Cardboard box inserts ensure the safety and organization of products. They provide order within boxes and make sure that no one shifts in the course of shipping. Inserts also enhance how a product is shown when the customer opens the package. Companies in the United States incorporate inserts in electronics to cosmetics.

The various products require different packaging cardboard inserts materials based on the product type, needs in the industry and sustainability. Some brands target paper-based solutions, and there are also those that still make use of foam or plastic. 

Nevertheless, cardboard is increasingly becoming popular because it can be recycled and because it can be used to accommodate custom designs. Knowledge of what is used can enable businesses to make improved packaging choices.

What Are Packaging Inserts?

Internal pieces inserted within boxes to contain, part or safeguard products are called packaging inserts. They are used as holds that maintain items in place when storing and shipping.

These inserts have two uses. 

First, they ensure safety as they avoid collisions of the products within the package. Second, they make the unboxing process unique. When inserts are put in, customers can see how much care is taken in packaging. Packaging inserts also enable businesses to enhance branding through printing messages or logos on the inserts.

How Many Types of Material Are Used to Make Inserts?

There are multiple materials to make inserts. This option will be based on the weight, fragility and use of the product. The most usual materials are listed below:

Cardboard Inserts

Box inserts of cardboard are among the most popular. They are powerful, reusable, and fit practically all industries. They can be cut to design and die cut in custom shapes.

Plastic Inserts

Plastic inserts are sturdier and apply to heavy or irregular-shaped products. They are a sustainable and durable alternative, but have recycling and sustainability issues.

Foam Inserts

Foam is applied to products that require cushioning, including electronics or medical equipment. It takes up shock, but is not as long-lasting as cardboard.

Molded Pulp Inserts

They have extensive uses in environmentally friendly Packaging, particularly in the packaging of electronics and food products.

Fabric or Cloth Inserts

In the case of luxury packaging, cloth inserts are installed to produce an upscale image. They are also not so common but provide a soft level of protection.

Why Cardboard Box Inserts Are More Beneficial?

The inserts made of cardboard are advantageous as they strike a balance between strength, price and recyclability. They do not add excessive weight to products because they protect them. They are also designed easily in custom shapes that make them convenient in industries. They are favorable in businesses as they fulfil protective as well as environmental needs.

How Are Cardboard Box Inserts Manufactured?

Production of custom cardboard inserts follows the given below processes.

Step 1: Material Selection

The quality of cardboard sheets is selected based on the weight and size of the product.

Step 2: Die Cutting

The die cut cardboard inserts are punched out. IT ensures that inserts are the exact size the product.

Step 3: Printing

During branding (adding logos, instructions or product details) inserts are made.

Step 4: Folding and Finishing

Lastly, the inserts are folded to their desired shape and tested to fit inside the packaging.

How to Choose the Right Insert Material for Your Product?

Follow the given steps to choose the right material for your product inserts.

Product Weight and Fragility

Fragile or heavy goods could require foam or plastic, but lightweight goods could use cardboard inserts.

Branding and Design

If the packaging demands printed inscriptions or pictures, cardboard inserts would be best.

Sustainability Goals

Businesses that centre on sustainability should use recyclable packaging inserts. 

Cost Considerations

Cardboard is cheap in comparison to foam or cloth. Plastic is a tough material, but it is more costly.

Comparison Table

What Are the Uses of Cardboard Box Inserts?

Cardboard box inserts can be used in multiple sectors. Some of them are given below:

Product Protection

Inserts made of cardboard boxes are a robust system of support within a packaging. They maintain the stability of products during shipping and storage. They avoid scratches, dents and breakage by keeping every item in place. This insurance is particularly significant with fragile goods such as glassware, cosmetics and electronics. Inserts also ensure that businesses make fewer returns and get fewer customer complaints.

Organization

These inserts are useful in laying several items in a single box in a neatly separated way. The inserts made of cardboard boxes form compartments or parts to ensure that no mixing or tangling of products takes place. This organization makes packaging more professional, and it allows customers to know each product easily. It also helps to save time in the packing and unpacking process of things.

Branding

Printed cardboard inserts provide businesses with an opportunity to add additional value to the packaging. Firms may contain a logo, product instructions or promotional messages on the inserts. This forges a better relationship with the customers since the brand message is displayed when they open the package. Inserts also aid branding, which makes the products become recognizable in the competitive market.

Presentation

Packaging is polished and friendly to the customer with inserts. A product that is well packaged in a box creates a favorable appearance. Customers have made the unboxing experience a key element in customer satisfaction, and well-packaged items enhance the unboxing experience. A lot of businesses incorporate inserts not just to increase safety but also to make their packaging more attractive and memorable.

Global & Local Trends in Packaging Inserts

With the dynamics in customer requirements and industry practices, packaging inserts for cardboard are changing. Brands worldwide are moving towards sustainability and in the United States, the emphasis of businesses is placed on protection and presentation. These shifts point to two big market trends, global sustainability targets and local industry actions.

Global Trends

The brands around the world are shifting towards recyclable packaging inserts. Customer decision-making is influenced by the aspect of sustainability. The market is being dominated by cardboard and molded pulp, particularly in Europe and North America.

Trends in the United States

In America, there is an increasing demand for custom cardboard inserts. Inserts are also employed to market the business as well as to provide safety. The rising e-commerce market is advancing the demand for good and secure packaging. In order to cater to the expectations of customers and adhere to the environmental guidelines, companies use recyclable packaging inserts.

Final Thoughts

Modern packaging depends on inserts. They secure products, make presentations better, and make customers satisfied. Among all the materials, cardboard inserts are the most suitable since they are cost-effective, strong, and sustainable. 

Foam, plastic and molded pulp are also used for certain purposes, though the most common one is cardboard. Any company seeking to get its packaging solutions can count on a reputed company like Plus Printers, which has been a leading company in the industry.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can cardboard inserts be customized with branding?

Yes, these cardboard inserts can be customized with your brand’s logo and slogan. It increases your brand awareness.

What are the different types of plastic inserts?

Plastic inserts include thermoformed trays, vacuum-formed molds, and rigid clamshells. Each type is designed to hold and protect products.

What Are Indexable Inserts and How Do They Work?

Indexable inserts are cutting tools used in machining. They can be rotated or replaced when worn out, making them efficient for industrial use.