How Do You Package Different Orders?

Hi Julie

I don't really sell my cookies, but I do package them as gifts and for donations.  As soon as they are thoroughly dry I package them individually in treat bags.  If I'm just doing a few - I like to use ribbons.  If I'm sending them in the mail to family, I use a FoodSaver sealer for just 3 or 4 seconds and seal them.  If I really want the cookie to showcase, I might pull the bag a little tighter around the cookie and tape it in place on the back.  I almost always use "shred" to ensure the cookies have a nice soft base to lay on and I love the wonderful boxes available at BRPBoxShop.  I have, however, in the past, just used bakery boxes from Wal-mart or Michael's or Hobby Lobby.  I like that BRP has boxes truly meant for cookies.  I like to have the clear-view tops so people can instantly see what they are getting. 

I hope that helps - since I'm not in business, I don't pay a lot of attention to the cost and seeking out the cheapest...but I will get packaging items on sale and they are fun to have on hand!

Thank you Debbie for the reply. That helps a ton! Where do you buy the shred?  I bought some shred at Christmas and was surprised how expensive shredded paper was. After looking at buying packaging material prices it seems the packaging could really increase the price of my materials, especially if I don't sell the volume to justify buying packing materials in bulk.

Thanks again!

hi julie,

i used to make gift baskets in my past life, try burtonandburton.com they sell small bags of shred and bulk shred. i hopes this helps, i still used them i just make more cookie bouquet now instead of baskets, they also have great inpirations for cookie ideas through there product.

Julie - I get shred at the dollar store...I never buy the metallic, just the paper.  I am sure the dollar store shred is more cheaply made (I can actually tell the difference between Michael's shred and dollar store) but since my cookies are not touching it and it's just throw away padding, I keep a supply of the colors I can find.  I like the brown paper shred, but it is rarely available at the dollar store.  When I get a "50% off anything regular price" coupon from Michael's...that's when I stock up on the brown shred...it is rarely on sale!  I'll also check out the resource Renae mentioned!

Quick follow-up... I tried to log in for online ordering to check the prices from burtonandburton.com - unfortunately you can't log in if you don't have a state tax ID.  Since baked goods from cottage bakers are not taxed in Texas (as long as you don't include any additional products with the baked goods - like you might find in a gift basket or such), then I wouldn't qualify to log in to their website.  They do show a way to find local resellers of their products. Frustrating.

I'm so sorry I didn't think about the license part, I established my account when I hade a retail business license in the state of South Carolina, I still maintain my account with them. Oh I just thought of something try nashvillewraps.com they also sell shreds and package products and you can see the prices there. I hope this hepls.

Thank you all for the tips!  I appreciate it very much!

If you will be shipping cookies, you can get free boxes delivered to you by USPS if you use their services. We order our boxes from Uline and BRP Box shop. I order my shred from Uline, as well as cello baggies, tape, shipping peanuts, and bubble wrap. I use Knashville Wraps for ribbon and specialty boxes.

Make sure to include the cost of your shipping supplies in the amount that you charge for your cookies!