Should You Start a Packaging Design Business?

A packaging design business helps to both improve current packaging designs, and create new ones with enhanced visual graphics. And, while the design itself is very important – after all, this is what tempts consumers to find out more about what you’re selling – it’s also vital that the packaging protects whatever’s inside it during the transportation, storage, and distribution process. Every package serves to protect the product inside it, and so it’s not a business that should be taken lightly.

If, after reading the above, you’re still interested in moving forward, keep reading for some tips that will help you start your own packaging design company.

The Skills You Need to Get Started

Packaging design businesses are ideal for creative individuals who have a good perspective for forward thinking designs that will sell. In order to be a success in this industry, you need to understand the different target markets and how certain design schemes and colors work within each of these markets. You also need to have a logical, analytical head, and understand the best types of materials for different types of product. A client selling a new range of organic juice, for example, will require a totally different form of packaging to a client selling children’s toys. If you also pay attention to the environment, and are willing to put in the hard work, you are ideally suited to this career.

How Much Money Do I Need?

In order to get started with packaging design, you’ll need between $2,000 and $10,000. Technically, they can be operated from home, although it’s wise to think about how you will grow the business as you may want to invest in a workshop quite soon after getting started. In addition to rent, you may also need to spend money on design training, employees, and equipment. Print finishing equipment can be purchased online, though do think about the type of materials you will be focusing on before making your decision. You may also want to set aside some money for tradeshows and events, as networking will be very important, especially during the early days.

How to Get Set Up

In order to start your business, you’ll need to follow a number of steps. Many of these are similar to businesses in other industries, and include:

Create a business plan
Form a legal entity
Register for state and federal taxes
Set up a business bank account
Hire an accountant if you need one – at the very least, invest in a cloud accounting software to keep track of your expenses
Obtain any state required licenses and permits
Get business insurance
Establish a brand
Create a web presence

It is possible to do much of the above on your own, although don’t be afraid to reach out to other professionals to help you with anything you are unsure how to do.

Starting a packaging design business isn’t easy. However, if you have the motivation and the skills, you could go far.