Packaging Blog Page
3 Packaging Upgrades That Instantly Elevate Your Brand
In today’s market, your packaging isn’t just protection; it’s part of your product experience. Here are 3 simple upgrades that can elevate your brand:
🌱 1. Biodegradable Packaging
Sustainability isn’t a trend — it’s an expectation. Switching to biodegradable options shows your customers that your brand cares about the planet, while still delivering on quality and durability. Our E-Flute Shipper Boxes are 100% biodegradable.
🎨 2. Custom Prints
Branded packaging turns every order into a marketing moment. Whether it’s your logo, a pattern, or a signature colour palette, custom prints help your brand stay memorable long after the box is opened. Contact sales@in-the-box.co.za if you're interested in custom printing.
🎁 3. Box Fillers
Think tissue paper, narrow shred, or crinkle shredded paper. These small details create that “wow” moment. A thoughtful unboxing experience can turn first-time buyers into loyal customers (and get you shared on social media 👀).
We believe great packaging doesn’t just deliver products — it delivers experiences.
Small Business Sundays presents: UNBOXT GIFTS
Many successful businesses don’t start with a full plan, they start with a passion.Through our Small Business Sundays initiative, we spotlight the entrepreneurs within our community who are building brands with intention, creativity and resilience.This week, we’re featuring Unboxt Gifts; a brand specialising in customised goodies, including flasks, apparel and curated gift boxes designed to make every occasion feel personal.Founded by Chantelle Weldon, the business began as a creative outlet. Over time, that passion grew into a thriving brand, proving that consistency and dedication can turn small beginnings into something impactful.But what makes Chantelle’s journey particularly powerful is how she’s extended that impact beyond her own business.Today, she also supports aspiring entrepreneurs by providing tools, strategies and insights tailored to the South Africa market. She helps others take the first step in building businesses of their own.We’re proud to support founders like Chantelle and to celebrate the journeys behind the brands.Small businesses don’t just create products.They create opportunities, community and lasting impact.
Is Cheap Packaging Really Worth It? Let's Talk About it.
Cheap packaging might save you a few rands upfront… but it can cost you so much more in the long run.
Damaged stock.
Refunds and replacements.
Unhappy customers.
Negative reviews.
Lost trust.
All of that adds up — fast.
Your packaging isn’t just a box. It’s protection, presentation, and part of your brand experience.
At In The Box, we focus on protective packaging that keeps your products safe from door to doorstep; so you can avoid unnecessary losses and deliver with confidence.
Here are a few essentials we offer:
• Bubble wrap – Perfect for cushioning fragile items and absorbing shock during transit.
• Shredded paper – Great for filling empty space while adding a soft, aesthetic touch.
• Dimple paper – A paper-based alternative to bubble wrap, ideal for wrapping delicate items.
• Mandini paper – Strong and flexible, perfect for wrapping and protecting glasses stonewear.
• Wood wool – Excellent for premium packaging and protecting heavier, fragile products.
• Polystyrene chips – Lightweight void fill that prevents items from shifting inside the box.
Because in business, cutting corners on packaging often means paying for it later.
Invest in packaging that works as hard as you do.
Small Business Sundays presents: LUMOS CANDLES CO.
We often say that behind every order packed is a story. The small businesses we work with are built on passion, resilience and moments of inspiration that turn simple ideas into meaningful brands.Through our Small Business Sundays initiative, we spotlight the entrepreneurs within our community whose journeys deserve to be shared.This week, we’re featuring Lumos Candle Co, a candle brand founded by a mother and daughter duo from Pretoria.The idea for the business began during the uncertainty of the pandemic. Pascual, a former flight attendant, noticed that her daughter Cat (an honours student navigating the stress of her studies) had started using candles and crystals to help manage anxiety and bring moments of calm into her daily routine.Recognising how something so simple could have such a positive impact, Pascual saw an opportunity to create candles that could offer the same sense of comfort and upliftment to others, while keeping them accessible and affordable.What began as a shared interest between mother and daughter soon grew into Lumos Candle Co; a brand centred on bringing positivity, light and a sense of calm to people during challenging times.Stories like this remind us that many small businesses begin with a very human moment. It's noticing a need, wanting to help, and having the courage to turn that idea into something real.We’re proud to support founders like Pascual and Cat, and to celebrate the journeys that bring these businesses to life.Small businesses don’t just create products.They create connection, purpose and opportunity.
Small Business Sundays presents: UYAZI
As part of our Small Business Sundays initiative, we spotlight the entrepreneurs within our community whose journeys deserve to be shared.
This week, we’re featuring Uyazi which is a skincare brand founded by sisters Karen and Astrid. The name Uyazi, which means “to know” in Zulu, reflects the heart of their philosophy: understanding what goes into the products we use on our bodies.
Growing up as farm girls in KwaZulu-Natal, Karen and Astrid developed a deep respect for nature and the role it plays in our wellbeing. That connection to nature is what inspired them to create skincare products made with ingredients that truly matter.
Uyazi has become especially loved for its indulgent body butters, beautifully whipped to resemble soft cream, as well as their nourishing body sugar scrubs. Each product is designed not only to care for the skin, but to celebrate the simple, natural ingredients behind it.
Uyazi is more than just skincare. It’s a reminder that when we understand our ingredients, we can make better choices for ourselves and our bodies.
Small businesses don’t just create products.They create purpose, connection and impact.
Standard Boxes vs Custom Printed Boxes: Which is best for your business?
Packaging is often the first physical interaction a customer has with your brand. Whether you’re shipping an online order, preparing retail products, or assembling gift sets, the box you choose plays an important role in both protection and presentation. We have a wide range of standard boxes that is sure to get the job done. But when should you take it a step further?When it comes to standard or custom printed boxes, both options have their advantages, and the right choice depends on your brand stage, order volume, and marketing goals.Standard boxes are a great option for businesses that need flexibility and affordability. They are readily available, cost-effective, and ideal for startups, businesses testing new products, or those that need packaging quickly. Many brands also pair standard boxes with stickers or sleeves to add simple branding.Custom printed boxes, on the other hand, are perfect when you want to strengthen brand recognition and create a memorable unboxing experience. As order volumes grow, custom packaging becomes a powerful marketing tool, turning every delivery into a branded experience for your customer.We have a minimum order quantity of only 100 units, making it easy for small businesses to take that leap. Contact us at sales@in-the-box.co.za to start your custom printing journey.Or view our range of standard boxes at www.in-the-box.co.za
How To Choose The Right Packaging For Your Business
Choosing the right box for your product is more important than many people think. The packaging you select doesn’t just protect what’s inside, it also affects cost, presentation, and the overall customer experience.At In The Box, we often help businesses think through a few key factors before deciding on packaging.1️⃣ Material mattersDifferent products require different levels of protection and presentation.- E-Flute boxes are ideal for shipping heavier items because they provide strength and cushioning. They are your go to shipping boxes. - SappiKraft boxes are great for lightweight products and give a natural, eco-friendly look. They are not very suitable for shipping.- White Luxpack boxes offer a clean, premium finish and are perfect for products that need a more luxurious presentation.-PVC boxes are clear and visually appealing, making them ideal for showcasing products while still protecting them.2️⃣ Cost vs durabilityWhile it’s tempting to choose the cheapest option, the right balance between cost and durability is crucial. A box that is too thin may lead to damaged goods during transport, which ultimately costs more in replacements and unhappy customers.3️⃣ Size and fitUsing the correct box size reduces the need for excessive fillers and lowers shipping costs. A well-fitted box also gives your product a more professional presentation.4️⃣ Brand experienceYour packaging is often the first physical interaction a customer has with your brand. The right box can enhance the unboxing experience and make your product feel more premium.The right packaging solution is about finding the balance between protection, cost-efficiency, and brand presentation.If you're unsure which box is right for your product, our team is always happy to help guide you through the options.
In The Box app: Celebrating one year!
A year ago today, we took the leap and launched South Africa's first ever packaging purchasing app! A fun and easy to use app that gives its users access to over 2000 packaging options.Initially created as "just another sales platform" for our customers - it has quickly become something far more exciting. Our users have first access to new products, get app exclusive discounts and have a front row seat to all the happenings of In The Box. We built it to remove the additional step of logging onto a website and ordering your small business packaging. Now its readily available, at your fingertips!To date, we have had 5000+ app downloads with 2600 monthly active users. We know.. for a packaging company.. thats kind of impressive, right? Even I'm shocked!While we are still very much in the start up phase with the app, we are excited to watch it grow and continue to solve problems that small business owners have. Even if just an easier way to order your packaging!So, what are you waiting for? Download it now! Google Play: https://lnkd.in/dxyjMFM7 App store: https://lnkd.in/d9b9uxEe Thanks for your support. Thats it from me!-Jess
NEW IN: Cellophane Roll (50cm x 2m)
Looking for an easy way to elevate your packaging? Our Cellophane Roll (50cm x 2m) is the perfect solution for clean, professional wrapping.
Why You’ll Love It:
Crystal-clear transparency to show off your products
Lightweight yet durable
Easy to cut and wrap
Gives a crisp, boutique-style finish
Perfect For:
Gift wrapping
Hampers and gift baskets
Small business packaging (candles, baked goods, bath products, stationery)
Event favours and seasonal gifting
Simple, affordable, and versatile — a must-have for beautiful product presentation.
Click here to get your hands on a roll.
Introducing Our New Mylar Pouches!
We’re excited to add a splash of colour to your packaging options with our brand-new mylar pouches! These pouches are as eye-catching as they are practical.
Whether you’re a small business owner, a craft lover, or someone who just wants reliable storage solutions, our mylar pouches are a versatile and stylish choice.
📦 Why Mylar Pouches Are So Useful
Mylar pouches are more than just pretty packaging, they’re designed with performance in mind. Here’s why they’re such a popular choice across industries:
✅ Durable & Long-Lasting
Made from food-grade polyester film, mylar is strong, puncture-resistant, and far more resilient than ordinary plastic bags. That means your products stay safe from tears, moisture, and damage during handling and shipping.
✅ Airtight Seal
Each pouch features a durable airtight seal that keeps your goods fresher for longer. This is perfect for food items, herbs, seeds, powders, and other perishables that need protection from oxygen and humidity.
✅ Versatile Uses
Mylar pouches can be used for a wide range of purposes, including:
Food storage — snacks, dried fruits, nuts, spices, herbs
Coffee & tea packaging
Candles and wax melts
Cosmetics and bath products
Seeds, herbs, and gardening supplies
Craft and jewelry storage
Travel kits and sample packs
Whether you’re packaging products for sale or keeping your own items organized at home, these pouches offer great protection and professional presentation.
Hop Into Easter with our New Printed Boxes 🐣
Easter is just around the corner, and there’s no better way to make your treats, gifts, and celebrations extra special than with beautifully designed packaging! The new Easter collection is filled with cheerful prints, pastel colours, and playful designs that instantly bring the joy of the season to life.
Whether you’re a small business owner prepping Easter orders, hosting an egg hunt, or simply want to elevate your gifting game this year, these printed boxes are the perfect stylish packaging option.
The range includes:
The Lilac Bunny Blooms print
Small White Coffee Box (145x80x45mm)
White Coffee Box with Window (190x90x60mm)
White Biscuit Box with Window (175x135x50mm)
Green Easter print
White Cookie Box (216x138x60)
White Biscuit Box with Window (190x90x60mm)
Small White Coffee Box (145x80x45mm)
Whether you’re packing in-store orders or preparing baskets for friends, these boxes add a festive finishing touch that makes your gifts stand out.
Why Every Packaging Business Should Have a YouTube Channel
We believe great service goes beyond the sale. 📦That’s why we’ve invested in our YouTube tutorial channel, a value-added resource designed to make assembling our boxes simple, quick, and stress-free. We post step-by-step folding tutorials so our customers can spend less time figuring things out and more time growing their businesses.But this isn’t just about folding boxes.Having a YouTube channel as a business allows us to:• Provide ongoing support outside of store hours• Reduce frustration and save our customers time• Visually demonstrate product quality and functionality• Build trust and transparency• Create a library of helpful, evergreen contentIn today’s digital world, customers appreciate brands that educate, not just sell. Video content gives us the opportunity to add real value, strengthen relationships, and enhance the overall customer experience.If you haven’t explored our tutorials yet, visit our YouTube channel and see how easy packaging can be.Checkout our Youtube channel at https://www.youtube.com/@inthebox_za
Small Business Sundays presents: TREATS BY RAEESAH
We have the privilege of working with small businesses at every stage of their journey. Behind every order packed is a founder navigating growth, change and real-life responsibilities (often all at once).As part of our Small Business Sundays initiative, we spotlight the entrepreneurs within our community whose stories deserve to be told.This week, we’re featuring Treats by Raeesah; a custom gifting brand specialising in personalised hot air balloons, acrylic keepsakes, baby sets, mini chocs and thoughtfully curated gifts for every occasion.Founded in 2020 during the uncertainty of Covid-19, the business began with 1kg gummies and imported treats. Recognising the need to build visibility and connect directly with customers, Raeesah expanded into markets and home pop-up shops. This helped her shape the brand’s next chapter.Over time, Treats by Raeesah evolved into a personalised gifting business, with custom hot air balloons and acrylic pieces becoming standout bestsellers for birthdays, corporate gifting and milestone celebrations. Treats by Raeesah is more than a gifting brand. It’s a reflection of resilience, responsiveness and the courage to pivot when necessary.Small businesses don’t just create products.They create opportunities, memories and livelihoods.We’re proud to support founders like Raeesah — not only through packaging solutions, but by sharing and celebrating their journeys.If you’re building a business, keep going. Your story matters.
Meet Our New Black Shipper Boxes
Sleek. Minimal. Elevated.
We’ve taken three of our most popular shipper boxes and reimagined them in a bold, sophisticated black finish.
Whether you’re shipping orders, curating gift boxes, or upgrading your brand presentation, these boxes combine durability with modern elegance.
The range consists of:
Flip Lid Box (Black) 125x118x38mm
Black Shipper Box 237x153x58mm
Protective Black Box 120x100x55mm
If you’re looking for something protective without compromising on aesthetic, this is it. They are perfect for beauty products, gift sets, PR boxes, makeup and even candles.
Celebrate Ramadan & Eid in Style With Our New Collection
Ramadan and Eid are seasons of reflection, community, and beautiful moments shared with loved ones. Whether you’re preparing dates for Iftar, gifting sweets after Tarawih, or creating unforgettable eid hampers, thoughtful packaging can make every gift feel more special. We have curated a stunning Ramadan and Eid range that brings style, joy, and meaningful presentation to your celebrations.
Elegant Eid Packaging & Gifting Essentials
From beautifully printed boxes to novelty keepsake options and thoughtful finishing touches, the Eid collection offers everything you need to create heartfelt gifts:
Printed Boxes: A selection of different printed boxes ideal for sweets, small gifts, and festive treats which include our popular biscuit box and coffee box. These boxes bring elegance to every special delivery.
Eid Novelty Boxes: You can create curated gifts with our Little Ramadan Boxes or assemble a delectable snack platter with our Peanut Wheel.
Gift Tags & Money Card Holders: Add a personal touch with stylish gift tags or classic money card holders. They are perfect for giving eidi or heartfelt messages.
Cake Toppers & Lantern Lights: Small details like cake toppers and lantern battery lights add a festive look to your Eid table or dessert spread.
Whether you’re gifting to family, friends, or customers, these packaging pieces help tell a story of care and celebration
Little Ramadan Boxes – A Meaningful Ramadan Countdown
Our Little Ramadan Boxes are a beautiful way to make each day of Ramadan feel intentional and exciting. Designed as a Ramadan advent calendar, these boxes can be filled with small treats, duas, good deed prompts, or thoughtful surprises for children and loved ones. They’re perfect for families wanting to build meaningful traditions, encourage reflection, and create moments of joy throughout the month.
Click here to shop our full range.
Price Increase Alert
To our valued customers,
As part of our ongoing commitment to delivering the quality and service you expect from In The Box, we’d like to let you know that we will be implementing a price adjustment effective 1 March 2026.
This decision has not been made lightly. Like many businesses, we’ve experienced continued increases in material and operational costs, and this adjustment allows us to maintain the standards, reliability and turnaround times that are so important to both you and us.
We value your continued support & understanding. If you have any questions or would like to chat through upcoming orders, please don’t hesitate to reach out.
Warm regards,
Think Pastel. Think Easter. 🐣
When it comes to Easter packaging, colour is everything. Which is why our 1L buckets are now available in five new amazing colours: pink, purple, blue, green, and yellow.
These buckets instantly bring the Easter charm to any display. Pair it with our Easter themed shredded paper and mini easter eggs and you have a winner!
They are perfect for filling with chocolate eggs, sweet treats, small gifts, bath products, or party favours.
If you’re planning your Easter range, now’s the time to stock up. Cute, colourful and guaranteed to attract attention. Our Pastel 1 Litre Buckets are ready to be filled with your creativity.
Please note that they are sold in packs of 10 online. You can purchase them individually at our walk in store at Unit 23, Gateway Business Park, Berkley Road, Ndabeni. You can also purchase our multicolor bundle (2 of each colours in a pack).
In The Box Hits 10,000 Shopify Orders
We are incredibly proud to announce that In The Box has officially received Shopify’s 10,000 Order Award on our online store!
This milestone represents more than just a number - it represents 10,000 individual orders placed by customers who chose to trust us with their packaging needs.
And for that, we are deeply grateful.
Small Business Sundays presents: MEMOMAG
This week on Small Business Sundays, we're featuring MemoMag, a beautiful brand turning memories into 5cmx5cm customised fridge magnets you'll treasure every day.
Founded by Michelle, after she courageously left her high-paying corporate job, MemoMag began as a heartfelt tribute to her father, who believed that your home should tell your story. Now, she's helping families do exactly that, one tiny memory at a time.
What makes In The Box different?
When given the topic for this post, I had to really sit back and think about how I was going to write this. "What makes In The Box different?" is tougher to answer than one might think. In The Box covers all the bases of great quality, locally produced, fast turnaround time, creative innovation and the list goes on. And while thats great, and what is instilled in all of our employees across the company.. its generic. For me, In The Box is a feeling. Its the feeling of having a warm hug, a caring mentor or a crowd standing on the side of the road cheering you through race day. What we really try to do at In The Box is build relationships, become your side-hustle hype girl and hold your hand through the daunting process of choosing packaging. We want our customers to feel heard, supported and valued in our company. And we really try to carry this through in the speed in which we answer enquiries, to the personalised hand-written thank you cards in our online orders, to the friendly sales assistants in our walk-in store who love to know how your business is growing and what we can do to assist. We want your heart to feel warm and fuzzy when you hear "In The Box", much like ours does when we get your support. We're not just a supplier, we're a collaborator. And we can't wait to make magic with you. For now, I'll get off my (soap) box!Until next time-Jess
Online Orders Are Now Closed for 2025 Fulfilment
Our online store has officially closed for the year, and any orders placed from today onward will be processed when we reopen on 5 January.If you’ve already placed your order, don’t worry, it will be prepared and shipped as planned. Anything new will join our January queue.
We really appreciate your understanding as we take this time to rest, reset, and get ready for an exciting year ahead.
Our Physical Store Is Still Open (But Not for Long!)
If you’d still like to shop with us before Christmas, our store will remain open until:
🗓️ 19 December at 10am
Please note: we’ll be closed on 16 December for the public holiday.
It’s the perfect time to pop in for last-minute gifts, candles, stocking fillers, and all the cute things you love.
Thank You for an Incredible Year
Every order, message, share, and visit means the world. As we wrap up the year, we’re beyond grateful for the community we’ve built with you.
We can’t wait to welcome you back in January with fresh energy, new creations, and more little moments of joy.
Wishing you a restful, safe, and magical holiday season. ✨See you in 2026!
Important Dates for the festive season
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
Protect Your Products and the Planet with Our New Honeycomb Paper
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
Stellenberg Feesmark
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.