--- title: Common packaging mistakes & how to avoid them | Primepac description: From using the wrong types of packaging to packaging waste, there are lots of common packaging mistakes. Learn more and see how you can avoid them. image: https://info.primepac.co.nz/hubfs/primepac_blog_common_packaging_mistakes.jpg --- [![Primepac_Logo_White](https://info.primepac.co.nz/hs-fs/hubfs/Primepac_Logos/Primepac_Logo_White.png?width=2362&height=767&name=Primepac_Logo_White.png "Primepac_Logo_White")](http://www.primepac.co.nz) - [Adhesive Tapes & Stapling](https://www.primepac.co.nz/products/adhesive-tapes-stapling/) - [Adhesives](https://www.primepac.co.nz/products/adhesive-tapes-stapling/adhesives/) - [Bag Sealing Tapes](https://www.primepac.co.nz/products/adhesive-tapes-stapling/bag-sealing-tapes/) - [Coloured Tapes](https://www.primepac.co.nz/products/adhesive-tapes-stapling/coloured-tapes/) - [Double Sided & Mounting](https://www.primepac.co.nz/products/adhesive-tapes-stapling/double-sided-mounting/) - [Heavy Duty Tapes](https://www.primepac.co.nz/products/adhesive-tapes-stapling/heavy-duty-tapes/) - [Industrial Tapes](https://www.primepac.co.nz/products/adhesive-tapes-stapling/industrial-tapes/) - [Machine Tapes](https://www.primepac.co.nz/products/adhesive-tapes-stapling/machine-tapes/) - [Masking Tapes](https://www.primepac.co.nz/products/adhesive-tapes-stapling/masking-tapes/) - [Packaging Tapes](https://www.primepac.co.nz/products/adhesive-tapes-stapling/packaging-tapes/) - [Printed Tapes](https://www.primepac.co.nz/products/adhesive-tapes-stapling/printed-tapes/) - [Stapling](https://www.primepac.co.nz/products/adhesive-tapes-stapling/stapling/) - [Tape Dispensers](https://www.primepac.co.nz/products/adhesive-tapes-stapling/tape-dispensers/) - [Plastic Packaging](https://www.primepac.co.nz/products/plastic-packaging/) - [Bundling & Shrink Films](https://www.primepac.co.nz/products/plastic-packaging/bundling-shrink-films/) - [Carton & Bin Liners](https://www.primepac.co.nz/products/plastic-packaging/carton-bin-liners/) - [Food Packaging](https://www.primepac.co.nz/products/plastic-packaging/food-packaging/) - [Machine Pallet Wrap](https://www.primepac.co.nz/products/plastic-packaging/machine-pallet-wrap/) - [Plastic Bags](https://www.primepac.co.nz/products/plastic-packaging/plastic-bags/) - [Pallet Wrapping](https://www.primepac.co.nz/products/plastic-packaging/pallet-wrapping/) - [Plastic Tubing](https://www.primepac.co.nz//products/plastic-packaging/plastic-tubing/) - [Resealable Bags](https://www.primepac.co.nz/products/plastic-packaging/resealable-bags/) - [Sustainable Bags](https://www.primepac.co.nz/products/plastic-packaging/sustainable-bags/) - [Sustainable Retail Bags](https://www.primepac.co.nz/products/plastic-packaging/sustainable-retail-bags/) - [Shrink Films](https://www.primepac.co.nz/products/plastic-packaging/shrink-films/) - [Timber & Building Films](https://www.primepac.co.nz/products/plastic-packaging/timber-building-films/) - [Strapping & Accessories](https://www.primepac.co.nz/products/strapping-accessories/) - [Cord Strapping](https://www.primepac.co.nz/products/strapping-accessories/cord-strapping/) - [Corner Protection](https://www.primepac.co.nz/products/strapping-accessories/corner-protection/) - [Paper Strapping](https://www.primepac.co.nz/products/strapping-accessories/paper-strapping/) - [PET Strapping](https://www.primepac.co.nz/products/strapping-accessories/pet-strapping/) - [Polypropylene Strapping](https://www.primepac.co.nz/products/strapping-accessories/polypropylene-strapping/) - [Polywoven Strapping](https://www.primepac.co.nz/products/strapping-accessories/polywoven-strapping/) - [Steel Strapping](https://www.primepac.co.nz/products/strapping-accessories/steel-strapping/) - [Strapping & Accessories](https://www.primepac.co.nz/products/strapping-accessories/strapping-accessories/) - [Thread, Ties & Twine](https://www.primepac.co.nz/products/strapping-accessories/thread-ties-twine/) - [Site Supplies & Signs](https://www.primepac.co.nz/products/site-supplies-signs/) - [Branding & Grading Inks](https://www.primepac.co.nz/products/site-supplies-signs/branding-grading-inks/) - [Cable Ties & Measuring](https://www.primepac.co.nz/products/site-supplies-signs/cable-ties-measuring/) - [Flagging & Barrier Tapes](https://www.primepac.co.nz/products/site-supplies-signs/flagging-barrier-tapes/) - [Floor Marking & Anti-Slip Tape](https://www.primepac.co.nz/products/site-supplies-signs/floor-marking-anti-slip-tape/) - [Industrial Marker Pens](https://www.primepac.co.nz/products/site-supplies-signs/industrial-marker-pens/) - [Maintenance & Accessories](https://www.primepac.co.nz/products/site-supplies-signs/maintenance-accesories/) - [Marking Crayons & Chalks](https://www.primepac.co.nz/products/site-supplies-signs/marking-crayons-chalks/) - [Marking Sprays](https://www.primepac.co.nz/products/site-supplies-signs/marking-sprays/) - [Mats](https://www.primepac.co.nz/products/site-supplies-signs/mats/) - [Signs](https://www.primepac.co.nz/products/site-supplies-signs/signs/) - [Labels, Mailing & Stationery](https://www.primepac.co.nz/products/labels-mailing-stationery/) - [Adhesive Rippa Labels](https://www.primepac.co.nz/products/labels-mailing-stationery/adhesive-rippa-labels/) - [Cargo Security](https://www.primepac.co.nz/products/labels-mailing-stationery/cargo-security/) - [Copy Papers](https://www.primepac.co.nz/products/labels-mailing-stationery/copy-papers/) - [Filing](https://www.primepac.co.nz/products/labels-mailing-stationery/filing/) - [Industrial Tags](https://www.primepac.co.nz/products/labels-mailing-stationery/industrial-tags/) - [Knives & Cutters](https://www.primepac.co.nz/products/labels-mailing-stationery/knives-cutters/) - [Mailing & Doculopes](https://www.primepac.co.nz/products/labels-mailing-stationery/mailing-doculopes/) - [Notebooks & Pads](https://www.primepac.co.nz/products/labels-mailing-stationery/notebooks-pads/) - [Office Accessories](https://www.primepac.co.nz/products/labels-mailing-stationery/office-accessories/) - [Office Consumables](https://www.primepac.co.nz/products/labels-mailing-stationery/office-consumables/) - [Pens & Markers](https://www.primepac.co.nz/products/labels-mailing-stationery/pens-markers/) - [Pricing & Office Labels](https://www.primepac.co.nz/products/labels-mailing-stationery/pricing-office-labels/) - [Retail Labels](https://www.primepac.co.nz/products/labels-mailing-stationery/retail-labels/) - [Rubber Bands & String](https://www.primepac.co.nz/products/labels-mailing-stationery/rubber-bands-string/) - [Staplers & Perforators](https://www.primepac.co.nz/products/labels-mailing-stationery/staplers-perforators/) - [Cartons, Paper & Protectives](https://www.primepac.co.nz/products/cartons-paper-protectives/) - [Air Bubble](https://www.primepac.co.nz/products/cartons-paper-protectives/air-bubble/) - [Cargo Security](https://www.primepac.co.nz/products/cartons-paper-protectives/cargo-security/) - [Cartons & Boxes](https://www.primepac.co.nz/products/cartons-paper-protectives/cartons-boxes/) - [Corrugated Cardboard](https://www.primepac.co.nz/products/cartons-paper-protectives/corrugated-cardboard/) - [Desiccant & Dunnage Bags](https://www.primepac.co.nz/products/cartons-paper-protectives/desiccant-dunnage-bags/) - [Gift Packaging](https://www.primepac.co.nz/products/cartons-paper-protectives/gift-packaging/) - [Paper Bags](https://www.primepac.co.nz/products/cartons-paper-protectives/paper-bags/) - [Polyfoam Rolls](https://www.primepac.co.nz/products/cartons-paper-protectives/polyfoam-rolls/) - [Protective Packaging](https://www.primepac.co.nz/products/cartons-paper-protectives/protective-packaging/) - [Wrapping Papers](https://www.primepac.co.nz/products/cartons-paper-protectives/wrapping-papers/) - [Health & Safety](https://www.primepac.co.nz/products/health-safety/) - [Chemical Gloves](https://www.primepac.co.nz/products/health-safety/chemical-gloves/) - [Cut Resistant Gloves](https://www.primepac.co.nz/products/health-safety/cut-resistant-glove/) - [Disposable Gloves](https://www.primepac.co.nz/products/health-safety/disposable-gloves/) - [Eye Protection](https://www.primepac.co.nz/products/health-safety/eye-protection/) - [Fire Protection](https://www.primepac.co.nz/products/health-safety/fire-protection/) - [First Aid Kits](https://www.primepac.co.nz/products/health-safety/first-aid-kits/) - [First Aid Supplies](https://www.primepac.co.nz/products/health-safety/first-aid-supplies/) - [Hearing & Eye Protection](https://www.primepac.co.nz/products/health-safety/hearing-eye-protection/) - [Hearing Protection](https://www.primepac.co.nz/products/health-safety/hearing-protection/) - [High Vis Clothing](https://www.primepac.co.nz/products/health-safety/high-vis-clothing/) - [Hygiene Protection](https://www.primepac.co.nz/products/health-safety/hygiene-protection/) - [Leather Gloves](https://www.primepac.co.nz/products/health-safety/leather-gloves/) - [Plasters & Bandages](https://www.primepac.co.nz/products/health-safety/plasters-bandages/) - [Protective Clothing](https://www.primepac.co.nz/products/health-safety/protective-clothing/) - [Respiratory Protection](https://www.primepac.co.nz/products/health-safety/respiratory-protection/) - [Rubber Gloves](https://www.primepac.co.nz/products/health-safety/rubber-gloves/) - [Skin Care](https://www.primepac.co.nz/products/health-safety/skin-care/) - [Work Gloves](https://www.primepac.co.nz/products/health-safety/work-gloves/) - [Cafeteria & Cleaning](https://www.primepac.co.nz/products/cafeteria-cleaning/) - [Brooms & Mops](https://www.primepac.co.nz/products/cafeteria-cleaning/brooms-mops/) - [Cafeteria Supplies](https://www.primepac.co.nz/products/cafeteria-cleaning/cafeteria-supplies/) - [Cleaning Equipment](https://www.primepac.co.nz/products/cafeteria-cleaning/cleaning-equipment/) - [Cleaning Solutions](https://www.primepac.co.nz/products/cafeteria-cleaning/cleaning-solutions/) - [Dish Washing](https://www.primepac.co.nz/products/cafeteria-cleaning/dish-washing/) - [Hand Cleaners](https://www.primepac.co.nz/products/cafeteria-cleaning/hand-cleaners/) - [Hot Drinks, Coffee & Tea](https://www.primepac.co.nz/products/cafeteria-cleaning/hot-drinks-coffee-tea/) - [Paper Towels](https://www.primepac.co.nz/products/cafeteria-cleaning/paper-towels/) - [Toilet Cleaners](https://www.primepac.co.nz/products/cafeteria-cleaning/toilet-cleaners/) - [Toilet Papers](https://www.primepac.co.nz/products/cafeteria-cleaning/toilet-papers/) - [Window Cleaners](https://www.primepac.co.nz/products/cafeteria-cleaning/windows-cleaners/) - [Wipes & Rags](https://www.primepac.co.nz/products/cafeteria-cleaning/wipes-rags/) Free lollies With every order Free Freight Nationwide To most urban areas Same Day Dispatch On weekdays - order before 5pm Earn Pacpoints 1 point for every $100 spent Primepac Blog [‹ Back to blogs](https://info.primepac.co.nz/blog) # Common packaging mistakes and how to avoid them September 13, 2021 ![Common packaging mistakes and how to avoid them](https://info.primepac.co.nz/hs-fs/hubfs/primepac_blog_common_packaging_mistakes.jpg?width=1000&name=primepac_blog_common_packaging_mistakes.jpg) In a growing e-commerce world and with the rise of COVID-19, many companies have pivoted over the past year to become online retailers only. This change in the way we sell consumer goods has meant that many businesses have also had to embrace packaging for the very first time. With an abundance of different packaging items available and new packaging trends emerging all the time, it can be hard to determine which packaging is right for your products, and your customers. In the world of packaging, it’s also very easy to make mistakes! So whether you’re new to packaging or perhaps you consider yourself a packaging connoisseur, there are some simple packaging mistakes that we can all be guilty of. Perhaps you’ve made a few of them yourself? We’ve compiled a list of some of the most common packaging mistakes we’ve seen, and how these mistakes can be easily avoided. ## 1. Using the wrong types of packaging There really isn’t a “one size fits all” when it comes to packaging and what works for one business, may not be right for another. What we often see is businesses using the same type of packaging, when their products are all different shapes and sizes. For example, a clothing retailer may choose mailer bags to send out all online purchases to customers which is perfect for clothing items however, this doesn’t offer enough protection for fragile items like jewellery and accessories. In saying that, if you were to send out a smaller item in a cardboard box, you would need to make sure that it’s the right size for the item being sent or otherwise it could move around too much during transit, which would inevitably cause damage. If you’ve recently made the move to an online store it’s important to take the time to consider exactly which types of packaging will work best for your products. Sending mostly larger items? Then you’ll need to invest in [cardboard boxes](https://www.primepac.co.nz/products/cartons-paper-protectives/cartons-boxes/) that will easily hold the items that need to be sent. Sending smaller items that aren’t likely to get damaged during transit? [Mailer bags](https://www.primepac.co.nz/products/labels-mailing-stationery/mailing-doculopes/) should be sufficient. With any type of packaging, it’s always important to consider whether you need [void fill](https://www.primepac.co.nz/products/cartons-paper-protectives/protective-packaging/) as well. Void fillers like [bubble wrap](https://www.primepac.co.nz/products/cartons-paper-protectives/air-bubble/) and [air pillows](https://www.primepac.co.nz/?productSearch=Airwave) work really well to ensure that your products are protected in transit. They act as an extra layer of cushioning inside the vessel like a cardboard box that’s transporting your item. Void fill will stop your products from moving around too much while they’re on their way to their destination and they can also help to take up extra space in something like a box, that may require extra padding. [![Primepac protective packaging supplies](https://info.primepac.co.nz/hs-fs/hubfs/primepac_protective_packaging.png?width=1000&name=primepac_protective_packaging.png)](https://www.primepac.co.nz/products/cartons-paper-protectives/) *Our range of [protective packaging supplies](https://www.primepac.co.nz/products/cartons-paper-protectives/) will ensure your goods are protected!* ## 2. Using low-quality packaging Just because packaging looks great, that doesn’t guarantee that it will be of excellent quality. If you’re going to be purchasing packaging to keep your products safe during transit then you need to make sure that it’s durable enough for the task at hand. Parcels that aren’t carefully protected in the right packaging materials could break or be more susceptible to damage. Using quality packaging products ensures that your products are as protected as possible, and minimises any accidental breakage. The best way to ensure that the packaging products you’re using are top quality is by doing your research. There are many companies that now sell packaging products but not all will have the same quality product. In some instances, it may be better to consult with local companies first who can explain where they source their products from, and how they can ensure that their packaging supplies will go the distance. Cardboard boxes and tape sourced from overseas may not live up to expectations when they finally arrive – you wouldn't want your products being misplaced or broken because the packaging wasn’t of a high enough quality to keep your products secure. Shopping around and working with [expert packaging companies](https://www.primepac.co.nz/) will ensure that any [boxes](https://www.primepac.co.nz/products/cartons-paper-protectives/cartons-boxes/), [mailer bags](https://www.primepac.co.nz/products/labels-mailing-stationery/mailing-doculopes/) or [packaging tapes](https://www.primepac.co.nz/products/adhesive-tapes-stapling/) that you purchase are tough enough for the job. Better yet, forming a great working relationship with your packing supplier will ensure that they’re well equipped to meet your packaging needs not just now, but in the future too. [*View our range of quality packaging supplies here >>*](https://www.primepac.co.nz/) ## 3. Packaging waste The final packaging mistake that we see occur all too often is excessive packaging that results in packaging waste. It can be easy to go overboard with your packaging as you want to make sure that your products get to customers in one piece. However, today’s online shoppers are becoming more sustainably-minded and what their purchases arrive in is important. Receiving a package wrapped in an abundance of plastic may be enough for some shoppers to turn to another vendor for their next online purchase. Using only the packaging that you need to protect your items is a good first step in reducing your packaging waste. Take bubble wrap for example – if this doesn’t need to be used because your product is already nicely packaged then why not leave this out? Less plastic packaging that’s used like bubble wrap ensures less packaging waste ends up in our landfills. If you ship lots of fragile items and you can’t skimp on the packaging you use then why not consider [sustainable packaging options](https://info.primepac.co.nz/blog/favourite-sustainable-packaging-supplies)? From [recyclable paper protection wrap](https://www.primepac.co.nz/products/cartons-paper-protectives/wrapping-papers/geami-wrappak-protection-wrap/) to [paper packaging tape](https://www.primepac.co.nz/products/adhesive-tapes-stapling/packaging-tapes/paper-packaging-tape/) and [compostable courier bags](https://www.primepac.co.nz/products/labels-mailing-stationery/mailing-doculopes/compostable-courier-bags/), there are some great sustainable choices available that don’t compromise on quality. [![Primepac sustainable paper packaging supplies](https://info.primepac.co.nz/hs-fs/hubfs/primepac_sustainable_paper_packaging.png?width=1000&name=primepac_sustainable_paper_packaging.png)](https://www.primepac.co.nz/why-primepac/environment/) *We've got your sustainability needs covered with our [environmentally friendly packaging supplies](https://www.primepac.co.nz/why-primepac/environment/)!* ## Your New Zealand packaging supplier No matter what products you sell, having the right packaging products to protect your goods is important so that they arrive safe and secure, and in one piece. If you’re looking for a [New Zealand packaging company](https://www.primepac.co.nz/) that can not only supply your packaging products but all of your other workplace supplies too, then you’ve come to the right place! Here at Primepac, we’re experts in workplace packaging – from [protective packaging products](https://www.primepac.co.nz/products/cartons-paper-protectives/) to [packaging tape](https://www.primepac.co.nz/products/adhesive-tapes-stapling/) and [sustainable supplies](https://www.primepac.co.nz/why-primepac/environment/), we have all of your packaging needs covered. And with same day dispatch and free delivery nationwide, our team can ensure that you get your supplies when you need them. Browse our complete product range in our free catalogue below! [![Download the Primepac catalogue ](https://hubspot-no-cache-ap1-prod.s3.amazonaws.com/cta/default/2361723/c9f03427-b481-4d51-8a34-d4eb0078fa7e.png)](https://hubspot-cta-redirect-ap1-prod.s3.amazonaws.com/cta/redirect/2361723/c9f03427-b481-4d51-8a34-d4eb0078fa7e) [packaging](https://info.primepac.co.nz/blog/topic/packaging) ### Other news - ![Takeaway eco-friendly coffee cups ](https://info.primepac.co.nz/hubfs/Untitled_Artwork.png) [The true cost of eco-friendly cafeteria consumables October 30 2024 Are you worried about the cost of sustainable catering? Or if it’s worth investing in eco-friendly...](https://info.primepac.co.nz/blog/cost-of-eco-cafeteria-consumables) - ![Sustainable toilet paper supplies](https://info.primepac.co.nz/hubfs/istockphoto-1216224645-1024x1024%202.jpg) [Is toilet paper an expense or office supply? 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