One problem that many have is they’ll get packages, only to discover they’re hard to open, complicated, and well, frustrating to deal with. Many customers want something that they can open up, without too much trouble.

Here, we’ll talk about the problem with over-complicated packaging, and how by reducing the frustration, it will improve the overall experience for everyone involved. 

Hard to Open Packages are  a problem in accessibility 

With packages that are hard to open, you’re alienating a subset of your customers  since if it’s too complicated to open, they won’t want to buy it.

Accessibility is really important these days. Obviously, you want good security when creating and shipping out packages, but you also want it to be easy enough that even the average person can open it.

Over-complicated packages might seem like a good idea at the time, but when you make it so hard that the average person can’t get it open without using scissors or a knife, that’s a problem. Not to mention, if they have to do that, it does put them at risk for injury.

Overall, it’s a big problem, but if you make the packaging easy to open, not too complicated, and reflects your brand and personality, people will love it. 

Ways to Make Packaging Easier to open 

The best way to do this, is to not overwrap your packaging in a bunch of tape. That’s a recipe for disaster. If you have to do that, consider changing the box and getting one that will accommodate the packaging so that it’s safe and secure. 

Corrugated cardboard boxes are one of your best options for easy to open packaging that really shines.

Another thing to consider, is guided edges that help the customer tear open packages. It might seem too simple, but if you think about it, it’s pretty easy to work with. The guided edges give customers something to follow.

For poly bags, you can add a perforated area for them to open up. 

Finally, also consider the tape that you use. Plastic tape is a bit cumbersome to work in, and it can be a huge problem for many businesses. A solution to this is water-activated tape.   It is tamper-evident, and also works well with opening. Overall, you want to make the packaging simple to open, without sacrificing the branding or the identity of such.

How to Create Intuitive Designs 

Intuitive designs for this kind of packaging require you to think outside the box, no pun intended.   Look at your current packaging and see if there are ways that you can adjust the packaging so that it’s easier to open.

If you have a certain audience, consider asking them about this. Many times, the feedback from customers is what will impact your packaging, and make it useful for you.

Overall, if you improve the packaging to make it easier for everyone, it builds a more inclusive experience. While at first making packing easier to open seems like a small thing, with time, it can grow to become something more profundo and impactful, and better for your business as well. 

So, if you’re not sure on whether or not your packaging is making an impact, consider how other people open it. if you’re giving them something that they can utilize, and something that will help with engagement of customers, then you’re doing something great. Making things accessible and inclusive should be the goal of packaging, and something to consider if you want to really heighten the overall experience for every customer that buys from your company as well.