From Basics to Applications: New Packaging Glossary Released to Empower Industry Professionals
The Definitive Glossary of Packaging: From Basics to Applications
To facilitate industry communication and standardization, we have compiled a comprehensive guide to packaging terminology. The following entries cover definitions from basic concepts to specific packaging types, aiming to provide a clear reference for both professionals and enthusiasts.
1. Basic Definitions
Package / Packaging
The enclosure of products in a wrap, pouch, bag, box, cup, tray, can, tube, bottle or other container form to perform one or more of the following functions: containment, preservation, protection, identification, and facilitation of dispensing and use.
Package
The total entity formed by the product and its packaging.
Transport Package
A complete package ready for shipment and entering the distribution chain.
Contents
The product or items contained within a package.
2. Classification by Purpose & Use
Transport Package / Shipping Package
Packaging primarily intended for transportation and storage. Its roles include ensuring product safety, facilitating handling and logistics, and speeding up inspection and transfer.
Consumer Package / Sales Package
Packaging intended primarily for retail, which reaches the consumer together with the product. It aims to protect, beautify, promote the product, and ultimately drive sales.
Gift Package
Packaging suitable for gifting, typically featuring aesthetic enhancements and decorative elements.
Dangerous Articles Package
Specially designed packaging, including containers and protective techniques, manufactured for dangerous goods in compliance with relevant regulations and standards.
3. Classification by Structure & Material
Flexible Package
Packaging whose shape can change when the contents are filled or removed. Containers are typically made from materials such as paper, fiber products, plastic film, or flexible composites.
Rigid Package
Packaging whose shape remains essentially unchanged when the contents are filled or removed. Containers are typically made from rigid materials like metal, wood, glass, ceramics, or rigid plastics.
Transparent Package / See-through Package
Packaging through which all or part of the contents can be seen via transparent materials.
Collapsible Package
Packaging that can be folded for storage when not in use (before filling or after emptying).
Detachable Package
Packaging that can be disassembled into parts and reassembled for use.
4. Classification by Format & Specialization
Pallet Packaging
The unitization of packages or products on a pallet, secured by strapping, stretch-wrapping, or adhesive, to form a handling unit for mechanical handling.
Strapping Package / Binding
Securing, fixing, or reinforcing bulky items (such as raw silk, fabrics, wool, cotton, hides, paper, or metal scrap) using appropriate materials.
Drum Package
Packaging for flexible products like steel wire or cable, using reels, spools, or wrapping processes.
Unit Package
The aggregation of several packages or products into a single unit for convenient handling.
Part Package
Packaging applied only to specific parts of a product requiring protection, commonly used for electromechanical products.
Open Package
A method where the product is secured to a base, with the remainder left uncovered or only partially packaged; often used for large machinery.
Series Package
A unified packaging design applied to a range of different products from one company or brand to create a cohesive family look.
Set Package
Packaging that contains a set of related products together, such as different sizes of the same item or different items intended for a common purpose (e.g., a set with balls, paddles, and a net).
Carrier Pack / Carry-home Pack
Packaging designed with handles or similar features for consumer convenience.