Packaging inserts are additional components placed inside packaging to protect products, provide information, or enhance customer engagement. They include protective inserts like cardboard dividers and promotional inserts like thank-you cards. Paper-based inserts are popular for their sustainability and cost-effectiveness.
Packaging inserts might seem like a small detail, but they can make a big difference in how your products are received—literally and figuratively. Whether you’re focused on keeping costs down, chasing the latest design trends, or aiming for a sustainable edge, inserts offer a clever solution.
I’m Adam, your friendly packaging enthusiast with a decade of hands-on experience in the paper packaging world. I’ve seen it all—boxes that cradle luxury goods like a hug and little notes that turn a delivery into a delight. Today, I’m spilling the beans on packaging inserts. Whether you’re shipping fragile treasures or aiming to wow your customers, this guide’s got you covered. Let’s dive in!
What Are Packaging Inserts?
Picture this: you’re unboxing a shiny new gadget. You lift the lid, and there’s more than just the item—a snug cardboard piece holds it steady, or maybe a cheerful card says, “Thanks for choosing us!” Those extras? They’re packaging inserts. Simple, right?
At their core, packaging inserts are anything tucked inside your packaging beyond the main product. They’re usually made from paper or cardboard—think sturdy dividers or printed slips—and they’re there to do a job. Maybe it’s keeping your stuff safe during a bumpy ride from halfway across the world. Or perhaps it’s sharing a tip about your product or sneaking in a discount for next time. Whatever the task, inserts are like the unsung heroes of the unboxing experience.
Here’s the kicker: inserts have come a long way. Gone are the days of foam-stuffed boxes or crumpled paper fillers. Today, they’re smart, green, and even interactive. Picture a phone suspended in stretch film, floating mid-box, or a thank-you note that springs to life with augmented reality. It’s innovation that makes you wonder, “Why didn’t we think of this sooner?”
Stick around as we unpack the types, benefits, and pro tips for using inserts. By the end, you’ll see why they’re more than just packing material—they’re a game-changer for your business. Ready? Let’s get started!
Why Packaging Inserts Matter
Why do they matter? They stop your products from bouncing around, help your brand stand out, and can even turn a plain delivery into something special. Think of a small business shipping a candle: a cardboard insert keeps it steady, and a thank-you card adds a personal touch. It’s all about purpose with a little perks.
- Protection: They keep products intact, slashing damage and returns. That’s peace of mind during shipping chaos.
- Branding: Custom designs shout your identity. A sleek insert can make your brand unforgettable.
- Engagement: Thoughtful extras make customers feel valued. It’s like a handshake through the box.
- Sales Boost: Offers or samples nudge more purchases. A small insert can mean big revenue.
Want proof? Picture a small shop using plantable cradles—customers rave about the bonus flowers and tell everyone. Or a tech brand with AR notes that light up unboxing videos. Inserts are small steps with big wins.
Types of Packaging Inserts
Inserts fall into two main camps: protective and promotional. When crafted from paper, they blend practicality with pizzazz. Let’s break them down.
Protective Inserts
These are your product’s guardians—tough, reliable, and designed to ensure safe travels. Modern twists make them sustainable and stylish.
| Product | Function |
|---|---|
| Partitions | Separate items to prevent damage |
| Pads | Absorb shocks and cushion impacts |
| Cradles | Secure delicate or odd-shaped items |
| Fillers | Fill spaces to stop movement |
| Platforms | Elevate and protect products |
Partitions
Partitions act like walls in a crowded room, giving each item its own space to breathe. Typically made from corrugated cardboard—a material with a wavy inner layer that adds strength without bulk—they’re lightweight yet durable.
Their primary job? Preventing movement during transit, which reduces the risk of scratches, dents, or breaks. Think of shipping fragile items like wine bottles, glassware, or ceramic dishes; partitions keep them separated and secure.
What makes them stand out is their adaptability. They can be cut to fit any box size or product shape, making them a go-to for industries like home goods, hospitality, or even electronics with delicate components.
Some clever designs even double as organizers—unbox your new set of mugs, and the partition can later hold pens on your desk. It’s a practical, eco-friendly shift from the days of relying on wasteful foam or crumpled paper, offering protection that’s both effective and sustainable.
Why they rock:
- Adaptable: Cut them to fit any box or shape.
- Eco-friendly: A greener swap for foam or loose paper.
- Bonus use: Some turn into organizers—unpack your mugs, and the partition becomes a desk caddy.
Pads
Pads are the cushions of the packaging world, softening the blows of a bumpy ride. They come in various forms, from traditional foam to modern paper-based or biodegradable options like water-soluble materials.
Imagine unpacking a pair of headphones and then dissolving the pad in your sink—no landfill guilt, just clever design. These pads excel at absorbing shocks and vibrations, making them ideal for delicate items like electronics, cosmetics, or glassware.
Their appeal lies in versatility and cost-effectiveness. Paper pads, for instance, are cheaper than foam and pair beautifully with other inserts for layered protection. They’re a favorite among e-commerce brands shipping everything from tech gadgets to skincare, proving that simple materials can deliver big results. Plus, with eco-friendly options on the rise, they’re a win for both budgets and the planet.
Why they shine:
- Versatile: Cheap and pairable with other inserts.
- Green cred: Eco-options beat foam hands down.
- Impact: E-commerce loves them for gadgets and skincare.
Cradles
Cradles are the custom tailors of packaging—crafted to fit a product’s every curve and edge. Often made from molded pulp or sturdy paperboard, they lock in oddly shaped items like mugs, glass jars, or tech gadgets, ensuring zero wiggle room during shipping.
What’s exciting is their sustainable evolution. Foam cradles are being replaced by recyclable or even plantable alternatives—picture unboxing a candle and planting its cradle to grow wildflowers. It’s protection with a green twist.
Industries like skincare and tech love them for their precision. A cradle can hug a fragile bottle or smartphone, cutting breakage rates and shipping costs thanks to their lightweight nature. They’re an investment—slightly pricier upfront—but the payoff comes in happier customers and lower waste.
Beyond safety, cradles elevate the unboxing experience, presenting your product like it’s on display. That’s a detail that lingers in a customer’s mind.
Why they rule:
- Precision: Hug fragile items tight.
- Sustainable: Lightweight and low-waste.
- Wow factor: Elevates unboxing into a display moment.
Foam
Foam packaging refers to cushioning materials used to protect items during transportation and storage. These materials are designed to absorb shocks, vibrations, and impacts, ensuring the safety of packaged goods.
Below are the types of foam packaging, described in points, including Expanded Polystyrene, Polyethylene (PE), Polyurethane (PU), Crosslinked Polyethylene (XLPE), and Anti-Static Foam.
| Material | Properties | Advantages | Uses |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) | Lightweight, rigid, excellent shock absorption, good thermal insulation | Cost-effective, recyclable | Packaging fragile items, insulation in construction |
| Polyethylene (PE) | Flexible, resilient, good cushioning, moisture resistant | Available in various densities, easy to handle | Wrapping and cushioning in shipping, protective layers |
| Polyurethane (PU) | Wide range of densities and firmness, excellent cushioning and shock absorption, good thermal insulation | Can be molded into complex shapes, highly versatile | Padding in furniture and mattresses, protective packaging |
| Crosslinked Polyethylene (XLPE) | Enhanced impact strength, improved temperature resistance, better dimensional stability, good chemical resistance | Enhanced durability | Packaging for heavy or sharp-edged items |
| Anti-Static Foam | Dissipates static electricity, effective cushioning | Protects sensitive electronics from static discharge | Packaging for circuit boards, electronic devices |
Expanded Polystyrene (EPS)
Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) is a lightweight, rigid foam, commonly known as Styrofoam, created by expanding and fusing polystyrene beads. It is widely used for its ability to cushion fragile items and provide thermal insulation.
Polyethylene (PE)
Polyethylene (PE) is a flexible and resilient foam made from a common plastic, offering excellent cushioning and moisture resistance. It is ideal for wrapping and protecting a wide range of products during shipping.
Polyurethane (PU)
Polyurethane (PU) is a versatile foam that can be produced in various densities and firmness levels, making it ideal for cushioning and shock absorption. It is commonly used in both packaging and everyday products like furniture.
Crosslinked Polyethylene (XLPE)
Crosslinked Polyethylene (XLPE) is a stronger, more durable version of PE, created by linking polymer chains for improved impact strength and temperature resistance. It is used when extra protection is needed for heavy or sharp items.
Anti-Static Foam
Anti-Static Foam is a specialized foam, often made from PE or PU, that includes additives to prevent static electricity buildup. It is essential for protecting sensitive electronic components from static discharge during shipping and storage.
Void Fillers
Fillers are the gap-closers, banishing rattles and keeping items snug. Once dominated by plastic peanuts, they’ve shifted to smarter options like stretch film or air pillows, which use less material while suspending products securely. Picture a phone floating in its box, untouched by the sides—fillers make that happen. E-commerce brands shipping toys, tools, or apparel rely on them for their simplicity and effectiveness.
Today’s fillers do more than just fill space. Some are compostable, others sport custom prints of your logo, turning a necessity into a branding tool. They’ve moved from wasteful to innovative, reducing both environmental impact and shipping weight. It’s a small tweak with a big impact, proving that even the basics can impress.
Why they’re cool:
- Innovative: Compostable or printable options.
- Efficient: Less weight, lower shipping costs.
- Branding: Add logos for a subtle flex.
| Material | Properties | Advantages | Uses |
|---|---|---|---|
| Air Pillows | Lightweight, inflatable, good cushioning, reusable | Cost-effective, easy to store, reduces shipping weight | Filling voids in boxes, cushioning fragile items |
| Packing Peanuts | Lightweight, good cushioning, available in biodegradable options | Inexpensive, versatile, can be reused | Filling voids in boxes, protecting fragile items |
| Bubble Wrap | Excellent cushioning, versatile, recyclable | Widely available, easy to use, effective protection | Wrapping items, filling voids, protecting surfaces |
| Honeycomb Paper | Strong, lightweight, eco-friendly, good cushioning | Sustainable, versatile, can be used for wrapping | Wrapping items, filling voids, protecting surfaces |
| Shredded Paper | Recyclable, lightweight, good for small voids | Inexpensive, eco-friendly, easy to use | Filling small voids, gift packaging, protecting items |
Air Pillows
Air pillows are small, inflatable plastic bags filled with air, designed to cushion and protect items during shipping by filling empty spaces in packaging. They are lightweight and ideal for preventing items from shifting inside boxes.
Packing Peanuts
Packing peanuts are lightweight, foam pieces used to fill voids in boxes, providing cushioning for fragile items. They are available in styrofoam or biodegradable options, offering flexibility based on environmental needs.
Bubble Wrap
Bubble wrap is a plastic sheet with air-filled bubbles that offer excellent cushioning. It can be wrapped around items or used to fill empty spaces, making it a versatile choice for protecting delicate goods.
Honeycomb Paper
Honeycomb paper features a hexagonal structure that provides strength and cushioning. It’s often used to wrap items or fill voids in boxes, serving as a sustainable alternative to plastic fillers.
Shredded Paper
Shredded paper consists of thin strips of paper used to fill empty spaces in packaging, offering a simple and recyclable cushioning solution. It’s commonly used in gift boxes or for lightweight items.
Platforms
Platforms lift your product into the spotlight, blending protection with presentation. Made from cardstock or corrugated board, they’re sturdy enough to hold items steady while adding a touch of drama. Unbox a watch or necklace, and a platform might reveal a hidden gift or code underneath—suddenly, it’s a treasure hunt. They’re all about making an impression.
Jewelry and cosmetics brands use platforms to turn boxes into mini showcases, enhancing perceived value. They’ve grown from simple risers to multi-purpose designs, sometimes holding accessories or instructions below. It’s a clever way to protect while dazzling, proving that packaging can be both functional and fun.
Why they dazzle:
- Dual-purpose: Protect and present.
- Value boost: Jewelry and cosmetics glow on them.
- Surprise: Hide perks underneath.
Promotional Inserts
Promotional inserts turn packaging into a branding playground. These paper-based gems engage customers, spark loyalty, and tell your story with flair.
| Product | Function |
|---|---|
| Thank-You Notes | Build loyalty with gratitude |
| Coupons | Encourage repeat purchases with discounts |
| Product Guides | Offer usage tips or instructions |
| Samples | Introduce new products |
| Stickers | Boost brand engagement |
Thank-You Notes
Thank-you notes are like a warm handshake on paper, saying, “Thanks for choosing us.” They’ve evolved beyond simple gratitude—some now feature AR codes that play a video when scanned, while others are handwritten for a personal touch in a digital age. It’s a small gesture that builds an emotional connection, turning a purchase into a relationship.
Imagine ordering a handmade soap and finding a note from the artisan—it’s no longer just a product; it’s a story. Small businesses use them to stand out, while bigger brands tap into their low-cost, high-impact potential.
Studies show personalized notes boost customer retention, making them a secret weapon for loyalty that’s as affordable as it is unforgettable.
Coupons
Coupons are the bait that brings customers back. Modern twists include glow-in-the-dark designs or trackable codes that reveal buying habits. They’re not just discounts—they’re invitations to return with a playful edge. Retail and beauty brands see sales jump when coupons hit the mark.
Creative design is key—think scratch-offs or limited-time offers that spark excitement. Pair that with data tracking, and you’ve got a tool to refine your strategy while keeping wallets happy. It’s a balance of value and profit, proving that a slip of paper can pack a punch.
Product Guides
Product guides transform confusion into confidence. A QR code linking to a 3D model can guide someone through assembling a lamp, making help feel interactive. Furniture and tech companies rely on them to simplify complex products, ensuring customers get the most out of their purchase.
The best guides are clear and visual—think diagrams or multilingual text for global appeal. They’re more than instructions; they’re part of the brand experience, bridging gaps and building trust. For intricate items, they’re a game-changer.
Samples
Samples are tiny teasers of what’s next. Wrapped in compostable film, they might invite you to try a lotion and then plant the wrapper—delight with a purpose. Skincare and food brands use them to hook customers, offering a taste that leads to a sale.
The trick is balance—small enough to keep costs low, bold enough to spark interest. It’s a strategic way to cross-sell or upsell, and when done sustainably, it doubles as a feel-good moment. Smart sampling turns curiosity into conversions.
Stickers
Stickers are your brand’s mini ambassadors. Scannable ones might unlock games or perks, making them worth keeping. Apparel and lifestyle brands use them to spread joy, one peel at a time.
They’re versatile—think branding, product info, or even authentication seals. Collectible sets or interactive designs turn them into keepsakes, extending your reach beyond the box. It’s sticky, clever branding that customers love to share.
Using Inserts Like a Pro
Packaging inserts can transform your customer experience. Whether you’re shipping fragile items or aiming to keep buyers coming back, inserts do the heavy lifting. The trick? Know your goal and make every piece count.
1. Define Your Purpose
Start by asking: protection or loyalty? For delicate items like glassware, a sturdy insert prevents damage. For loyalty, think marketing—a coupon or note can spark repeat buys. Clarity here shapes everything else.
2. Add Real Value
Inserts aren’t space-fillers. They should delight or serve. A coupon offers a discount; a thank-you note builds goodwill. Skip the fluff—focus on what benefits your customer.
3. Choose Material Smartly
Paper shines for inserts. It’s eco-friendly—66% of consumers prefer sustainable options, per NielsenIQ—and versatile. Lightweight and recyclable, it cuts shipping costs and meets regulations like EPA guidelines.
4. Get Inspired by Examples
Picture a jewelry box. A soft insert1 protects the necklace, while a 10% off coupon tucked beside it nudges the customer back. It’s practical and clever—protection meets promotion.
5. Keep It Simple and Effective
Don’t overcomplicate it. Focus on purpose, value, and smart materials. A well-crafted insert enhances unboxing, making your brand memorable without extra fuss.
Wrap-Up: Your Insert Adventure Awaits
Packaging inserts pack a punch—safeguarding goods, boosting brands, and sparking joy. They’re affordable, green, and begging for your spin. Ready to level up your packaging? Explore custom inserts and unleash the magic.
