Flower packaging: how to choose the ideal model?

Today’s modern florist not only sells bouquets and plants at the counter, but also in his online shop. Selling flowers by home delivery or “click-and-collect” requires a little more attention. Flowers are living organisms that must be treated with care. The message is to protect them properly and keep them as fresh as possible. How can you do this without paying a high price for sophisticated packaging materials? Here we take you through the world of RAJA flower packaging in 3 steps. Environmentally friendly, robust and innovative, these packaging products are always the right choice.

Step 1: What overpacking do you need for flowers or plants?

By “overpacking” we mean the box, bag or pouch in which the flowers or plants are packed. Choosing the right overpack depends on two factors: the product and your business.

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As a flower specialist, you know that a fat plant is not packaged in the same way as a fragile orchid. The packaging requirements will therefore differ depending on the product: diameter of the bouquet, number of stems, size of the pot or height of the plant…

Secondly, you need to consider the needs of the customer and your business. If the bouquets are sold over the counter, customers need to be able to transport them easily (to their car or home). If you send them by delivery, they must be very well protected, with enough water and air for the duration of the transport. The diagram below will help you to make a quick first choice.

1.1 For bouquets or loose flowers: flower cones

The flower cones are used to protect bouquets or a bunch of loose flowers. Their great advantage is that you don’t have to waste time cutting kraft paper or gift wrap to size. These flower cones are made of strong, tear-resistant and moisture-resistant kraft paper. Printed designs are provided for special occasions such as Valentine’s Day, Mother’s Day or other holidays.

1.2 For small bouquets or loose flowers: transport cones

These transport cones are perfect for use as portable packaging for small bouquets or single flowers. The top of the cone provides enough space to hold flowers securely in place, without packing or damaging them.

1.3 For bouquets or small plants: kraft bags for flowers

A kraft paper bag for flowers is a unique takeaway package, specially designed for large bouquets or small plants. Depending on the shape and composition of the flower or plant, you can choose from different bags: round or square, high or low, with a narrow or wide base, etc. The laminated layer on the inside of each bag also ensures that the bouquets are transported safely, with optimum protection against moisture and splashing water. Another advantage is that some bags are supplied with a transparent window or white print. This allows you to subtly highlight your product.

1.4 For bouquets or large plants: shipping crates

This selection of shipping crates features a unique design with a focus on protection and usability. They are mainly used by delivery services. Each box comes with the following indications and accessories:

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• Logos of'warning: the logo “This side up” indicates how to hold and stack the case. The “Fragile” logo also tells the carrier that the load is fragile.
• Stacking: to hold a bouquet, vase or flower pot. The contents remain more stable, even during very bumpy transport.
• Tear strip: upon receipt, the box is opened with the same ease as a zip, without a pair of scissors or a cutter. There is therefore less risk of the customer damaging the contents. This accessory does not apply to the high shipping case.

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Step 2: What protective material should I add?

Now that you have the right flower packaging, you are ready for the next step. Extra protection inside the bag, crate or pouch is often essential. The flowers or plants must arrive at their final destination in perfect condition. And that’s not all: a colourful and environmentally friendly protection gives your packaging more elegance. This is the optimal solution for the customer’s experience when opening the box.

2.1 Anti-spill vase

These vases keep flowers fresh for much longer during transport. Roses, tulips or other flowers are fed continuously from the warehouse to the customer. This vase consists of two parts that fit together easily: the bottom for water, the top for flowers. As the name suggests, water cannot escape from the vase, even if you hold it upside down.

2.2 Kraft paper for bouquets and plants

This type of kraft paper is used to create a protective layer around plants or flowers. It is very strong and water and tear resistant. Made from natural raw materials, it is of course environmentally friendly. For special occasions such as Valentine’s Day or Mother’s Day, you can even opt for a printed version. A nice touch!

2.3 Tissue paper

The silk paper is a timeless classic, super soft to the touch. So there is no risk of it damaging fragile flowers. You can combine this paper with, for example, kraft paper or gift wrap to add a little more colour and protection.

2.4 Clear gift wrap

The gift film helps to keep the bouquet in good condition and protect it from dust, water splashes, etc. As it is completely transparent, the bouquet remains visible. These qualities can also be found in recycled gift wrap.

Step 3: How to give flower packaging a beautiful finish

After completing steps 1 and 2, you’re ready for the finishing touch. You’ll be able to polish up the flower wrappings with gift tags, flat ribbons and various bows.

3.1 Gift tags, bolducs and bows

The gift tags are the proverbial “icing on the cake”. You can use them to both close and decorate flower packages. Whether it’s a birthday or anniversary, you can choose from a range of prints and messages.

Finally, bolducs and bows are just as essential to give their gift a playful, elegant or colourful finish. Of course, you can also do it in an eco-friendly way. Think of sustainable alternatives like sisal twine and raffia. The range is almost as wide as the rest of the flower packaging. As a florist, you are in complete control!

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