Packaging is an essential part of any business or a product that can bring a real difference in your consumer’s views. You may need to provide your consumers something unique and powerful that they would enjoy having and be excited about.
However, how would you know which packaging material to use? There are various kinds out there, each one with its own upsides and downsides.
In this article, we will have a complete guide on the types of packaging material you should know as a business owner. There are a number of packaging materials that people may use: custom Corrugated boxes, plastic wrap, paperboard boxes, aluminium foils, however not all of these operate well for each product. Your choice of material relies on what sort of product you are selling as well as your individual preferences.
What are the Different Types of Packaging Materials?
- Paperboard boxes
Paperboard boxes tend to be amazing for carrying products such as DVDs, Cds and boxes. They are composed of thick cardboard with a folding lid on the bottom or top that you may open to exploring what is inside. The main downside of paperboard boxes is that they do not provide enough safety against moisture, hence it might not be an ideal option in case your product requires some sort of protection.
- Aluminium foil
Aluminium foil tends to be in rolls retaining large metal sheets with an adhesive part that sticks onto products like cupcake boxes when baking items. It also functions well for packaging leftovers as food doesn't stick to it efficiently especially daily use dishes. But, aluminium foils don't go well to moisture, hence it is not an ideal option if you are delivering edibles.
Foam
Foam types packaging comes in numerous sizes and shapes, however, they are all composed of polystyrene beads that have been warmed till they develop into spongy stuff. The main advantage of foam packaging is its capacity to be recycled over and over again.
Dishes can be placed back inside their actual boxes for securing or utilising as storage boxes after being washed. One downside would be that you may need to highlight them with tape as there is no lid on them.
Kraft Paper
Kraft paper is a long-lasting material that can be flattened or folded without reshaping its actual shape. The main advantage of this packaging sort is the cost, which may fluctuate depending on how much you buy at one time and what quality and grade level it has been prepped to. You may need to ensure that the kraft boxes have secure lids to remain dry and save the product inside from being damaged or broken. One upside would be there not being any sort of cushioning of extra safety against products breaking during delivery of products if they are delicate.
- Corrugated Fibreboard Boxes
Corrugated fiberboard is a cardboard type that is frequently employed for shipping. Custom cardboard boxes provide more safety than kraft paper, which can be beneficial if you are shipping delicate products or those that require extra padding or cushioning such as mirrors and electronics. The downside to this material is the expenses- it might have fluctuating costs relying on how much you buy at a time, however, in general, it will become twice as expensive each square foot compared with some other packaging materials.
- Polythene
These are the plastic sheets normally placed in foodservice spaces like fast-food spots or restaurants. They provide amazing heat insulation against heat, hence they create excellent options for frozen edibles and any other product where temperature matters. As an extra bonus, they tend to be a good choice for securing your products from damage. The downside to polythene is that they are not waterproof, hence any products such as electronics or clothing cannot be packed in them. It can also tear down when exposed to sunlight and may need replacement over time.
- Rigid Boxes
Rigi material is one of the impactful packaging options. They are the most famous type of packaging in the retail industry as they are flexible and can be employed to commute a number of items such as edibles, toys, books or clothes. The main downside is that these packages are more tedious with regards to production than other sorts than other types, which increments in their costs, however, it's worth considering this in mind whilst thinking of them as an option.
Stretch Film
Stretch film is another material for packaging that is famous to be used as boxes. It is employed to wrap around the box and seal it closed, hence, there are no nasty things available to you once you unseal your package.
However, this packaging material comes with a downside also as they contain plastic in them which makes them non-recyclable, increasing their ecological impact over a certain time.
- Plastic Bags
Plastic bags are great to use as an option to post something instead of using a paper envelope or package, however, it also comes with the downside of not being recyclable. The main advantage of plastic bags for shipping items via post is that they are seamless to handle and are lightweight, whilst being cost-effective than other packaging materials like custom cardboard boxes.
- Shrink Film
Shrink film is also being used by various firms that need to deliver out different sorts of products such as jewellery pieces and other delicate items. It is composed of a thin material of plastic that can be wrapped in a full grip around the products or items being delivered, hence it is entirely placed in one space, without the danger of the product being damaged or coming out. The main drawback with this material is that it requires time for air-drying before delivering the products, however, if you are utilising a professional firm, they will have an idea how long it may take for them on the basis of their location.
Conclusion
Lastly, the sort of packaging that you may select for your item depends on what is essential for you. Are you concerned with sustainability? Cost or both? If your answer includes both of these concerns, then your best option would be the custom cardboard boxes that would serve both purposes.
