How One Pet Brand Cut Returns 50% with Better Packaging — Lessons for Marketplace Sellers

How One Pet Brand Cut Returns 50% with Better Packaging — Lessons for Marketplace Sellers

Hook: Returns drain margins. In 2026, packaging design is an operating lever that doubles as a marketing asset. This post unpacks the pet brand case study, maps practical interventions for marketplaces, and lists the tests you should run this quarter.

Why packaging matters more than ever

Beyond sustainability optics, modern packaging reduces transit damage, improves unboxing experiences (which drives UGC), and lowers handling costs for returns processing. The pet brand example documented in "How One Pet Brand Cut Returns 50% with Better Packaging — Practical Lessons for Marketplace Sellers" is instructive: they combined material changes with dimension optimization and clearer on-package instructions for fit and use.

Three-packaging levers any seller can test

1. Right-size cartons: reduce movement inside the box by using small spacers or tailored inserts. Smaller packages also lower dimensional weight fees.
2. Instruction-first inserts: a single-sheet guide solves many fit and setup questions that otherwise become return reasons.
3. Visual labelling: use a large, image-based label to show scale and usage—this reduces