The Ultimate Guide To Packing And Shipping Your Invention

Inventing something is a great deal, indeed. Before an invention sees the light of day, there are multiple stages involved, such as planning, managing, and so on. Nonetheless, it doesn’t end there.

Your invention is intended to reach its intended audience for it to make an impact. But shipping your invention to its final destination is said to be among the most exciting yet tedious and challenging parts of the process. There are many steps, risks, and the like that are involved in it. Read on below to learn more about properly packaging and shipping your invention.

1. Assess Your Packaging Needs

The first step is to assess your shipping and packaging needs. This means evaluating the fragility, size, shape of your invention, and others. It’d be best also to consider other factors like the weight and dimensions of your packaging. Doing the aforementioned allows you to choose the perfect packaging for your creativity.

For instance, the packaging you’ll need for delicate products differs from what you’ll need for a sturdy invention. Frail commodities will require more secure packaging with protective fillers and cushions. And you can consider using high-quality custom timber cases as an additional layer of protection to protect your shipment when the freight gets bumpy.

Do note that your needs go beyond packaging materials since you’ll be shipping your invention too. Consider your transportation needs. This involves determining your shipping needs to choose the appropriate packaging. For one, the type of packing materials you’ll use for sea shipping differs from what you’ll need for air freight. Typically, sea shipments require much stronger packaging than air freight.

2. Create A Budget

It’s crucial to create a budget when packing and shipping your invention. While you must take into consideration the quality of the package, the price affects your choice too. To minimize your budget for packing and shipping, check out the following:

• Buying In Bulk

You can work with suppliers offering discounts on bulk purchases to reduce packaging costs. It’ll help you acquire quality materials while staying within your budget.

• Optimizing Packaging

One mistake many businesses make when shipping products is using more extensive packaging materials. Buying a larger pack than what you’re transporting will mean spending more on padding, cushions, and fillers. Plus, some carriers charge shipping fees depending on the dimensions of the package rather than weight. This means you’ll also have to pay extra.

While creating your budget, consider the packaging layers you need for your invention. They include the inner, outer, and product packaging. Decide whether your product needs the three layers to set a reasonable budget. Chances are you’ll need to develop a higher budget when using three rather than two layers.

Additionally, make sure that you include the shipping charges in your budget. Evaluate different couriers and request quotations from all to find an affordable one. Typically, transportation charges will depend on the packaging dimensions and weight, delivery speed, and order volume.

3. Select The Correct Packaging Type

You can choose the suitable packaging material for shipping your invention once you determine your needs. Many options are available, and you’ll have to choose one depending on the fragility and size of your shipment.

Among the quality packaging types you may want to utilize are the following:

• Corrugated Boxes

Corrugated boxes are the packages many retailers utilize. They’re sturdy, lightweight, can be recycled, and come in various sizes. You can use them to pack and ship your invention regardless of the size. Just remember to add cushions and fillers when transporting delicate products. You can consider using double-walled boxes for more protection and durability as well.

• Custom Product Packaging

Custom packaging boxes are your best bet when shipping products sustainably directly to the end user. They provide room for customization, which gives consumers the ultimate unboxing experience and anticipation. And you can print on them and decorate them for a popper brand presentation.

• Bags And Envelopes

You can use bag and envelope options when shipping smaller inventions. They’re easy to store and ship due to their lightweight and size. Nonetheless, they’re not your to-go-to choice when dealing with fragile products.

• Padded Mailers

Padded mailers are perfect for smaller flat inventions like books and jewelry. The mailers are padded, yet you can still add bubble wrap or recyclable paper for additional security.

Other than these, many packaging designs and options are available. Evaluate what you need and select a package that fits better.

Remember, the size of the invention will affect your packaging choice. Thus, it’ll be an excellent idea to measure the dimensions of your creation. Add an extra two inches to the height, width, and length to ensure sufficient room to wrap and include a protective layer.

4. Create A Custom Packaging Experience

Creating a custom packaging experience is crucial for your band.

It’s said that a satisfying experience implants your brand in consumers’ minds. It makes your invention the first product to pop into their minds when they want to purchase something in your niche. You can cover your product with several layers of appealing wrappers to increase your customer’s excitement about unboxing the package.

But it’ll depend on the buyer or the receiver. Generally, the packaging should be appealing to the end user. For instance, a man may prefer something low-key, while women and kids may prefer something with more color, imagery, and a sophisticated item packaging look. Hence, assess your target user before customizing.

And you can take advantage of the custom experience to market and upsell your invention. Add your business card or promotional materials, such as newsletters, informing your customers of your creation. This may build a good relationship with your clients, creating customer loyalty.

5. Seal And Label Your Package

You’ve probably spent thousands of dollars inventing and packaging your products. The last thing you want is for them to get lost at sea due to poor labeling.

Thus, ensure you label your packaging accordingly. Consider jolting your name, address, and the receiver’s contact details. Use stickers to place these details on the box or padded mailers, ensuring it’s easy to read.

Then, finish your packing by sealing. Ensure you use pressure-sensitive tapes, as masking tape and scotch may not be strong enough to withstand the pressure of a rough ride. Use the H-taping technique, placing the tape across the flaps and dragging it to the bottom of the package. Don’t skimp on tape; you’ll need more lines to secure the box.

6. Use Pallets Where Necessary

Using pallets when shipping your invention is also a good idea. They protect your packages as they stabilize them, reducing damage caused by too much movement in transit. Pallets ensure easy handling, especially when dealing with larger shipments.

Another underrated advantage of using pallets for shipping your invention is its protection against contamination. Pallets elevate your products, protecting them from destructive elements such as moisture and dust. Nevertheless, using pallets depends on the type and quantity of the shipment.

7. Insure Your Shipment

The safety of your packaging doesn’t end with proper packaging. There are many shipment risks, such as theft and damage from accidents or other non-packaging-related causes. If shipping internationally, the risks involved are more significant due to complex procedures, distance, and shipping regulations. For these reasons, you should insure your invention, especially when it’s costly.

The insurance will cover the goods’ repair, reimbursement, or replacement cost, minimizing potential financial risks. You’ll have peace of mind knowing your invention is safe and protected. Henceforth, evaluate different couriers to find a good insurance deal. Consider one that covers third-party liability to be on the safe side.

8. Work With Reputable Carriers

The carriers you choose will be responsible for your invention: you’d want it to be someone reputable and trustworthy. One who’ll ensure your products reach the intended recipient in good condition and on time.

Note that different carriers offer varying shipping solutions to businesses, each with advantages and disadvantages. Therefore, you should do your due diligence and search for the best transporter that meets your expectations. You may want to consider the following to work with the best carrier:

• Shipping Requirements: Some carriers can only handle specific items; some take heavy and bulk, while others prefer smaller and lightweight. Hence, assess your shipping requirements and find a carrier that accommodates them.
• Cost And Insurance: Consider the carrier’s shipping charges and insurance. This would ensure you don’t incur too many transport charges or financial liability if anything happens to your invention while in transit.
• Delivery Speed: The speed will influence your choice too. Determine the urgency of the product and choose a convenient one. For example, if the product is required urgently or is perishable, work with a carrier offering express services.
• Geographical Coverage: Some carriers operate within a specific geographic coverage, and if it’s not the final destination of your invention, they’re not your best bet. Working with them will mean shifting carriers, which can lead to misplacement, delays, and damage to the product. Inquire about their geographic coverage and access to your target location before settling for one.
• Tracking Capabilities: Consider a carrier that offers a convenient tracking system, enabling you and the receiver to monitor the invention. This will allow you to know where your goods are at all times. And it’ll reduce theft and lost cases as both parties can easily track the products.

These are some of the considerations when selecting a carrier. Do your homework to find the most reliable and reputable.

Conclusion

Packing and shipping your invention can be daunting. It requires careful planning, assessment, and research. You must find the best packing materials that fit your needs while trying to reduce packaging costs. In addition, you have to find the best carrier with affordable charges and insurance. Yet don’t be caught up in the moment; create a budget and follow it strictly to ensure you get reasonable profit for your invention.