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Ready-To-Ship Packaging vs Retail-Ready Packaging – What’s best for a DTC launch?

Branded ready-to-ship (RTS) and retail-ready packaging (RRP) are two terms used in the packaging industry that refer to different types of packaging solutions for consumer goods. Both types of packaging are crucial for ensuring that products reach their end destination in good condition and are ready for sale, but there are some key differences between RTS and RRP that businesses should be aware of.

Ready-to-ship packaging is packaging that is designed to protect and secure a product during transportation. The primary goal of RTS packaging is to ensure that the product arrives at its destination without any damage or loss. RTS packaging typically includes protective materials like corrugated boxes, bubble wrap, foam inserts, and other cushioning materials that help to stabilize and cushion the product during transit. This type of packaging is especially important for businesses that need to ensure that their products are delivered to customers in good condition, regardless of how far they have to travel.

Retail-ready packaging, on the other hand, is packaging that is designed specifically for display on retail shelves. The primary goal of RRP is to make the product attractive, eye-catching, and easily accessible to customers. RRP is designed to make the product stand out on the shelf, grab the attention of potential customers, and make it easy to purchase. This type of packaging typically includes features like attractive graphics, easy-to-open packaging, and a display-friendly design that can be hung or stacked on shelves. Retail-ready packaging is especially important for businesses that need to increase visibility and accessibility of their products in retail environments.

When it comes to branded ready-to-ship and retail-ready packaging, the key difference is the addition of branding elements. Branded RTS packaging includes the company’s logo, colors, and other branding elements to help establish a strong brand presence during transportation. Branded RRP packaging includes all the features of RRP, but with added branding elements to help establish a strong brand presence on retail shelves.

In conclusion, both branded RTS and RRP play an important role in the supply chain and are critical for ensuring that products reach customers in good condition and ready for sale. Businesses should carefully consider their packaging needs and choose the type of packaging that best fits their specific needs and goals. Whether it’s protecting products during transit or increasing visibility and accessibility in retail environments, the right type of packaging can have a significant impact on the success of a business.