Beat the Q4 rush: Order your packaging before demand peaks

Q4 is only a few weeks away, heralding in one of the busiest times of the year. For many businesses, the focus will be on stocking the right quantity and range of products and making sure those products can be found and bought easily.    

But what about the packaging?    

Without being able to deliver those items in good time, in the right size and style of packaging, businesses may face unnecessary production issues and delivery problems.    

This is a good time of year to get ahead and place your packaging orders, avoiding delays when businesses get busier. It is also a chance to take stock: you could check whether profitable product lines have changed since last year and the packaging needs a re-think. There’s time to check over the next few weeks before the busy period begins.   

Here are 5 questions to consider when ordering your packaging before the Q4 rush: 

1. Does demand for packaging increase later in the year? 

Demand for packaging often increases later in the year as businesses prepare for busier sales periods, including Halloween, Black Friday and Christmas. More products being ordered means more packaging is needed, from standard boxes to custom or printed designs. This can put extra pressure on suppliers, materials and delivery schedules, especially as Q4 gets underway.  

Ordering earlier gives you more choice, better availability and time to check that your packaging still fits your products and operations. It also helps you avoid last-minute delays, so you can focus on fulfilling customer orders smoothly during the busiest months. 

2. If I leave it later, will I need to wait longer for my packaging? 

As demand for packaging increases in this busy period, so it generally means longer lead times and potential delays in delivery for those who wait too long to place their orders. 

By securing your packaging early, you avoid the bottlenecks that come with last-minute requests and ensure your business is well-prepared for the influx of orders. Whether you need standard shipping boxes or right-sized corrugated packaging, planning ahead guarantees that your packaging will be ready when you need it most. 

3. If I order later, will I still get the packaging material choice I want? 

As more businesses order their packaging, so certain types of material can become harder to get hold of. It’s better to have these discussions now and not wait until the last minute and be disappointed or find you can’t get the packaging you need. Start your order now and it will be easier to secure the best material for the packaging you need.  

4. Will I be able to order right-sized packaging? 

With new stock items, or changes to existing products, so your packaging requirements may have changed. The last thing you want is to gain lots of new customers and then send them their valuable products in ill-fitting boxes.  

You will be able to order right-sized packaging, but it is best to start the conversation early. If you have introduced new products, changed product sizes or seen different items selling well this year, your packaging may need adjusting too. Right-sized boxes help protect products properly, reduce unnecessary empty space and create a better experience for customers when their orders arrive. Leaving it too late can make it harder to review dimensions, check materials and confirm the best fit before Q4 demand builds. Planning ahead gives you time to get packaging that works for your products and your business. 

5. Will I be able to order printed packaging? 

You will be able to order printed packaging, perhaps custom-branded to the season, like Halloween or Christmas designs, as this helps your products to stand out and makes customers feel special. You will need time to take advantage of this, giving yourself time for choices, design adjustments, production, and delivery.  

Don’t Wait, Act Now! 

At ASC Direct, we’re ready to help you meet your packaging needs this season. By placing your orders early, you can avoid the headaches that come with the Q4 rush and ensure your business is fully prepared to handle the busiest shopping season of the year. Speak to us to discuss your right-sized packaging requirements and secure your supply before it’s too late. 

Stay ahead of the rush and ensure your packaging is one less thing to worry about!  

 

James Palfrey-Smith is the General Manager at ASC Direct with extensive experience in both operations and sales. James is passionate about solving packaging problems, delivering fast customer support, and building lasting relationships. Outside of work, he enjoys outdoor activities like hiking and skiing. A fan of real ale and business podcasts, he continuously seeks personal and professional growth. 

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