Author: Louie Gough-Littlewood

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How to Reduce Shipping Costs for Small Businesses

Shipping can be expensive for small businesses because they typically have smaller order volumes and fewer resources than larger companies. Additionally, many small businesses don’t have access to the same discounts from carriers as larger companies. Carriers often require a certain amount of volume before offering significant savings on shipping rates, which small businesses may be unable to fulfil.

So how can small businesses reduce shipping costs? Below we explain how small businesses can save money on small business shipping, lower overhead costs and protect profit margins!

What makes up shipping costs?
Shipping costs refer to the expenses incurred when fulfilling and delivering a package. This includes the cost of packaging materials, carrier rates, and any other charges that may arise during the process. In ecommerce, shipping costs can fluctuate depending on various factors, such as the weight and size of the items being shipped and the distance they have to travel to reach their destination.

How to reduce the weight of packages to reduce shipping costs

Weight is important when shipping packages to customers. A heavier package will cost more to ship and reduce overall profit margins, making it essential for small businesses to reduce shipping costs. There are several ways for small business owners to reduce their package weights, including:

  • Use lightweight boxes and packaging.Whenever possible, use lightweight packaging such as corrugated boxes (link). Corrugated boxes have rows of small air-filled grooves between the inner and outer layers of the box. This can reduce the overall weight of your package, allowing you to save money on shipping without sacrificing the protection of your items.
  • Choose lightweight packing materials.
    There are many types of packaging materials available that protect products while being shipped. Still, you want to keep this material as light as possible to reduce the overall cost of shipping. Loose fill biodegradable packing chips (or packing peanuts), are designed to secure goods within the shipping carton and protect your items during transit. They are perfect for filling that extra space in boxes before shipment and are a sustainable, compostable and biodegradable void-fill solution. Bubble wrap is a good lightweight option, but isn’t a sustainable product, instead, consider honeycomb paper wrap as an eco-friendly & cost-effective alternative to plastic bubble wrap cushioning.
  • Reduce the size of the packaging.
    The cost of packaging can quickly mount up and significantly reduce the potential profits from every sale. Using the right size packaging means you only have to use the needed amount. Also, your packaging materials stretch further as less is required to fill space in larger boxes. You can pack more products for the same cost as fewer products with standardised box sizes.

Utilise flat-rate shipping options
In flat-rate shipping, shipping costs are the same regardless of the weight, shape, or size of the item. The immediate benefit of flat-rate shipping is the reduction of variable costs. You know beforehand how much shipping 10 items within the specified weight range will cost. By utilising these flat rate options whenever possible, small businesses can reduce their overall shipping costs while ensuring that all packages arrive at their destination safely and on time.

Shipping costs can be a significant burden for small businesses, but there are several ways to reduce them. By using lightweight, correctly-sized boxes, such as corrugated boxes, and packaging materials, like biodegradable packing chips, you can reduce the weight of your packages while still protecting your items during transit. Additionally, utilising flat-rate shipping options whenever possible will help convert variable costs into fixed ones so that you know exactly how much it’ll cost regardless of size or shape. With these tips in mind, small business owners should have no problem finding ways to reduce their shipping costs!

If you need assistance finding the packaging to reduce the cost of your small business shipping, contact Weedon Direct today.

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What is PiP Packaging?

PiP packaging, also known as Pricing in Proportion, is a packaging model used by businesses and online retailers in order to offer customers more cost-effective services when they send packages. This packaging model began to be used in the late 1990s as parcel delivery companies started to recognise the potential of this type of pricing model. It has since been adopted by numerous companies offering shipping solutions and is now widely used for domestic and international deliveries.

This concept works by weighing the items being sent and charging the customer only for what is actually being shipped. This can be beneficial for customers who need to ship items of varying sizes, as it allows them to save money on postage costs that would otherwise have been significantly higher

Under the PiP Packaging structure, all mail will be split into 4 different categories, these are:

  • Small or medium letters
  • Large letters
  • Small, medium and large parcels
  • Tubes

The prices are then calculated according to each of their size, weight and thickness to ensure customers are only paying for exactly what they are sending.

Unsure which of the PiP Packaging solutions you will need? You can use this Packaging guide.

What are the advantages of using Shipping Solutions like PiP Packaging?

More cost-effective options for customers when sending packages.
Companies began using Pricing in Proportion (PiP) in order to provide customers with more cost-effective shipping solutions when sending packages. By weighing the items being shipped and charging the customer based on the actual weight of what is being sent, customers are able to save money compared to if each item was priced individually.

Reductions in overall shipping costs for bulk orders.
Companies can make use of this packaging model for bulk shipping orders, which can help reduce overall shipping costs. The type of pricing model that PiP Packaging provides also helps businesses by streamlining the process and eliminating any discrepancies that may arise from having multiple pricing structures for different types of goods and services.

Streamlined process and fewer discrepancies from different pricing structures.
The PiP Packaging structure ensures fewer discrepancies by making it easier for businesses to accurately calculate their shipping costs and the total price of all items shipped. This is because, rather than determining separate prices for each item, the PiP model only requires businesses to set a single price per unit of weight. This means customers are charged a single rate regardless of the number or weight of items they order, removing any potential discrepancy from different pricing structures.

Direct, offering end-to-end sustainable packaging solutions, supply a variety of easy-fold postal boxes that adhere to the Royal Mail PiP packaging criteria, perfect for sending CDs, Books and Gifts, all while remaining cost-effective and environmentally friendly!

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How Easy Packaging Solutions can help Customer Experience

When it comes to packaging, hassle-free is the way to go. Hassle-free, easy packaging solutions are designed to reduce customer stress and effort in the opening and disposing of a package. Through careful design, businesses can provide an easy unboxing experience while protecting their products during transit. By utilising easy packaging solutions, businesses can increase customer satisfaction as well as their overall customer experience.

Hassle-free packaging typically includes features such as easy open lids or tear points that allow customers to quickly and easily remove items from their packages – frustration-free. These packaging solutions are often made from paperboards, paper and laminated envelopes, kraft paper and multiple other biodegradable materials, meaning customers can recycle and contribute further to the green efforts of these hassle-free packaging options.

What are the benefits of Easy Packaging Solutions?


Implementing hassle-free packaging solutions has numerous benefits for businesses to increase customer satisfaction and experience.

This type of packaging is designed to be lightweight, which helps to reduce shipping costs for businesses. Additionally, using recyclable materials in this type of packaging reduces the environmental impact of traditional packaging methods.

Most customers are actively looking to work with sustainable companies, wanting to contribute to more eco-friendly processes, meaning the implementation of sustainable packaging alternatives provides customers with efficient packaging as well as peace of mind in knowing their choices are making positive changes.

Hassle-free packaging also allows companies to make their products stand out from competitors by providing an attractive and memorable unboxing experience that customers will remember long after opening their package. This helps create a strong brand image and encourages customers to use your easy packaging solutions time and time again.

Finally, these easy packaging solutions also provide businesses with greater protection against damage during transit, ensuring that customers receive their items in perfect condition. This helps businesses reduce the number of returns, increase profitability and ensure their customers are always happy!

At Weedon Direct, we are leading the way with our sustainable packaging alternatives that provide hassle free packaging solutions customers are always delighted to receive.

Our Twist Wrap Mailers are perfect for sending a variety of weights and sizes, with enhanced security to protect them from any damage that could occur. These Twist Wrap mailers are 100% recycled, quick to assemble, and offer an easy-open tear strip with buffer edge protection for extra strength, making them the perfect sustainable and easy packaging solution for all.

We offer a variety of sustainable package alternatives, from traditional cardboard boxes to eco-friendly honeycomb wraps! Get in contact today to see how Weedon Direct could provide you with sustainable packaging solutions for your business.

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How To Choose The Right Cardboard Box

We stock a wide range of cardboard boxes that are perfect for packing, shipping and storing items. Our range includes single and double wall boxes as well as a variety of different styles of packaging, all aimed at increasing your packing operation output, by saving time and minimising costs.

With such a wide range of options it can be difficult to decide which box is best for you, so we have created a guide to help you choose the most suitable option for your business.

Measuring Your Items

Which Box Is Right For You?

With a wide range of different types of boxes to choose from, it’s also important to understand which box is right for you.

StyleTape Required?Choose When
Single WallYesYou are sending goods under 10kg and need a low-cost solution.
Double WallYesYou need a stronger option that will securely hold heavy and fragile items.
Crashlock BoxesNoYou want to speed up your packing operation whilst minimising costs.
Removal BoxesYesYou need removal boxes that are strong, reliable & cost-effective.
Bottle BoxesNoYou want to safely & securely ship bottles.

Contact Us

Our team are here to help. If there isn’t a box you feel is suitable, please get in touch as we can manufacture a custom size box to suit your needs. Additionally, if you just require some more advice on choosing the right box for your product, please email or call us so we can help you with your enquiry.

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5 Eco-Friendly Alternatives: From Plastic To Paper

With over 8 million tons of plastic waste polluting our oceans every year, it’s time to ditch single-use plastic and look at more eco-friendly ways to package products that not only helps the planet by reducing our carbon footprint, but also improves overall consumer perception of a company.

With the Plastic Packaging Tax implemented at the beginning of April, there is no better time to consider some of our more popular eco-friendly alternatives to ditch the plastic.

Envelope Mailers

Say goodbye to bubble mailers and hello to recyclable cardboard envelope mailers! Our wide range of mailers provide extra protection that normal envelopes don’t provide and are designed to fit through most letterboxes.

Made with 100% recyclable materials, our mailers are your ideal eco-friendly alternative to plastic mailer bags.

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Honeycomb Paper Wrap

The perfect eco-friendly alternative to bubble wrap, honeycomb wrap is fantastic for wrapping & packing any product, even if it’s fragile.

Crafted from 100% recyclable and biodegradable paper. Go plastic-free with ease to enhance your green credentials and establish your brand as a forerunner in environmentally friendly initiatives.

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Book Mailers

Reduce excess waste by simply wrapping your product in the flexible corrugated cardboard for all-round protection and a close fit to prevent movement in transit.

With eco-friendly self-adhesive closure tape there is no need for void fill. In addition, ripper-tape makes for easy opening, and the packaging is easy to recycle afterwards.

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Triangular Postal Tubes

In comparison to round postal tubes, our triangular tubes are designed with a twin tab locking system so no tape or plastic cap is required to seal them shut, making them fully recyclable and biodegradable.

The other advantage is that triangular postal tubes are easier to store and have a geometric shape to stop rolling around during storage but also provides extra strength too. 

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Eco-Friendly Tape

We have a choice of self-adhesive kraft tapes & gummed paper tapes which offer excellent adhesion whilst considering the environmental footprint.

All of our tapes are eco-friendly & recyclable, making them the perfect replacement for plastic tapes.

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Avoid Plastic Packaging Tax with Sustainable Cardboard Packaging

The Plastic Packaging Tax seeks to encourage the use of recycled plastics and other less environmentally damaging materials, by imposing a tax on plastic packaging manufactured in the UK and also on any packaging imported into the UK, whether as “wholesale” packaging, or as part of the purchase of a product.

As the Plastic Packaging Tax comes into force on 1st April 2022, any business producing or importing plastic packaging will be charged a rate of £200 per tonne on any plastic packaging that’s deemed to be chargeable.

Why switch to cardboard packaging?

A recent survey discovered that UK consumers are willing to act if they don’t think a retailer is doing enough to become more sustainable. 42% of UK consumers would consider avoiding a retailer if they were not trying to reduce their use of non-recyclable packaging. The collection and UK recycling rates for cardboard and paper-based packaging are higher than any other packaging material (85%).

We manufacture our packaging with 100% recyclable FSC Certified materials and additional features such as peel & seal tape are also recyclable and sustainable to our planet.

With this in mind, in addition to the PPT tax coming into force from April onwards, there is no better time to avoid the plastic tax bills and switch to sustainable cardboard packaging today.

For more guidance on the plastic packaging tax, visit the government website here: Plastic Packaging Tax – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)

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Why choose sustainable e-commerce postal packaging?

What does the data say?

The UK is the world’s third largest market for e-commerce, with e-commerce sales in the UK rising by 35% between 2014-2019. It has been forecast to rise again by a huge 34.7%, from 2019 to the end of 2021.

Whilst e-commerce sales leads to an increase in packaging, this will result in the amount of waste also set to increase. New research from Citeo & Ipsos found that 92% of people expect a package that is appropriately sized for the product. Yet 75% of UK shoppers were left frustrated with excessive packaging and wanted retailers to reduce the volume of packaging used.

A recent survey discovered that UK consumers are willing to act if they don’t think a retailer is doing enough to become more sustainable. 42% of UK consumers would consider avoiding a retailer if they were not trying to reduce their use of non-recyclable packaging.

With the rise in e-commerce not stopping and the importance to reduce unnecessary waste, when possible, the importance of sustainable packaging has become more important than ever before.

What to look out for when securing a sustainable packaging supplier?

To find a trustworthy sustainable packaging supplier, it is important to look out for the companies accreditations and environmental policy.

FSC are deemed as a trustworthy certification, so when a company is FSC Certified, you know you can buy from them with confidence that they are helping to ensure our forests are alive for generations to come. We are proud to be an FSC Certified Manufacturer and we recognise that we have a responsibility to preserve, conserve and sustain the world we live in, both today and for the future, so sustainability is central to everything we do.

Being an FSC certified manufacturer means that we can guarantee you that we supply packaging from a minimum of 70% recycled materials.

We design packaging to minimise its impact on the environment at every stage of the supply chain, specifying eco-friendly board grades and weights and avoiding the use of unnecessary materials.

What are the advantages of sustainable e-commerce packaging?

1. Increasing your brand awareness

A survey Deloitte conducted, showed that over the last 12 months up to 34% of consumers are choosing brands that have environmentally sustainable practices/values.

With consumer behaviour shifting, customers are becoming more conscious of purchasing from brands who use sustainable packaging. Sustainable packaging has become one of the key areas for companies to express their commitment in protecting our environment. It has also become a marketing and branding tool to inform customers that your business truly cares about the environment.

2. Save money

Sustainable packaging materials are normally lightweight and durable, meaning delivery costs can be at a minimum. Additionally, as we can ensure packaging to fit your product rather than supplying over-sized packaging, we will also save you money on cost of material, whilst reducing waste simultaneously.

3. Reduces your carbon footprint

As corrugated packaging is made from recycled materials, this type of packaging is one of the best solutions to lower your carbon footprint.

Here are just some of the ways as to why our packaging is sustainable and can reduce your carbon footprint:

  • 100% recyclable and biodegradable material
  • The precious fibres are recycled to make new corrugated packaging
  • On average, a new box contains 88% recycled content
  • Paper fibres can be recycled 25 times or more
  • Optimising the use of packaging material
  • Easy to sort as mono-material (paper-based materials)
  • Packaging is easily folded and flattened, ready to be collected for recycling.

Interested in switching to sustainable packaging?

If you are looking to switch to sustainable packaging for a certain product, please get in touch with us here so we can help you find the right box for you. Alternatively, please visit our sustainable e-commerce packaging range.

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10 DAYS OF BOXMAS

Christmas time is all about giving, which is why we are inviting you to opt in to 10 days of exclusive offers and discounts, just in time to stock up for Christmas. 

Simply click on the opt in button below, submit your email address, and let the offers begin today!

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Single Wall vs Double Wall Cardboard Boxes – which is best for your product?

It’s all a matter of thickness. Single wall has one layer of fluted material between two boards (below left), whilst double wall has two layers (below right). Double wall boxes can provide extra protection for more fragile or heavier goods as they are made from two layers of fluted material, rather than single wall which is made from just the one. Whilst double wall boxes can hold up to 25kg in weight, single wall boxes can still provide the right protection for most products as they can hold up to 10kg in weight and are the more cost-effective solution out of the two types of boxes. Double wall does provide extra protection for your products, which results in a slightly higher price for double the material/protection.

Questions to consider when choosing which box suits your business…

  1. Will these boxes be shipped by courier or used for transit?
  2. How heavy are the goods you are using these boxes for?
  3. How fragile are the goods you are using these boxes for/ does your products need protection?
Which cardboard box provides the best protection?

Double Wall provides extra protection with double the material compared to single wall boxes and can hold up to 25kg in weight. Therefore, double wall can handle heavy, fragile or products that are being stored for a long period. Also, if your product is going through various transport processes such as warehouse and shipping, these double wall boxes are strong and durable enough to withstand any potential damage. For lighter and less fragile products, single wall boxes can still provide the right protection and can hold up to 10kg in weight.

Cost-effective solution, single or double wall?

Single wall provides the best cost-effective solution compared to double wall. Double wall boxes are generally more expensive as you are getting double the material compared to single wall. As we manufacture our own boxes, we can provide you with the best value on all cardboard boxes.
We also have our ‘specials‘ section, where we offer various bespoke sizes on sale, in stock, until sold out.

Why should you consider single wall cardboard boxes?

Single wall boxes are an excellent choice for general purpose storage, packaging and shipping. Our single wall boxes are suitable for commercial, domestic and industrial users. They are manufactured on site using high quality British corrugated cardboard. They are sturdy, durable and environmentally friendly; 100% recyclable and re-usable.
Our single wall boxes are delivered flat-packed enabling them to be convenient to store, whilst they are easy to assemble by taping the flaps. With a variety of sizes whether it’s an archive box, a small gift box or a moving out box, we have a size to suit your needs.

Why should you consider double wall cardboard boxes?

Manufactured with a double layer of corrugated cardboard and finished with thick brown paper on each side, the double wall cardboard box is the reliable solution for heavy-duty packaging requirements. The additional cardboard layer provides extra strength allowing it to withstand heavier loads and handling for storing and transporting goods.

The perfect solution for industrial environments where processing heavy loads is an everyday occurrence, the robust, reinforced sides deliver a reliable, sturdy and durable container for heavy items. In addition to their resistance to compression and stack ability, the double wall box is the safest option for ensuring goods are well-protected, wherever they’re heading.

Single wall or double wall boxes for moving out?

Designed for light to medium duty use, our single wall boxes are the ideal packaging for house removals, when storing, sorting and moving items. With their strong sides, when packed appropriately, these boxes can be safely stacked on top of one another to maximise the use of space without the box losing its integrity and collapsing.

However, for fragile or heavy items when moving out, we recommend purchasing our double wall boxes to ensure your items have a strong, durable protection. These double wall boxes can be used to transport delicate or fragile items that are prone to damage as the extra layer gives added cushioning to absorb impacts.

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Letterbox friendly postal packaging – Royal Mail PiP Boxes

Our range of letterbox friendly postal packaging are designed to minimise shipping costs but also to reduce waste by minimising the amount of packaging you use.

Why choose our manufactured postal boxes?

  • Quick & easy to assemble.
  • Strong durable protection.
  • FSC-certified as sourced from sustainable forests.
  • Minimise shipping costs.
  • Reduce your packaging waste.
  • Delivered flat-packed, easy to assemble.
  • We provide huge value by purchasing directly from us, the manufacturer.

Royal Mail PiP Packaging Guide

To help clarify the Royal Mail PiP guidelines, we have put together this table which includes all of the maximum dimensions for each PiP category.

PiP DescriptionPiP Max SizePiP Max LengthPiP Max WidthPiP Max DepthPiP Max WeightExamples of Items
Large Letter353 x 250 x 25mm353mm (35.5cm)250mm (25cm)25mm (2.5cm)750g (0.75kg)Greetings Cards, Folded letters, postcards, CD’s, DVD’s, magazines, certificates.
Small Parcel450 x 350 x 160mm450mm (45cm)350mm (35cm)160mm (16cm)2000g (2kg)Clothing, portable speakers, mobile phones.
Medium Parcel610 x 460 x 460mm610mm (61cm)460mm (46cm)460mm (46cm)20kgGifts, shoes, heavy or bulky items
Large Parcel1.5 x 1.5 x 1.5m*1500mm (1.5m)*1500mm (1.5m)*1500mm (1.5m)*30kgFragile items that require a high level of protection.
PiP Tubes900mm*900mm (90cm)1040mm (when 2 x dia + Length)**1040mm (when 2 x dia + Length)**(various)**Rolled posters, artwork, wallpaper, rolled documents.

* Large Parcel Sizes are a maximum of 3000mm (3m) with the length and depth combined.

** PiP Tubes can’t be more than 1040mm when adding the length and two times the diameter. i.e. (120mm dia x 2) + 800mm length = 1040mm Max PiP Tube Size.

Our range of packaging which accommodates each PiP Category

Our Pricing in Proportion (or PIP) Boxes are specifically designed to fit through the 25mm slot that Royal Mail class as a large letter. Three of our five postal box sizes below fit through the 25mm large letter size slot, which will minimise your postal costs, along with your speed to pack, with these lightweight, easy to assemble, postal boxes. Delivered to you flat packed for easy storage and delivery.

PiP DescriptionSuitable postal products from our range
Large LetterPostal Boxes – 218 x 159 x 20mm
Postal Boxes – 217 x 108 x 20mm
Postal Boxes – 163 x 112 x 20mm
Small ParcelPostal Boxes-300 x 250 x 100mm
Postal Boxes – 150 x 150 x 60mm
Twist Wraps – 195 x 140 x 80mm
Twist Wraps – 305 x 203 x 80mm
Twist Wraps – 300 x 300 x 105mm
Book Wrap Mailers – 251 x 185 x 60mm
Book Wrap Mailers – 310 x 250 x 70mm
Flexie-Mailers – 140 x 124 x 40mm
Flexie-Mailers -195 x 140 x 40mm
Flexie-Mailers – 292 x 194 x 40mm
Flexie-Mailers – 310 x 209 x 40mm
Flexie-Mailers – 320 x 198 x 80mm
Flexie-Mailers – 358 x 238 x 90mm
Flexie-Mailers – 400 x 278 x 40mm
 
Medium ParcelBook Wrap Mailers – 430 x 380 x 90mm
Flexie-Mailers – 626 x 451 x 40mm
Single Wall Cardboard Boxes – Range of Sizes

Large Parcel
Double Wall Cardboard Boxes – Range of Sizes
PiP TubesTriangular Postal Tubes – Range of sizes