand story. Colour has the power to: Capture attention instantly Communicate your brand’s personality Create a memorable unboxing experience Encourage social sharing and customer loyalty The Colour Club was created with this in mind; to help small businesses stand out in a crowded market while delivering a professional feel. This Is Just the Beginning The Colour Club isn’t just a product launch; it’s a growing community of colour, creativity, and expression. With more colours on the way, there’s always something new to look forward to. Stay tuned. Your perfect colour might be next. Ready to join The Colour Club?Explore the range and start building your brand’s signature look today.

Through our Small Business Sundays initiative, we spotlight the entrepreneurs within our community whose journeys reflect not only business growth, but impact. This week, we’re featuring Balanced Cape Town; a brand built on natural products, intentional living and the belief that women should be supported in building businesses of their own. Founded by Debbie Jackson, the journey behind Balanced Cape Town spans more than 17 years. From her time working with Miglio Jewellery, Debbie connected with women across South Africa and internationally. Her experience travelling across the country, often hosting solo shows and engaging directly with customers, shaped not only her entrepreneurial approach but also the distinctly South African identity reflected in her products today. Through years of business coaching, branding and marketing, Debbie developed a deep understanding of what aspiring entrepreneurs need which ultimately led to the creation of Balanced Cape Town. More than a product-based business, Balanced Cape Town is a brand centred on empowerment. It represents a lifestyle that combines a love for natural, beautifully scented products with a commitment to uplifting and supporting women in business. Stories like this remind us that small businesses can be both commercially driven and purpose-led. We’re proud to support founders like Debbie. Entrepreneurs who are not only building brands, but creating spaces for others to grow.  

It’s easy to assume that buying from large international platforms is always the more affordable option. But when it comes to packaging and supplies, that perception doesn’t always reflect the full picture.We believe that where you choose to spend your money matters.Supporting local businesses goes far beyond a single transaction. It strengthens the local economy, sustains jobs, and helps build a network of small businesses that rely on one another to grow and succeed. Every local purchase contributes to a bigger ecosystem; one in which every party benefits.While your overseas platforms may appear cheaper at first glance, there are often hidden factors to consider like inconsistent quality, long waiting times, limited support, and unexpected costs. Local suppliers, on the other hand, offer reliability, faster turnaround times, and a level of accountability that is difficult to match.Most importantly, local businesses understand local needs. They are accessible, responsive, and invested in the success of their customers.Choosing local is not just about cost; it’s about value, relationships, and sustainability.When small businesses support other small businesses, everyone grows.Have a look at our recent TikTok video comparing our prices to mega overseas platforms 👇 https://www.instagram.com/reel/DW33zQqjEEJ/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==

Our latest gift bags are designed with a crisp white base, complemented eye-catching stripes. They’re minimal enough to suit any occasion, but still playful enough to make your gift stand out. Each bag features: Durable twisted handles for easy carrying High-quality paper for a sturdy, premium feel A clean, modern look that works for any celebration We have three beautiful colour options to match your vibe: Green Stripes Purple Stripes  Pink Stripes  Whether you’re wrapping up a birthday gift, putting together a client package, or creating a curated gift set for your small business, these bags make it effortless. They’re especially great for: Small business packaging Party gifts and favours Bridal showers and special events Everyday gifting Effortless, Beautiful Packaging No more struggling with wrapping paper or tape; just place your items inside, add some tissue paper, and you’re ready to go. It’s quick, neat, and always looks put together.

At In The Box, we’re always looking for ways to make your everyday packaging more practical, functional, and aesthetically pleasing—and our latest launch does exactly that. We’re excited to introduce our brand-new range of spice bottles and sauce tubs. They are available in 100ml, 200ml, and 350ml sizes, giving you the flexibility to store everything from your most-used seasonings to specialty blends. Each bottle is: Clear, so you can easily see what’s inside Fitted with a sleek black dual flip lid for convenience and control Perfect for both sprinkling and pouring, depending on your needs Whether you're organising your spice rack at home or packaging your own spice blends for sale, these bottles bring a clean, uniform look while staying practical. We’ve also added clear sauce tubs in 250ml, 350ml, and 500ml sizes—a must-have for food businesses, meal prep, or even homemade goodies. These tubs are: Ideal for sauces, dips, dressings, and spreads Designed for easy storage and transport A great option for keeping your products looking neat and professional Ready to upgrade your kitchen or product packaging? Our new range is now available here.

This Easter, we’re reminded that the heart of every celebration isn’t just in the details—it’s in the people and the communities behind them. Choosing to support local means more than just making a purchase. It’s about backing small businesses, uplifting passionate creators, and investing in the stories, care, and craftsmanship that go into every product. It’s about keeping creativity alive in our own communities. This year, we’re so proud to see our Easter boxes come to life in the hands of incredible local businesses who are making the season extra special for their customers. 💛 Here’s to celebrating Easter with intention, and supporting local every step of the way. The Frosted Cookie  The Frosted Cookie uses our Lilac Bunny Blooms Biscuit box and Single Cookie box to house their magnificent cookies. Instagram: @the_frosted_cookiecs Sammi Cakes Here is our White Square Chocolate Box in action Instagram: @sammicakescpt Bella Bear Bakery We are obsessed with these DIY Easter Cookies! They fit perfectly in our Single Cookie Chocolate Box Instagram: @bella.bear.bakery  

Here at In The Box, we’ve come to learn that behind many small businesses is a deeply personal story. One rooted in passion, purpose and the people who believed in them from the very beginning. Through our Small Business Sundays initiative, we share these stories and celebrate the journeys behind the brands in our community. This week, we’re featuring Pâtisserie by Chef Farhaana which is a brand built on a lifelong passion for cooking and baking, and a love for creating beautifully crafted, decadent desserts. From a young age, Chef Farhaana knew she was destined to pursue Culinary Arts. Drawn to intricate techniques and complex recipes, she always gravitated towards the challenge of perfecting more refined bakes. At the heart of her journey is her father, whose love for rich desserts and confections played a significant role in inspiring her path. As her biggest supporter, his belief in her abilities became the foundation on which she built her career. Today, Pâtisserie by Chef Farhaana stands as both a reflection of her skill and a tribute to that unwavering support. It's a reminder that behind every creation is a story of love, dedication and purpose. Small businesses are often built on more than just ideas. They are built on legacy, passion and the people who shape us along the way. That is why we are proud to be a part of many of these journeys, including this one.