When it comes to shipping and storage, your options can seem both limitless and confusing. There are so many ways you can ship boxes, for instance, or customize packaging using polypropylene webbing tape. Still, packaging plays a key role in goods’ storage, safety, and distribution. To help you cut through the noise, here are some popular packing solutions for shipping and storage.
Types of Packaging
The three main types of packaging are primary, secondary, and tertiary. While primary packaging comes into direct contact with the contents, secondary packaging offers an extra protective barrier. Tertiary packaging is often used to hold multiple items together.
There are instances in which the three types are used together. Consider, for example, a frozen pizza that’s been shrink-wrapped. The wrap is its primary packaging. The wrapped pizza is subsequently placed in a cardboard box to shield it against impact or possible contamination. That’s its secondary packaging. A number of those boxes of pizza may then be placed on a pallet and bundled together for shipping using stretch wrap or polypropylene webbing. That’s tertiary packaging.
Packaging can also be described as flexible or rigid. Flexible packaging changes its structure or shape without breaking when handled. Examples here are bags, pouches, or foil. On the other hand, rigid packaging refers to glass, hard plastics or other sturdy products that do not bend or lose integrity when handled.
Popular Packaging Solutions for Shipping and Storage
- Corrugated Cardboard Boxes. These boxes are made from corrugated fiberboard – a layered structure that has a rippled middle layer. They provide a great deal of protection for a broad mix of item types.
- Padded mailers. This option is lightweight and typically recyclable, perfect for smaller goods where cushioning is necessary.
- Plastic containers. There are tons of sizes and shapes available for almost any need. They also offer solid protection against impact and moisture but are still comparably lightweight.
- Wooden crates. These tough and highly durable crates are particularly suitable for large or heavy items and are commonly custom-built to accommodate certain items.
- Bubble wrap. Bubble wrapping offers top-tier cushioning for fragile items and can be employed for extra protection within boxes.
- Custom inserts. Using the right-sized shipping boxes can help contain costs and cut down on waste. However, most shipping boxes will still have leftover space. Custom inserts and void fillers can take care of that and serve as additional protection during transportation.
What to Consider When Selecting Your Packaging Solution
Think about these factors when choosing your packaging:
- Product type. If what you’re shipping or storing is on the fragile side, you’ll need more cushioning. On the other hand, heavy goods call for sturdy containers.
- Shipping distance. Think about how far your item must travel and be subject to all the bouncing and tossing that can go with protracted journeys. If it’s a long ways, you may need more robust packaging.
- Sustainability. Environmentally conscious organizations may want to go with biodegradable or recyclable materials.
- Branding. If you want to enhance brand recognition, perhaps you should consider custom packaging with design elements and company logos.
- Weight. A package’s weight affects how much it costs to ship. Thus, to save money, try to use durable albeit lightweight packaging materials whenever you can.
In Summary
Just as there are a number of options available to you when it comes to shipping and storing, there are also factors that you should consider for the best protection and price. Be sure to do your homework and choose wisely.