5 Mistakes to Avoid When Ordering Custom Packaging Online

Custom packaging plays a crucial role in your brand’s identity and customer experience. Whether you’re a startup or an established business in Austin, TX, your packaging is often the first physical impression your customer gets. Yet, many local businesses unknowingly make critical errors when ordering custom packaging online.

In this guide, we’ll cover the top 5 mistakes to avoid, especially if you’re sourcing packaging in Austin. As a local packaging provider, we’ve seen it all—and we’re here to help you make smarter decisions.

Mistake #1: Not Researching Local Packaging Providers in Austin

One of the biggest mistakes businesses make is ordering from out-of-state suppliers without exploring local options. Austin has a thriving community of packaging companies that offer competitive pricing, faster delivery, and hands-on customer support.

By choosing a custom packaging supplier in Austin, you benefit from:

Local pickup or quicker shipping
Easier communication during the design and production process
Supporting the Austin business ecosystem

Pro Tip: Search for keywords like custom packaging Austin or packaging suppliers in Austin TX to find the best local options.

Mistake #2: Ignoring Material and Box Type Options

Not all packaging materials are created equal. Many businesses rush into ordering without understanding what type of box or material suits their product. This can lead to product damage, bad presentation, or higher costs.

Common packaging options include:

Corrugated boxes (ideal for shipping)
Kraft boxes (eco-friendly and budget-friendly)
Rigid boxes (luxury packaging for high-end items)

In Austin’s diverse business scene—from tech startups to local bakeries—choosing the right material matters. Our local climate, product types, and customer expectations should all influence your packaging choice.

Mistake #3: Overlooking Minimum Order Quantities (MOQs)

Startups and small businesses often don’t need large volumes of boxes. Unfortunately, many online packaging companies set high MOQs that force you to buy more than necessary.

At Packaging Ray in Austin, we offer flexible order quantities, perfect for local businesses who are testing the market or launching new products. You shouldn’t have to invest in 1,000+ boxes if you only need 200.

Mistake #4: Not Prioritizing Branding & Customization

Packaging is more than just a box—it’s an extension of your brand. Yet, too many Austin businesses settle for generic or plain packaging when ordering online.

Here’s why that’s a problem:

You lose the opportunity to create a memorable unboxing experience
You miss out on low-cost branding exposure
You reduce customer recall and loyalty

Instead, choose custom printed packaging that reflects your brand’s colors, logo, and values. Our clients in Austin have elevated their products using matte finishes, foil stamping, custom inserts, and even QR codes on the packaging.

Mistake #5: Forgetting to Check Turnaround Times and Shipping Costs

Many businesses assume online orders will arrive quickly. But shipping delays, especially from overseas or out-of-state vendors, can hold up your entire supply chain.

Ordering from a local Austin packaging company helps you:

Avoid unexpected shipping fees
Reduce wait times
Get immediate support if something goes wrong

We’ve helped several Austin-based businesses recover from delays caused by out-of-state vendors—and now they rely on our fast turnaround and dependable delivery.

Bonus Tip: Always Read Reviews from Austin-Based Clients

Before choosing a packaging supplier, check their Google reviews and testimonials, especially from clients in Austin. Look for feedback on:

Print quality
Customer service
Delivery times
Pricing transparency

We’re proud to be one of the top-rated custom packaging providers in Austin, with dozens of local businesses vouching for our reliability and quality.

Conclusion

Ordering custom packaging online shouldn’t be risky—but it can be if you don’t know what to watch out for. Avoiding these 5 common mistakes can save your Austin business time, money, and headaches.

Quick Recap:

✅ Work with a local Austin packaging expert
✅ Understand your material and box options
✅ Be mindful of minimum order quantities
✅ Don’t skip branding and design
✅ Always check delivery timelines and local reviews

Need Custom Packaging in Austin? We Can Help.

At Packaging Ray, we specialize in high-quality, custom-printed packaging for businesses across Austin, TX. Whether you need a small batch or large volume, we’re here to deliver premium boxes with fast turnaround and friendly local support.

📞 Call Now: (512) 333-2474
🌐 Visit Us: www.packagingray.com
📍 Location: Austin, TX – Local pickup and shipping available

Get in touch today for a free quote and packaging consultation.

5 Mistakes to Avoid When Ordering Custom Packaging Online