We will discuss product packaging from a logistical standpoint: what are the distinctions between tertiary, secondary, and primary packaging, and what roles do they serve? We will also turn our attention to chilled packaging, the ideal option for temperature-sensitive and ecologically sensitive products.
What are the main types of packaging in logistics?
A product’s packaging is made up of multiple layers. Based on the EU Directive 94/62/EC there is a distinction between sales packaging, outer packaging, and transport packaging.
1. Sales packaging
Also known as primary packaging, contains, protects, and stores the product. It has the purpose of keeping the product in perfect condition and it also encloses the article directly. This type of packaging is known as the smallest unit of consumption because it allows the product to be sold by the piece. The primary types of packaging are in the form of tubes, cans, jars, bottles, or bags.
2. Outer packaging
The second packaging layer is known as outer packaging or secondary packaging. It wraps each package individually and them puts them together in a bundle. Boxes or carboard packages are used to do this.
3. Transport packaging
Known as tertiary packaging. It is a combination between primary and secondary packaging, and it forms a bigger loading unit. Pallets, boxes, containers and so on are the most popular types of packaging.
With so many types of packaging available, there are also a lot of materials from which they can be made. The most common packaging materials are paper, cardboard, plastic, wood, glass, and sheet metal. One of the most popular materials, plastic is now used less due to the more environmentally friendly options available.
What are the decisive factors for packaging?
The property of the product is the first thing to consider for packaging. Sensitive products such as food, pharmaceuticals or hazardous goods put a lot of quality demands on the packaging. The manufacturing and packaging process has an influence on the choice of primary and secondary packaging.
An important environmental issue is the packaging waste and the recycling options or packaging reuse. The biggest challenge is the handling of the goods during transit and their storage.
What are the logistical challenges and strategies in cold chain?
The logistical challenges arise when the sensitive products are transported. Let’s take food logistics for example. These time sensitive goods have special requirements for transportation. From transit duration to traceability and appropriate storage. All these while maintaining the cold chain unbroken.
Sustainable packaging solutions
Making sure that perishable products survive transportation to the consumer and arrive in pristine conditions is crucial. That’s why temperature monitoring and insulating packaging play an important role during transit. It is impossible to imagine a value chain without packaging to keep the product in the best possible condition. This emphasizes the importance of operating carefully in this case. Environmentally friendly options are required to keep up with the times. We think the progress is fantastic and look forward to seeing more!
