What Are 3 Types of Packaging?

Packaging plays a crucial role in protecting products, providing information, and attracting consumers. Packaging is categorized into three types: primary, secondary, and tertiary. Each type serves a unique purpose, from manufacturing to store shelves. Understanding these types helps businesses choose the right packaging solutions to ensure product safety and enhance brand appeal.

Primary packaging is the type of packaging that comes into direct contact with the product. Also commonly referred to as consumer packaging and retail packaging, this is the final layer of packaging between the consumer and the product. The design and branding are also key in attracting customers to your product.

Primary packaging encompasses various items that directly contain the product. It includes containers such as bottles and jars, tubes, wrappers, and more.

For a bottle of sauce, the bottle lid, and even the label are all considered primary packaging. The primary packaging for a jar of lotion includes the jar, the lid, and any labeling. In the case of multiple items sold together, such as individually wrapped granola bars in a box, the wrappers around each bar serve as the primary packaging.

Primary packaging plays a crucial role in protecting the product from damage, contamination, and environmental factors. This type of packaging also provides important information about the product including ingredients, instructions, and expiration dates through its label design.

Glass is durable and chemically resistant, making it ideal for beverages and pharmaceuticals. Plastic is lightweight and versatile and it is commonly used for food and personal care products. Metal offers protection against light and moisture and is used for canned goods. Paper is often used for single-use items including tea bags and seasoning packets. Each material's unique properties help ensure product safety and preservation.

There are instances in which secondary packaging is the first thing consumers see on store shelves, although primary packaging is the most common. If a jar of lotion is packaged in an individual box on the shelf, that box is considered secondary packaging. These boxes are for display only and are not secure enough to be shipped by itself. Secondary packaging can also be something that connects multiple products, such as a box of soda. A box holding multiple individually wrapped granola bars is also considered secondary packaging. Secondary packaging makes it easier for retailers to display products on shelves. This type of packaging provides an additional layer of protection for the product, but it also is important that it still catches the eye of consumers.

Secondary packaging makes it easier for businesses to display bulk products in stores while still enhancing their visual appeal. It can also simplify the design process so companies can create both attractive and informational packaging. Common examples include plastic bags and boxes to group and hold multiple products together. Mailers are a form of secondary packaging as the product is put into the mailer and shipped directly to consumers.

Since secondary packaging can often be the first thing a customer sees and interacts with, one of the main functions is that it attracts attention with its visually appealing design and branding. Secondary packaging typically also features some information and labeling about the product. This type of packaging is also a second defense against damage and contamination.

Secondary packaging often relies on versatile materials including plastic, metal, and paper. Plastic offers a clear display of its contents and is flexible and lightweight. For example, a bulk bag of individually wrapped candy, ear plugs, or straws.

These materials as secondary packaging are essential for protecting products, ensuring they reach consumers in good condition.

Tertiary packaging is used to facilitate the handling, storage, and transportation of goods. This type of packaging helps ensure that products are shipped securely. When a customer buys something in person they usually have no interaction with tertiary packaging. When a customer orders something online and has it shipped to their home, then they interact with tertiary packaging – the box the order is shipped in.

Common shipping supplies include pallets, boxes, and more. This type of packaging is designed to ensure that products avoid damage during shipping and handling. Items are placed into boxes and loaded onto pallets to stack and transport large orders quickly and efficiently. Stretch film and strapping and banding equipment provide another layer of security to palletized boxes by keeping them tightly bound.

Tertiary packaging allows products to be shipped long distances and arrive undamaged. It also plays a crucial role in protecting products from environmental factors during transit such as moisture, humidity, temperature extremes, physical damage, and contamination. This type of packaging also helps simplify the logistics process in supply chains due to its product protection and organization.

Wood, plastic, and cardboard are commonly used materials for tertiary packaging. For example, wood is used for pallets and crates, creating a sturdy base for shipping bulk items. These materials are essential as they ensure products are securely transported and stored to arrive at their destination in perfect condition. 

Understanding primary, secondary, and tertiary packaging types is important for businesses so they can streamline logistics, avoid damage to products, and ensure brand awareness. By selecting the appropriate packaging for products, businesses can effectively provide the best product packaging while meeting customer expectations.

At The Cary Company, we know how important it is that your product stays in great condition and stands out to consumers. Looking to streamline your logistics process? We are a one-stop shop for all three packaging types and labeling services! 

Have any questions about our containers, shipping supplies, or design services? Contact our product specialists at 630.629.6600 or email sales@thecarycompany.com.