When is a box not just a box? When is it more than cardboard and packaging materials? When is a box no longer merely a box but a strategic asset?

The big, important change happens the minute a product goes inside the box. From that moment forward, it’s part of the product itself — not just a piece of packaging. The box is responsible for both safeguarding the product and presenting it as a desirable commodity.

In a market where more and more companies are shipping goods to customers all over the U.S. and the world, custom shipping boxes have suddenly become a vital element of commerce. Marketing teams

are aware of the presentation value of custom boxes

, and product and logistics teams have found them to be invaluable tools for making sure an item’s packaging performs its intended duties.

AirSea Containers works with retailers and wholesalers nationwide to create high-performance custom shipping boxes. We’re here to help our clients expand their reach, deliver quality products and build their brands. Did you ever think a humble box could do so many things? Read on to find out why we’re so excited to offer custom boxes and shipping materials to our customers.

THE PERFECT BOX FOR YOUR BUSINESS GOALS

It wasn’t so long ago that nearly all shipped goods came in plain cardboard boxes. Today, however, the branded shipping box has cemented itself firmly as an indispensable part of the 21st-century commercial landscape.

One small-business blog describes packaging

as “the marriage of form and function presented in a beautiful package designed to entice customers to buy the product and then to continue buying it.” That’s what any business wants — so AirSea is here to help!

Custom shipping boxes don’t just help organizations build their brands, either. They can also enable totally new business models to penetrate and thrive in new markets. Innovations in packaging and design are a vital step to creating the vibrant new business models that have come to characterize 21st-century commerce.

Custom shipping boxes can help you align the materials you’re using with the goals you’re pursuing, whether you’re creating an exciting new brand, launching a daring business model or something else. We only need to look at a few major examples to see how true this is:

• Amazon:

  As Amazon’s Prime shipping boxes showed up on more and more doorsteps, the company leveraged their ubiquity by making the boxes themselves a huge part of their brand. Amazon’s smiling, singing boxes are now an instantly recognizable element of their commercials.



• Loot Crate:

  Subscription-box services were some of the first companies to effectively leverage their boxes as part of their branding. The tremendously popular Loot Crate, which ships video game fans a monthly box of game memorabilia, is instantly recognizable by its sleek black-and-orange box. Inside that box, a snappy blurb encourages fans to share the box’s contents on social media.



• Blue Apron:

  Twenty years ago, who would have predicted that we’d be able to order whole meals online and get perishable ingredients shipped directly to our doors? It wouldn’t have been possible without the highly specialized shipping and packing solutions Blue Apron employs. Their recyclable packaging, specially designed insulation and distinctive branded shipping box all combined to help Blue Apron become the hit it is today.

One thing all these brands have in common is that none of their customers will ever enter a physical storefront — although Amazon has started opening a few. Awnings, floor displays, signs and other staples of brick-and-mortar commerce are largely unavailable to companies working within these business models.

That’s why their distinctive packaging is such an important element of their brands. When you’re an eCommerce-focused business — particularly a retail one — it’s essential to leverage the branding opportunities you’re given! All these brands have used custom shipping boxes to show the world that the eCommerce channel doesn’t have to be faceless. In fact, it can and should be quite the opposite.

The effects aren’t just aesthetic, either. Developing customized shipping boxes has enabled these brands to expand their reach nation- and world-wide in a way that’s never been possible before. Businesses like Blue Apron engineer their packaging solutions to deliver new products to new markets in innovative ways. With the right combination of innovative package design and carefully selected accessories, so can you!

BOOSTING BOX PERFORMANCE WITH SHIPPING ACCESSORIES

Outside of any cosmetic or branding concerns, a box also needs to perform its intended duties. The best boxes are specifically designed for their applications. They’re tailored to offer the exact performance aspects that will ensure successful delivery of the product to a delighted customer every time.

AirSea’s

wide range of shipping materials

and accessories can help you ensure your product gets to its destination safely. What’s more,

as the Green Living blog notes

, the use of biodegradable and eco-friendly packing materials is important to creating a model of sustainable business. That’s part of why

we now offer numerous eco-friendly packaging materials

to help minimize your business’s environmental impact. Those products, as well as our traditional packaging offerings, include high-performance shipping materials such as:

• Air Pillows

  : These air-filled cushions are the perfect padding and shock absorption solution. Their flexible shape makes them great for filling in awkward gaps and hole sizes. Best of all, they’re made with Opus Bio plastic, a completely biodegradable plastic that leaves no toxin or metallic residue behind.




• Dunnage Air Bags

  : A heavy-duty cousin to the air pillow, these air bags are ideal for preventing cargo from shifting during train, truck or air transport.




• Refrigerant Gel Packs

  : Refrigerant chemicals like dry ice and others can be tricky to handle and environmentally problematic. Our refrigerant gel packs are biodegradable, non-toxic and reusable.




• Poly Bags

  : These are great for keeping less fragile items together and preventing shifting in transit.




• Shrink and Bubble Wrap

  : These classic shipping solutions are as effective as ever. If you’re shipping fragile goods, shrink and bubble wrap are a time-tested solution for shock insulation and package immobilization.




• Packing Peanuts

  : Not only do we carry the original Styrofoam packing peanuts — we also now offer a biodegradable alternative with even better performance!




• Shipping Tape and Accessories

  : AirSea offers over a dozen varieties of shipping tape, including water-activated and plastic adhesive. We also offer essential accessories like tape dispensers.




• Vermiculite

  : Vermiculite is a silicate material noted for its incredible absorbent and cushioning properties. We offer several vermiculite grades up to our top-of-the-line Extra-Coarse Non-Dusty 4A grade. For a high-performance cushioning material that also solves moisture concerns, Vermiculite is the professional’s choice.

For our customers who ship hazardous materials, we also carry a variety of hazmat shipping solutions, including shipping drums, reusable jerricans and more. Many of these options are specifically crafted to be more environmentally friendly than competing solutions.

CUSTOM SHIPPING BOX DESIGNS FROM AIRSEA

To better meet our customers’ needs, we’ve invested in the capacity to create almost any type of corrugated shipping box. From a classic slotted box to truly unique ground-up designs, we can confidently meet the needs of most customers. Take a look at our custom shipping box offerings — and if you’re not sure what you need, we can help you figure that out, too!

• Regular Slotted: The time-honored corrugated shipping box with four top flaps that meet in the middle, these boxes stack well and sit comfortably on a shelf, making them great for fulfillment warehouses as well as archiving and long-term storage.




• Full Overlap: This box features four overlapping flaps that strengthen and reinforce the box’s top and bottom, making them an ideal choice for heavy or fragile items such as statuary or beverages in glass bottles.




• One-Piece Folder: A great option for protecting flat and narrow items, this box features five panels that “wrap” together to enclose your product. Mirrors and framed artwork are common applications for this type of box.




• Die-Cut Carton: These boxes provide extra security, thanks to their slot-and-tab systems that reduce reliance on packing tape. We have a great array of styles available for these boxes, but they do require the purchase of cutting dies to create custom designs.




• Half-Slotted Container: Similar to the regular slotted box but with an open-top design that omits the top flaps, this design is ideal for file storage and other applications where easy access is needed.




• Design-Style Tray: This versatile format can serve as a cover for another box (such as a half-slotted container), a top piece for a telescope-style box, a tray for produce displays or numerous other applications.




• Corrugated Pad: This customizable shipping accessory is perfect for separating products or protecting goods during transit. We offer both corrugated and solid fiberboard.

For more details on our shipping box design options,

our blog offers a point-by-point breakdown

. Once you’ve decided which design features your application demands,

you can use our quick and easy custom box creator page

to request a quote on custom shipping boxes.

AirSea offers both single- and double-walled corrugated cardboard at a variety of strength ratings, all the way up to heavy-duty 350# grade. We can print up to three colors on all four sides of your box, and we offer our boxes in both brown and white.

If you’ve got hazmat shipping needs, we also offer boxes for these applications. Just check “hazmat” when filling out your custom box request form and remember that hazmat boxes typically require U.N. standards testing. AirSea requires a minimum order of 500 for hazmat boxes and 150 for non-hazmat boxes. Unfortunately, we cannot offer custom printing on orders of under 500 units.

OTHER BENEFITS OF CUSTOM SHIPPING MATERIALS FROM AIRSEA

The benefits of custom shipping boxes might not all be apparent immediately. Once you’ve begun using them, you’ll notice a variety of positive effects and new capacities opening up for your business:

• Customized for Your Calendar: Running a summer promotion? Launching a limited-run product with special shipping needs? Wishing your customers happy holidays? It’s easy to order a run of custom boxes! AirSea can execute on very short lead times for non-hazmat boxes, so with just a little planning, you’ll have the perfect packaging for your seasonal and short-run needs.




• Find Your Perfect Materials: At just 150 units for non-hazmat boxes and 500 for hazmat, we offer lower minimum orders than many of our competitors. These low minimums allow your organization to experiment with the best boxes and materials for your needs. Try out different configurations, designs and visual styles to find the perfect setup.




• All-In-One Efficiency: AirSea Containers is your one-stop shop for the best packaging solutions. Get custom boxes, custom printing and all the shipping materials you need in one simple order.




• Eco-Friendly Options: We offer an industry-leading selection of environmentally friendly packaging. We want to help our customers build success that lasts, and part of that is giving them the tools to craft sustainable enterprises in the new global business landscape.




• Supplier Relationship: Business has always been about cultivating great relationships, but it’s never been more necessary than today. At AirSea, we strive to be a company worthy of building a relationship with. That means knowing our customers, knowing their needs and being able to follow through flawlessly when it matters most.

The 21st-century marketplace makes it imperative to think differently about your assets. A box can be so many things — protection, promotion, branding and more — and AirSea’s customized shipping boxes allow you to leverage

of those. When you add in our exceptional selection of materials, including eco-friendly options, you have the picture of what we strive for: truly integrated packaging solutions that allow our customers to achieve multiple objectives at once.

AirSea’s custom packaging specialists are ready to hear from you! Get started today with our custom boxes quote form, or call (866)-801-2581 to talk to one of our packaging specialists.

The Benefits of Using UPS Boxes for Shipping and Storage

If you’re in the business of shipping and storage, you know how important it is to choose the right packaging to ensure that your items arrive at their destination safely and securely. One popular option in the market today are UPS boxes. These boxes offer a range of benefits that make them a preferred choice among shippers and storers. In this article, we’ll explore the various advantages of using UPS boxes and why they’re an ideal solution for your shipping and storage needs.

Why UPS Boxes are Ideal for Shipping and Storage

One of the most significant advantages of using UPS boxes is that they’re designed to provide maximum protection for your items. These boxes are made from high-quality materials that are specifically chosen for their strength and durability. They’re designed to withstand the rigors of shipping and storage, which means that your items will remain intact and protected throughout the journey.

UPS boxes are also highly customizable, which means you can choose the perfect size and shape to fit your specific needs. This is particularly helpful for companies that deal with unique or irregularly-shaped items that require special packing considerations.

In addition to their durability and customizability, UPS boxes are also environmentally friendly. These boxes are made from recycled materials and are fully recyclable themselves. By using UPS boxes for your shipping and storage needs, you’re not only protecting your items but also doing your part to reduce waste and promote sustainability.

Another advantage of UPS boxes is their availability. These boxes can be easily purchased online or at UPS stores, making it convenient for individuals and businesses to access them whenever they need them. Additionally, UPS offers a range of shipping and storage solutions, including packing and shipping services, to make the process even more streamlined and efficient.

A Brief History of UPS Boxes

The UPS brand is known worldwide and is synonymous with reliable and efficient delivery services. But did you know that UPS has been in the packaging business for over 100 years? In fact, UPS boxes were first introduced in 1919, when the company began offering courier services to the public. Since then, UPS has continued to innovate and improve upon their packaging offerings, making them the go-to choice for many businesses today.

One of the key factors that sets UPS boxes apart from other packaging options is their durability. UPS boxes are made from high-quality materials that are designed to withstand the rigors of shipping and handling. This means that your packages are less likely to be damaged in transit, which can save you time and money in the long run.

In addition to their durability, UPS boxes are also available in a wide range of sizes and styles to meet the needs of different businesses and industries. From small, lightweight boxes for shipping documents to large, heavy-duty boxes for shipping machinery and equipment, UPS has a packaging solution for every need. And with their commitment to sustainability, UPS is also working to reduce the environmental impact of their packaging materials, making them a responsible choice for businesses that care about the planet.

Different Types of UPS Boxes Available in the Market

UPS offers a variety of boxes for different types of items and shipping needs. Some of the most popular options include:

• Cardboard Boxes: These are the most commonly used type of UPS box and are available in a range of sizes and shapes to fit all kinds of items, from small electronics to large equipment.
• Corrugated Boxes: These are ideal for heavy or fragile items and come in varying strengths to suit different shipping needs.
• Specialty Boxes: These are designed for items that require special packing considerations, such as electronics or perishable goods.

In addition to the above mentioned boxes, UPS also offers a range of eco-friendly boxes made from recycled materials. These boxes are not only environmentally friendly, but also cost-effective and durable.

Another type of UPS box that is gaining popularity is the reusable box. These boxes are designed to be used multiple times, reducing waste and saving money in the long run. They are made from sturdy materials and can withstand multiple shipments.

How to Choose the Right Size and Type of UPS Box for Your Needs

Choosing the right size and type of UPS box for your needs can be a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be. Here are some important factors to consider:

• Size of the item being shipped
• Weight of the item
• Nature of the item (fragile, perishable, etc.)
• Shipping method (ground, air, etc.)
• Duration of shipping

By considering these factors, you can determine the right size and type of UPS box that will offer the best protection for your items and ensure that they reach their destination safely.

Another important factor to consider when choosing a UPS box is the destination of your package. If you are shipping to a location with extreme temperatures or weather conditions, you may need to choose a box with additional insulation or protection. Additionally, if you are shipping internationally, you may need to consider customs regulations and choose a box that meets those requirements. It’s important to research and understand the specific needs of your package and destination to ensure that you choose the right UPS box for your needs.

Advantages of Using UPS Boxes over Traditional Shipping and Storage Methods

Using UPS boxes for shipping and storage offers a range of advantages over traditional methods, such as:

• Increased protection for items
• Customizable sizing and shapes for unique items
• Strong and durable materials that can withstand the rigors of shipping and storage
• Environmentally friendly options

Another advantage of using UPS boxes is that they are designed to be stackable, which makes them ideal for businesses that need to store large quantities of items. The boxes can be easily stacked on top of each other, which saves space and makes it easier to keep track of inventory.

In addition, UPS boxes are available in a variety of styles and sizes, which makes them suitable for a wide range of items. For example, there are boxes specifically designed for shipping and storing electronics, as well as boxes for clothing, books, and other items. This means that businesses can choose the right box for their specific needs, which can help to reduce shipping costs and improve efficiency.

How UPS Boxes Ensure Safe and Secure Delivery of Your Items

UPS boxes are designed with safety and security in mind. They’re made from materials that can withstand impacts and other hazards that may occur during shipping. Additionally, UPS boxes are sealed with strong adhesive tape or other types of fasteners, ensuring that your items remain securely inside the box until they reach their destination.

Another way that UPS boxes ensure safe and secure delivery is through their tracking system. Each box is assigned a unique tracking number, which allows you to monitor the progress of your shipment from start to finish. This means that you can easily keep track of your package and ensure that it arrives at its intended destination on time.

Furthermore, UPS boxes come in a variety of sizes and shapes, making it easy to find the perfect box for your specific item. This helps to prevent any unnecessary movement or shifting of your item during transit, which can lead to damage or breakage. With UPS boxes, you can have peace of mind knowing that your items are being shipped safely and securely.

The Cost-effectiveness of Using UPS Boxes for Shipping and Storage

Despite their high quality and customizability, UPS boxes are still an affordable option for many businesses. In fact, they’re often more cost-effective than traditional packaging methods, such as crates or pallets. Additionally, UPS offers discounts on bulk orders, making it an even more attractive option for businesses that ship frequently.

Another advantage of using UPS boxes is that they are designed to be reused multiple times, which can further reduce costs for businesses. This is because the boxes are made from durable materials that can withstand multiple shipments and handling. By reusing the boxes, businesses can save money on packaging materials and reduce their environmental impact by reducing waste. Furthermore, UPS offers a program called “UPS Returns” which allows customers to easily return items using the same box they were shipped in, further reducing costs and waste.

Environmentally Friendly Features of UPS Boxes

UPS is committed to reducing its environmental impact by offering sustainable packaging options. The company offers a range of boxes made from recycled materials, as well as boxes that can be recycled after use. Additionally, UPS has implemented a carbon-neutral shipping program that allows customers to offset the carbon emissions from their shipments.

Furthermore, UPS has also implemented a program to reduce the amount of packaging material used in their shipments. This program, called “Right Size Packaging,” uses advanced algorithms to determine the optimal box size for each shipment, reducing the amount of excess packaging material and saving resources.

In addition to their sustainable packaging options, UPS has also invested in alternative fuel vehicles and energy-efficient facilities. The company has a fleet of over 10,000 alternative fuel and advanced technology vehicles, including electric, hybrid, and natural gas vehicles. UPS also has over 400 LEED-certified facilities, which use energy-efficient technologies and sustainable building materials to reduce their environmental impact.

Tips for Proper Handling and Disposal of Used UPS Boxes

It’s important to handle and dispose of used UPS boxes properly. Here are some tips:

• Re-use boxes if possible
• Recycle boxes that cannot be re-used
• Follow local recycling guidelines
• Dispose of hazardous materials properly

By following these tips, you can help minimize your environmental impact and ensure that used UPS boxes are disposed of responsibly.

Customer Reviews on the Benefits of Using UPS Boxes

Many businesses have positive reviews about using UPS boxes for their shipping and storage needs. Customers report that they appreciate the customizability and durability of the boxes, as well as their affordable pricing. Additionally, many customers have noted that using UPS boxes has reduced the number of damaged items they receive, which has improved their bottom line.

Innovative Uses of UPS Boxes beyond Shipping and Storage

UPS boxes are not only great for shipping and storage, but they can also be repurposed for other uses around the office or home. For example, they can be used as storage containers, organizers, or even as building materials for DIY projects. The possibilities are endless!

Conclusion

UPS boxes offer a range of benefits over traditional packaging methods. They’re customizable, durable, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly, making them a preferred choice among businesses who need to ship and store items safely. By choosing the right size and type of UPS box for your needs, you can ensure that your items are protected and arrive at their destination securely. And, as an added bonus, you can even repurpose used UPS boxes for other uses beyond shipping and storage.