Suppose you are working in the packaging industry or have had custom packaging for a long time. In that case, you must be aware that material plays a crucial role in manufacturing your product packaging.
The packaging stock you choose for your packaging describes a lot about your brand. For instance, if you are using eco-friendly packaging material, it shows that your brand is committed to providing eco-conscious products.
Throughout this guide, I will describe the common types of packaging materials used in the industry.
Common Types of Packaging Materials
The variation of packaging material overall in the packaging industry is vast. Selecting the ideal material for packaging is a more intricate process than it initially appears. In order to create the optimal packaging solution for your product, it’s crucial to identify the most appropriate type of raw material.
There are essentially three foundational raw materials for manufacturing packaging:
1. Paper Stock
2. Cardstock
3. Corrugated Stock
Different packaging options are built on these foundations.
Classification of Packaging Materials
The suitability of packaging materials varies widely depending on the specific needs of the product they are intended for. Therefore, the choice of packaging material should be tailored to your product’s unique requirements.
In this article, we will explore a variety of materials used in packaging, allowing you to make a well-informed decision for your product.
Here is an overview of different types of packaging materials, each with unique characteristics tailored to specific needs and requirements:
Paper Stock
Paper quality in paper stock is as important as the design and print work that is printed on it. The challenge lies in selecting the appropriate paper type that not only fits your budget but also conveys the intended message. Paper stock primarily comes in three varieties:
- Art Paper: Ideal for high-quality print and design work.
- Kraft Paper: Known for its strength and eco-friendliness.
- Morocco Paper: Often used for its unique texture and appearance.
Cardstock
Cardstock is essentially a heavy-duty paper, distinguished by its thickness and flexibility. This makes it particularly useful in arts and crafts, as well as in creating various types of packaging boxes. Its versatility allows for the application of various finishes, enhancing the packaging’s overall appeal.
- Bleach Card: Often used for its bright, clean appearance.
- Art Card: Known for supporting high-quality print and designs.
- Texture Card: Provides tactile interest to the packaging.
- Buxboard: Robust and economical, often used for shipping boxes.
- Kraft Card: Combines the strength of kraft paper with the flexibility of cardstock.
Corrugated Stock
Corrugated material is renowned for its structural integrity, consisting of two stiff cardboard sheets held together by a fluted layer. You can increase the material’s robustness by adding more flutes. Generally, corrugated stock is comprised of three to five layers:
- Inner Liner: The interior sheet.
- Outer Liner: The exterior sheet.
- Fluting: The wavy layer sandwiched between the inner and outer liners.
Rigid Stock (Bonus)
This is the pinnacle of luxury packaging, offering unmatched density and sheen. Rigid stock is usually made from cardstock or paper stock, which Dream Custom Boxes expertly crafts into customized luxury rigid boxes, providing both rigidity and a deluxe feel.
By understanding these different types of packaging materials, you’ll be better equipped to select the most appropriate option for your product.
