Flexible vs Rigid Packaging

Flexible vs Rigid Packaging

Flexible vs Rigid Packaging

Flexible vs Rigid Packaging : How to Decide

There are many considerations that factor into what may or may not be a suitable choice for your company, product and your client. Here is a short list to guide your analysis when searching for your ideal packaging type.

  1. Budget: considering how manufacturing, warehousing and shipping will affect your bottom line
  2. Special requirements: meeting industry, durability, and sustainability specific needs
  3. Product safety: supplying appropriate barrier and child safety properties
  4. Shipping and Lifecycle: selecting the best option for transportation and storage
  5. Branding: providing sufficient space for messaging, and the packaging’s effect on brand narrative
  6. Consumer Experience: conveying the right look, feel and durability
  7. Carbon foortprint: calculating how sourcing, material, and size affect overall CO2 consumption
  8. Sustainability: identifying greener packaging materials and potential for easy recycling

What is Flexible Packaging?

In the packaging industry, flexible packaging refers to any packaging that is not rigid, like bags, pouches, wraps and rollstock – any material that capable of changing shape. They are usually produced from materials such as paper, plastic, film, aluminum foil or a combination of aforementioned materials.

Flexible Packaging Pros and Cons

What is Rigid Packaging?

Likewise, rigid packaging is any type of container that is stiff or unable to bend and is made from stronger materials like glass, tin, plastic, and corrugated cardboard. Rigid packaging is more easily recycled and can be made from recycled materials.

Rigid Packaging Pros and Cons

Plan Ahead

Packaging influences manufacturing, shipping, and shelving, so understanding the key differences between flexible and rigid options will help you make a well-informed decision. Not to mention the type of packaging selected will affect your plans for automation and packaging machinery expenses down the road.

For additional insight and help getting started, we are always available to offer guidance and support.

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Jean-François Biron

Sales and marketing background in the automation and packaging equipment industries. Strong interest in technologies, new packaging development, sustainability and marketing strategies.