Consumer products are often advertised to American shoppers as “made in the USA” to convey that the product is high-quality and supports American jobs. But buying American products isn’t just for consumers; plenty of businesses are looking to build a US-based supply chain, and that includes sourcing American packaging companies. Opting for packaging companies in the US provides benefits such as supporting local economies, achieving faster turnaround times, improving communication, and ensuring compliance with local regulations.
If choosing a packaging company in the USA is important to your business, JBM can help! As a US-based packaging manufacturer for the past 40 years, we’ve learned a thing or two about the advantages, challenges, and elements to consider when selecting “made in the USA” packaging. This guide highlights essential factors to consider, focusing on customization, cost, and value.
Advantages of Choosing a US-Based Packaging Manufacturer
Partnering with packaging companies in the US offers several benefits that can streamline your business operations. One significant advantage is the reduced lead times associated with domestic production compared to overseas manufacturers. Orders that could take multiple months from an international manufacturer might be fulfilled in a week or even less with an American supplier. Local facilities provide quicker production schedules, enabling you to meet customer demands efficiently. For example, JBM operates a three-shift schedule, allowing for even greater capacity.
Quality control and communication also improve when working with a local packaging manufacturer. This means more than just emails and phone calls with your account representative; when your packaging is made domestically, you may even be able to visit the production facility in person and see how it is run. (We can’t speak for all US-based packaging companies, but at JBM, we love customer visits!) That level of transparency gives you better oversight of the production process, enabling quick feedback and adjustments to ensure quality standards are met. The supplier-client relationship becomes more of a collaborative partnership, allowing for a customized approach to your packaging needs. Furthermore, working with American packaging companies provides an extra level of assurance that any claims about materials, processes and quality are verifiable—in other words, that what you see truly is what you get.
In addition, supporting packaging companies in the USA promotes sustainability by reducing the carbon footprint associated with international shipping. Collaborating with local manufacturers can boost your brand’s reputation and appeal to environmentally conscious customers. As a leader in the “plastic to paper” packaging movement providing customers with sustainable paper packaging solutions, JBM Packaging offers the eco benefits of an American packaging company combined with an eco-friendly product—a double benefit for clients who value sustainability.
Packaging Supplier vs. Packaging Manufacturer: Know the Difference
When your focus is “buying American,” understanding the distinction between a packaging supplier and a manufacturer is crucial. These similar-sounding types of businesses have very different practices, which can affect quality, customization, and delivery reliability.
A packaging supplier often acts as a distributor, sourcing materials from various manufacturers, including international sources. This can lead to turmoil if anything occurs to affect global trade, such as a disaster, pandemic or political upheaval.
In contrast, a packaging manufacturer, like JBM Packaging, produces its own packaging materials in-house. Choosing a US-based packaging manufacturer like JBM ensures that the manufacturing process takes place domestically, allowing you greater control.
Key Considerations When Selecting a Packaging Manufacturer
When choosing a US-based packaging manufacturer, evaluate each company’s experience and expertise in your industry. A manufacturer familiar with your sector’s unique requirements will offer more tailored solutions.
Consider the manufacturer’s production capabilities, including the technology and machinery used. At JBM Packaging, we not only invest in the equipment to produce top-quality solutions at scale, but we customize our machinery to optimize production.
Customer service and support throughout the process are essential. A responsive and knowledgeable team can significantly improve your experience, from initial consultation to delivery. Our team at JBM is committed to exceptional service, providing guidance and support at every step.
By focusing on these key factors, you can confidently choose a manufacturer that aligns with your goals and delivers outstanding solutions.
Exploring Customization and Collaboration
Understanding the range of packaging solutions an American packaging manufacturer offers is vital. At JBM Packaging, we work with a variety of sustainable paper packaging materials and offer unique features such as fully recyclable window packaging, translucent glassine paper, water-resistant paper and RFID-blocking paper, which gives our customers the ability to customize packaging according to their unique needs. Our commitment to innovation ensures you find packaging solutions that align with your brand identity and requirements.
Collaboration is essential for creating customized packaging that stands out. Our team works closely with you throughout the design and production process, engaging in open dialogue to create packaging that enhances product usability. We’ll help you select features for your packaging and talk you through small steps you can take to test its performance and appeal. This collaborative relationship is one of the advantages of choosing a US-based packaging manufacturer like JBM.
Assessing Cost and Value
While it might be tempting to choose the lowest-price option available for your packaging, keep in mind the value of balancing cost with quality and service. High-quality packaging protects products and enhances brand image. It reduces waste, minimizes damages, and boosts customer satisfaction. Investing in reliable packaging avoids costly returns and negative customer experiences linked to inferior products.
When you select a packaging manufacturer based in the USA, you make an investment in quality, sustainability, reliability, and American jobs. These aspects provide value for your business and your community far beyond the cost of envelopes or pouches purchased.
