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10 Seasonal Packaging Facts

By

Caitlyn Sims

Peak season isn’t just about what’s inside the box, it’s about the packaging that gets it there safely and makes it look amazing. For businesses, packaging is a branding powerhouse and a sustainability challenge.
Here are 10 seasonal packaging facts that unwrap the story behind the commercial packaging during the busiest time of the year. 

1.Peak Season = Peak in Packaging

December is the busiest month for packaging n the UK, with over 400 million parcels shipped. This surge puts immense pressure on supply chains, couriers, and packaging suppliers. Businesses that plan early as July, avoid shortages, delays and inflated costs. Packaging isn’t just a necessity, it’s a strategic advantage during peak season

 

2. Boxes Rule Season Shipping

Corrugated boxes are the unsung heroes of festive logistics. They’re strong, lightweight, and recyclable, making them ideal protecting products during transit. For eCommerce brands, the right box size and strength can reduce damage rates, cut shipping costs, and improve customer satisfaction. Choosing quality boxes isn’t just practical, it’s a brand investment.

E-Tape Premium Packaging Tape Paper Tape

 

3. Tape Trouble

The UK uses 40 million rolls of tape every December, most of which ends up in landfill. Businesses can lead the way by switching to paper tape or self-sealing boxes, reducing waste while improving efficiency. Sustainable tape options also align with growing consumer demand for eco-friendly packaging, a small change with a big impact.

4. The Unboxing Effect

Unboxing has evolved into a powerful marketing tool that integrates both influencer trends and customer engagement. Branded packaging not only protects products but also creates excitement and motivates customers to share their experiences online, making packaging an essential part of the overall product journey. By delivering impressive, well-branded packaging, businesses can foster trust , inspire loyalty and encourage repeat purchases, seamlessly blending functional and emotional aspects of the customer experience. 

5. Delivery Surge = Packaging Surge

Peak season doesn’t just mean more parcels, it means tight delivery windows, courier capacity limits, and in creased risk of delays. Packaging plays a critical role in keeping operations smooth: durable materials, efficient packaging processes, and smart design help businesses meet deadlines and protect products during the peak season rush. 

6. Sustainability Sells

Eco-friendly packaging is now considered a standard practice. Consumers actively seek brands that use recyclable, compostable, or FSC-certified materials. Sustainable packaging not only reduces environmental impact but also strengthens brand reputation. In fact, green credentials can be a deciding factor for holiday shoppers choosing between competitors.

7. Right-Sizing Matters

Oversized boxes waste space, increase shipping costs, and raise the risk of damage during transit. Custom-sized packaging optimizes efficiency, reduces material use, and lowers carbon footprint. For businesses, right-sizing is a win-win: better protection for products and significant cost savings.

8. Protective Packaging Matters

It’s not just about boxes. Void fill, bubble wrap, and paper cushioning are essential for preventing damage during peak season. Damaged goods lead to returns, refunds, and unhappy customers. Investing in protective packaging ensures products arrive in perfect condition, safeguarding both revenue and reputation.

9. Returns = Double Packaging

January sees a surge in returns, creating extra packaging demand. Smart brands plan for reverse logistics by using resealable and reusable packaging, which simplifies the return process and reduces waste. A smooth return experience can turn a potential negative into a positive customer interaction.

10. Enough Wrapping Paper to Circle the Earth

Every December, the UK uses 227,000 miles of wrapping paper. That’s enough to wrap around the Earth nine times!

For businesses, it’s a reminder of how critical packaging is during peak season, not just for aesthetics, but for logistics, protection, and customer experience.

Wrap It Up!

Seasonal packaging is more than ribbons and bows—it’s a business strategy. From sustainability to branding, every detail counts.

Plan early for seasonal demand

Make packaging part of your brand story

Offer eco-friendly options

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