Packaging is the New Marketing: Dylan Jahraus on Leveling Up Your Etsy Vibe

When it comes to running a successful Etsy business, many sellers focus on creating great products but overlook an essential detail: packaging.

In a recent episode of the Etsy Seller Success podcast, the conversation centered around how custom packaging can elevate a brand, improve the customer experience, and help small businesses stand out. If you’re an Etsy seller looking to create a more premium feel and boost your brand identity, this article breaks down the key takeaways from the discussion.

Prefer to listen instead of read? Listen to the full episode here. 

Why Packaging Matters for Your Etsy Shop

In the ecommerce world, packaging is more than just a shipping box—it’s often the first physical touchpoint your customer has with your brand. While brick-and-mortar shops use decor, music, and atmosphere to create a memorable experience, online sellers have just one chance: the unboxing moment.

Custom packaging can:

• Reinforce your brand identity
• Encourage repeat purchases
• Generate user-generated content (like unboxing videos)
• Create a sense of professionalism and care

Even the smallest design choices—like custom tape, tissue paper, or logo placement—can make your product feel more premium and intentional.

Affordable Ways to Start Custom Packaging

You don’t need to order thousands of boxes or spend a fortune to upgrade your packaging. There are now more accessible and budget-friendly options for small sellers. Here are a few ideas:

• Start Small: Many packaging companies now offer low minimums (as low as 12 boxes) so you can test your packaging without overstocking.
• Try $1 Samples: Some suppliers offer pre-printed or blank samples for just $1 to help you test box sizes and quality.
• Use Custom Tape: Branded tape can elevate a plain box at a much lower cost.
  Explore Logo Boxes: These are pre-designed templates that let you upload a logo and choose brand colors, offering a simpler and more affordable alternative to full custom print.

Tip: Combine plain boxes with custom tape or labels to achieve a branded look on a budget.

Avoid These Common Packaging Mistakes

When designing your packaging, there are a few pitfalls to watch out for:

1. Treating Packaging as Just a Shipping Tool
   Your packaging is a marketing opportunity. Use it to make an emotional impact and encourage sharing on social media.
2. Being Too Specific with Box Sizes
   Instead of choosing a box that fits your product exactly, look at standard sizes. These are usually more affordable and easier to source. Add filler (like crinkle paper) to ensure products fit securely.
3. Overordering Without Testing
   Always start with samples before placing a full order. This ensures your design and colors appear as expected and gives you time to make adjustments.

Inside vs. Outside Design: What Works Best?

While most sellers focus on the outside of the box, printing on the inside has become a smart strategy for several reasons:

• Security: A plain exterior keeps expensive items discreet and helps prevent porch theft.
• Unboxing Experience: A branded interior with messages, coupons, or calls to action (like “Share your unboxing!”) enhances the customer experience.
• Brand Storytelling: Use the inside of the box to communicate your mission or thank customers directly.

Consider your product type and audience when deciding where to place your branding. In some cases, simple on the outside and detailed on the inside is the perfect balance.

2025 Packaging Trends You Should Know

Looking ahead, a few packaging trends are gaining traction:

• Seasonal Limited Editions: Special box designs for holidays or events (like Mother’s Day or Christmas) create excitement and drive urgency.
• Sustainable Materials: More customers care about eco-friendly packaging. Paper-based fillers like crinkle paper or tissue are replacing plastic-based options.
• Monochrome + Minimalist Designs: Simple designs with strong brand colors and logos are trending across ecommerce platforms.
• Custom Interiors: As mentioned, printing on the inside of the box is becoming more popular as brands prioritize a thoughtful unboxing experience.

Filler Options That Enhance the Customer Experience

The right filler protects your products and adds to your presentation. Here are some top options for 2025:

• Crinkle Paper: Eco-friendly, elegant, and available in neutral tones like black, white, or kraft.
• Tissue Paper: Great for layering and wrapping. Adds a soft, premium feel.
• Avoid: Styrofoam peanuts or excessive plastic air pillows. These not only harm the environment but also create messy, unpleasant unboxing moments.

The best fillers are recyclable, lightweight, and brand-consistent.

What to Expect in Terms of Pricing

Packaging costs will vary depending on box size, print method, and quantity. As a general reference:

• A medium-sized custom box (about 8″ x 6″ x 3″) with full outside and inside print may cost around $2.50 per unit at low quantities.
• Single-sided print (outside only) is usually cheaper, around $1.60 per unit.
• Using standard sizes and simplified designs can help reduce costs.

If you’re unsure, start with a custom proof to preview your design before placing a full order.

Packaging as a Growth Strategy

Custom packaging is no longer a luxury—it’s a smart way to build your brand and deliver an experience that keeps customers coming back.

Whether you’re just starting your Etsy shop or ready to level up your packaging game, now is the perfect time to explore what custom options can do for your business.

To learn more about Etsy marketing tips, check out Etsy Seller Success podcast.

And don’t forget to follow Dylan on Instagram for more tips and behind-the-scenes seller strategies!