Types of Packages
- Categorisation by Transport/Distribution
A transport package or distribution package can be the shipping container used to ship, store, and handle the product or inner packages. Some identify a consumer package as one which is directed toward a consumer or household.
- Categorisation by Type of Product
- Packaging may be described in relation to the type of product being packaged: medical device packaging, bulk chemical packaging, over-the-counter drug packaging, retail food packaging, military material packaging, pharmaceutical packaging, etc.
- Categorisation by Layer/Function
- Primary packaging is the material that first envelops the product and holds it.
- Secondary packaging is outside the primary packaging, perhaps used to group primary packages together.
- Tertiary packaging is used for bulk handling, warehouse storage and transport shipping. The most common form is a palletised unit load that packs tightly into containers.
Traditional Packaging Techniques
- Baling
- Bags
- Metallic and plastic barrels
- Wooden boxes/cases and metal lined cases
- Glass containers
- Cartons
- Crates
New/Modern Packaging Techniques
Bulk liquid bags/containers
- A bulk liquid bag can be used to accommodate various types of liquid cargo. When it is not in use, it can be folded to 2% of its volume. It costs about one sixth (1/6) of the price of the steel drum and one quarter (1/4) of the price of the tank container. Each bulk liquid bag can carry a volume of liquid cargo of about 210 litres.
Shrink wrapping
- This is very popular with air freight consignments whether conveyed by air or surface transport. This is a form of packing whereby goods are placed on a base usually a pallet and covered with a film of plastic. This packaging aids handling. It is a relatively cheap form of packaging particularly in relation to timber and fibre board cartons. It gives rigid protection to the cargo and it is widely used.