The art of making customers choose your brand over every other option lies in how creatively you design and customize your packaging. But even the most well-intentioned approach can fail when brands make avoidable mistakes in their custom packaging.

In today’s competitive marketplace, packaging plays a decisive role in driving purchases. With so many products to choose from, customers often decide based on visual appeal, perceived quality, and the ease of their shopping experience.

This article explores the most common packaging mistakes—and how to avoid them—so your brand can stand out and win customer loyalty. But first, let’s look at some revealing industry statistics.

Packaging Statistics for 2025

·81% of consumers say they have tried a new product simply because its packaging caught their eye.

·72% believe packaging design influences their purchasing decisions.

·63% would buy a product again if they found the packaging visually appealing.

·63–67% of U.S. shoppers think products in paper or cardboard packaging look more premium, and 52% have switched brands because of packaging differences.

·52% of online shoppers are more likely to reorder from retailers that use high-quality packaging.

·82% of consumers—especially 90% of Gen Z—are willing to pay more for sustainable packaging.

Packaging color, material quality, cultural appeal, and even opening mechanisms can all influence buying behavior.

(Source: Business Dasher)

These numbers make one thing clear: packaging is a powerful driver for both small businesses and established brands. Now, let’s break down the top mistakes brands should avoid.

1. Poor Design and Branding

When customers scan store shelves, packaging is the first thing they notice. If your design looks outdated or generic, it may go unnoticed—even if your product quality is exceptional.

Solution: Invest in professional packaging design. Work with experienced packaging companies to create bold graphics, cohesive brand elements, memorable slogans, and accurate product details that align with your identity.

2. Overusing Packaging Materials

Using excessive packaging wastes resources, increases costs, and can frustrate eco-conscious consumers.

Solution: Ensure your packaging offers optimal protection without unnecessary bulk. If unsure, consult packaging experts to optimize materials for efficiency and sustainability.

3. Inadequate Product Protection

If packaging fails to shield products from air, moisture, heat, or impact, you risk product damage and customer dissatisfaction—especially for fragile or precision-made items.

Solution: Always test samples before bulk orders to confirm durability and cushioning performance.

4. Incorrect Size, Shape, or Dimensions

A mismatch between product and packaging can waste space, increase costs, and harm the unboxing experience.

Solution: Measure carefully and use custom-fit designs tailored to your product’s dimensions.

5. Unclear Text and Product Information

Unreadable fonts, poor color contrast, or vague product descriptions can cause customers to overlook your product entirely.

Solution: Choose legible fonts, maintain good contrast, and keep information honest, concise, and relevant.

6. Ignoring Sustainability

Today’s consumers are increasingly concerned about environmental impact. Using harmful or non-recyclable materials can cost you market share.

Solution: Opt for recyclable and eco-friendly materials like kraft paper, corrugated cardboard, or rigid paperboard.

7. Non-Compliance with Regulations

Failing to meet packaging standards or legal requirements can result in fines or legal issues.

Solution: Stay updated on packaging laws and audit your materials quarterly to ensure compliance.

8. Overcomplicated Unboxing Experience

Packaging that’s difficult to open frustrates customers and can deter repeat purchases.

Solution: Use designs like rigid boxes with sleeves, foldable closures, or top-flap openings for a smooth unboxing experience.

9. Misuse of White Space

Too much clutter can overwhelm customers, while excessive minimalism can make packaging feel empty.

Solution: Use white space strategically to highlight your logo, product name, and key information, creating a clean, premium look.

10. Choosing the Wrong Packaging Material

Using materials that don’t suit your product’s lifecycle or distribution process can compromise both safety and presentation.

Solution: Select materials that match your product’s transport needs, shelf placement, and storage conditions.

Final Thoughts

Avoiding these common packaging mistakes can significantly boost your brand’s shelf appeal, improve customer satisfaction, and strengthen loyalty. The right packaging does more than protect—it communicates your values, enhances perceived quality, and builds trust.

By paying attention to design, functionality, sustainability, and compliance, your brand can stand out in a crowded marketplace and create packaging that sells as effectively as your product itself.