10 Packaging Design Misconceptions New Business Owners Often Make

Packaging is one of the most overlooked and underestimated tools in a small business owner's toolkit. But the truth is, your packaging does far more than just hold your product, it tells your customer who you are, what you value, and whether they want to come back. New business owners often fall into the same traps that cost them money, credibility, and customer connection. This blog breaks down the top 10 packaging design misconceptions so you can skip the learning curve and create packaging that actually works for your brand!

Pretty Design = Effective Packaging: A beautiful design doesn’t always mean it’s the right one. If your packaging doesn’t tell the customer what your product is, who it’s for, or why it matters, then it’s missing the mark—no matter how aesthetic it is.

You Only Need One Size or Style: Many new business owners don’t realize how important it is to tailor packaging to the product’s size, use, and customer expectations. For example, what works for a bottle won’t work for a bundle or a sample.

It’s Just a Box or Bag: This mindset leads to poor-quality materials and generic choices. Packaging is a customer experience. When it feels cheap or thoughtless, that reflects on your brand, even if your product is great.

Sustainability Is Too Expensive: Not always. There are plenty of budget-friendly sustainable materials, and often, simple design changes (like right-sizing or skipping plastic wraps) can save you money and the planet. In fact here at Navirn we always ensure to use packaging materials that are affordable and safe for both people and the planet.

Your Logo Should Be the Main Focus: While branding is essential, leading with your logo often wastes valuable space. What’s more important? Messaging that quickly communicates your product’s benefits, uses, and feel.

One-Time Purchases Don’t Need a Full Experience: Even if you think a customer will only buy once (like for a gift), packaging can create a long-term impression. You never know who they’ll recommend you to or whether they’ll return for more.

You’ll Figure It Out Later: Packaging design is often pushed to the last minute, but it shouldn’t be. Rushed packaging leads to inconsistent branding, missed opportunities, and wasted money. Start early and let it support your overall brand strategy.

Cheap Packaging Saves Money: It might at first, but poor-quality packaging can lead to damaged goods, returns, bad reviews, and lost trust. Investing in functional and thoughtful design saves more long term.

You Don’t Need Help or You’ll DIY It: Designing your own packaging without knowledge of print specs, materials, customer psychology, or regulations can backfire. Getting expert help upfront avoids reprints and costly mistakes.

Packaging Doesn’t Influence Sales: Packaging is often the first thing people interact with. It builds expectations, communicates quality, and drives loyalty. Great packaging doesn’t just protect the product but enhances it.

Packaging Should Work With You, Not Against You

If you’ve fallen for one (or all) of these misconceptions, you’re not alone and that's ok! The good news is, we can start making better packaging decisions.

Want help avoiding these pitfalls and design packaging that actually grows your business? Inquire here to work with me on your next packaging project.

And if you're not quite ready but want more tips and insights? Join my newsletter where I break down materials, design strategies, and sustainable packaging tools made just for small brands.

Let your packaging do more than hold your product, let it hold your story, too.