When your business starts growing, packing orders can quickly turn from a simple task into a daily time crunch. Every minute spent searching for tape or the right box size slows you down—and adds up over hundreds of shipments. The good news? A few small changes to your setup and process can make a big difference.
Here are four easy ways to save time while packing orders and keep your fulfillment workflow running smoothly.

1. Set Up a Dedicated Packing Station

If your shipping area is constantly being reassembled, you’re already losing valuable time. A dedicated packing station creates consistency and efficiency.
Make sure every essential item—tape, boxes, stretch wrap, labels, and scissors—has a fixed place within arm’s reach. Organize materials by order size or type so your team never has to pause to find the right supplies.
A well-designed packing station doesn’t have to be complicated; even a sturdy table with labeled bins and shelving can make a huge difference in speed and accuracy.
Need reliable packing supplies to keep your workflow moving? Explore our full range of stretch wrap, tape, and shipping materials.

2. Pre-Assemble Your Materials

When you’re under time pressure, folding boxes or finding the right roll of tape mid-pack can slow down the entire workflow. Instead, prep materials ahead of time:
    • Build and stack boxes before your shipping window starts.
    • Pre-stamp or sticker boxes and envelopes with your branding.
    • Pre-line boxes with void-fill.
Pre-assembly turns packing into a flow activity rather than a stop-and-start process. Your team can focus on accuracy and speed, rather than logistics.
Pro Tip:  If you ship the same item frequently, pre-pack accessories or inserts (like thank-you cards or return slips) in small batches.

3. Standardize Sizes & Buy in Bulk

One of the most overlooked ways to speed up packing is to standardize your packaging sizes. When every order requires a unique box, you waste time searching for the right fit.
Choose a handful of standard box or mailer sizes that cover the majority of your products. This simplifies not only packing but also inventory management—fewer SKUs to track and reorder.
Buying in bulk also saves both time and money. You’ll spend less time reordering supplies and reduce the risk of running out of materials during peak order periods.
Pro Tip:  Keep an extra stash of your most frequently used boxes and tape near your workstation. Bulk storage can live elsewhere—your packers should only have to reach, not walk.

4. Use a Tape Dispenser or Tape Gun

If you’re still tearing tape by hand or juggling the roll between boxes, it’s time for an upgrade. A tape gun or dispenser dramatically speeds up sealing and ensures consistent application.
Modern tape dispensers are designed for comfort, control, and clean cuts—saving both tape and time. Over a week of packing, this small tool upgrade can easily save hours.
Pair your dispenser with a high-quality tape that adheres quickly and cleanly. It’s a simple investment that pays off in speed and professionalism.
Pro Tip:  Keep extra tape rolls near each station so no one has to stop mid-pack to restock.

Conclusion

Faster packing isn’t about cutting corners—it’s about building smarter systems. With a dedicated packing station, pre-assembled materials, standardized supplies, and the right tools, you can reduce errors, save hours, and make your fulfillment process smoother for everyone involved.
Small improvements add up quickly. Try implementing just one of these changes this week and track how much time you save per order—you might be surprised at the results.
Need reliable packing supplies to keep your workflow moving? Explore our full range of stretch wrap, tape, and shipping materials.