When it comes to custom packaging design, the stakes are high. Packaging is often the first physical touchpoint between your brand identity and your customers, making it a crucial element of your overall brand experience. A well-designed package protects your product, communicates your brand’s values, and distinguishes it from competitors. However, if executed poorly, custom packaging can undermine your efforts, presenting a sloppy image that could frustrate or mislead your customers. To ensure that your investment in product packaging design truly pays off, avoiding common design pitfalls that can diminish your brand’s impact is essential. In this guide, we’ll explore the top 7 mistakes to avoid in custom packaging design, helping you craft a package that reinforces your brand identity and enhances the customer experience.
❌ Top 7 Mistakes in Packaging Design
1️⃣ Typo Errors
Few things can create as much friction as noticeable spelling and grammar mistakes. These errors are among the top design pitfalls to avoid at all costs. When your graphic design contains typos, it can come across as unprofessional or careless, which is the last impression you want to make. We spend years learning the rules of spelling and grammar for a reason—clear communication is crucial for building trust. If a company can’t be bothered to get the basics right, why should customers trust them with their business? So, take the time to proofread your text carefully and then proofread it again. Your attention to detail speaks volumes about your brand.
2️⃣ Complicated Packaging
If customers find themselves struggling for minutes to open your product packaging, it’s a major flaw. It’s like buying scissors only to find you need another pair to open the package. Humans prefer simplicity, and yet, some packaging designs completely ignore this by being unnecessarily complicated. This frustration, known as “wrap rage,” can turn a positive experience into a negative one. Even if you’re not a marketing expert, it’s clear that making customers angry is not a recipe for repeat business. Ensuring that your custom packaging is easy to open is crucial for a positive user experience and customer satisfaction.
3️⃣ Avoid Frequent Packaging Design Changes
One common packaging mistake many companies make is frequently changing their packaging design. When customers are just beginning to recognize and connect with your brand through its packaging, abruptly altering it can lead to confusion. If your packaging changes too often, customers who are accustomed to the old design might struggle to find your product and could end up going elsewhere. Consistency in product packaging helps build brand recognition and loyalty, so it’s important to maintain a stable design once you’ve established it.
4️⃣ Stay Trendy and Distinctive
To stand out in a crowded marketplace, it’s crucial to keep your packaging design both modern and unique. If your product packaging looks outdated, it may come across as just another ordinary product, failing to capture the interest of potential customers. Incorporate current design trends to make your packaging visually appealing and engaging.
Equally important is ensuring your graphic design doesn’t blend in with the competition. If your design is too similar to others, it can easily be overlooked or confused with a competitor’s product. Consumers often make snap decisions and may not remember brand names—just “the blue one” or “the one with a lot of green.” To avoid this, your packaging should be distinct and memorable, ensuring it catches the eye and stands out on the shelf.
5️⃣ Misinterpretation and Wasteful Packaging
Misleading packaging and excessive materials are major pitfalls. Misrepresenting your product or using product packaging that makes it seem larger than it is can quickly erode trust and lead to legal trouble. Similarly, wasteful packaging practices not only harm the environment but also reflect poorly on your brand identity. Focus on honest, transparent packaging that serves a clear purpose and avoids unnecessary materials. Streamline your design to protect your product effectively while appealing to eco-conscious consumers.
According to a 2017 study by Cone Communications, 88% [of consumers] will be more loyal to a company that supports social or environmental issues. 87% would buy a product with a social and environmental benefit if given the opportunity. 92% will be more likely to trust a company that supports social or environmental issues.
6️⃣ Blank space
Experts recommend incorporating white space in your packaging design because it highlights key elements and prevents visual overload. A design cluttered with too many colors or excessive text can overwhelm customers, while overly simplistic packaging may seem generic. Striking a balance with clear, concise, and aesthetically pleasing design helps your product stand out. Strategically use white space to create contrast and ensure that crucial elements, like the product name, are prominent and easily recognizable.
7️⃣ Embrace Simplicity with the KISS Principle
The K.I.S.S. principle—”Keep It Simple, Stupid”—reminds us that simplicity often leads to success. Overcomplicating product packaging with excessive details can distract from your brand’s message and hinder the user experience. Custom boxes designing should be straightforward and intuitive, making the unboxing process smooth and easy. For shipping boxes, ensure they protect your product effectively while being easy to open. Simplifying your design reduces friction and enhances the overall purchase experience.
☑️ The Bottom Line
By now, you should have a clear understanding of how to avoid the top mistakes in custom packaging design. These errors often signal a lack of effort and attention to detail, which can tarnish your brand’s reputation and hinder growth. A business that appears inattentive or unprofessional is likely to struggle in achieving its full potential. To build trust and showcase your brand’s commitment to excellence, focus on creating well-designed packaging that reflects your dedication to quality and customer satisfaction. Thoughtful packaging design not only protects your product but also communicates professionalism and reinforces your brand identity. Ensure your packaging stands out for all the right reasons and provides a seamless experience for your customers.
