In the world of candles, where scent, shape, and look take center stage in attracting customers, there is also a silent hero that also deserves some spotlight. We are talking about candle packaging. It is more than just a box and functions as a critical element in enhancing customer experience. While the design and material of Custom Candle Boxes mostly steal the show, there is another key factor that is often overlooked, which is size. Simply put, it matters a lot. If the size is not correctly measured, it can lead to faulty packaging, which will result in a poor unboxing experience and extra costs in shipping.
In order to create catchy candle packaging, you need to understand and apply correct box measurements at each stage of the process. If you do not know how to take them, this blog is for you. In this guide, we will cover essential tips for accurate sizing, dimensions, and factors that impact packaging choices for different types of candles.
How to Get the Perfect Candle Packaging Size for Your Brand?
Candle Dimensions
In a packaging process, the first thing that matters is understanding the product itself. As you will be designing the custom candle boxes, it is important to know the size of the candle. To do that, first of all, you will get the width of the candle by measuring the widest part of your candle. To get the accurate height, take the measurements from the base to the starting point of your product.
Some candles come in jars and containers. For the right packaging, you will have to get their sizes too. You must accurately take measurements of the bottom of the jar and the height of the lid. This matters because it ensures that the candle does not scrape or get stuck during shipping and unpacking.
Here is one more thing that you must consider during the candle packaging process. We all know that candles come in various shapes and styles. The popular shapes are hexagonal, spherical, rectangular, square, and so on. So, to pack them correctly, you will need to measure their width, height, and any protruding details. This will make sure that the product fits right without getting crushed or posing any damage to its details.
Packaging Dimensions
In designing candle packaging, the next step after candle dimensions is packaging box size. It is the point where functionality meets form, as your box will not only fit the candle but also protect it. There are two types of packaging, namely internal and external. The internal packaging that will hold the candle in the box must be a snug fit as it reduces the damage risk during shipping or handling. On the other hand, a loose fit will cause the candle to move and break.
As far as the external packaging is concerned, it is the outer box that protects the internal packaging. To calculate its dimensions, add up the measurements of the internal packaging and the branding material, if any. However, if your candle is part of a gift set or comes with multiple components, you’ll need additional space or custom dividers. Lastly, the thickness of the packaging material is of special concern. It becomes important when you are designing luxury or rigid packaging to present your candles. Normally, rigid boxes have 2-3 mm thickness that makes up the external wall of your package. It impacts both durability and interior space.
Inserts and Cushions Dimensions
Candles are delicate items and become heavy when housed in glass or tin jars. Therefore, brands put inserts to limit their movement, which helps prevent their breakage. Common types of inserts include cardboard dividers, molded pulp trays, foam, and crinkled paper or shredded fill. So, when a brand is designing its candle packaging, it must keep in mind to take their measurements too.
Inserts have a thickness that consumes the space. So it is necessary to take their sizes too to get a perfect packaging. If you are using soft fill, check for its compressibility factor. Lastly, if you wish to use foam as an insert, then you might need to add 3-5 mm clearance between the product and box walls for secure packaging.
Moreover, brands need to be conscious of another important thing, which is aligning the height of the insert with that of the candle. If you are designing your candle box in a way that it will open from the top, then your cushion’s height should match with the candle’s base and lid. This is done so that there is no room for bulges and damaged candles.
Box Types and Closures
Packaging boxes are of various types. Their designs need different packaging, so it is better to measure each one. The reason is simple: it affects how you measure and plan your die line. Different styles and closures may demand less or more space. For example, if you use hinged lids for your candles, you will need to add more height or depth to your packaging to secure them. Slide candle boxes need extra internal clearance to allow smooth sliding.
If a brand leads in luxury candles, it might use magnetic closure boxes. These boxes often have added thickness and need room to pack them nicely. However, if you use tuck-top boxes for the candles, you might need to add a few millimeters to the height for flap folding. So, when you are planning your box layout, remember to add extra room for glue flaps, folds, and creases if your boxes are made of thicker material or have structural designs in them.
Transport and Shipping Factors
In taking the right packaging size for the candles, there are two more factors that must be considered: transport and shipping. If you are sending your candle packaging directly to customers, you need to think about shipping. Make sure your packaging has enough padding to protect it from drops. Use stronger materials or edges so the boxes can handle stacking. Also, keep the size and weight of the box small. Shipping companies charge more for big or heavy boxes, so smaller ones help save money. Some brands even make two types of packaging—one for store display that looks nice and another for shipping that is tougher and safer.
Sizing and Die line
Once you have considered shipping factors and found ways to secure your candles during transport, the next step is to decide on the die line. You can even make it after taking all the box measurements. A die line is a flat layout that shows where the box will fold, where it will be cut, and how big it will be. Most packaging suppliers can give you one, or a designer can help make it. Your die line should include inside and outside box sizes, cut and fold lines, print areas, and safety margins (usually 3mm). To be sure it fits well, print the die line on paper or cardboard. Then, wrap it around your candle to check for any problems before making the final packaging.
Final Testing
After you have finalized the measurement process and are ready to order a large number of boxes, ask your packaging supplier for a sample. This is called a prototype. Use it to see if your candle fits well inside. Make sure the box is strong and works the way you want. These small details can make a big impact and might save you a lot of money later.
Wrap Up
The right packaging is the road to success for any brand. Whether you are a small candle brand or looking to scale up your image, take your time to measure the packaging size keenly. Overall, packaging plays a key role in shaping your product’s experience in the eyes of the customers. So, if you take the right measurements of your custom candle boxes, it will ensure your candle arrives safely and delight customers. Want help in determining the right size for your other boxes, like Custom Soap Boxes? Reach out to Packaging Mania and let its experts make your product’s packaging stand out.
