Packaging Blog Page

As the festive season approaches, the In The Box team will be taking a short break to recharge, spend time with family, and prepare for an exciting year ahead. To help you plan your orders smoothly, please take note of our official closing and reopening dates, as well as our final fulfilment cut-off for 2025 orders. 🎄 Closure Dates We will be closed from 19 December 2024and will reopen on 5 January 2025. During this period: Our shop will be closed No orders will be processed No collections or deliveries will take place Emails and WhatsApps will be responded to when we reopen 📦 Final Fulfilment Cut-Off: 10 December To ensure your orders are ready before we close, the final date for 2025 fulfilment is 10 December. Orders placed after 10 December will only be processed when we reopen in January. We recommend placing your festive and year-end orders early to avoid disappointmenT. December is always a busy month, and we want to make sure your packaging needs are sorted well in advance. ✨ Thank You for an Incredible Year Thank you for your support throughout 2024. Whether you shopped online, visited our store, or shared our products with others, you helped make this year truly special. We can’t wait to bring you even more exciting packaging solutions in 2025! Wishing you a joyful, safe, and restful festive season. With love,The In The Box Team

At In the Box, we’re all about smart, sustainable packaging solutions and our latest addition fits right in! Introducing our brand-new Honeycomb Wrapping Paper, an eco-friendly alternative to traditional bubble wrap that’s perfect for small businesses, gift packaging, and anyone who loves protecting their items and the planet. What Is Honeycomb Paper? Honeycomb paper is a clever, paper-based wrapping material designed with a unique expandable honeycomb structure. When stretched, it forms a 3D cushioning layer that securely wraps around your products, offering both strength and flexibility. Why You’ll Love It 1. Eco-Friendly and Sustainable Made from 100% recycled paper, honeycomb wrap is fully recyclable, biodegradable, and compostable. It’s a simple way to reduce plastic waste while keeping your packaging stylish and responsible. 2. Lightweight Yet Protective Don’t let its soft texture fool you, the honeycomb structure provides excellent shock absorption while remaining lightweight. That means less weight for shipping and more savings for you. 3. Easy to Use Forget the scissors and tape! Just stretch, wrap, and tear. The interlocking design keeps everything secure without extra fuss. 4. Flexible and Versatile Honeycomb paper molds perfectly around items of any shape. It's ideal for candles, glass jars, mugs, and more. It’s especially handy for small business owners who need packaging that looks as good as it protects. 5. Aesthetic Appeal Beyond functionality, honeycomb paper gives your packaging a beautiful, natural finish. It’s clean, minimalist, and perfect for brands that want their unboxing moments to feel special. 🌍 Perfect for Eco-Conscious Businesses If your brand prides itself on sustainability, honeycomb paper is a must-have. It’s a small switch that makes a big impact — both visually and environmentally. Customers notice and appreciate brands that go the extra mile to reduce plastic use. You can now shop Honeycomb paper here or come visit our store at 📍 Unit 23, Gateway Business Park, Berkley Road, Ndabeni

Yesterday we took to visit the Stellenberg Feesmark to see if we could spot our packaging in the wild, and we were not disappointed! This market is one we visit annually. It has a wide variety of gifting options for all budgets, great food options and really gets one in the Christmas spirit!  We spotted a range of our packaging including gift tags, combination packaging and pouches filled with dog treats, bath salts, wooden decor houses and more.  We highly recommend visiting this market, but don't leave it too late! Its only on until the 8th. Visit their website to find out more.       

At In the Box, we’re all about packaging that’s practical and pretty and one of our secret heroes is Mandini paper! This versatile kraft-style paper is a must-have for small businesses, crafters, and anyone who loves clean, professional packaging with a natural touch. Here’s why we love it (and why you will too): 1. Wrapping Products Mandini paper is strong yet flexible, making it perfect for wrapping items like candles, glass bottles, stationery, and gifts. It keeps your products safe from scratches and gives your packaging a beautiful, earthy look. 2. Box Lining and Filler Use it to line boxes or scrunch it up as filler to protect fragile items during shipping. It’s a sustainable alternative to plastic fillers and it looks so much neater when your customer opens their order! 3. Branding and Aesthetics Pair Mandini paper with a branded sticker or thank-you tag for that Pinterest-worthy unboxing moment. The neutral brown tone complements all colour schemes, making it ideal for rustic, minimalist, or eco-inspired branding. 4. In-store Packaging If you run a shop or sell at markets, Mandini paper is a great option for wrapping purchases on the spot. It’s quick, neat, and eco-friendly — customers love that you care about sustainability! 5. DIY and Craft Projects Beyond packaging, Mandini paper can be used for journaling, handmade tags, or even as a backdrop for product photos. It’s one of those materials that always finds a use in any creative space.   IN STORE: 610mmx80gsm (Big roll) 760mmx80gsm  (Big roll) 610mmx80gsm 10m ONLINE  610mmx80gsm 10m Whether you’re packing orders or wrapping gifts, Mandini paper is a simple way to make your packaging look thoughtful and professional.

The Springboks are back in action, and we’re keeping the gees going all month long with Bok Weekends! If you pop into our shop wearing your Springbok jersey or anything green and gold, you’ll score 10% off your entire basket. 🎉 Whether you’re stocking up on packaging for your small business, grabbing supplies for your next project, or just browsing for something new; show your support for the Bokke and we’ll give you a little something back. Shop like a CHAMPION this November 🇿🇦💚💛 Valid every weekend in November (Friday and Saturday) Cannot be combined with existing promos Cannot be used on snacks (p.s. enjoy this AI generated image of Wilton as a Springbok)  

1️⃣ Guessing the Size Instead of Measuring It’s tempting to eyeball your product and hope it fits in the box or pouch you’ve chosen — but that’s the quickest way to waste money and materials.Fix: Always measure your product (length, width, height) and compare it to the inner dimensions of your packaging.  2️⃣ Choosing Packaging by ml or Weight We see this often: people ask for a “150ml pouch” without realizing that capacity depends on the shape and density of the product.Fix: Focus on measurements (e.g. 10x15cm pouch) instead of volume. If you’re unsure, contact us — we’ll help you find the right fit for your product. 3️⃣ Overlooking Branding Plain packaging gets the job done, but it doesn’t help your brand stand out.Fix: Add small branding touches like a sticker, thank-you card, or tissue paper. These small details make your customer’s unboxing feel more special and memorable. 4️⃣ Ignoring Protection for Fragile Items Cute doesn’t count if the product arrives broken or dented.Fix: Use bubble wrap, tissue, or shredded paper to fill empty spaces inside the box.  5️⃣ Using Oversized Packaging Bigger isn’t better when it comes to packaging. Oversized boxes cost more to ship and can make your product look smaller.Fix: Choose packaging that fits snugly. It looks more professional and saves you money on courier costs. 6️⃣ Not Thinking About the Unboxing Experience Customers love that “wow” moment when they open a package. If your packaging looks rushed or messy, it can make your brand feel less premium.Fix: Keep it neat — add a layer of tissue, a thank-you card, or a simple ribbon. It’s not about spending more; it’s about presentation. 7️⃣ Forgetting About Sustainability More and more customers care about eco-friendly packaging.Fix: Choose recyclable or reusable options like kraft boxes or mylar pouches that can be repurposed. Mention “eco-friendly” in your product listing — it’s a selling point! The Takeaway Your packaging is part of your product. Taking a few extra minutes to measure, brand, and protect your items can turn a simple order into an experience your customers remember. At In The Box, we’re here to help you find packaging that fits perfectly, looks beautiful, and leaves a lasting impression. 

Last year, we held our very first ever Small Business Black Friday. A traffic brainchild that has the idea of bringing Black Friday a month forward for all of our small business & side hustling customers! While (normal) Black Friday is always well received, it seems pointless to stock up on packaging with only two weeks left for the year. We understand (oh we UNDERSTAND) cash flow limitations when it comes to small businesses and side hustles and we know that you simply cannot sit on unused stock until the new year. We get it!Soooo... we launched Small Business Black Friday! Held on the last Friday of October (this one is on Halloween, oooooh); it gives businesses the opportunity to stock up on advent calendars, packaging supplies for their own Black Friday and festive gifting for all of the Christmas markets happening!  Details below:Date: 31 October 2025Where: online only (collection options still available)Discount: moenie voorbarig wees nie - check back in on Friday to find out more PLEASE note that we do expect longer packing lead times than usual. While we have a team working all weekend - we are expecting high order volumes. Please allow for up to 5-7 working days for processing. Additional lead times will apply for delivery.  See you there! (except "there" is online.) Happy shopping!  Jess

Want to win a R500 packaging voucher? 👀Invite us to collaborate on your cute packaging pictures on Instagram and the post with the most likes wins 🤩 T's & C's:The competition closes on 31 October 2025 and the winner will be announced on 3 November 2025.The voucher can only be used online.By entering this competition you give In The Box consent to repost your picture.

User Generated Content (or UGC if you're in the know) is a fantastic way to generate real life action shots of your products. When we started In The Box, I set up my little light box and snapped away at boxes until the cows came home. But man, the photos were boring. Lets be real, a box is a box. And yes, we could try to dress it up in the studio with a ribbon or some tissue paper, but the images still fell flat.  In time, we then started growing our social media pages and a wonderful thing happened. Our customers started tagging us in their images of their products in OUR boxes! Problem solved. The UGC was far more beautiful and believable than what I could create with my little light box. Think cosmetics, cupcakes, apparel, photos of our products at market stalls and the list goes on. Inadvertently, what happened was that it started giving our other customers inspiration on different ways to use our packaging (think cookies in chocolate boxes, socks in coffee boxes) and our following and community grew.  So, whether you're a fashion brand, an events company or a candle maker - get into the habit of culminating a community on social media, where your followers WANT to share photos of your products. Hype them up in the comments, repost to your feed and tell them you appreciate the content. It makes your brand more believable, builds trust in your business and in a time of micro-influencers; customers love to see their images shared.  We owe a large portion of our social media growth to our customers and their beautiful content they share with us on the daily. We appreciate you! Alright, let me get off my box. Jess

Corporate gifting is more than just a gesture, it’s a strategy. Whether you’re thanking loyal clients, celebrating employees, or strengthening business relationships, the right gift can leave a lasting impression. But here’s the secret: it’s not only about what you give, it’s about how you give it. From thoughtful presentation to intentional packaging, every detail contributes to how your gift is received. We’ve seen how packaging can transform a simple token of appreciation into a memorable experience. Here’s your step-by-step guide to getting corporate gifting right this season. Step 1: Understand the purpose behind your gift Before choosing a single item, ask yourself why you’re gifting. Is it to thank loyal clients for their support? To celebrate your team’s hard work? Or to make a great first impression with new partners? The purpose helps shape your budget, tone, and even your packaging style. A client thank-you gift might lean toward elegant minimalism, while a staff appreciation box could be fun and colourful. Step 2: Choose gifts that align with your brand Your corporate gift should reflect who you are as a company. If your brand is eco-conscious, consider sustainable items wrapped in kraft boxes or eco-friendly gift bags. If you’re a luxury brand, opt for sleek packaging with PVC sleeves and custom printing for that high-end touch. You don’t have to reinvent the wheel — sometimes simple, useful items (like candles, notebooks, mugs or gourmet snacks) become meaningful when presented beautifully. Step 3: Invest in beautiful presentation A beautifully packaged gift elevates even the simplest of contents. It’s the unboxing moment that creates the “wow.” Here are some tried-and-tested packaging options we love at In The Box: Sliding Kraft Boxes with PVC Sleeves — A modern way to present gifts, with a subtle reveal effect. E-Flute Kraft Boxes — Perfect for sturdier items, and can easily be customized with ribbons or printed branding. PVC Gift Bags — Sleek and transparent, ideal for corporate events or hampers. Tags, Twine & Finishing Touches — Because small details make a big difference. If you’d like to add your logo, message, or design, good news, we print directly onto boxes! A subtle logo or message can turn packaging into brand storytelling. Step 4: Personalize where possible A handwritten note. A tag with your client’s name. A quote that reflects your brand values. These little touches transform a transactional gift into something personal. Recipients remember the effort — not just the item. Tip: Include your business card or a small insert that explains the meaning behind your gift (“crafted to thank you for being part of our journey this year”). Don't forget to plan ahead! Corporate gifting tends to peak around year-end. Don’t wait until November to start planning! Order your boxes and packaging supplies early. Prepare your branded elements in advance (printing, stickers, ribbon colours). Create a checklist for what goes inside each box. Planning ensures you don’t miss deadlines — and your gifts arrive looking as polished as your brand. 💬 Final thoughts Corporate gifting doesn’t have to be complicated. When done thoughtfully, it’s one of the simplest and most meaningful ways to build relationships that last. At In The Box, we believe that presentation speaks volumes. From sliding boxes and kraft bags to custom-printed packaging, we’re here to help you turn every gift into a memorable moment. So as you plan your next client drop or employee appreciation box, start with the box, and let the story unfold from there.

Are you shopping for corporate gifts and looking for something different this year? Ditch the branded mugs, diaries and calendars and give your team, customers or suppliers the gift of counting down to Christmas! We've got printed and blank Advent Calendar options just waiting to be filled with treats, trinkets and chocolates. Customise them to your brand with printed stickers (we love Minuteman in the M5 Business Park for stickers) and share the love this festive season! Our fill it yourself advent calendar options are a great allergy and dietary friendly option for those who can't usually enjoy the traditional store bought calendars.  PLUS, we offer wholesale pricing! Contact sales@in-the-box.co.za to find out more. 

Last Friday, the marketing team took a little outing and ended up at Sheeca's Spring Market! (Follow @sheecas_markets_ on Instagram to find out more). Its always good for us to ditch the laptops for an afternoon and have a look at whats trending in the market, network and meet our current customers!  We loved the Spring Market and managed to spot a couple of our boxes in use at the various stalls. This was a wonderfully diverse market with handcrafted items, jewellery, clothing and fantastic food options (there are fewer things better than a potato samosa). We managed to gain some insight into what our customers are currently using from our range, and where we have gaps in our product offering. We also realised that while we think we've got most of the local market covered, we don't! There are always opportunities to increase our footprint and make new connections; starting with gifting & Christmas markets! It got us brainstorming and re-strategising our approach to small businesses.  So, this is a reminder to close the laptop, step outside, connect with those around you and you might just come up with something new! Watch this space.😉 Thats it from me, let me climb back into my box!Jess(image: our PVC boxes in use at Concreo & Co. Let your product do the talking!)

This Heritage Month, we’re celebrating the incredible spirit of South African entrepreneurship.Throughout September, we’ll be shining a light on some inspiring local businesses. The makers, creators, and dreamers who bring so much flavour, colour, and innovation to our communities.Every week, we’ll be featuring two different businesses, sharing their stories and showing what makes them truly lekker.Because Heritage Month is about more than just our past; it’s about honouring the entrepreneurs building tomorrow, today.Keep an eye on our socials for the different features 👀

Last month, we celebrated hitting 40 000 TikTok followers! So, Aqeelah googled what 40 000 people look like in one image and photos of stadiums flooded her laptop screen. "Yoh, thats a lot of people!" we all exclaimed. And it is a lot of people!  A few days later I visited a client of ours who was commenting on our social media and how much they enjoy it. She was disappointed though - she said her staff weren't willing to be in the social media. Which made me realise just how lucky we are to have a team that is so aware of the power of social media and its importance for business growth! TikTok (or any active social media channels) are so important for any business this day in age. An active and engaged community, who absorbs your content, gives input, provides feedback and celebrates your business wins with you is a huge asset in 2025.  Anyone I meet starting a new business (which is quite a few in our line of work), always gets the same question from me: "Do you have Instagram and TikTok?" Because without it.. you will struggle to grow and increase your footprint. Some might say its the second most important thing a business needs, after good packaging of course.😉 So.. if you're reading this and you want some tips from someone 9 years in the game, I'd suggest the below:1. Remain consistent and active on social media. 2. Adapt your content for each channel. What does well on TikTok, won't necessarily reach the right audience on Instagram. What gets fantastic engagement on Facebook, usually doesn't have the same reach on Instagram. 3. Show your face! We know its daunting and can take some practice (there are many a blooper video of me on TikTok); but viewers want to see a face behind the brand! It engages them and allows them to connect emotionally with your brand. 4. Get your staff involved! Play games, have quizzes, play light-hearted pranks, show them doing their craft, have them announce product launches. It goes a long way! And, don't forget to thank them afterwards. 5. Make use of UCG (user generated content). If your customer buys a product of yours and loves it enough to style a photo, upload it AND tag you.. You're onto a winner! Repost repost repost. People love to get given credit and feel as if their effort is appreciated. Its free marketing, so show them that you appreciate it! Thats it from me today!I'll climb back into my box. Jess     

A well-timed, well-presented gift has the ability to do more than say “thank you”, it helps businesses build trust, strengthen relationships, and create lasting impressions.At In the Box, we make it easy for you to turn every gift into a memorable experience. Some of our favourites for corporate and client gifting include: 📦 Sliding gift boxes with colourful shredded paper 🍷 Wine bottle carriers & wine gift boxes 🏷️ Gift tags 🛍️ Elegant gift bags 🎁 Premium printed gift wrapIt’s not about the price of the gift; it’s about the thought, the presentation, and the meaning behind it. When your brand shows up thoughtfully, people remember.Let’s help you create gifts that stand out for all the right reasons. 💼✨

When it comes to packaging, businesses are constantly looking for solutions that are protective, lightweight, and environmentally friendly. At In The Box, we’re proud to offer Dimple Paper – a sustainable packaging material that ticks all the boxes for e-commerce stores, gift packaging, and shipping needs.

When it comes to running a successful business, reliable packaging is just as important as the product inside. At In The Box, we specialise in providing high-quality shipper boxes that protect your products, reduce shipping costs, and deliver a professional unboxing experience to your customers.

This Diwali, make your gifts as unforgettable as the celebration itself with our brand-new Bright Orange Diwali Printed Box Range. Designed with vibrant patterns and festive flair, these boxes are perfect for packaging sweets, snacks, biscuits, and gifts with a beautiful South African-Indian fusion touch.

At In The Box, we know how important secure, professional packaging is for your business. That’s why we’re proud to launch our brand-new courier bag range – strong, reliable, and built to handle the demands of modern shipping.

At In The Box, we believe in doing more than just packaging — we believe in packaging kindness, purpose, and responsibility into everything we do. This Mandela Day, our entire team — from shop floor staff to senior management — stepped outside the warehouse and into our neighbourhood for a meaningful cause.

We’ve officially let loose — and it’s time to bring the wild to your packaging! 🐾 Introducing our brand-new Big Five Print Collection, a bold and brilliant celebration of African wildlife, playful design, and statement packaging. Inspired by the spirit of the bush-veld and fuelled by creativity, this collection features five unique prints that are anything but ordinary. Whether you're packaging products, sending gifts, or stocking up for retail, these wild designs are ready to roar.

Looking for packaging that pops? Say hello to our Pink Party Box – the perfect blend of bold colour, effortless charm, and celebration-ready style. Whether you're putting together a birthday gift, party favour, or small business product drop, this box is designed to stand out and steal the show.

When it comes to product presentation, first impressions matter – and our display boxes are designed to do exactly that: turn heads, showcase your products beautifully, and make packing easy. We recently received some fantastic feedback from one of our loyal customers that we just had to share!

At In The Box, we’re always refining the details that make your unboxing experience better. And while we loved our thick-cut shredded paper (shoutout to our OG shredder!), it was time for an upgrade. So, it’s officially out with the old and in with the sleek!We’ve retired our thick shredded paper and relaunched all of our shredded paper packaging mixes in a stylish narrow cut.