What are the different types of packaging materials?

Packaging is an essential component of the manufacturing, supply and distribution processes. It is used across a wide variety of industries for a range of different roles, and most people will encounter some form of packaging every day of the week. Simply put, it is everywhere. It helps to protect products when they’re shipped, and it can be used to brand products with advertising or to provide useful information for customers. Packaging is incredibly diverse. In this article, we take a look at the different types of packaging materials available. WHAT IS PACKAGING? Packaging is used for a variety of purposes. It can be used to protect goods or products being shipped. It helps to protect products when they’re in transit, or as they’re being delivered. Packaging is also there to absorb blows, to protect products from moisture or spills, and to keep them clean. Packaging works too to advertise products and to promote a brand or design, while providing a place for useful information to be written and easily read by the customer. This is particularly important if a product is potentially hazardous, as warning signs can be printed on the outside. IS THERE A DIFFERENCE BETWEEN INDUSTRIAL PACKAGING AND NORMAL PACKAGING? Industrial packaging is similar in concept, but in practice is very different from normal packaging. It is more robust and stronger because it often has to protect dangerous goods. Industrial packaging is usually tailor-made for a particular product that needs to be transported, and it can be more protective as a result. It is usually secure, but also heavier than conventional packaging designs and products. THE DIFFERENT TYPES OF INDUSTRIAL PACKAGING PLASTIC One of the most common industrial packaging materials you can find is plastic. For hazardous and corrosive goods, it is the best material for transportation. Plastic won’t be corroded by many industrial chemicals, and not only is it cheap to produce plastic packaging such as barrels or drums, but they’re long lasting and reusable. STEEL Steel might not be as effective when it comes to packaging corrosive materials, but it’s very useful for other goods. Steel packaging, such as drums, is incredibly robust, very strong, and offers a solid, long-term investment. CARDBOARD Cardboard is another versatile packaging material, and it’s used in many different industries. It is the most effective form of industrial packaging, with the bonus of being easily recyclable and reusable. Cardboard is surprisingly strong and can even be used to hold certain hazardous materials and chemicals. HOW DO I KNOW WHICH PACKAGINGS IS RIGHT FOR ME? The best packaging for you depends primarily on what products you need to package, protect and transport, and what your budget is. If you have corrosive materials to package, then you might consider plastic, or cardboard if appropriate, and you need to save on costs. If you need to package and transport oils or lubricants, then steel drums might be more suitable. ITP Packaging has a fantastic range of industrial packaging products available. Our high-quality products are ready to be shipped, so contact ITP Packaging and speak with our expert team to find the most suitable packaging for your needs – and to place your order.

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