In an increasingly competitive marketplace, brands are constantly seeking ways to stay lean, efficient, and responsive to customer demands. One area seeing a notable shift is packaging — and more specifically, contract packing. Whether it’s assembling subscription boxes, creating influencer gift kits, or managing seasonal product launches, contract packing services offer flexible, scalable support for businesses of all sizes.
In this guide, we’ll explore why contract packing is on the rise, how it works, and the tangible benefits it offers brands. We’ll also cover real-world use cases, key considerations when choosing a partner, and how outsourcing your packing could be a game-changer for your operations.
Need a hand with contract packing? TASS Enterprise is here to help – call Brenda today on 01992 511051 or visit www.tasshertford.co.uk.
What Is Contract Packing?
Contract packing (or co-packing) is when a business outsources the packaging of its products to a third-party provider. The scope of services can range from simple repacking to more complex solutions like:
- Gift pack assembly
- Subscription box fulfilment
- Labelling and relabelling
- Shrink-wrapping and boxing
- POS display packing
- Retail-ready packaging
This service is particularly valuable for e-commerce brands, food and drink producers, health and wellness companies, and promotional product suppliers who need help managing fluctuating demand, limited space, or labour shortages.
At TASS Enterprise, we provide tailored contract packing for brands across the UK — from hand-finished kits to high-volume retail prep. Find out how we can support you today.
Rise in Demand for Contract Packing Services
The growth of online retail, influencer marketing, and fast-changing consumer expectations has put pressure on brands to deliver faster, smarter, and more flexibly. Here’s why contract packing is becoming the go-to solution:
1. Scalability Without Overhead
When sales spike due to a campaign, promotion, or peak season, businesses can quickly become overwhelmed with packing orders. Contract packing partners offer scalable resources, allowing brands to meet demand without hiring extra staff or leasing additional space.
2. Focus on Core Business
Outsourcing packaging allows internal teams to focus on product development, sales, and marketing. Rather than spending time on logistics, brands can focus on what they do best — growing the business.
3. Professional Presentation
Presentation matters. Co-packers have the tools, experience, and attention to detail needed to ensure every item is packed beautifully, securely, and in line with your brand’s image.
4. Support for Custom and Complex Projects
Influencer mailers? Seasonal hampers? Bundles for subscription boxes? These are time-consuming to produce in-house. Contract packers can manage all the fiddly bits — ribbon tying, tissue wrapping, custom inserts — to perfection.
5. Reduced Labour and Storage Costs
By working with a third-party facility, you don’t have to worry about recruiting seasonal workers or renting expensive storage units. Co-packers typically offer warehousing as part of the package.
Want to simplify your logistics and grow with confidence? Give us a call on 01992 511051 – let’s talk about what TASS can take off your plate.
Common Use Cases for Contract Packing
Wondering how brands actually use contract packing services? Here are some of the most common applications across industries:
Subscription Boxes
With the rise of curated monthly deliveries, subscription services rely on contract packing to assemble, wrap, and ship thousands of personalised orders quickly and efficiently.
Gift and Promotional Sets
From Christmas hampers to PR mailers, branded gift sets require careful handling. Co-packers manage everything from box assembly to product placement and final finishing touches.
Retail-Ready Packaging
For brands supplying supermarkets or retail chains, packing needs to meet specific shelf display or barcoding requirements. Contract packing ensures everything complies with retailer specifications.
Short-Run Product Launches
Launching a new product or trial line? Instead of investing in expensive in-house machinery or labour, contract packing gives you the freedom to test without long-term commitment.
Custom Labelling and Compliance
Repacking items to meet local regulatory standards or label changes? Co-packers can relabel stock quickly and accurately, helping you stay compliant and agile.
Key Benefits of Contract Packing Services
Here’s a deeper look at the core benefits that are making contract packing more appealing to modern brands.
Flexibility and Speed
Market trends change quickly — and customer expectations change even faster. Contract packing allows brands to respond to demand shifts without delay. Need 1,000 influencer packs shipped this week? No problem.
Cost Efficiency
It’s not just about saving money on boxes and tape. Outsourcing saves on hiring, training, HR, storage, and warehouse utilities. You only pay for what you need, when you need it.
Expertise and Quality Control
Reputable co-packers offer professional quality control and processes that reduce the risk of packing errors, breakages, or inconsistencies.
Seasonal and Campaign Support
Many businesses experience surges in demand around holidays, Black Friday, or product launches. Contract packers are built to flex around these timelines — without compromising quality or speed.
Reduced Waste
Efficient packing processes and material optimisation help reduce packaging waste and environmental impact — a priority for modern consumers and brands alike.
At TASS Enterprise, we blend speed, accuracy, and care in every job we take on. From indie brands to national retailers, we deliver peace of mind through every packed parcel.
Real-World Examples: How TASS Supports Brands with Contract Packing
We work with a growing number of businesses who trust us to handle their contract packing from start to finish. Here are just a few examples:
Sakuranna Swimwear
We helped this fashion-forward swimwear brand create elegant gift packs with tissue wrap, tags, and influencer notes — all hand-finished for a premium unboxing experience.
UNLTD. Beer
As a leading alcohol-free beer company, UNLTD. needed a fast, reliable solution for building mixed packs and managing promotions. Our team assembled, packed, and dispatched thousands of boxes during their last major campaign.
GoMate Drinks
Our temperature-controlled storage and packing services ensure GoMate’s nootropic drinks are kept in top condition, packed securely, and shipped across the UK without a hitch.
Want your brand on that list? Let’s chat about your packing needs – call Brenda on 01992 511051 or visit www.tasshertford.co.uk.
What to Look for in a Contract Packing Partner
Choosing the right co-packing partner is crucial. Here are some key criteria to keep in mind:
Capacity and Scalability
Can the partner handle your current needs — and future growth? Ask about turnaround times, peak-period support, and order volumes.
Customisation
Do they offer bespoke packing options? Can they accommodate branded inserts, stickers, gift wrap, or unusual packaging formats?
Quality Control
What quality checks are in place? How do they ensure every parcel leaves the warehouse looking perfect?
Technology Integration
For seamless operations, choose a partner that can integrate with your sales platforms (like Shopify, Amazon FBA, or TikTok Shop) to streamline order flows.
Communication and Customer Service
Are they responsive and easy to work with? Clear communication helps prevent delays, confusion, and costly errors.
At TASS, we pride ourselves on being flexible, proactive, and easy to talk to. You’ll always speak to a real person — not a call centre.
Supporting Our Customers with Care and Precision
At Tass Hertford, we’re more than just a logistics provider—we’re your partner in growth. From ambitious local startups to global e-commerce powerhouses, we work with a diverse range of businesses to help them thrive. Some of our valued clients include GoMate Drinks, UNLTD. Beer, Sakuranna Swimwear, and Nooi Nootropic Drinks.
What sets us apart? We don’t just move products; we create peace of mind. We take the time to really understand your brand, your challenges, and your goals, delivering tailored solutions that go above and beyond.
Whether it’s crafting custom influencer gift packs, managing temperature-sensitive inventory, or accommodating last-minute orders, our dedicated team is here to exceed your expectations.
What We Offer at TASS Hertford
At TASS Hertford, we take logistics to the next level, offering an all-in-one service that supports your business every step of the way:
- Pallet storage – Secure, flexible options for short- and long-term needs.
- Pick, pack, and despatch – Scalable, accurate solutions tailored for growing brands.
- E-commerce fulfilment – Fully integrated with Shopify, Amazon, TikTok, and more.
- Contract packing – From gift hampers to seasonal bundles, we’ve got it covered.
- Influencer gifting – Branded boxes, handwritten notes, and elegant custom wrapping to wow your audience.
- Container unloading & palletising – Hassle-free inventory handling to keep you moving.
- Food & drink logistics – Perfectly suited for snack brands and breweries.
- Worldwide shipping – Fast, reliable, and cost-effective global delivery.
- Business storage – Safe storage for documents, equipment, and more.
- Office space & hot desking – Work in a beautiful space with garden views, kitchen access, and parking.
Whatever your needs, we’re here to help you succeed. Call us today at 01992 511051 or visit www.tasshertford.co.uk. Let’s take your business to the next level!
Technology in Contract Packing
Like every area of logistics, contract packing is being transformed by technology. Here’s how:
Warehouse Management Systems (WMS)
Advanced systems allow real-time tracking of inventory, packing progress, and dispatch, helping brands stay updated and in control.
Automation Tools
Label printers, barcode scanners, and semi-automated assembly lines help reduce errors, speed up workflows, and improve consistency.
Inventory Visibility
Integrated systems give brands a full overview of stock levels, sales trends, and packing performance.
Data Analytics
Some co-packers offer reporting and data insights to help businesses improve order accuracy, forecasting, and supply chain planning.
At TASS, we use smart logistics tools to keep things flowing — and our clients informed every step of the way.
FAQs
Why are brand owners increasingly using contract packaging services?
Brand owners are turning to contract packaging to improve operational efficiency and reduce overhead. A reliable contract packaging company can handle everything from primary packing to logistics, freeing up internal resources and speeding up the packaging process.
How do co packing services support the packaging industry?
Co packing services offer flexibility and scalability that many in the packaging industry require. They allow packaging companies to meet changing market demands quickly by outsourcing parts of the packaging process without sacrificing quality.
What benefits do contract packing companies offer in terms of packaging design?
A contract packing company often provides innovative solutions in packaging design and presentation. This helps brands stand out on shelves while ensuring the use of cost-effective and sustainable packaging materials.
Are contract packaging services only for large companies?
Not at all. Contract packaging and co packing services are increasingly popular with small and medium-sized brands as well. They provide access to advanced packaging services and expertise that would be costly to develop in-house, helping all sizes of brand owners stay competitive.
Conclusion
As brands face growing pressure to deliver better experiences, faster turnaround, and standout presentation — contract packing has become a smart, strategic solution. It’s not just about saving time and money (though it does both). It’s about working smarter, not harder.
From e-commerce startups to major players, more businesses are discovering the power of outsourcing their packaging to professionals who do it every day. And when it comes to choosing a partner who cares as much about your brand as you do — that’s where TASS Enterprise comes in.
We’re here to help your business grow without the growing pains. Want to know more? Call Brenda on 01992 511051 or visit www.tasshertford.co.uk.
