Can Every Customer Open It?

Once a package looks nice sitting on a table, the true test occurs when a consumer attempts to unpackage it. Many consumers have difficulty using their hands, limited vision, and/or are only able to utilize one hand. The correct packaging supplies can assist in making this process possible for most consumers.

Begin by preparing one normal shipment and then have another individual open the package. Observe how the second individual opens the package without providing any direction. Does he/she immediately locate the area to open the package, or does he/she rotate the package several times before attempting to open it? Did he/she require scissors to remove the tape because it was difficult to remove?

Providing a tear strip to your customers can provide an easily recognizable location for the customer to initiate opening. Select a tear strip with tabs large enough to allow for comfortable gripping, avoiding an overly tight grip. Also ensure that when pulling on the tear strip, it remains intact rather than tearing apart into numerous fragments. Additionally, marking a spot where the tear strip begins can clearly identify this area.

Although tape is beneficial for securing items within a shipping container, additional tape does not necessarily create a superior product. Ensure that your item is adequately secured and that there is an adequate area for the consumer to gain access to the contents. Avoid placing multiple layers of tape across the same flap; this can cause problems for individuals who have difficulty grasping objects firmly. In addition, you should not alter the security seal on products such as food, medications, or other items that contain protective seals.

Directions printed on packages should be legible and understandable. Utilize concise language along with large font sizes, and ensure that there is sufficient contrast between the text and background. Arrows pointing to a pull tab may be effective; however, utilizing color alone as a method of communication may not be ideal since color perception varies among people.

When sight limitations exist, touch may serve as an alternative means of identifying areas of the package. Raised dots, textured surfaces, or shape tabs may be used to guide a consumer's fingers to the designated area of entry or exit. Although simply folding an edge of the package may be inadequate, these subtle features may convey to the consumer where to grasp or tug.

Lastly, the package itself should remain stationary during the opening and unpacking process. A stable platform may be created by including a flat surface located at the bottom of the package, allowing the consumer to establish a solid foundation upon an available work surface. Similarly, rounded corners, wide handles, or lightweight materials may aid those experiencing difficulty with squeezing, twisting, or lifting.

Prior to purchasing a multitude of new packaging supplies, prepare several prototype shipments. Have people from various populations attempt to open these prototypes, such as seniors and individuals with disabilities, and observe where they become confused or encounter resistance. Note which aspects they perceive as confusing and which portions require excessive force.

In no instance should "easy" to open equate to diminished safety in transit. While protecting your product during transportation is essential, designing accessible packaging enables your consumers to easily unpack your product after it arrives safely.