Functions of Good Packaging

How important is packaging design, really? Afterall, isn’t it just the box that a product comes in? There is more to it than that. 

Packaging plays a role in all aspects of the supply chain, from the moment a customer places an order all the way to that order’s fulfillment. When done correctly, a package protects the product from damage while also promoting the brand and inspiring customers to purchase.  

That being said, a good packaging design needs to be functional and take into account production and logistics on top of its outward branded appearance. It also needs to meet the demands of end users who often shape packaging trends. When it comes to packaging, there is a lot more at play than what meets the eye. Below, we cover the 6 functions of packaging to help you optimize your packaging and streamline your supply chain. 

Protective

First and foremost, your packaging needs to be designed to protect your product at every stage of the supply chain. Product packaging needs to protect your product from weather, rough handling, falls, or other potentially damaging events. Your packaging also needs to protect your product from spoilage and leakage in the case of food products or medications. On top of that, packaging will need to protect the environment from the product. This is especially important with potentially harmful materials. 

Storage

Packaging needs to be stored efficiently both before and after packaging. Whether it's in a warehouse or on the shelf of a top retailer, the storage function is very important to packaging design. Select packaging materials that are conducive to convenient storage. Keep in mind that since packaging often takes place in multiple locations, you may need to meet a variety of different storage requirements. Group O can help you determine the right material for your needs, streamlining your packaging process. 

Transportation 

Packaging needs to be durable enough to withstand transportation conditions. Packaging also needs to be designed with movement in mind. This begins at the product manufacturing and production stage.  Whether by robots or humans, your package will be lifted, moved, carried, and stowed multiple times throughout the transportation process. Be sure to incorporate that into your design to maximize transportation efficiency and cost-effectiveness. And remember, the ideal goal of transporting packaging is to have little to no empty space left when the cargo unit is full. 

Branding

Packaging design also serves a very important branding function. Because customers will see the packaging before the product itself, it is important to implement branded material and messaging as a part of the packaging design. Consider branded material like colors, fonts, and other creative elements when designing your product’s packaging. It needs to appeal to your target audience while also accurately portraying the product inside.  

Product Information

While you consider branded elements, you will also need to consider the necessary product information requirements. Packaging may need to include directions, ingredients, recommendations, or warnings. Product information should be clearly displayed on your packaging and meet the requirements set by law. 

Tertiary Packaging

Tertiary packaging is any additional packaging within the primary packaging. Tertiary packaging may serve as additional product protection or even product organization in the case of multiple products within one packaged unit. There are a couple of things to keep in mind when selecting your tertiary packaging. 

Firstly, your tertiary packaging should be easy for end users to dispose of when finished with the packaging. And secondly, tertiary packaging should be sustainable. Customers want to spend their money with organizations that are doing their part to reduce carbon emissions. Select eco-friendly packaging materials for your tertiary packaging needs. Not only will this make life easier for your end users, it helps the environment too. 

There is a lot more that goes into packaging design than first meets the eye

Group O has the experience and know-how to help your organization with all of its packaging needs. Our team can help you determine the right type of packaging design for your product and operational needs. 

For more information on how Group O can improve your supply chain, visit the contact page on our website or give us a call at (866) 476-8761.