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Story by
bethela,
marymary
Published on June 12, 2008 in How-To |
Photo by PickalaPoopa |
Dear Sellers,
Did you ever think that packaging or the way you ship your product says something about you, your product and your business?
Packaging and shipping services are some of the best opportunities you have to communicate with your customers and remind them why they should be shopping with you instead of somewhere else. Offering outstanding packaging and shipping services can promote repeat business for your shop. We've scoured the Etsy forums, Etsy flickr groups, and hunted down advice from some of the most experienced and successful Etsy sellers for the best advice, tips, and tricks about packaging and shipping.
What is your packaging saying about you and your business?
Taking a few extra steps to make sure your product is packaged and shipped with care might make the difference in your customers coming back to shop with you again and telling all their friends and family to shop with you too.
- A well thought out, protected, and nicely presented package that arrives on time or sooner will likely make your customer feel confident that you are a professional business owner that cares about the products you sell and your customers.
- A sloppy, unwrapped package that arrives later than the customer expected may indicate to the customer that you don't really care about your products and your business might be disorganized. While your products might speak for themselves, it could deter that person from coming back to your shop again.
Etsy testimonial from heartworksbylori: "I did receive a package a while back that I was really disappointed in. It was in a plastic sealed bag and my items weren't wrapped, just thrown in there....no receipt, no thank you note, no business card, no nothing! To me, that reeks of indifference...and makes me feel like my money and business aren't important to them. Packaging is so important to me because the customer gets an overall feel for my business and my ethics by the way my jewelry is presented. I'm thankful for each order and I make it a point to wrap up each order as if they bought something from the most expensive jewelry store in the world! I even go to these great lengths when someone buys a $5 chain....just so they feel special when opening it :)"
- Use your packaging to communicate with your customer. The little details count and can make your shop stand out and create an experience to be remembered.
- Put yourself in the buyer's shoes. Take a look at your shop and ask yourself "what type of package would I expect/hope to receive in the mail after ordering from this online business?"
Etsy testimonial from catnapcottage: "I have gotten items that made me feel like it was my birthday when I opened it, smiles and happy. I want my customers to feel that way too and that is what I try to do with my packaging. It is simple, neat, and looks professional. Presentation is everything!"
Packaging and shipping tips and tricks
To make sure you give your customers that "wow factor" that will have them coming back again and again, we've put together some tips and tricks you can adopt as your own practices.
- Tips for top notch packaging on a budget: Your customers on Etsy are shopping for something that is handmade and a little more special than your average mass-produced products. Making your packaging by hand will not only save you money, but add to that handmade unique feel of your product and business. You can get creative and make almost everything from your own wrapping paper, tissue paper, shavings, confetti, labels, business cards to your very own handmade envelopes to ship out your items (here's a download PDF file with a template). Take advantage of all the different kinds of papers out there: magazine or book pages, menus, sheet music, pattern paper, newspapers, paper from an old sketchbook, etc. Another idea is to turn your used boxes inside out and stamp or use decorative writing to say you use recycled packaging; you could even use materials that they can use again. Check out our videos about branding and making your own packaging, branding and making your own shipping supplies, as well as the little details that go into your packaging.
Etsy testimonials from embellishedlife: "Packaging can cost little next to nothing. I pick up wrapping papers, ribbons and tissue papers at drug stores, Target after the holidays, clearance bins, craft stores. It is always on sale, you'd be surprised. The $1 stores are also great for little knickknacks that can serve as embellishments to the package. We are all crafty and I like that it shows in our packaging!"
PamperingBeki: "Packaging should reflect the feel of the shop. It should feel like a treat for the buyer to open their package! That doesn't mean there has to be lots of wasted papers and materials, but if you get creative the presentation can be fabulous while still using recycled materials."
- Personal Notes: Mailing a package is the perfect opportunity to include a personal note. Take the time to write or print out a note even if it's a quick and short thank you. This would be the perfect time to ask them to leave you feedback. You can also tell them any additional information about the item, such as care instructions. Including a note is another chance to get creative with details, so think about how well it fits with the overall look of your package.
Etsy testimonial from Crafterall: "I bought an item from an Etsy shop and opening it was like opening a gift. From inside a big bubble envelope, I pulled a bundle wrapped in tissue paper. It was tied with a ribbon and had a tag with my name on it. Instantly, my purchase felt much more like a gift. Inside was the item, nicely folded, a small gift in line with what the store sells, a business card, and a handwritten thank-you note."
- Freebies: A "freebie" is a small item that you include with a package at no additional cost. Freebies aren't something that is required to make your packaging outstanding, but they sure can help your buyer get excited about their shipment and remember their overall experience shopping with you. Think about including freebies with your packages like a promo button, a mini sample of something else you sell, a coupon or two that encourages them to come shopping with you again (or get their friends to check you out), or something small and useful that they can use again.
- Other tips: A great way to show off your unique packaging is by using the 5th item photo of your listing so your customer can know what to expect. You should be including info about your regular shipping days in your shop policies and item description sections of your shop, so shoppers will know exactly when they can expect their packages. Try to make packaging details that are truly unique to you, your products, and your business. For some really great inspiration, check out all the photos in this Etsy Packaging Flickr pool that several of your Etsy peers have contributed to. We also made this video about shipping.
Etsy testimonial from toothfairyminiature: "As a seller I often do double box packing together with bubble wrapping, to make sure the package will not be crushed or damaged during its international shipping adventure. I put my first consideration on the safety and then, on the beauty."
We are looking forward to your feedback and questions. Etsians know the power of sharing best practices, so we want to hear from you. Please share your own tips and advice for providing outstanding packaging as an Etsy seller in the comments section below.
More about Service Tips for Sellers Series: Running an online business has many perks, like the ability to remain somewhat anonymous behind a computer screen (maybe even in your 'jammies). But that computer screen does not preclude interaction with customers. Rather, good online customer service may be even more important: it gives buyers the peace of mind that they are buying from a trustworthy and reputable seller. Being an online entrepreneur offers the opportunity to provide excellent communication, create a friendly face for your shop, and promote repeat business, all while remaining behind the curtain.
| Tags | advice, business, communication, customer service, customer support, HOW-TO, packaging, Seller Handbook, selling, Service Tips for Sellers, shipping, tips |
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72 comments Login to add your own!
SimonandRuby
This is so true. I pay such special attention to how things are packaged when I am out and about. Thank you for reminding me what we want our customers to see and feel!
pouch
I really enjoyed this article and has given me lots to think about. I always wrap my items in tissue paper, tie with recycled wool and include a moo card or business card.
The one thing is, I use recycled bubble mailers because I think it is wasteful to buy new mailers all the time when so many pre-used ones have life left in them. But I sometimes worry that I should be using new ones. I never use anything that looks really tatty and I do state in my policies that I use recycled packaging.
I think alot of people support recycling now and can see that I am trying not to be wasteful!!
BlackStarBeads
Great article.
My packaging changes according to what I have in the house or what I find while I'm out treasure hunting.
Right now, since it's gardening season and I'm a gardener, my bead bags are wrapped in pages from garden catalogs.
I make all my thank you notes from black paper, written in silver ink and punched with my trademark ~ a star. Those are popped into padded mailers that are further protected with a piece or two from the same catalogs.
CarolinaCottage
Great info. I try to do all the above and love it when others do the same with the packages I receive.
MyKangaroo
WOW!! What a surprise to see my crayon popsicles here. I am so pleased because these started out as a simple order but I worked together with a fantastic buyer to create these fun party favors. Improving the packaging made a big difference. We were both happy with how they came out.
SkyBox
simply awesome. i really love you guys. i hadn't even really thought about this and you are SO right about presentation and packaging. thanks again for all the info.
bethela
Thanks everyone for your kind words. If you have any other tips on packaging we would love to see them. Happy packaging!
NestaHome
I LOVE this article!!! I think it is sooooo important to package your items well :) (and thanks for including my photo from flickr)
yaelfran
Just adore packaging... and I also, several times, buy something JUST for the packaging!!!!
Thanks for including here one of my items with its packaging!
dahliasoleil
I have absolutely loved some of the awesome packaged items I've received from my Etsy purchases but to be honest it goes to the garbage. And I've given this some serious thought as a business and cannot afford to invest in extra packaging. But Etsyers definitely deserve an award for their packaging cause some sellers do an awesome job of it.
soap
i've received some of my etsy purchases in some of the nicest packaging. i try to do the same and it's fun to use the computer to design papers, etc. :)
loveoneworldzero
I also want to mention that when packaging an order it is also a great time to send out promos from other shops. Through blogs and other social networking sites I have developed great relationships with other Etsy sellers and we decided to send a sample from each others shops that we could send out to our customers with every order. Now when you purchase from loveoneworldzero you also get a taste of presentsforpirates! Cross promotion kicks butt!! It makes for a great package to send out, it is like sending a gift and it is so much fun to put it together.
tamdoll
Like Pouch said, I recycle envelopes, too - and to let everyone know that I'm recycling, I got a "I use recycled packaging" stamp from terbearco here on etsy.
CricketsCreations
Here are lots of tips & a photo example of how I might get a scarf ready for shipping (my customers ra-a-ave in my feedback):
http://www.flickr.com/photos/crickets...
Best,
Celeste (Crickets)
birdsofafeather
so true! i bought a couple of things on etsy where the seller(s) clearly didn't put any thought into packaging/shipping. a good business person understands how important the whole experience is for their customer; from ordering to receiving the goods. great tips!
yaelfran
Here's an example of my personal process of designing packaging
1. http://www.flickr.com/photos/yalu/254...
babypeasandcarrots
Love the tips! I know I get super excited when I receive something creatively wrapped!
tonimariedesigns
kimonocards
great piece of advice! I always put at least two of my business cards in the package, and stamp my logo on the thank you note. Here is how a gift wrapped package look.
Hatdiva
Of massive importance! I love getting colorful little packages from Etsy! My first sale (buttons)went out today swaddled in reused bubble wrap, and some pretty tissue. I added a nice thank you contact card (designed by riosoodesigns). I wrote a personal note on it. I packed the packet of buttons in a nicely folded shoe box that was turned inside out. It looked pretty, and I fussed to make it so.
heartworksbylori
Fabulous article, as always!
Thanks for featuring my testimonial here as I hope it enlightens some sellers to be thoughtful about their packaging. Since Etsy is a community, I love to take the more personal approach to my packaging with handwritten thank you notes, handmade wrapping paper and other bells and whistles that will make the recipient head over heels in love with their purchase! I'm a full-service seller, in the business of serving and making people's day :)
FrucciDesign
bobetsy
i just love the idea of adding a tag with the person's name on it. what a simple way to make the purchase feel like a special treat (which of course, it is!). thank you for sharing!
creationsbyeve
jellibat
please be aware when sending items overseas its best not to wrap them.
I've recieved packages that the seller obviously wrapped up carefully, only to have customs rip them open and shove back in the package.
(thats fair enough, they are doing their job, they aren't gift wrappers ;)
but because of that I've always sent my items in a clear ziploc bag when sending OS, so its easy for customs to open and check, and also means the customers items arrive in the same condition as I sent them, plus they survive all possible weather conditions while travelling.
though I'd hate to think its seen as anything other than practicality, rather than indifference to the customer.
i do like to include a card with a thankyou, and perhaps a sticker or badge as an added touch.
SacredStash
What a fabulous article! I'm a sucker for good packaging - so much so that I sell the stuff:) I love seeing all the different ways that our wonderfully creative Etsy sellers put things together. I sell 99% of my things overseas and my products run close to the maximum weight for the postage price so that even a business card could tip it over and double the postage :( Instead I package all my cello bags in a larger cello bag and write a personal message on the bag. Weighs nothing, costs nothing (for me or the buyer in extra postage) but hopefully adds a personal touch :)
silvershadow69
I guess I am a little confused. I like the idea of etsy because it is handmade and the money goes to the maker. whilst I like packaging aren't we going crazy? Everybody talks about environmentally friendly/recycled stuff and then the talk about how important packaging is -not to mention expensive.
Get over it. Buy the item not the psuedo shop look/packaging and get out of your Prius and walk.
flowersbyfarha
Hadn't thought about using the 5th photo for a "here's how it's packed"--great idea.
Especially since it is hard for folks to understand why my shipping seems so high relative to the cost...my "babies" take extra packaging to arrive, safely.
Piggy
I really enjoyed this article. It made me reflect on my own packaging as well as brainstorm for innovative ways to improve my packaging.
The tips and advice given in this article are very valuable and it puts us thinking in the shoes of the buyer how they would enjoy receiving their purchases like gifts.
Great job to everyone who contributed on this article! :) Can't wait for the next article! :)
aromaticbodyoils
This is a wonderful article! I am running out now to find things to add more color to my packaging!
serendipity2wenty2
Absolutely lovely read this article is, and I cannot agree more to pretty packaging. That's the beauty of this Etsy community isn't it..all things handmade and crafty. I take extra care to ensure items arrive safe during over international shipments. And nothing beats opening up a special box with your name on it :)
SleepingCat
I'm agree, pretty packaging add a "je ne sais quoi" that make the difference. I try to customize every single purchase with little handmade thanks-card, original wrapping and a label usable like a bookmark. I love cuddle my buyer almost than I love be cuddle by the sellers :)
iysta
My favorite (so far) is the packaging of Mark Kaplan (markaplan) - He is so interesting - I spend hours in his shop reading his jewelry descriptions, places he's been, where he is going... it all comes across in everything he does - I love the handwritten note he includes embellished with gold foil. The last package he sent me included a "fortune telling fish" and a mustache among other items! He has included foreign currency and even decorated the outside of the packaging with crazy themed stamps. Even though I am a silversmith and I could make the items I buy from him for myself I choose to buy from him and promote his shop because he is an awesome silversmith and human being and his attention to detail is not limited to his jewelry. Everything this article advises - he does!
TheGreenZebra
Hi Jellibat,
Thanks for your tip on packaging items in ziplock bags for international shipment. Customs inspection was something I hadn't considered.
1337art
I appreciate the article. I'm getting ready for a farmers market this Sunday (and every Sunday) for the summer, and I can't wait to get the packaging all ready to go.
I love receiving specially wrapped items.
RoMoHoCreations
as someone seriously thinking about becoming a seller on etsy this article was extremely eye-opening to the importance and fun of going the extra step in packaging your items. Thanks for the great article!
WonderfilledCreation
I actually get excited at the super fun ways I have packaged my items. I get a huge giggle knowing how thought out and whimsical the packaging is..and that gives me a special feeling too. I am thrilled when I know my package is going to make someone smile and be surprised. It makes me feel good!
Blueshine
Capree
designerpi
sinikkadesign
I am just in the preliminary stages of starting up my store, and I am so glad I found this article to inspire my packaging! thanks for the great ideas.
harandaa
Thankyou for sharing your wisdom - I want to start selling, and am now inspired to do the packaging properly and enjoy it. Brilliant.
4TheSparrowsNest
I firmly believe in the "experience" of shopping and presenting yourself through packaging. My husband is funny; he's like, "why do you have to bother with the extra details? Just make sure it's secure and safe and mail it in the cheapest stuff you can. " He's so practical about those things, but it's those extra details that are so important---it's why people are shopping here, and not at Wal-Mart for these kinds of things!
Vanessa
If you're having trouble with the PDF, make sure you have Adobe Acrobat or Preview or some other pdf reader application installed.
warmhart
WOW this really made me stop to think...how can I creativly package my product AND ship it without sacrifice of product quality. This can be a challenge with fragile and parishible products.
risingphoenixtoys
Creating packaging is so much more fun then shoving it in a box. I actually had a bunch of paper lying around that I had no use for. Putting my blocks into a paper box with paper between each block also help protect the paint during shipping.
floresdelsol
ahhhh... packing ceramics with arrangements in them is a little daunting but thanks for the great advice!
FleurRendell
I usually throw in a freebie with my prints but hadn't put much thought into packaging apart from protecting the work...the next parcel will be decorated! Thank you for the tips
mpaperarts
It makes a HUGE difference! I've had tons of compliments on my decorated and ribboned pillow boxes. Good to see so many are caring about presentation!
ReneeRobbins
I attach a business card to the back of all of my paintings. I think it really helps to embellish the back of the work but can also remind the customer of my website and contact info. Packaging is VERY important and I love the ideas you shared! I think it makes a difference to include a thank you note or a coupon for 10% off the next order. Sometimes I like to send thank you emails in addition to a note.
PrincessAllure
I TOTALLy agree! Packaging is sooo important. In the 'real world' I have always wrapped my gifts to others in an interesting way, I just love doing it! I always make sure to wrap or gift box each purchase nicely, I too have bought things not wrapped nicely and was a little disappointed. I once got something wrapped in a tissue, it was of course clean but still made me go eeeewwwww.
OrganicElements
These are some great suggestions and make me happy that I practice most of them already! But there is always room for improvement. Thank you for the wonderful ideas and links.
bijougirldesigns
RomanceCatsAndWhimsy
I've been looking for ideas on how to step it up a notch and make customers feel like they are opening a present. I know how I feel with a beautiful presentation. Thank you for the tips -- it's been so helpful along with everyone's comments. This was a GREAT topic! :) Thank you.
bazketmakr
18ontheAlley
i always try to pay special attention to my packaging...esp in my "thank you for ordering" card....so important! :D
esmeraldadesigns
Great article!!! I am an eco-metalsmith and write in the description that all my packaging materials are reclaimed as well and use the fifth image almost all the time to show how the item is packaged http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?...
CastleBeadBiz
Love the creative ideas from this article! They will certainly end the transaction on a positive note and keep the customers coming back!
RedLetterStudio
fragiacomoglassart
vintageleaf
These are some fantastic tips! I love all of the different prints used in each person's packaging style. So inspiring!
maddielulu
One of my favorite things to do when giving a gift is to find a way to wrap it with whatever I have on hand! This article has inspired me to take what I love doing and incorporate it into my business. Thank you so much for the inspiration and insight!
unemployeddesigner
I've always felt that the best part of gift-giving and receiving is the wrapping! It can turn the most simple of gifts/packages into the most special experience!
gramkinpaperstudio
I agree, packaging is always important. That's why I always package my things as "Gift Ready" so if they were to ship directly to someone, it looks like a gift. And good packaging, (especially for smaller items) is not that expensive. If all else fails brown kraft paper and twine looks good
AntiGenre
I agree that packaging is important and try to pack up my orders nicely, but I don't really care if sellers don't go over the top with fancy wrapping or freebies and hope that they don't feel pressured to do so. As long as my purchases are shipped in clean, protective packaging, I'm happy.
TurnitoverTreasures
Great article! I always send a "Clippie" and a note with the purchased items. I want to make my buyers feel special because I appreciate their interest in my crafts. Love the idea of plastic bags and writing a note on the bag for international shipping!
soph80
I feel like the 5th photo rule can occasionally have a negative impact. Maybe it's just me, but I feel that when a seller shows off the extensive packaging that goes into a product, I wonder how much of the price I'm paying includes these nonessentials.
However, if I don't know about the magical freebies and pretty packaging that is coming... that's an entirely different story. I'm past the phase where I've already pressed the PayPal button; I've already committed. Then it becomes a pleasant surprise.........
ancientfragments
debs1967
Previous Page
This is full of great tips and advices! I feel like going home and start crafting on my packages!
Thank you!