How To Make Sure You Buy The Best Packaging Materials

Packaging materials are an absolute necessity for many B2B companies, and for most B2C businesses. However, the availability of packaging materials can be compromised by unusual market conditions, especially in the internet age. Huge eCommerce sites can place unnatural strain on particular types and specifications of packaging materials, and this may cause issues with supply. In order to ensure a steady supply source, it is important to cultivate a strong relationship with a knowledgeable, efficient and cost-effective packaging materials supplier or distributor. To help purchasers make the most informed decision, we've compiled a list of questions to ask (or thoughts to bear in mind) before making a choice for your preferred packaging materials supplier. Does The Supplier Offer The Products You Need? Naturally, the supplier will offer the products you're looking for right now, but what about the future? There are many, often subtle, variations in basic types of packaging materials. If someone offers you simple cartons but doesn't have any foam edge boxes, then what happens when you start offering another line of products? Even if your intention is to always offer just one product to your customers, specifications and sizes can and do change. You need a supplier who offers enough varieties on the basic product to enable you to switch from one order to another quickly, rather than hunting down a completely different source just to cover the new requirements. Furthermore, to help your business run more smoothly, it's desirable that a packaging materials supplier offers related products such as case sealers, hot-melts or protection films combined with non-related ranges such as the availability of sealants or fasteners. This aids your operation and contributes greatly to your bottom line. Does The Supplier Comply With All Relevant Standards? Packaging suppliers may not be able to cut literal corners without the customer noticing, but they can definitely cut figurative corners. While many packaging suppliers could meet ISO standards, do look for suppliers who are able to offer products that meet Packaging (Essentials Requirements) regulations as well, in as much as they do not contain heavy metals. What's Their Track Record And Reputation? A good packaging materials supplier will have a sound track record and reputation across multiple dimensions that includes great customer service and care as well as product quality and meeting standards for delivery of service. Testimonials are OK as a starting point, but they are of course carefully selected, and may be automatically generated using customer service feedback forms. For a better sense of a supplier's reputation, get in touch with the company using their contact page and details. How Much Does The Product Cost? Last but not least, how much does the product cost? A good product for a fair price should of course be a must-have for any purchaser and fit into market expectation. You should generally also expect a value discount for buying in significant bulk. So do compare prices and check to see if there are any unexpected fees hidden in the small print. Choosing A Packaging Materials Distributor We at FineCal believe we make a great choice as a packaging materials distributor. Our wide range of packaging sources means that we can easily fill in the gaps in one manufacturer’s range by offering products from another. So whether you're looking for 3M based or Spacepack type products, we choose the best of reliable suppliers, meaning that we get constant access to and availability of the most reliable packaging product portfolio. If you want to learn more about our packaging materials, have questions about our range or merely wish to take advantage of FineCal’s service for your packaging needs, please get in touch using these contact details or check out our complete packaging materials range on-line.

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