Packaging is the process used to package products from farm to fork. We have three types of packaging that are very helpful in storing and shipping the package. Primary, secondary, and tertiary packaging are the kinds of packaging that make your products capable of being saved and presented.

If you want to know the types of packaging with examples and which factors you need to consider while choosing the best packaging, this article is specially created for you.

How Many Types Of Packaging Are There?

There are 3 types of packaging: primary, secondary, and tertiary. Many types of packaging materials are used, including glass, plastic, cardboard, etc. Each type of packaging has different functions. 

Primary packaging

Primary packaging is the first layer of packaging that protects a product from direct contact. It helps preserve the product and increases its quality. This packaging also makes the product presentable and provides additional information, including ingredients and instructions.

Primary packaging examples

There are a few Primary packaging material examples, which are as follows:

• If we are discussing types of packaging in the food category, specifically custom cereal boxes where labeling is done on the back side of the box. There are three main components of packaging: the box, the labeling, and the lid of the box. These things are considered in primary packaging.
• If we talk about custom serum boxes, then the bottle’s packaging, lid, and bottle are considered primary packaging.

Why is primary packaging important?

Primary packaging is necessary because it preserves the product and protects it from damage, contamination, and spoilage. It keeps food fresh and increases its shelf life.

Primary packaging provides product-related information to consumers. If a consumer is unfamiliar with a product, they can read the label before purchasing.

This type of packaging enhances the brand’s identity and makes the product more appealing. Primary packaging plays a huge role in whatever we consume.

What are primary packaging considerations?

If you need primary packaging materials with some important points to consider because each type of product has different packaging that fulfills the brand’s requirements.

 For example, food items need packaging that keeps food safe and fresh. To understand primary packaging considerations, there are a few factors as follows:

Product compatibility

Whatever types of packaging you choose for your product, they should be compatible. 

For example, acidic products have some specific properties that prevent packaging from getting damaged. Food items require such packaging that does not spoil the food and keeps it safe to eat.

Rules and regulation

Rules and regulations play a very important role in primary packaging. There are some safety standards that primary packaging in the pharmaceutical industry should follow.

It is necessary for tertiary packaging companies to understand the rules properly so that legal issues can be avoided. Product safety can also be improved by following the rules and regulations.

Sustainable packaging

Sustainability is very important for any product packaging. Many customers prefer eco-friendly, recyclable, and biodegradable packaging. If you pay attention to sustainable materials, it not only helps the environment but also reduces waste. Businesses that grow keep sustainability in mind.

Convincing the user 

The primary packaging plays a crucial role in the consumer experience. It should include features like readable labeling, easy opening, and convenient disposal. For snacks, packaging should be simple and scissor-free for effortless opening. 

This type of packaging enhances customer satisfaction, encourages repeat purchases, and makes products more appealing through thoughtful design.

Cost effective and extends shelf life

Businesses should maintain a balance between the quality and price of the product to stay competitive in the market. If the product has good quality, then its shelf life will increase, and it will not be damaged during transportation and shipping.

Secondary packaging

Secondary packaging is the second layer, whose main purpose is to hold the product. It helps in storage and in increasing the shelf life of the product.

For example, when we talk about medicine bags, they come in an outer box. The cereal boxes are made from corrugated boxes. Secondary packaging contains all the information that is provided to the consumer, such as ingredients, product information labels, and other company information. 

Secondary packaging is not only found in retail shops but also seen in wholesale product shops. Secondary packaging helps in transporting products from retailer to consumer. It is very good for product packaging, and you can easily open it. This packaging gives you easy access to restock the product without any damage.

Secondary  packaging examples

Primary packaging and secondary packaging have different examples. Now, let’s talk about secondary packaging examples so you will better understand what it is.

The product, which is made from a cardboard box, can be easily used; grab it, and add it to your cart. Whatever box is on the pharmacy shelf is also in secondary packaging. This secondary packaging helps display the product on retail shelves for any brand. 

We also have paperboard cartons and bubble mailers that are used to wrap items so that they get double protection during transportation and nothing gets damaged.

Tertiary packaging

Tertiary packaging is the outer layer that is used to hold secondary packages. It facilitates the easy shipping and transporting of a product from one place to another. Tertiary package mostly uses hard materials such as cardboard or plastic.

Tertiary food packaging combines primary and secondary packages into a single unit, making it easy to handle. Many tertiary food packaging companies are adopting sustainable practices. 

These eco-friendly types of packaging materials are used in tertiary food packaging, which enhances recyclability and is best for perishable food from production to the consumer.

Tertiary packaging examples

Tertiary packaging materials include the following examples:

• Crates made of wood or plastic assist in the transportation of products.
• Stretch wrap is used to secure items on pallets and prevent movement during shipping.
• Shipping containers, constructed from large metalized boxes, suitable for transporting goods over long distances.

Factors need to be considered while choosing the best type of packaging

These are the few factors that you should considered while choosing the best packaging which are as follows:

1. Select sturdy materials like cardboard that prevent damage during transportation and shipping. 
2. Good material choice keeps products fresh and increases shelf life.
3. Choose Lightweight materials to reduce product and shipping costs. The packaging design reflects brand identity and attracts buyers.

Where to get custom packaging services?

If you are considering custom product packaging, we offer excellent options. Packlim provides unique packaging solutions with complete customization, including brand logos and various designs that meet your requirements.

Selecting the right packaging can bring significant advantages. I am confident that choosing the right packaging will benefit you greatly.