Make Your 3PL Services Stick: The Power of Custom Branded Void Fill

What if one small packaging upgrade could set your 3PL services apart and keep clients coming back for more? More and more brands are looking for ways to turn the unboxing moment into a marketing touchpoint, and custom branded void fill is one of the simplest ways to do it. 

For a 3PL, offering this capability is all about delivering added value that builds loyalty, creates upsell opportunities, and makes your services truly “sticky.” Let’s explore how you can make custom fill a seamless part of your fulfillment toolkit.

Operational Setup

If branded void fill is being used across multiple SKUs and orders, it can often be integrated into the existing packing line (using dispensers or rolls at each pack station).

If only certain customers or product lines use custom fill, a dedicated packing station or zone may be more efficient, to prevent errors and simplify training. Another option may be to dedicate specific days or times for packing those clients. 

Equipment Needs

As with plain void fill, branded void fill may require proprietary dispensers such as air filler machines or automated paper crumplers. Your 3PL likely already has the equipment it needs, but may need to install it at dedicated stations or zones for customers utilizing custom packaging.

Inventory Management

Custom fill must be stocked, tracked and kept separate from generic fill to avoid mix-ups. By focusing on a few modifications, your 3PL operation can seamlessly incorporate these requirements into your process:

Separating materials: This can be accomplished by using dedicated racking,bins, or color-coded labeling.

Forecasting inventory: Since custom fill is specific to one client, stock levels need to be managed carefully to avoid shortages. 

Cost Tracking: Branded fill is usually billed directly back to the client, so clear tracking and reporting is important.

Quality Control

Workers must know which orders get branded void fill vs. generic, and when exceptions apply. Extra visual checks may be needed to ensure that branded fill material gets matched up with the right products and boxes.

Workflow 

Branded void fill may require more handling or slower packing if packers must swap between different materials. Studying order volume patterns can help your 3PL operation decide whether a mixed or dedicated workflow is most efficient and ensure that you have enough branded material and packing stations to keep pace with your clients’ needs.

Adding Value 

When it comes to pleasing your clients, every detail counts.  It’s your job to make sure every package looks as good on the inside as it does on the outside. 3PL services are highly valued by clients large and small for their ability to ensure that packaging is neatly packed, consistently branded, and free from unnecessary waste. 

And while presentation matters, protection can’t take a back seat. Branded void fill still has to keep products safe in transit. Done right, this combination of style and security turns every unboxing into a moment your client (and their customers) will love.

Incorporating branded void fill into your 3PL operation may require a few extra steps, but it can help you become an essential partner in your clients’ branding efforts. At DECOfill, we’re here to help you deliver this valuable packaging upgrade to your customers. CONTACT US today for more details.