A package insert is a small printed piece placed inside an order. It can be a thank-you card, care card, coupon, QR code card, review request, instruction sheet, or brand story card. Even though it is simple, it can make an ecommerce order feel more complete.
For brands using a print and fulfillment service like PrintAndFulfill, inserts can become part of the standard packing process. That means every customer receives a more thoughtful experience without the business owner having to pack each order by hand.
Why Package Inserts Matter
When a customer opens an order, they are experiencing the brand in a physical way. The product matters most, but the packaging also affects how professional the business feels.
A package insert gives you a chance to communicate after the sale. It can thank the customer, explain the product, encourage another purchase, or guide the customer to your website.
Unlike an email, a printed insert is part of the unboxing moment. It is seen at the exact time the customer is already paying attention.
Start With a Thank-You Message
The simplest package insert is a thank-you card. This works for almost every type of ecommerce brand.
A good thank-you message should be short, warm, and easy to read. It does not need to be overly formal. A line like “Thank you for supporting our small business” or “We hope you love your order” can make the package feel more personal.
If your brand has a specific tone, match the message to it. A luxury brand may want something polished and minimal. A playful brand may want something more casual. A handmade brand may want a warmer and more personal note.
Add Product Care Instructions
Care instructions are useful for products that need special handling. This can include apparel, stickers, art prints, drinkware, candles, skincare, handmade products, collectibles, and printed goods.
A care card helps customers use the product correctly and can reduce confusion after delivery.
For example, an apparel brand might include washing instructions. A sticker brand might explain how to clean the surface before applying the sticker. A print shop might include tips for handling posters or art prints.
The clearer the instructions, the better the customer experience.
Include a QR Code
QR codes are useful because they let you keep the printed insert simple while still guiding customers online. A QR code can lead to a reorder page, product guide, review page, loyalty program, video tutorial, or social media account.
The key is to tell customers why they should scan it. Do not just place a QR code on the card without context.
Use a short line like:
Scan for care instructions
Scan to reorder
Scan to leave a review
Scan for setup tips
Scan to follow us
Make sure the QR code is large enough to scan and has strong contrast.
Ask for a Review
Reviews are important for ecommerce brands, but many happy customers forget to leave them. A package insert can gently remind them.
The review request should feel friendly, not pushy. Let customers know that their feedback helps the business grow. If possible, use a QR code that takes them directly to the review page.
Keep the message short. A long review request can make the insert feel like an ad instead of a helpful note.
Offer a Reorder Discount
A package insert can also encourage repeat purchases. This works especially well for consumable products, seasonal items, apparel drops, printed goods, subscriptions, and branded merchandise.
A simple reorder discount can give customers a reason to come back. The offer does not need to be huge. Even a small discount or free shipping code can be enough to encourage another order.
Make sure the discount code is easy to read and remember. If the code expires, include the expiration date clearly.
Tell a Short Brand Story
Some customers like knowing who they are buying from. A short brand story can help make the business feel more human.
This does not need to be a long company history. A few sentences about why the brand exists, what it makes, or what it values can be enough.
For example, a creator brand might explain the inspiration behind the designs. A small business might share its mission. A print-based brand might explain its focus on quality, speed, or creativity.
Use Stickers as Bonus Inserts
Stickers can work as package inserts too. A small logo sticker, slogan sticker, or seasonal design gives customers something they may actually keep.
This is especially useful for brands that want customers to display their identity. If a customer puts the sticker on a laptop, water bottle, notebook, or package, your brand continues to be seen after the order is delivered.
For durable branded stickers, CustomStickers.com is a useful resource for creating custom stickers for packaging, giveaways, and promotional inserts.
Keep the Insert Design Clean
A package insert should be easy to understand. Avoid crowding the card with too many messages. If you want to thank the customer, explain care instructions, ask for a review, and offer a discount, consider using both sides of the card.
Use clear headings, readable fonts, and enough spacing. The insert should look like part of the brand, not like a random flyer.
A clean insert is more likely to be read and kept.
Final Thoughts
A branded package insert can make ecommerce orders feel more professional and memorable. It can thank customers, explain products, encourage reviews, support reorders, and add personality to the unboxing experience.
When paired with a reliable fulfillment process, inserts become a simple way to improve every order. Small printed details can make a big difference in how customers remember the brand.