It's impossible to give an opinion from those poor photographs. From what I can see, it looks like the new packaging could possibly be better. If the new top and bottom provide additional corner protection vs. the old box and adds structural rigidity to the package, I see that positive as outweighing the previously mentioned negatives. In the big picture, another $25-50 for sturdy reusable packaging is a plus in my view. The potential for snagging the straps is greatly reduced by shrink wrapping the package but what about secondary reshipments? Those straps better be very sturdy. (I've always used nylon strapping secured with steel clamps on all my heavy shipments without ever having problems.)
I find the traditional cardboard box packaging of most audio gear to be easily damaged and punctured. REL subwoofers have the worst packaging of any audio product I've ever purchased, totally inadequate protection. The best cardboard box packaging I've purchased was Luxman's: triple boxes of double wall cardboard with generous use of closed cell foam inside.