Retail packaging (bags, boxes, etc.) comes in all different shapes, sizes, colors, and materials. It’s easy to become overwhelmed by the options for what seems like such an easy decision. Here some tips to make your decision easier.

• Pick the appropriate bag for your merchandise and brand. This is common sense. You wouldn’t put a diamond ring in a plastic t-shirt bag; you wouldn’t package a cheap tee in a tinted Kraft box. The right packaging confers value to your brand name and the product.

• Use gusset bags if you sell bulkier items. The gusset is the added panel on both sides of the bag that allows it to expand. Not to worry, a gusset bag folds almost as flat as a non-gusset bag, which brings up another point…

• Choose retail packaging that stores flat. Packaging takes up a lot of storage space, so pick a product that economizes on space.

• This seems like a no-brainer, but take your biggest boxed item and use it to choose your biggest bag size.

• Turn your retail packaging into a promotional vehicle for your store by putting your store logo on every bag. The bag then becomes a walking advertisement when it leaves your store.

• Environmental awareness is huge, and for good reason. Part of the conservation efforts involves recycling retail packaging. Instead of plastic bags, think about buying a slightly sturdier cloth bag with your logo on it. This reusable marketing tool will pay dividends in the long run and burnish your image as a “green” retailer.