When launching or growing a business in Australia, one of the key decisions you’ll face is whether to use custom packaging or stock packaging. The right packaging can elevate your brand, reduce shipping costs, improve sustainability, and shape customer perception.

But which one is right for your business?

In this guide, we’ll break down the pros and cons of both custom and stock packaging, and help you decide which option suits your brand, budget, and long-term goals.

What Is Custom Packaging?

Custom packaging is designed specifically for your product and brand. From size and shape to colour, materials, and printing—every detail is tailored to fit your needs.

Examples of custom packaging include:

Printed boxes with your logo and brand colours

Custom-shaped pouches or containers

Sleeves, stickers, or tapes with personalised designs

Unique inserts or unboxing elements for e-commerce brands

With custom packaging, you have full control over the look, feel, and function of your product presentation.

What Is Stock Packaging?

Stock packaging refers to ready-made, generic packaging options that are available off-the-shelf. These are typically unbranded and come in standard sizes and materials.

Examples of stock packaging include:

Plain kraft boxes or mailing satchels

Clear jars, bottles, and pouches

Generic cartons and shipping materials

Stock packaging is popular with startups, low-volume sellers, and brands prioritising affordability and speed.

Custom Packaging: Pros & Cons

✅ Pros
1. Strong Branding and Differentiation
Custom packaging makes your product stand out on the shelf or in a parcel. It reinforces brand identity and creates a memorable unboxing experience.

2. Tailored Fit and Protection
You can design packaging that perfectly fits your product—reducing movement, minimising damage, and improving presentation.

3. Professional, Premium Look
Custom finishes (e.g. embossing, spot UV, foil stamping) make your product feel high-end and trustworthy.

4. Increased Perceived Value
Well-designed packaging can justify a higher price point, especially in categories like cosmetics, premium food, and gifts.

5. Eco-Friendly Design Choices
You can opt for sustainable materials and eco-conscious printing methods, aligned with Australia’s circular economy goals.

❌ Cons
1. Higher Cost Per Unit
Custom packaging typically requires design fees, printing plates, and setup costs. This can drive up the unit price—especially for small runs.

2. Longer Lead Times
Custom packaging takes time to produce and ship. You may need to allow 3–6 weeks depending on the supplier and complexity.

3. Higher MOQs (Minimum Order Quantities)
Most packaging manufacturers require larger order volumes for custom runs, which can tie up capital or create storage issues for smaller businesses.

4. Risk with First-Time Orders
If you’re launching a new product and unsure about customer demand, custom packaging can be risky without market feedback.

Stock Packaging: Pros & Cons

✅ Pros
1. Budget-Friendly
Stock packaging is much cheaper upfront—no design or setup costs. This makes it ideal for startups or test markets.

2. Fast Turnaround
Ready-to-ship stock means you can get your products packaged and out the door quickly.

3. Low Minimums
You can usually order in small batches, keeping inventory lean and flexible.

4. Easy to Combine with Stickers or Sleeves
Add your branding later using printed stickers, labels or sleeves—great for testing or short-term promos.

5. Simple for Scaling & Storage
Standard sizing makes stock packaging easy to store and stack, and predictable for shipping systems.

❌ Cons
1. Limited Branding Opportunities
Generic packaging won’t help your product stand out—especially in competitive industries like skincare or boutique F&B.

2. Less Custom Fit
Your product may rattle around inside or need extra filler material, increasing packaging waste or the risk of damage.

3. Missed Marketing Potential
Unbranded packaging doesn’t tell your story, build brand loyalty, or create social sharing moments (like unboxing videos).

4. Lower Perceived Value
Plain packaging may signal a lower-end product—even if your product is high quality.