If you’re running an e-commerce business for candles and want to make a long-lasting impression on your customers, then you would have to work on two things, packaging, and shipment, as they are the two factors that matter the most to delivering your product safely.
Regarding packaging, it’s just as important as the candle itself, and moreover, it also helps make the shipment secure and boosts your e-commerce business. In this guide, we will discover how to package & ship your candles step-by-step.
Why Shipping Candles Can Be a Hassle?
Although candles might seem sturdy and durable in nature, they need extra precautions when it comes to delivering them, as they can get somewhat damaged during transit if they are not packed properly.
And you can prevent that from happening if you work on your packaging. Candles can be packaged in custom boxes to provide a firm base, and inserts can help cushion your product against mechanical shocks.
To ensure your candles reach your customers without damage, you should purchase the proper materials for securely packaging them. If you have a high number of orders, it’s a wise idea to buy these materials in large quantities. Check out different stores because many are interested in selling to you.
Paper tubes and special boxes keep your candles safe while transported in larger boxes or containers. Corrugated shipping boxes are a great option for placing and shipping if your candles are made of tin or glass. If you’re sending pillar or small tea light candles, mailers are a suitable choice.
Ensure you have an ample supply of labels for attaching to the packages, along with a tool for holding and rolling tape. In the area where you pack the candles, it’s beneficial to have soft paper, small pieces made from cornstarch, and puffy air-filled bags to place around them for protection.
Choosing the Right Box Type
To make sure that your candle arrives in pristine condition, you have to be extra cautious when selecting the packaging material for your candle boxes. Despite the fact that candles can be packaged in a variety of different materials, the most effective one is corrugated cardboard.
Why Corrugated Cardboard?
To make secure shipping, your packaging would need to be sturdy enough to handle any mechanical shock that may occur in the process of transit. This is where corrugated candle packaging comes in, as they are best known for shipping products well.
Now that you have your box ready of corrugated material look for any empty space your box may have after placing the product and fill it with packing material(s) (e.g., crumpled newspaper)
How to Ship Candles Safely? (An Explained Guide)
Shipping candles doesn’t have to be a difficult task if you do your research ahead of time and follow a methodical approach.
Here are some of the steps that you should consider:.
- Register yourself with well-known courier companies, such as FedEx or DHL.
- Order-related supplies which may include
- Packaging materials (mailer boxes, product boxes, shipping packaging, box filler, paper tube packaging, etc.)
- Shipping labels
- Wrapping supplies (tissue paper, tape, stickers, stamps, etc.)
How to Pack Candles Properly?
Wrap each candle in at least 1 inch of protective material, such as paper or bubble wrap. If you’re sending multiple candles, use dividers to prevent them from bumping into each other.
Place the wrapped candles inside paper tubes or boxes to keep them safe from breaking. Ensure you seal the tubes or boxes with strong tape or stickers to keep them closed.
Select a box or envelope that snugly fits the wrapped candles. Fill any empty space with soft materials like tissue paper or biodegradable packing peanuts.
If you’re using a box, securely tape both ends with strong, eco-friendly packing tape. Avoid using masking tape or regular Scotch tape, as they won’t withstand the shipping process, and your candles might fall out.
Place your candle in your desired packaging, and fill the extra space with wrap paper, and if you are shipping multiple products use dividers as your box inserts and stack your product carefully.
Now securely seal your box with packaging tape on both ends of your box and if using mailer boxes, then apply packaging tape on its tuck to provide a firm grip and use the built-in adhesive to secure the package.
Note: Don’t use regular scotch tape or mask tape as they both have no chance to survive in the shipping process and will result in damaging your product.
Add Custom Notes
To provide an ultimate packaging and shipping experience, you can add custom notes for your customer, such as thank you notes to show that you care for them. This way, you will be able to deliver your product to your customers with care.
Additionally, you can personalize the package by adding a handwritten note. As a result, the customer would feel appreciated and will have a deeper connection.
Choose the best Courier
The next step is to pick the best courier service for your product. Choosing the courier service to ship your products would depend on their costs, how they would ship them, and how long it would take.
Once you’ve selected the courier service, you’ll proceed to the final step, which is below.
Apply Shipping Labels Clearly
After selecting the courier service, the last thing that is left to do is to print your shipping labels along with your brand name and paste them up on your packaging. Moreover, the courier company will also share a tracking number of your order; make a copy of that and attach it to your package, and share that number with your customer so they can loop in with the status of their order.
Calculate Shipping Costs
Lastly, make sure to calculate the shipping expenses for your candles. The cost may vary depending on your chosen shipping method, the candles’ weight, and the distance they need to travel. For an accurate estimate, use an online shipping calculator.
Keep in mind that different shipping services have different charges, and sending candles may involve additional fees. You can consider flat-rate shipping options offered by companies like FedEx, USPS, and UPS. The estimated minimum cost for shipping candles is approximately $46.34, while the most cost-effective choice is $68.23.
With careful planning, you can ship your candles safely without overspending. By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your customers receive their candles in excellent condition
