With sustainability becoming a top priority in product packaging, many candle brands are choosing molded pulp trays to protect their candle jars. But standard trays often don't meet the needs of unique, custom-designed candle containers. So how can you fully customize pulp trays to match your product?
Let’s break down the most effective customization options for candle jar packaging using molded fiber trays.
Custom Shape for a Perfect Fit
Candle jars come in all shapes and sizes—round, square, tall, short, or even sculpted. Standard packaging doesn't always offer the right protection. Custom molded pulp trays are made by creating molds that match your exact jar shape. This ensures a tight fit and better protection during shipping. No extra fillers or plastic cushions are needed. A well-fitted tray keeps the jar from moving and reduces breakage rates significantly.
Thickness and Material Adjustments
Custom trays allow you to select the right material thickness based on your product's weight. Heavier glass jars may require thicker pulp walls, while lightweight tin candles can use thinner trays to save cost.
Available material options include:
Recycled paper pulp
Sugarcane bagasse
Bamboo fiber
All of these options are biodegradable and meet global eco-packaging standards.
Surface Finish and Color
You can choose how the tray looks and feels:
Smooth surface or raw texture
Natural brown, white, or custom colors
Logo embossing for branding
Water or oil-resistant coatings if needed
These choices allow brands to align the tray’s appearance with their candle style—whether luxury, minimalist, or rustic.
Multi-Cavity Tray for Gift Sets
If you sell candle sets or need space for accessories like matches, fragrance cards, or care guides, a multi-cavity design is the best option. A custom pulp tray can include:
One or more jar compartments
Space for lids, notes, or tools
Dividers to keep items from touching
This also enhances the unboxing experience and adds perceived value to your product.
Integration with Outer Packaging
The pulp tray should match the size and layout of your outer box. Whether you use a rigid box, sliding sleeve, or kraft mailer, a custom tray can be designed to fit inside smoothly.
That helps you:
Reduce excess packaging
Improve stacking in shipping cartons
Speed up packaging during production
Sustainable Appeal
Customers today care about green packaging. Using pulp trays lets you showcase:
“100% biodegradable” or “plastic-free” messaging
FSC-certified materials
Eco-friendly printing options
QR codes that explain your sustainability values
These small changes can help build brand trust and encourage repeat purchases.
Production Timeline and Cost
To customize trays, you'll need a mold created. The basic steps include:
Sending a jar sample or dimensions
Approving a 3D model or prototype
Mass production (typically 15–25 days)
The tooling cost is usually a one-time investment and becomes cost-effective in bulk.
Conclusion:
Custom molded pulp trays are more than just eco-friendly—they are also practical, protective, and brand-enhancing. For candle makers who value product safety, packaging design, and sustainability, they are the ideal packaging choice. If your candle jars are uniquely shaped, or you want to upgrade from plastic to biodegradable packaging, a custom-designed pulp tray could be your next competitive advantage.