By the Numbers
When your products ship directly to customers, every detail of the unboxing experience matters. Beyond protecting what’s inside, branded void fill packaging turns a routine delivery into a chance to build loyalty, spark social shares, and even reduce costly returns. The numbers show that this simple packaging upgrade can deliver serious ROI while reinforcing your brand story. It’s no wonder more and more retailers are rethinking what goes inside the box!
52% Likely to Repurchase
E-commerce studies by Dotcom Distribution reveal that premium and/or branded packaging make shoppers more likely to buy again. In fact, 52% of consumers said they would be likely to repurchase from retailers that deliver orders in premium packaging with younger shoppers especially receptive to the allure of high-end, branded deliveries.
40%+ Likely to Share
According to a recent Dotcom Distribution survey , more than 40% of consumers say branded packaging makes them more likely to share photos/video of their order on social media platforms like Instagram, YouTube and TikTok. That’s a lot of free reach and exposure for your products and your brand.
62% of Unboxing Video Viewers are Actively Shopping
All that sharing has manufacturers caring! Why? Because viral social media exposure gives your product visibility while people are shopping. In fact, Google Consumer Surveys find that 62% of people who watch unboxing videos do so while researching what to buy.
69% Influenced by What They See
Those shares also translate into influence. According to a 2024 marketing survey as reported by Retail Dive , 69% of respondents indicated that unboxing videos, customer review videos and user experiences with products were a significant factor in deciding whether to buy an item.
71% of Luxury Shoppers Expect Higher Quality Packaging
It’s no surprise that shoppers who buy expensive products online expect their packaging to reflect the value of their purchase. Branded void fill packaging takes it to the next level, delivering the premium unboxing experience these discerning consumers demand.
$890 Billion in Returned Products
The National Retail Federation reports that consumers returned products worth $890 billion in 2024. What’s more, the cost to process a return can be anywhere from 20%–65% of the item's original value. Those are BIG numbers, with major implications for the bottom line of every product manufacturer.
56% of Returns Due to Damaged or Defective Products
56% of e-commerce returns occur because of damaged or defective products. While the right void fill can’t ensure against defects, it definitely CAN protect your products against damage in transit. Combining the protective qualities of void fill with the marketing advantages of branded packaging can help you limit the cost of returns to your business while also showcasing your brand.
60% of shoppers want sustainable packaging
In recent surveys, 60% of consumers say it’s important for retailers to deliver products in sustainable packaging. What’s more, 42% of those surveyed credited sustainable packages as the packaging feature most likely to make them want to shop with a brand again. In short, you can foster customer loyalty by reinforcing your commitment to the environment. One way to do this is by printing recyclability messaging right on your custom void fill, helping to showcase this important consumer benefit. While biodegradable paper products are typically the most eco-friendly options, air-filled products can be both recyclable and reusable.
The numbers show that premium packaging for online purchases is a highly effective way to deliver your brand’s in-store experience to the customer’s door. To explore DECOfill’s custom void fill options, visit our PRODUCTS page.