As an SEO company, we work extensively with consumer brands and e-commerce businesses. Recently, one of our clients was looking for reliable and affordable packaging companies for their cosmetic line startup. We wanted to help, so we took it upon ourselves to do research and find the best packaging companies for their specific needs.
We scoured the web, compiling a list of packaging companies and evaluating them based on specific criteria (we’ll talk about how we evaluated them further in the article) to narrow it down to a top 10 list. This curated list was then shared with our client to guide their next steps, including further investigation, calls, and meetings with these packaging brands.
While this research was initially for one client, we realized it could be valuable to many others in the e-commerce space. To ensure our efforts don’t go to waste, we decided to publish our findings as an article. We hope this curated and pre-vetted list of packaging companies will help ease the research process for our current and future e-commerce clients.
Let’s take a look at our process, the companies we explored, and the insights we gathered along the way.
Best Packaging Companies List
Arka
Packlane
EcoEnclose
Packhelp
PakFactory
PackM
UPrinting
Elite Custom Boxes
PrintPlace
PackagingBlue
Criteria for Evaluating the Best Packaging Companies
Our client wanted to order packaging that could be customized to match their brand with unique colors, finishes, and sustainable packaging materials.
We ordered free or affordable samples to find out this more quickly. This practical idea helped us check the quality, design and durability each company offers without the pressure of losing huge investment.
So here are the findings that we share in this guide to help brands choose the best packaging partner based on real-world experience.
Each packaging company had to have:
Premium packaging materials to ensure product protection during shipment.
Customization options to allow businesses to incorporate details such as brand colors and beautiful finishing on the custom packages.
Sustainable approaches such as using recycled or biodegradable materials.
MOQ (Minimum Order Quantity) to allow brands to accommodate large orders when sourcing from packaging companies.
Quick lead time and production speed to deal with rapidly evolving products.
Free or affordable samples to test out companies' product packaging without spending much money upfront.
Advanced printing and designing capabilities such as foil stamping or embossing to create top-notch and creative packaging designs.
Top-notch customer service to help navigate the processes quickly and productively.
Notable clients and experience in different fields to have a profound understanding of packaging requirements.
Transparent pricing to get in contact easily and start the cooperation quickly.
Arka became our best option considering all the alternatives, as it guarantees quality, eco-friendly choices, and top-notch customization. They offer durable, high-quality packaging materials with flexible design through an intuitive 3D design tool in an easy-to-use format.
With FSC-certified and compostable options, their sustainability aligns perfectly with the values we look for. Arka’s MOQ is accessible to small businesses and bigger orders, offering free samples to first-time customers.
They also have excellent customer support; with premium product quality and pricing transparency, they are unbeatable for custom boxes.
Quality of Materials: Arka impressed us with the strength of its packaging materials, especially its 32 ECT-rated custom mailer boxes, which can support up to 30-40 pounds, ensuring product safety during transit.
Customization Options: Arka’s top-level 3D design studio allows full customization, from box dimensions to packaging colors and branding. Just upload your artwork and use their online design tools to create your desired packaging.
Sustainability: Arka focuses on eco-friendly packaging, from FSC-certified materials to compostable options for environmentally conscious brands.
Minimum Order Quantity (MOQ): the company offers orders of various sizes, from single-unit samples to large quantities, perfect for startups and established companies.
Lead Time and Production Speed: Arka offers a standard production time of 12-15 business days, with expedited options for quicker turnaround.
Sample Policy: you can order free samples to check the material quality and customization options before placing a bulk order; the process is really quick.
Advanced Printing and Design Capabilities: Their full-color CMYK digital printing, at no additional cost, provided vibrant, detailed designs on both sides of the packaging.
Customer Support: Their customer service responses were excellent. They provided design support within 48 hours of artwork submission and instilled confidence in the final product before production.
Client Portfolio: Arka has served a diverse clientele, from small businesses to major brands like Google, L’oreal, Mattel, Yelp, Verma Farms, and Pyra Beauty, demonstrating their capacity to meet varied packaging needs.
Transparent Pricing: Arka offers no hidden charges, allowing you to manage your packaging budget effectively.
Why Brands Choose Arka
Bottom Line: What Makes Them Special
Arka impresses with eco-friendly, high-quality materials and easy customization, fitting small and large orders. Their transparent pricing, responsive support, and low MOQ set them apart.
Packlane impressed with its seamless customization process and accessibility for small orders, as it has no MOQ requirement. Its Econoflex box is made from 100% recycled materials, meeting eco-friendly standards. Packlane’s free sample kit allows the previewing of different material types to check the quality; it also includes 1 Shipper (the Kraft box the kit is shipped in), 1 Mailer (the Classic White box containing swatches), and 1 Product Box (the small Paperboard box inside of the Mailer).
Quality of Materials: Packlane offers durable corrugated boxes in kraft and matte white finishes to protect fragile items like cosmetics.
Customization Options: Their 3D design tool enables complete customization, allowing you to adjust everything from color to logo placement. Creating brand-specific designs was straightforward.
Sustainability: Packlane’s 100% recycled Econoflex boxes cater to eco-conscious brands aiming to reduce environmental impact through recyclable packaging.
Minimum Order Quantity (MOQ): they don’t require an MOQ, which makes it ideal for small brands or one-time projects. They also offer bulk discounts for larger orders, making costs more manageable.
Lead Time and Production Speed: Packlane accommodates different production schedules with a standard lead time of 7-12 business days and expedited options.
Sample Policy: Their sample kit includes swatches of various materials and printed samples, offering a quality preview before placing a bulk order.
Advanced Printing and Design Capabilities: Packlane’s high-definition CMYK digital printing provides rich color saturation and a semi-gloss HDPrint Satin finish, delivering a professional look.
Customer Support: Support is available through a request form, detailed design guides, and live online support for quick customer requests.
Client Portfolio: Packlane’s versatility serves different industries, from e-commerce and subscription boxes to retail, demonstrating adaptability for diverse packaging needs.
Transparent Pricing: Pricing updates in real-time with each customization, offering a clear and upfront view of costs. Bulk orders benefit from volume pricing with significant discounts.
Why Brands Choose Packlane
Bottom Line: What Makes Them Special
Packlane’s no MOQ policy, eco-friendly Econoflex box, and easy to use 3D design tool make it accessible for startups and flexible for customization. Real-time pricing updates provide immediate cost visibility.
EcoEnclose is one of the best formidable competitors for eco-friendly custom packaging. With a solid commitment to sustainability, they stand out as an excellent choice for brands focused on minimizing environmental impact.
Quality of Materials: EcoEnclose uses solid and eco-conscious materials, including 100% recycled paper and recyclable poly mailers, designed to handle shipping demands while remaining environmentally responsible.
Customization Options: They offer extensive customization options, allowing brands to add logos, colors, and text to packaging, from boxes to tissue paper, using algae-based inks and low-VOC printing for an eco-friendly finish.
Sustainability: they use recycled content, biodegradable options, and FSC-certified paper.
Minimum Order Quantity (MOQ): EcoEnclose's low MOQ, starting at 100 units, makes eco-friendly packaging accessible to smaller businesses.
Production Speed/Lead Time: Lead times for branded products average 8–10 business days after approval, though bulk or specialized items may require additional time.
Sample Policy: They offer a complete sample kit, including all the essential products and other free samples of stock products. This allows brands to test quality and fit before committing to a full order.
Advanced Printing and Design Capabilities: EcoEnclose offers sustainable printing methods using algae inks, producing vibrant, eco-friendly designs that align with brand values.
Customer Support: Their dedicated support includes consultations on sustainability, helping brands select eco-friendly materials that best suit their product needs.
Client Portfolio: EcoEnclose has collaborated with brands like Fjallraven and Scentbird.
Transparent Pricing: Their clear, upfront pricing eliminates hidden fees, making budget management straightforward and cost projections easier.
Why Brands Choose EcoEnclose
Bottom Line: What Makes Them Special
EcoEnclose is ideal for eco-conscious brands. It offers durable, 100% recycled materials and biodegradable options. Its focus on sustainability, low MOQ, and strong customer support make it a top contender.
Packhelp is a user-friendly platform for sustainable, customizable packaging, especially for e-commerce and retail. Their strong commitment to environmental responsibility supports brands focused on premium quality and sustainability.
Quality of Materials: they offer premium materials like corrugated cardboard and eco-friendly options, such as recycled and compostable materials. Their Plain Shipping Box, made from 100% recyclable cardboard, is ideal for heavy items.
Customization Options: Their 3D editor makes it simple to design packaging, allowing you to add logos, colors, and text to boxes, poly mailers, and paper bags. You can start from scratch or use their templates.
Sustainability: Packhelp’s eco-focus stood out. Their packaging is manufactured locally within the EU to minimize carbon footprints, and they offer certified products (FSC, Blue Angel) that promote responsible sourcing.
Minimum Order Quantity (MOQ): Some products have a low MOQ of 30 units, making Packhelp ideal for testing designs and scaling up.
Lead Time and Production Speed: Their standard lead time is 10–14 business days, but they offer expedited options for when you need faster turnaround times.
Sample Policy: Packhelp provides physical samples for select products to check the material and design quality firsthand before committing to a larger order. You can select up to 8 samples for €5 and test different types of packaging, materials, sizes, and prints.
Advanced Printing and Design Capabilities: They offer full-color printing, Pantone color matching, and water-based inks.
Customer Support: Their responsive customer support makes the design and ordering process smooth, and their team is available for any questions.
Client Portfolio: With clients like H&M and Djuce, Packhelp has experience supporting many brands, from startups to large enterprises.
Transparent Pricing: The real-time pricing updates during customization give clear visibility on costs, and their competitive discounts for high-volume orders help manage your budget better.
Why Brands Choose Packhelp
Bottom Line: What Makes Them Special
Packhelp’s low MOQ, easy customization tool, and eco-conscious materials make it great for smaller brands. Its locally manufactured packaging minimizes environmental impact, aligning well with sustainable brand values.
PakFactory impressed us with its focus on highly customizable, luxury packaging, ideal for high-end sectors. Their commitment to premium materials and advanced design options are truly eye-catching.
Quality of Materials: PakFactory offers an impressive range of premium materials, from recycled paperboard to rigid boxes with custom inserts, perfect for protecting fragile items like cosmetics.
Customization Options: They offer extensive customization, including options for custom inserts, luxurious finishes, and unique structures, including foldable, magnetic, and book-style boxes. This makes them well-suited for premium packaging.
Sustainability: PakFactory offers eco-friendly materials, like recycled chipboard and FSC-certified paper, which aligns with brands focused on green initiatives and sustainable packaging options.
Minimum Order Quantity (MOQ): With a higher MOQ of around 500 units, PakFactory is more suitable for medium to large businesses, making it a good fit for bulk orders.
Lead Time and Production Speed: Their standard production time is around 15–20 business days, with expedited options depending on the complexity of the customization.
Sample Policy: They offer sample options, including prototypes for intricate designs. To request samples, you should contact their dedicated product specialists.
Advanced Printing and Design Capabilities: PakFactory provides high-quality printing options like foil stamping, UV coating, and embossing, more specifically, eco-friendly printing options, like soy and water-based inks.
Customer Support: Their hands-on approach to customer support stood out. They assign a dedicated packaging specialist to each project, which makes the design and production process smooth.
Client Portfolio: PakFactory’s experience spans major brands across cosmetics, food, and retail, proving their expertise in managing diverse packaging needs.
Transparent Pricing: They offer detailed, custom quotes based on order complexity, with clear pricing breakdowns, so I had complete visibility into costs.
Why Brands Choose PakFactory
Bottom Line: What Makes Them Special
PakFactory excels in luxury packaging, using high-end materials and advanced customization, such as foil stamping. Its high-quality finishes and hands-on customer support for premium product needs.
PackM offers flexibility with custom packaging solutions and low minimum order quantities, making it an excellent choice for businesses of all sizes, especially those committed to sustainability.
Quality of Materials: PackM uses durable materials like corrugated cardboard and kraft paper.
Customization Options: Their online design tool makes it easy to add logos, colors, and text with custom sizing options.
Sustainability: PackM has eco-friendly options with FSC-certified materials, recycled content, and recyclable products.
Minimum Order Quantity (MOQ): They offer low MOQ, starting with just one unit, which is perfect for testing designs or small-batch orders.
Lead Time and Production Speed: Their production times range from 10 to 20 business days, with faster options available.
Sample Policy: you can order single items as samples to check the quality and fit firsthand before placing a larger order.
Advanced Printing and Design Capabilities: they offer full-color CMYK printing and custom finishes like gloss and matte.
Customer Support: They have a responsive support team guiding the design and ordering process.
Client Portfolio: they have worked with brands like Crispbay, Whipped Bath, Cheri.
Transparent Pricing: they have real-time pricing updates, it helps manage costs effectively and stay within budget.
Why Brands Choose PackM
Bottom Line: What Makes Them Special
PackM’s low minimums, eco-friendly materials, and responsive customer support make it a great choice for brands looking to create flexible and sustainable custom packaging.
UPrinting stood out with different custom packaging options, including boxes, poly mailers, and eco-friendly cardstock. They are well-suited for branding across e-commerce and retail channels.
Quality of Materials: UPrinting uses premium materials like corrugated cardboard and high-quality paperboard, as well as sustainable and recyclable choices.
Customization Options: Their online custom product builder helps personalize everything from size and material to colors and branding details. Features like embossing, foil stamping, and specialty coatings give the packaging a premium feel.
Sustainability: UPrinting offers recycled and FSC-certified materials.
Minimum Order Quantity (MOQ): They offer flexible MOQ with orders starting from a single unit.
Lead Time and Production Speed: Their standard production time is 3-10 business days, with expedited options.
Sample Policy: UPrinting offers free sample kit options to test quality and design before placing a bulk order.
Advanced Printing and Design Capabilities: They offer full-color CMYK printing, Pantone matching, and specialty finishes.
Customer Support: UPrinting’s support team is available by phone, chat, and email. They can help with design and technical questions and make the process smoother.
Client Portfolio: UPrinting worked with reputable brands across various industries like Allie Rose Co. and Pomodo Shrub Company,
Transparent Pricing: Their straightforward pricing model has no hidden fees, which allows users to see real-time cost updates.
Why Brands Choose UPrinting
Bottom Line: What Makes Them Special
UPrinting offers a range of customization options, fast production times, and eco-friendly materials, which are ideal for brands seeking durable, premium packaging with transparent pricing and responsive support.
Elite Custom Boxes (ECB) caught our attention with their highly customizable cosmetic packaging, emphasizing quality, durability, and specialized finishes.
Quality of Materials: ECB uses sturdy, premium-grade materials, like kraft and rigid boxes.
Customization Options: They offer embossing, debossing, and foil stamping options. You can also fully customize shapes, colors, inserts, and closures.
Sustainability: they offer biodegradable and recyclable options for environmentally conscious packaging.
Minimum Order Quantity (MOQ): ECB offers low MOQ options, making custom packaging accessible for small brands or new product lines.
Lead Time and Production Speed: they offer a standard production time of 10–15 days and rush options available.
Sample Policy: ECB provides samples on request, with a Random Sample package starting from $25+.
Advanced Printing and Design Capabilities: They offer a range of printing options, including Pantone matching and specialty finishes.
Customer Support: ECB has attentive customer support, guiding you through design and material choices with responsive and helpful communication.
Client Portfolio: they have versatile client base that includes beauty, cosmetics, and retail brands.
Transparent Pricing: Their straightforward pricing model, with detailed custom quotes, helps understand costs upfront without surprises.
Why Brands Choose Elite Custom Boxes
Bottom Line: What Makes Them Special
Elite Custom Boxes specializes in premium-grade materials and luxurious custom finishes. Their low MOQ, eco-friendly options, and attentive customer support make them a strong choice for high-quality cosmetic packaging.
PrintPlace appealed to us with their flexible custom packaging options, premium materials, and fast turnaround, making it a strong choice for different industries, including cosmetics.
Quality of Materials: PrintPlace uses high-quality cardstock and recyclable paperboard.
Customization Options: Their customization features include multiple coatings and finishes like matte, gloss, embossing, and foil stamping.
Sustainability: PrintPlace offers eco-friendly options, like recyclable and biodegradable materials.
Minimum Order Quantity (MOQ): They have flexible MOQ orders as small as one sample unit, it is ideal for testing and small-batch orders.
Lead Time and Production Speed: PrintPlace’s quick turnaround is 3–7 days, with expedited options available.
Sample Policy: You can order single-unit samples at a low cost to evaluate design and material quality before committing to a larger order.
Advanced Printing and Design Capabilities: PrintPlace supports vibrant, high-quality designs with full-color CMYK and specialty finishes.
Customer Support: Their responsive support team is available through phone, chat, and email.
Client Portfolio: PrintPlace has worked with Britax Child Safety, Holmes on the Range Creative, and Weber School District.
Transparent Pricing: they have upfront pricing, which updates in real time with customizations.
Why Brands Choose PrintPlace
Bottom Line: What Makes Them Special
PrintPlace’s fast turnaround, premium materials, and flexible MOQ make it a top choice for quick, custom packaging. Their real-time pricing updates and eco-friendly options add further appeal.
PackagingBlue stood out with its free sample kits, flexible customization options, and eco-friendly materials, making it an ideal choice for custom packaging, especially cosmetics.
Quality of Materials: PackagingBlue uses durable, premium materials, like eco-friendly cardboard and corrugated options.
Customization Options: They offer customization options for colors, inserts, and finishes like gloss and matte coatings.
Sustainability: PackagingBlue is committed to sustainability and uses biodegradable and recyclable materials.
Minimum Order Quantity (MOQ): They offer no minimum quantity and order size,
Lead Time and Production Speed: their standard production time is 10-14 business days and expedited options.
Sample Policy: they offer free sample kits, letting you assess material quality and design details before committing to a larger order.
Advanced Printing and Design Capabilities: Their CMYK and Pantone color options, along with specialty finishes, ensured high-quality, professional packaging.
Customer Support: PackagingBlue’s responsive customer service guides you through design and ordering, making the process smooth.
Client Portfolio: They have worked with many large and small businesses in cosmetics, retail, and e-commerce.
Transparent Pricing: They have a clear pricing structure with detailed breakdowns for custom orders.
Why Brands Choose PackagingBlue
Bottom Line: What Makes Them Special:
PackagingBlue’s free sample kits, eco-friendly materials, and extensive customization options make them an ideal choice for cosmetics. Their transparent pricing and helpful customer support ensure a smooth process from start to finish.
The Future of Packaging: Trends to Watch in 2024
As we look at packaging trends, we’re excited to see how businesses can elevate the experience for their customers while staying committed to sustainability. Here are the top three trends that stood out this year:
Eco-Friendly and Sustainable Materials: Sustainability isn’t just a buzzword; it’s a priority. Many brands are committed to choosing recyclable, biodegradable, and compostable packaging options to reduce our environmental footprint.
Smart and Interactive Packaging: I’m all about creating a richer connection with the customers, and smart packaging makes this possible. Adding QR codes or NFC tags allows instant access to ingredient insights, sourcing stories, and exclusive beauty tutorials. This transparency builds trust and gives customers a more interactive experience with each product.
Minimalist and Customizable Designs: When it comes to packaging, nowadays, less is more. The simplicity of minimalist packaging designs lets the product take center stage. Customization options, like colors or finishes, add a unique touch, making each item a personal beauty statement that reflects the brand’s distinct style.
Final Thoughts
Each company brought something unique to the table, and the affordable or free samples allowed us to make an informed decision that best aligns with our client’s brand values and packaging needs.
Arka stood out by balancing all criteria, providing free samples, and maintaining flexibility in MOQs. For brands searching for reliable, premium, and sustainable top packaging companies, Arka is an excellent choice.
For anyone looking to find the best custom packaging, we highly recommend starting with free or affordable samples to get a tangible feel for each company’s offerings. It’s a small step that can make a huge difference in achieving your brand's right look, quality, and sustainability.
FAQs on Top Packaging Companies in The World
What certifications should I look for in a top packaging company?
Search for certifications such as ISO 9001 (quality), ISO 14001 (environmental), and HACCP or GMP for food/pharmaceutical packaging. These standards guarantee safety, quality, and environmentally friendly practices during production.
What materials are typically used by the best packaging companies?
Top packaging companies use cardboard, biodegradable plastics, recycled paper, and plant-based fibers. This range provides options aligned with product protection and sustainability goals.
Are top packaging companies suitable for both large and small businesses?
Yes, these packaging firms offer adjustable solutions and adaptable pricing. Small and large businesses can access high-quality packaging without significant order demands.
What kind of technological advances are used by the best packaging companies?
Top packaging companies utilize AI automation, 3D printing, and design software to improve efficiency, accuracy, and cost-efficient personalization, enabling quicker manufacturing and increased design flexibility.
Maria Harutyunyan
Our blog covers a combination of industry trends and professional insights from behind-the-scenes experiences. We provide weekly updates on link building, content marketing, on-site and technical SEO, and more! Sign up for our newsletter and join our LinkedIn to be on top of industry trends!
Maria Harutyunyan
Our blog covers a combination of industry trends and professional insights from behind-the-scenes experiences dealing with every aspect of SEO. We provide weekly updates on topics such as link building, content marketing, on-site and technical SEO and more! Don’t miss any industry updates by signing up for our newsletter! You’ll also receive exclusive SEO strategies and learn about industry secrets like:
