Virtually every product available for purchase will require packaging materials at some part of its journey through the supply chain.
The types of packaging materials used will vary based on the nature of the product and the forces that may act upon it in transit.
What is a packaging material?
Packaging materials are materials used to wrap and protect a product.
They can be broadly considered under three main classifications.
What is the classification of packaging materials?
- Primary packaging materials are what the product is put in. For example, the primary packaging material of perfume would be the glass bottle the perfume comes in. Likewise, the primary packaging material of an industrial liquid may be a volume specific drum or bottle. In both examples, different types of packaging material will likely be functional, but may also be designed with visual appeal and branding in mind.
- Secondary packaging materials are the next layer of packaging such as a box or crate that contains a number of individual units such as in the examples of the perfume or industrial liquid. This layer of packaging is designed for protection more than aesthetics or branding.
- Tertiary packaging materials are designed to safely transport goods without damage from weather or other forces acting upon them. Tertiary packaging materials can include crates or pallets, and the materials used to secure and protect their load.
Is there a difference between industrial packaging and normal packaging?
Industrial packaging is usually more robust and stronger than normal packaging because it often has to protect dangerous goods, oddly shaped items, and/or items that need to be moved with the aid of a forklift.
It’s usually secure, but also heavier than conventional packaging designs and products.
What are the main types of packaging materials?
Plastic
One of the most common industrial packaging materials available is plastic.
For hazardous and corrosive goods, it’s the best material for transportation.
Plastic won’t be corroded by many industrial chemicals, and can be an economical and long lasting option, such as in barrels or drums, which are long lasting and reusable.
Steel
Steel might not be as effective when it comes to packaging corrosive materials, but it’s very useful for other goods.
Steel packaging, such as drums, is incredibly robust, very strong, and offers a solid, long-term investment.
Cardboard
Cardboard is another versatile packaging material, used in many different industries.
It’s the most effective of all types of packaging materials with the bonus of being easily recyclable and reusable, which increases the appeal when environmental and sustainability concerns are a high priority.
How do I know which type of packaging is right for me?
The best packaging for you depends primarily on what products you need to package, protect and transport, coupled with your budget, and environmental or sustainability concerns.
Choosing the correct type of packaging material can be the difference between your product arriving in pristine condition fit and ready for use, and a product arriving damaged in transit and the loss of reputation and client trust that can arise from that.
To ensure that your product is correctly protected from moisture, blows, and other forces acting upon it, choose quality packaging materials that are appropriate for your product and its supply chain journey.
To discern the correct types of packaging material for your needs, talk to the friendly experienced team at ITP Packaging today.
