Custom Branded Packaging Design

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Startup Cost
$15,000-$75,000
Difficulty
Intermediate
Time to Profit
8-15 months
Profit Potential
$70,000-$320,000/year

Overview

Custom branded packaging businesses design and produce unique packaging that reflects brand identity for e-commerce and retail businesses.

With branded unboxing experiences critical for customer retention and packaging a $200B+ industry, custom packaging generates revenue of $110,000-$380,000 with 45-60% margins.

The business requires design software, equipment partnerships (printers, die cutters), sample materials, and industry connections.

Services include box design, tissue paper printing, stickers and labels, branded tape, insert cards, and full unboxing kits.

Pricing typically $1-$8 per unit depending on complexity.

Success factors include strong design skills, manufacturer relationships for production, understanding e-commerce trends, MOQ flexibility, and targeting growing DTC brands.

Most combine design services with production coordination.

Marketing focuses on Shopify app marketplace, e-commerce forums, and Instagram.

With branded packaging essential in 2025, this offers opportunities helping brands create memorable unboxing experiences.

Required Skills

  • Packaging design
  • Graphic design
  • Manufacturing coordination
  • Print production
  • E-commerce understanding
  • Brand strategy

Pros and Cons

Pros

  • High-margin design fees
  • Recurring orders
  • Growing e-commerce
  • Creative work
  • Scalable production

Cons

  • Manufacturing partnerships needed
  • MOQ requirements
  • Design skills required
  • Competition from overseas
  • Client acquisition costs

How to Get Started

  1. Develop design skills
  2. Build manufacturer network
  3. Create portfolio samples
  4. Target Shopify brands
  5. Offer MOQ flexibility
  6. Build design systems
  7. Market to DTC brands

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