by Choosing the Right Products: Material Considerations for Industrial Packaging
The materials used for Industrial Packaging are one of the most important factors to consider. These materials need to be durable enough to withstand the rigors of transportation and storage in various industrial environments. Some key material considerations include:
Corrugated Fiberboard – One of the most commonly used Industrial Packaging materials is corrugated fiberboard, also known as cardboard. It offers protection from dents and abrasions while being lightweight and affordable. However, it has lower resistance to moisture and is not suitable for heavy or delicate items.
Plastics – Rigid plastics like polyethylene (PE) and polypropylene (PP) offer protection from moisture and corrosion. They are lightweight yet durable options suitable for a wide range of industrial goods. Flexible plastics like polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and polyethylene (PE) sheeting are used for wrapping and sealing. Plastics require proper venting to prevent container collapse during transportation or storage.
Wood – Wooden packaging like pallets, crates, and boxes provide robust protection but are heavier. They are better suited for heavy or oversized industrial equipment. Treated wood resists moisture and pests better. Reusable wood helps reduce disposal costs.
Metal – Materials such as steel and aluminum are highly durable options ideal for hazardous or heavy industrial goods. However, they are more expensive and heavier than other choices. Galvanized or coated metals prevent corrosion.
Design Considerations for Rugged Packaging
Beyond materials, the design aspects are critical for reliable Industrial Packaging. Key design factors to evaluate include:
Edges and Corners – Reinforced edges, corners, and seams help the packaging withstand impacts better. Additional layers of material, screw posts, metal buttons or corner guards improve durability.
Closure Types – Secure closure methods like straps, bands, locks prevent incidental opening during transport or storage. Tamper-evident seals assure integrity. Zippers or tear strips allow inspection without compromising the seal.
Ventilation – Packaging for moisture-sensitive or pressure-buildup prone goods requires ventilation holes or membranes. Air pockets in insulating packaging prevent condensation.
Volume Protection – Designing packaging 20-30% larger than the product provides void space for cushioning. Fully-filler packaging should utilize paper cushions or foam boards.
Labeling – Contact information, hazard warnings, handling instructions clearly displayed on the exterior facilitate proper shipping and usage.
Sustainability in Industrial Packaging
Along with performance, sustainability is a growing concern for Packaging. Leading practices include:
Reusable Packaging – Well-designed reusable industrial packaging like plastic containers, wooden crates, and returnable pallets significantly lower disposal costs and environmental impact over many trips.
Recyclable Materials – Paper, corrugated cardboard, wood pallets, and plastics #1-#7 are readily recycled at end of life in many areas. The use of recycled content further reduces environmental footprint.
Lightweighting – Getting more lightweight yet durable through material and design innovation, lowers shipping costs and emissions per unit shipped. Crash-tested lightweight designs optimize protection.
Compact Packaging – Perfect sizing without empty space enables maximum load per trailer or container, reducing freight transportation needs.
Digitization – Advanced tracking and returns monitoring minimizes lost or unrecovered packaging assets for further reuse. Electronic documentation replaces paper manuals.
The Right Formula for Industrial Packaging Success
Choosing packaging suited to your specific product, supply chain needs and industry regulations is key. Consulting packaging experts to assess various material and design options against performance requirements, processing capabilities, budgets and sustainability goals leads to optimal,compliant solutions.
Computer modeling and testing provide high confidence before bulk production. Implementing continuous improvement processes based on field performance data keeps industrial packaging optimized over time. With the right formula of material, design, and sustainability considerations, manufacturers can successfully protect products and streamline logistics for competitive advantage.
*Note:
1.Source: Coherent Market Insights, Public sources, Desk research
2.We have leveraged AI tools to mine information and compile it
