Packaging

When it comes to packaging materials there are a few different ones that can be used. There are paper-based shipping containers, wood-based shipping containers and plastic-based shipping containers. The compare and contrast and the advantages and disadvantages of these different shipping containers bring many different options for the use of packaging materials.

Paper-based shipping containers are the biggest packaging material used. According to ITC (2005), paper-based shipping containers make up at least half of all the packaging used in most countries around the world. There are many advantages to using paper-based packaging such as the strength of paper and board is very flexible. Treatments can be provided to enhance the overall properties of the paper-based shipping containers. ITC (2005) states the tensile and compressive strength of paper and board are highly variable and can be treated to improve their physical and barrier properties. While paper-based shipping containers provide these advantages paper-based shipping containers are highly sensitive to moisture and can reduce the strength rapidly. Heat-processed products are not suitable

Plastic-based shipping containers are limited when it comes to shapes. According to ITC (2005), the erection process for plastic-based shipping container shapes are limited to rectangular, square, oval or round. Plastic-based shipping containers are more expensive than paper-based shipping containers and are also not as environmental friendly. Sometimes plastic shipping containers can provide a visual look of what’s in the container without opening the package.

Wood-based shipping containers are mainly used for heavy goods or goods that would be subject to destruction during transporting. According to ITC (2005), wooden boxes and crates are important for export packaging of heavy goods and as tailor-made packages for products needing special protection against transport hazards. Wood packaging is...