Wednesday, 17 December 2014

How do you Childproof Pharmaceutical Packaging

 A lot of times you don’t even think about this, but it can actually be a major problem. Some children can mistake the medicine that adults take for candy. 

This is important to be mindful of, and while you can remind parents to keep the medication out of the sight and reach of a child, many pharmaceutical companies are creating packaging that is childproof. This is something that’s innovated recently, and it comes with new solutions to childproof everything.

The major challenge that comes with this though, is the design process, as this is important since you don’t want packaging that’s easy for children to open, but you also want to make it easy for patients that are older.



Here are the best ways to prevent kids from opening these with child proof packaging.

A Screw Cap and Closure Tape 

This is another type of means to create a proper seal for kids. Screw caps are basically a cap that you have to screw on and push to open a certain way.  Many children can’t open these, so it’s easier.

These are used for e-cigarette boxes.  There are also sealing straps too, which you can use to seal the item and prevent tampering.  This is easy enough for an adult to remove, but also not something that kids can get too.

Paper Packaging that’s Tear resistant 

You also want to make sure that it’s easy to open up, but children can’t tear it.

Nowadays, there is now tear-resistant cellulose packaging that’s coated with a PET. 

The cool thing about this, is that it’s totally recyclable, and also is very sturdy in terms of packaging. It’s actually on the same level as plastic in terms of sturdiness, so it’s one that definitely can be good for this.

Activated pharmaceutical Packaging 

Finally, one that’s become super popular, is pharmaceutical packaging that’s activated.

Even when tablets get opened up, there is now a new way for you to prevent kids from taking the tablets out. 



There is now a mechanism that’s put on these boxes so that the tables can be pressed one each time.  The person needs to activate this system with both their hands in order to get the medicine out. One of the hands is used to slide the button that’s there over to the side. They also need to hold this in place. Your other hand needs to grab the tablet. Once you’re done, you let go of this, and the slide goes back to the position it was in initially.

This is a good one because most children don’t have the dexterity in order to make it simple for them to open up the packaging. They struggle, and this of course, can be a problem for them.  A parent will be able to see this and stop the kid before figuring it out.

Many companies have started to utilize these types of packaging because let’s face it, kids get interested, but they need to not get into medications, especially those that are unsafe for kids. 



If you’re someone who is going to be selling pharmaceuticals or anything that isn’t for kids, you need to make sure that the packaging is totally childproof to save their lives, and so that they can’t get into things that they don’t need to be getting in.

If your packaging is not, then take into account all of these different ways, and make sure that you get with a designer that’ll help you get the best childproof packaging possible, that you can use to prevent kids from getting into these things too.


Tuesday, 29 October 2013

New innovations in Biodegradable Packaging

Biodegradable packaging is one of the best eco-friendly alternatives to regular materials. With more consumer and regulatory forms of demand for these solutions, a lot of companies are jumping on this. Here, we’ll go over some of the different benefits that biodegradable packaging has been using, and why these are new solutions that are really reducing the plastic waste in landfills. 

Plant-Based Plastics 

This is a new one. Through the use of cellulose, you can now make plastics. Since they’re made of plants, they will break down, and will naturally interact with the soil, reducing its impact and also helping with improving the waste that’s there.

There are so many types of plant-based items that are used for this. One of the most common is algae, since it’s so abundant. It’s all over our bodies of water, and because of this, a lot of various packaging companies will use this, as it does interact well with the environment. 



Mushrooms 

A new type of packaging, mushrooms are now being used as packaging. Called mycelium packaging, the mushroom is broken down, and from there constructed into a plant-based packaging. Again, like the cellulose plastics, this breaks down in the landfill, reducing waste. 

Cornstarch 

Another sustainable type of plant, cornstarch is commonly used in packaging that is sustainable. It breaks down quickly, and also is very sustainable. There are plenty of growers out there that will use cornstarch in order to build the ideal plastic experience. 



Decomposition interactions and Rates 

There are some decomposition aspects that need to be considered. Some companies are looking at these rates, and how their biodegradable packaging as well interacts with various environments.   This can be good because a lot of packaging providers will see how these interact, and adjust their packaging as needed. It's good, because some break down faster than others, so knowing the difference can make or break your packaging. 

The benefits of It 

There are a few benefits that come with this. The first is that the right biodegradable packaging will break down faster. It will be in the ground much quicker than the other alternatives. Having this as well keeps the long-term waste out of the landfills.

The other reason is less microplastics. A lot of the sustainable plastics that are out there are good ideas, until of course, one looks at all of the microplastics that are there. knowing the difference, and seeing for yourself the differentiation of these plastics is really good, as it will help with ensuring that you’re able to keep a lot of those microplastics away, and create a more biodegradable future. 

The challenges of biodegradability

While this does make a lot of people happy, there are some challenges, the biggest one, is the costs of everything. it does end up costing a whole lot more than the alternatives. While it may attract more customers and save money, the overall overhead costs may be a whole lot.

The other issue is durability. Biodegradable packaging seems like a good idea, but for more fragile items, it’s not recommended, as they’re nowhere near as durable, and it can cause the item to be compromised. 



Then of course, there is also the shelf-life of these materials. Biodegradable packaging has only so long it can last, and if you end up using it for too long, it will break down on the shelf. Knowing the important factors in this is important.

Biodegradable packaging is a good type of packaging for the future, but there are a few hurdles to cross, so keep that in mind.


Friday, 9 August 2013

Smart Packaging for Pharmaceutical Products

Healthcare is changing, and more are curious about the different products that they get. Sometimes, they want more peace of mind, and want to have the product stay ahead of the different innovations and regulations. 

Smart packaging is patient-centric forms of packaging that are designed to meet the requirements of the industry, and improve overall adherence to the ideas that are there. 

Smart packaging is great for this, and here, we’ll go over some of the aspects of smart packaging that are being used. 

Types of Smart Packaging Ideas 

Smart packaging can be used for a variety of different means.

The first is supply chain security and optimization. This is creating products that stay cool when they need to be, and products that are warm as well. Some of the smart packaging that’s shown up utilizes temperature-controlled aspects, in order to help the person be able to foster a better, more rewarding experience, and one that will make many of the parties happier.

The second one is smart packaging that replaces plastic.   Secure locks, various containers that are easy to open, and tamper-evident blister packaging are also smart. Some of these can also have different RFID options on there, in order to prevent counterfeiting.

Finally, there’s smart packaging to improve the patient’s experience. A lot of people want their instructions, but don’t need some long and drawn out explanation of what they need to do with their product on some paper that will just be tossed later.   Smart packaging involves digital instructions. Through a QR code, various patients can scan and look at the information regarding the items they have, and also contact their provider if there are problems. 



Why Go Smart 

A lot of people are looking at smart packaging for their pharmaceuticals because it provides them with peace of mind.   Smart packaging protects over 75% of products from being tampered with and contaminated, improving the satisfaction.   Over 60% of customers also are able to feel better about their times, because smart packaging offers the premium experience. 

A third of customers are also focused on sustainability. Pharmaceuticals, while used, tend to still generate waste, and many customers want sustainable types of items. With smart packaging, they get that, and it improves the overall outlook that customers have on this. 

The challenges of going smart 

Some of the products that you can add smart packaging to can be a challenge to add on.

For instance, the sensors can be a bit of a problem for some providers. They cost a lot, and they might not fit the packaging, depending on the complexity. The same goes for digital health integration.

While it might be great to have dosage tracking and digital health reminders, it can be a challenge to fully implement it.   These two factors can be a bit of a problem for some people.



However, there are some ways to implement this early on. integrating QR codes for example and blister packaging for your items is a great place to start.   Another thing is switching out the smart packaging to more blistered forms of packaging. This in turn allows you to integrate and bolster the packaging examples, offering the best types of packaging that you can get.

Overall, pharmaceuticals can benefit from this, and here, we went over why you should get it. while there is still a lot to learn about this, we are seeing marked changes. Most of these companies are taking advantage of it, and you should too, for these unique packaging experiences offer a lot of fun ways to improve a patient’s health.


Tuesday, 25 September 2012

Foam Packaging for shipping

There are many types of foam packaging, all of which are used for shipping. The type that you choose ultimately depends on how fragile the products are, how they’re being transported, and the design of the product. 

Here are some of the foam packaging options for you to choose from, and what you’ll benefit from. 

The benefits of foam packaging 

Foam packaging is great for protecting items. It works well, and it’s very easy for you to get. 

Whether it’s small breakables or huge products, having this is a great addition. 

Some of the benefits include: 

  • It’s cheaper in the long haul 

  • Not abrasive 

  • Light in weight 

  • Made from low density polyethylene that recyclable 

  • It’s cleaner 

With that said, here are a couple of foam items for you to choose from. 

Anti-Static Pink Foam 

This is a pink foam that prevents the discharge of electricity from building up during the shipping process. 

It’s designed specifically to safely and slowly dissipate each of these charges. 



If you have a company that transports these electronics, you’ll want to invest in this. Anti-static foam is great for preventing these components from being further damaged due to the electrostatic discharge, and also prevents the impact during the shipping process. This ultimately saves you money later on. 

They’re great not just for protecting the circuit boards and other components, but they also protect those that handle this. There are a lot of people that’ll touch these items, and it can injure a person due to the static shock.  

Many times, you can also get pink foam that’s cut to any thickness and size that’s needed. 

Foam Pouches 

There are other types of custom foam options for you to have. One of them is a foam pouch, which is something that businesses can benefit from. 

It’s effective in terms of costs and comes in a variety of different options to suit your needs. 

For instance, independent sellers from easy to get foam bags in order to protect the jewelry that they sell. There are also other companies that might use larger foam pouches to transport glassware and other options. 



Some might ask if foam pouches or foam sheets are better. It ultimately depends on the items, and what you need, as it could be better for you to go one way or the other. 

Foam Sheets 

Foam sheets are another option. They’re sheets that you use to protect items that are fragile and can also be used in tandem with packing peanuts. 

They are good as well for those who want to protect items in layers.  One way to make sure that this works is to shake the box Chantilly. If the item rattles, you’ll have to add more to aptly protect it. 

Foam Tubing 

Foam tubing is another one that’s great for a lot of people who have items that are just plain weird to ship. Foam tubes are vital to protect different items during the shipping process from getting scratched. 

If you’re shipping items that are long and need protection like golf clubs and hockey sticks, you might want to use foam tubing.

Foam tubing is also great for shipping glass, scratch prone items, even steel and other heavy duty metals. 



There are a lot of great ways for you to use foam. If you’re stumped, contact us, and we’ll give you the best options possible. We might even recommend some customized foam packaging for your needs. Foam is great, and it can provide ample protection for your needs, so don’t write this off as it can help you in many ways.


Wednesday, 5 September 2012

Customized Jewelry Packaging

 For small businesses, especially in the business of jewelry, the type of packaging that’s there plays a role in the brand definition, and further customer attraction, providing some aesthetics, protection, and further effectiveness too. 

The right packaging will enhance your jewelry and the business. 

The Benefits of Customized Packaging for Jewelry 

There are a lot of benefits that come with jewelry packaging that’s customized. It does reinforce the identity of the brand, but also provides a means for you to differentiate different products you have from the others in your competition. 



Some ways include: 

  • A luxury or exclusivity that happens on the end of the end user 

  • The unboxing experience being unique and fun 

  • A higher chance of a repeat customer and business 

  • A better customer experience 

Materials to check out 

There are a lot of different materials that are used for the packaging of custom jewelry. 

There are a few things for you to consider. Some of the most common types that are used for these jewelry packaging options include chipboard, paperboard, metals, plastic, and even fabrics. 

Each of these comes with a variety of pros and cons to possibly focus on and keep in mind, especially when deciding the best materials for a product.

For instance, some paperboards are very light, easy to recycle, and are better for a more eco-friendly experience. Metals on the flip side tend to be more luxurious, eye-catching, and longer lasting. 

Here are a few ideas for you to consider.  You can make this minimalist, a little more whimsical, or even nice and ornate depending on the needs. 

Here, we’ll give you some inspiration for this packaging: 

  • A metallic foil, which is cardstock that’s made with accents of metallic foil, capturing the attention of others 

  • Embossing, which is great for intricate, better pieces that boost the textures, providing greater depth to these packaging 

  • Recycled cardboard, for eco-friendly, better options that provide a sustainability, making it elegant, and better on the environment 

  • Clear boxes: these are boxes that are clear and made of plastic. If you want to focus on the future of a product, rather than an ornate box, then you’ll definitely want to look into this 

  • Printed ribbons for boxes, which create a sophisticated and simple type of design for customized boxes 

Marketing for This 

There are a few ways to engage with the right marketing practices for jewelry packaging. 

It’s vital to show these off, boosting better market recognition and awareness of the brand. There are a few things that are implemented to create better, customized designs. 



You can use social media such as Facebook or Instagram, sharing photos of the design. This is good to provide a better way in which these aspects were made. There are also videos you can make too, which gives customers a full view of all sides of the jewelry, packaging, and the like, creating more intricate types of details. 

Finally, if you have the means, consider collaborating with bloggers, and influencers.  Give them the jewelry so that they can market this, reaching wider and better audiences for you to market your designs as well. 

Tiffany and Co is a good example of this. They work with influencers and have managed to get the audience that associates them with luxury. The turquoise boxes are a sign of luxury for a lot of people. 



Cartier is another, as they use a red box that has a gold trim adornment. 

It’s ultimately up to you, but this is a good place to start with packaging your jewelry uniquely.


Sunday, 22 July 2012

How Packaging Tells Stories Without Words

Sometimes, packaging is a better seller than the item itself. Some are able to craft a unique, emotional narrative with this, all without a single word being spoken.

Designing such narratives requires materials and form. Whether it’s the texture of the item and how it feels, the color of such items that sparks feelings and memories, or the weight of the item, whether light or heavy in the hand, and how dense it feels, all can convey various feelings.

Your packaging tells all, and it can tell so many amazing things. by designing the right narrative in your packaging and using amazing materials that help to facilitate that, you’ll be able to craft and build all that you need, without a word being spoken.



Packaging As Metaphors 

There are a lot of ways to look at packaging in a metaphorical sense.

Think of it like a flower, holding the real jewels inside. Many flowers have an outer part to them—the petals and stems and leaves, all which have certain textures and such. Inside are the seeds and the important parts of the flower, but the outer packaging that we see whenever we look at flowers, brings us closer to it, and that is why the outside of the packaging, the things customers see initially, are so important.

It is also like unveiling a treasure. Some people might be curious about what’s inside, but if your packaging doesn’t actually evoke feelings of wonder and excitement, people might not be interested. You don’t have to tell everyone, but just enough to build excitement for all involved.

Finally, lifting a curtain.   Packaging is what houses the true reveal, the real excitement. But, when you’re able to foster a better excitement overall, it creates a unique, exciting packaging, without a single word being spoken, or any indication of such.



Designing to Convey Ethos 

You want to design and put language on there to convey the ethos that you have.

Pushing sustainability with simple, ecofriendly materials is a great place to start. You’ll want to use kraft materials and other boxes, which will in turn improve the ecofriendly aspects of this.

Craftsmanship is another big part of it. Crafting the box with unique shapes and textures will help to show just how beautiful it truly is.

Another big thing is innovations. Branding innovations and new excitement and choices will help with improving the branding aspects of your packaging, and convey great success.

Sometimes, Less is More 

You might think you have to add so much for your packaging to stand out. But, what’s cool about this packaging, is you can go minimalist, and that will speak volumes.

Silence, space, and suggestions are all various tools, designed to money feelings with customers, and really make them shine. Being able to offer such is really good, and many brands are using simple boxes, with bold designs and lettering to stand out.

It also may use the white space, with a unique texture to it, to show the importance of such a packaging incentive and need.



When building your packaging, consider all of this. Your packaging tells a story, sometimes without needing to utter a word. If you as a brand are able to take this on, and build the ideal packaging that will stand out in its own way, it can create and foster a relationship with not only customers, but others intrigued by the brand as well.

Sometimes you don’t need to use words to tell the stories that you have, you just need to know how to make your packaging speak for you.


Friday, 23 December 2011

Shape-Memory Packaging for a Protective experience

 Did you know that certain packaging can adjust? A new type of shape-memory packaging is adjusting based on the size and shape of this product. It is really intriguing, and also allows for the shipment of multiple products with the same boxes and sizes. This can save a lot of money, and also provide some really optimized packaging.

It’s a great concept, as adjustable and size-based packaging that’s shaped around the product, rather than making a product fit a box, really improves and makes it even more effective than other types of shipping means.

Here, we’ll go over some of the shape-memory packaging for those protective elements, and how you can make this fit the packaging in marked, exciting ways. 



The process 

The process uses memory foam, or other materials that are easily adjustable.   This is where the item will fit inside a certain box with the material for the inside already put in there. Once snug, the packaging foam will shape to the item, perfectly-molding it and making it effective for everyone that’s involved.  It’s pretty cool, and ensures that the item stays in that state from the moment it leaves the fulfillment center or factory, all the way to the customer’s doorstep. 

The Use for This 

A lot of companies are using this. Those companies with certain box sizes that they can only get will benefit from this shape-memory packaging.

But it’s more than just that. irregularly-shaped items that won’t fit in a box otherwise benefit from this. Again, you can use the same box, put the item inside, and then the packaging morphs and blends into it, creating a safer, more effective means to get the packaging from the company all the way to the customer. 



Sculptures and figurines are an example of the items that are shaped like this. Another one is fragile items such as glassware, which needs that extra love and cushioning. Implementing it in a way so that it stays intact is great, as it will help to improve the overall experience, and make it easier to keep it all in one place. 

Benefits and Considerations 

The biggest benefit from this is that you’re giving the packaging the VIP  treatment it deserves by putting it in something that is optimized for the package itself. This reduces the use of filler, and optimizes the space in containers. Again, the item will fit neatly inside, and will get to where it needs to go safely.

The drawback is some of these items aren’t sustainable. Memory foam is strong, but you can’t really recycle it. resume yes, but not recycle. Consider the alternatives, and explore different means to create eco-friendly types of shapeshifting packaging that will fit your personalized needs.

The Future of This 

These days, there’s a lot of applications of this, but the future's looking to integrate this with smart technology.



One common area is temperature-responsible adjustments of items that are active. Shipping out something that needs a little bit of a temperature adjustment between the shipping and receipt? Well, you can do this now, and that’s what’s cool.   Adding proper temperature integration makes shape-memory possible, so adding this will not only vastly improve the packaging on all fronts, but also adds another aspect of smart technology.

Considering the way sensitive goods are shipped, this isn’t just a suggestion, it’s a necessity. Incorporating all of this takes the packaging to a whole different level, bridging the gap from it being just a simple packaged item to something really cool, and something with a lot of benefits to be had.


Packaging With Efficiency in Mind

Shipping and Handling is a major part of the supply network operating around the globe today. From large department store chains to individu...