How To Reduce Food Packaging Waste
Food packaging waste is a pressing environmental issue that demands our attention. Excessive packaging, single-use plastics, limited recycling facilities, and consumer habits all contribute to the problem. In this blog, we will explore effective strategies to minimize food packaging waste, from sustainable materials to consumer education and corporate responsibility.
The Challenge of Food Packaging Waste
Excessive Packaging: Over-packaging, or using more packaging than necessary, is a significant contributor to food packaging waste.
Single-Use Plastics: Single-use plastic packaging, notorious for its non-biodegradable nature, poses a severe threat to the environment.
Lack of Recycling: Inadequate recycling facilities and low recycling rates for certain materials exacerbate the problem.
Consumer Behavior: Consumer habits, including excessive food waste and improper disposal of packaging, also contribute to the issue.
Sustainable Strategies to Reduce Food Packaging Waste
Optimize Packaging Design: Rethink packaging design to use the least amount of material necessary while maintaining product safety and quality.
Eco-Friendly Materials: Embrace sustainable packaging materials such as biodegradable plastics, compostable materials, and recycled content.
Reduce Single-Use Plastics: Transition away from single-use plastics and adopt reusable and refillable packaging options.
Minimalist Packaging: Embrace minimalist packaging with clear labeling and reduced graphics to reduce material usage.
Innovative Packaging: Explore innovative packaging solutions, such as edible packaging or dissolvable packaging materials.
Recyclability and Compostability: Prioritize materials that are easily recyclable or compostable to promote responsible disposal.
Consumer Education: Educate consumers about responsible packaging disposal, recycling programs, and the importance of reducing food waste.
Reduced Food Waste: Encourage portion control or provide resealable packaging to minimize food waste.
Circular Economy: Implement circular economy principles, which prioritize recycling, reusing, and reducing materials in the packaging lifecycle.
Corporate Responsibility in Reducing Food Packaging Waste
Sustainable Sourcing: Source packaging materials from sustainable and ethical suppliers.
Eco-Friendly Initiatives: Invest in sustainable packaging research and development and collaborate with industry partners to promote eco-friendly practices.
Packaging Audits: Regularly evaluate and audit packaging to identify areas for waste reduction and improved sustainability.
Regulatory Compliance: Stay informed about and comply with evolving regulations related to packaging and waste reduction.
Transparency: Be transparent with consumers about your sustainability efforts and progress.
The Consumer Role in Reducing Food Packaging Waste
Responsible Disposal: Dispose of packaging materials in accordance with local recycling and waste disposal guidelines.
Minimalist Shopping: Make informed and mindful purchasing decisions to reduce unnecessary packaging.
Support Sustainable Brands: Choose products from companies committed to sustainable packaging and waste reduction.
Conclusion
Reducing food packaging waste is a shared responsibility that involves businesses, consumers, and policymakers. By implementing sustainable packaging strategies, embracing eco-friendly materials, and educating consumers about responsible disposal and purchasing habits, we can work towards a greener future with minimized food packaging waste. It’s time to rethink, redesign, and reduce our packaging footprint to protect the planet for future generations.
If you are interested in reducing your food packaging waste, then partner with Brown Packaging today to get started.
In 2026, sustainability is no longer just a trend—it’s a buyer expectation. Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certification has become a key benchmark for responsible packaging, signaling that materials are sourced from responsibly managed forests. For packaging buyers, FSC certification is more than a compliance checkbox—it’s a brand value that influences purchasing decisions, retailer acceptance, and customer loyalty. What Is FSC Certification? The Forest Stewardship Council certifies that paper-based packaging materials are sourced from forests managed for environmental responsibility, social benefit, and economic viability. FSC Mix: Packaging contains a blend of FSC-certified and controlled wood. FSC Recycled: Packaging is made entirely from recycled fiber. FSC 100%: Packaging is sourced only from FSC-certified forests. Why FSC Matters to Buyers in 2026 Retail access: Many major retailers now require FSC-certified packaging. Sustainability goals: Aligns with corporate ESG and carbon reduction commitments. Consumer trust: Customers recognize the FSC label and view it as credible. Global compliance: Meets international sustainability regulations. How FSC Certification Strengthens Brand Value Differentiation: Stand out with certified sustainable packaging. Marketing advantage: FSC logos reinforce eco-friendly messaging. Risk reduction: Verified sourcing prevents greenwashing claims. Customer loyalty: Environmentally conscious buyers prefer certified products. Challenges in FSC Implementation Limited supply of certain FSC substrates. Higher costs compared to non-certified materials. Need for supplier audits and documentation. Packaging Solutions with Brown Packaging Brown Packaging partners with buyers to integrate FSC-certified materials into corrugated boxes, folding cartons, and retail packaging. Our solutions support sustainability while maintaining cost efficiency and protection. Contact us to strengthen your brand with FSC-certified packaging. References Forest Stewardship Council (FSC). (2023). FSC Certification Guidelines for Packaging. Retrieved from https://fsc.orgSustainable Packaging Coalition. (2023). Consumer Insights on Sustainable Packaging. Retrieved from https://sustainablepackaging.orgSoroka, W. (2009). Fundamentals of Packaging Technology (4th ed.). Institute of Packaging Professionals. (714)300-0650 request@brownpackaging.com Most Recent Posts: Subscribe To Our Newsletter By submitting your information, you agree to our terms and conditions and privacy policy. Sustainable Packaging Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Pinterest Relevant Posts
Sustainability is now a top priority for packaging buyers. Retailers, regulators, and consumers are all demanding packaging solutions that reduce environmental impact without sacrificing performance. In 2026, buyers must balance eco-friendly materials, cost, and compliance to build programs that are both effective and future-ready. What Buyers Need to Know About Sustainable Packaging Regulatory pressure: Governments are enforcing stricter rules on recyclability and plastic use. Retail mandates: FSC certification and recyclable packaging are becoming standard requirements. Consumer expectations: Customers increasingly choose brands with visible sustainability commitments. Sustainable Material Options Recycled corrugated: High recycled content while maintaining compression strength. Compostable films: Suitable for select food and retail applications. Molded pulp inserts: Replace foam or plastic for protective packaging. Water-based coatings: Enhance moisture resistance without harmful chemicals. Balancing Cost and Performance Right-size packaging: Reduces material waste and shipping costs. Hybrid solutions: Combine eco-materials with corrugated for balance. Life cycle analysis: Evaluate true environmental impact, not just marketing claims. How to Evaluate Sustainable Suppliers Verify FSC, SPC, or ISO certifications. Request testing data for durability and recyclability. Audit supply chains for consistency and transparency. Ensure claims meet local and international compliance standards. Packaging Solutions with Brown Packaging Brown Packaging helps buyers implement sustainable packaging programs that balance cost, performance, and compliance. From recycled corrugated to eco-friendly coatings and inserts, we deliver solutions that meet 2026 sustainability goals. Contact us to explore sustainable packaging options. References Forest Stewardship Council (FSC). (2023). FSC Certification Guidelines for Packaging. Retrieved from https://fsc.orgSustainable Packaging Coalition. (2023). Packaging Sustainability Trends and Buyer Insights. Retrieved from https://sustainablepackaging.orgSoroka, W. (2009). Fundamentals of Packaging Technology (4th ed.). Institute of Packaging Professionals. (714)300-0650 request@brownpackaging.com Most Recent Posts: Categories: Corrugated Ecommerce ESD Design Display Flexible Packaging Foam Folding Carton Packaging Plastic Packaging Pouch Printing Protection Retail Rigid Box Thermoform Sustainability Subscribe To Our Newsletter By submitting your information, you agree to our terms and conditions and privacy policy. Sustainable Packaging Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Pinterest Relevant Posts
Choosing the right packaging material is one of the most important decisions buyers face. Single-material packaging offers simplicity and recyclability, while multi-material designs provide enhanced performance and protection. Understanding the trade-offs helps companies balance cost, functionality, and sustainability goals in 2026. What Is Single-Material Packaging? Single-material packaging uses one substrate—such as corrugated board, folding carton, or plastic—for the entire structure. Advantages: Easier to recycle and dispose. Lower material costs in many cases. Streamlined sourcing and inventory. Supports sustainability messaging. Disadvantages: Limited barrier protection. Less customization for fragile or complex products. May require added thickness for strength, increasing weight. What Is Multi-Material Packaging? Multi-material packaging combines two or more substrates—such as corrugated with foam, or paperboard laminated with film—to achieve specific performance outcomes. Advantages: Greater protection against moisture, oxygen, and impact. Allows for premium finishes and enhanced graphics. Ideal for fragile or high-value products. Customizable for unique supply chain conditions. Disadvantages: More difficult to recycle due to material separation. Higher cost and longer lead times. Complex sourcing and inventory management. When to Use Each Approach Single-material packaging: Best for products with low fragility, strong sustainability requirements, or cost-driven programs. Multi-material packaging: Best for high-value, fragile, or regulated products requiring advanced protection. Balancing Performance and Sustainability Buyers must weigh performance needs against eco goals: Use recyclable coatings to extend single-material performance. Choose hybrid designs that separate easily for recycling. Apply multi-material solutions only where risk of damage outweighs cost. Packaging Solutions with Brown Packaging Brown Packaging helps buyers evaluate when to use single- vs. multi-material packaging. Our team balances sustainability, performance, and cost to deliver solutions tailored to your supply chain. Contact us to explore the right approach for your products. References Forest Stewardship Council (FSC). (2023). FSC Packaging Certification Guidelines. Retrieved from https://fsc.orgSoroka, W. (2009). Fundamentals of Packaging Technology (4th ed.). Institute of Packaging Professionals.Sustainable Packaging Coalition. (2022). Design for Recyclability and Multi-Material Packaging Report. Retrieved from https://sustainablepackaging.org (714)300-0650 request@brownpackaging.com Most Recent Posts: Categories: Corrugated Ecommerce ESD Design Display Flexible Packaging Foam Folding Carton Packaging Plastic Packaging Pouch Printing Protection Retail Rigid Box Thermoform Sustainability Subscribe To Our Newsletter By submitting your information, you agree to our terms and conditions and privacy policy. Custom Packaging Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Pinterest Relevant Posts
One of the biggest challenges in sustainable packaging is balancing environmental responsibility with product protection. Buyers often worry that switching to eco-friendly materials means sacrificing durability or driving up costs. In 2026, new material technologies allow brands to meet sustainability goals without compromising strength or supply chain performance. Why Protection Still Matters Damaged products create more waste than packaging ever could. Returns increase logistics costs and carbon emissions. Retailers and e-commerce platforms expect packaging to deliver both sustainability and reliability. Eco-Friendly Material Options Recycled corrugated: Maintains stacking strength while reducing virgin fiber use. Molded pulp inserts: Cushion fragile items while replacing plastic foam. Water-based barrier coatings: Add moisture resistance without plastic films. Compostable films: Ideal for short shelf-life or single-use applications. Paper-based mailers: Replace poly mailers for e-commerce shipments. How to Balance Eco Goals and Protection Use right-sizing to reduce material volume while improving fit. Apply hybrid solutions (corrugated + pulp) for high-value goods. Conduct ISTA testing to validate protective performance. Match material choice to product fragility and supply chain conditions. Examples in Action Electronics: Molded pulp trays replacing EPS foam. Food and beverage: FSC-certified corrugated with recyclable coatings. Retail e-commerce: Recycled paper mailers protecting apparel. Packaging Solutions with Brown Packaging Brown Packaging develops eco-friendly solutions that protect products while meeting sustainability requirements. From recycled corrugated to innovative coatings, our team ensures you never trade protection for environmental impact. Contact us to explore eco-material options. References Forest Stewardship Council (FSC). (2023). FSC Certification Guidelines for Packaging. Retrieved from https://fsc.orgSustainable Packaging Coalition. (2023). Eco-Friendly Packaging Materials and Case Studies. Retrieved from https://sustainablepackaging.orgASTM International. (2023). ASTM D4169: Standard Practice for Performance Testing of Shipping Containers and Systems. (714)300-0650 request@brownpackaging.com Most Recent Posts: Subscribe To Our Newsletter By submitting your information, you agree to our terms and conditions and privacy policy. Custom Packaging Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Pinterest Relevant Posts
In today’s competitive market, packaging affordability doesn’t start with cheaper materials — it starts with smarter design. Every score, fold, and insert decision affects not only how a box looks and feels, but how efficiently it’s made, shipped, and used. Structural engineering is the silent driver of cost efficiency — optimizing strength, space, and performance before the first sheet is ever printed. Why Structure Matters More Than You Think The most impactful cost savings in packaging rarely come from supplier discounts; they come from structural efficiency.A box that uses 10% less board but maintains the same compression strength directly reduces both material and freight cost. A redesigned insert that eliminates the need for secondary packaging saves time and labor at the line. Every cut line and fold path tells a story of cost, sustainability, and brand care — and when those align, affordability becomes part of your brand’s DNA. Designing for Efficiency, Not Excess In a market saturated with overbuilt packaging, engineering restraint is a competitive advantage. Structural teams now rely on 3D CAD modeling and virtual prototyping to simulate performance before production — identifying unnecessary material use and structural redundancies. Through precision die-line planning, engineers can improve sheet yield, reduce assembly time, and minimize void space — the dead air that drives up freight bills.It’s not about doing less; it’s about doing smarter. Balancing Protection and Presentation The temptation to “overprotect” products is common — especially in fragile or high-value goods. But protection doesn’t have to mean bulk. Strategic reinforcements, engineered fluting, and interlocking designs can maintain crush resistance and shock absorption while reducing total board weight. For e-commerce and shelf packaging alike, brands can achieve premium presentation with structural simplicity — a key to making packaging both sustainable and affordable. Prototyping to Prevent Waste Prototyping isn’t just for aesthetics — it’s a safeguard against costly production errors.With short-run sample testing and performance mockups, brands can evaluate fit, function, and protection early in development. Adjusting dimensions by fractions of an inch can save thousands in material waste and prevent rejected runs down the line. Smart packaging buyers now view prototyping not as an expense, but as a cost-control strategy that pays dividends in scale. How Structural Design Supports Brand and Budget Affordable design doesn’t mean compromising brand identity — it means integrating brand goals into structure. A well-engineered box reinforces trust, ensures product consistency, and communicates value through precision and fit. When structure, design, and production align, packaging stops being a cost and starts becoming a business asset. That’s where the real savings live — and where long-term brand equity begins. The Brown Packaging Difference At Brown Packaging, every packaging solution starts with structural intent — not guesswork.Our engineering and design teams collaborate to create packaging that performs across shipping, retail, and automation lines, balancing protection, brand visibility, and cost efficiency. We don’t cut corners; we cut waste.That’s how our clients achieve packaging that’s not just affordable — it’s engineered to perform. References Soroka, W. (2009). Fundamentals of Packaging Technology (4th ed.). Institute of Packaging Professionals. PMMI. (2024). Optimizing Structural Design for Packaging Efficiency. Packaging World. (2025). Engineering the Future of Cost-Effective Packaging. Smithers. (2025). Packaging Innovation and Material Efficiency Trends. (714)300-0650 request@brownpackaging.com Most Recent Posts: Categories: Corrugated Ecommerce ESD Design Display Flexible Packaging Foam Folding Carton Packaging Plastic Packaging Pouch Printing Protection Retail Rigid Box Thermoform Sustainability Subscribe To Our Newsletter By submitting your information, you agree to our terms and conditions and privacy policy. Custom Packaging Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Pinterest Relevant Posts
Every brand is feeling the squeeze — higher raw material costs, volatile freight rates, and a consumer base more price-conscious than ever. But cutting packaging budgets blindly can lead to damaged goods, compliance issues, and eroded brand value. Smart brands aren’t chasing cheaper boxes — they’re making smarter packaging decisions that balance performance, cost, and perception. The difference between saving money and losing value comes down to how you evaluate your packaging, not just what you pay for it. Beyond Unit Price: Understanding Total Packaging Cost A low unit price might look great on paper — until you factor in assembly time, damage rates, and freight efficiency. Smart packaging evaluation considers the total cost of ownership, including: Material yield (how efficiently sheets convert into boxes) Pallet and trailer utilization (freight optimization) Labor efficiency (ease of assembly or automation compatibility) Product protection (damage rates, replacements, and returns) When buyers assess all these metrics, the lowest-cost box often isn’t the best-value box. Material Selection That Saves in the Long Run Switching materials isn’t just about cutting cost — it’s about reducing waste and improving performance. For instance, moving from double-wall to a high-performance single-wall with better flute structure can cut weight and shipping cost without sacrificing protection. In folding cartons, substrate optimization — using a lighter caliper SBS or switching to coated recycled board — can yield savings that scale across production runs. And for rigid boxes, structural tweaks like thinner chipboard paired with strong wrap papers can preserve presentation while reducing material use. Every small change adds up when you scale across thousands of units. Design Efficiency: The Overlooked Cost Saver A smart structural design can eliminate cost before production even starts. Simplifying folds, reducing glue flaps, or reengineering inserts can cut assembly time and material waste. Modern packaging engineers use CAD-based dieline analysis to optimize layouts — ensuring maximum sheet yield and minimal offcut. For e-commerce and retail brands alike, right-sizing packaging improves shipping efficiency and reduces filler materials while maintaining the brand’s polished look. It’s not just design — it’s design that earns its keep Printing Smart: Matching the Process to the Purpose Not every job needs premium litho or complex spot varnishes. A good packaging partner matches print method to scale and brand intent: Flexo printing for high-volume, cost-efficient runs. Digital printing for short runs, personalization, and multi-SKU campaigns. Litho laminating for high-end visuals in rigid or premium retail displays. By choosing the right print method early, brands can avoid over-engineering — saving both time and money without compromising quality. Data-Driven Decisions: The New Standard for Packaging Buyers Leading companies now use data to guide packaging spend. Damage rate metrics, SKU-level freight analysis, and consumer perception studies all contribute to smarter choices. Smart buyers are no longer asking, “What’s the cheapest box?” They’re asking, “What’s the most efficient box that protects the product, ships well, and supports brand goals?” This mindset shift is what separates cost-cutting from cost control. The Brown Packaging Approach At Brown Packaging, we help brands make smarter packaging decisions by combining engineering analysis, supplier network leverage, and real-world testing. Our process aligns packaging performance with total cost goals — from box design to print selection and logistics. The result: stronger packaging, lower waste, and sustainable cost savings that scale with your business. Because in today’s market, smart packaging isn’t just a cost center — it’s a competitive advantage. References PMMI. (2025). Operational Cost Efficiency in Packaging and Logistics. McKinsey & Company. (2024). Total Cost of Ownership in Consumer Goods Packaging. Packaging World. (2025). Data-Driven Decisions in Packaging Sourcing. Soroka, W. (2009). Fundamentals of Packaging Technology (4th ed.). (714)300-0650 request@brownpackaging.com Most Recent Posts: Categories: Corrugated Ecommerce ESD Design Display Flexible Packaging Foam Folding Carton Packaging Plastic Packaging Pouch Printing Protection Retail Rigid Box Thermoform Sustainability Subscribe To Our Newsletter By submitting your information, you agree to our terms and conditions and privacy policy. Custom Packaging Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Pinterest Relevant Posts
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The packaging of your product is the first impression your customers will have of your brand. It needs to grab their attention, communicate your product’s unique features and benefits, and leave a lasting impression that will lead to repeat purchases. That’s why it’s crucial to work with a skilled packaging designer who can create packaging that both reflects your brand and appeals to your target audience. 10 Questions To Ask Your Packaging Designer In this article, we’ll discuss ten questions you should ask your packaging designer to ensure that you get the best results possible. Can you tell me about your experience in packaging design? Can you walk me through your design process? Can you show me examples of your past packaging design work? What is your approach to creating packaging that stands out on the shelf? How do you ensure that the packaging design reflects our brand? Can you explain your approach to typography and color? How do you take regulatory requirements into account when designing packaging? What is your process for creating mockups or prototypes? How do you handle revisions or changes to the design? What is your timeline for completing the packaging design? Can you tell me about your experience in packaging design? One of the first things you should ask your designer is about their experience and expertise in packaging design. Ask about the types of packaging they have worked on in the past, such as boxes, bottles, pouches, or tubes. You’ll want to know how long they’ve been in the industry and what types of brands they have worked with. You should also ask if they have any formal design education or certifications. Can you walk me through your design process? Understanding the design process will give you an idea of what to expect and how the project will unfold. Ask your designer about their approach to research, ideation, sketching, and prototyping. You’ll also want to know how many initial concepts they will provide you with and how many revisions they will allow before the final design is approved. Can you show me examples of your past packaging design work? Reviewing your designer’s portfolio will give you an idea of their design style and the quality of their work. Ask for examples of packaging designs they have created for products in your industry or that are similar to your product. Look for designs that are visually appealing, functional, and consistent with the brand’s identity. What is your approach to creating packaging that stands out on the shelf? Standing out on the shelf is critical in today’s competitive market. Ask your designer how they plan to make your product packaging visually appealing and distinct. Ask about their approach to typography, color, graphics, and imagery. A good designer should be able to explain how they plan to create a design that is eye-catching, communicates the product’s unique features and benefits, and aligns with the brand’s personality. How do you ensure that the packaging design reflects our brand? Your packaging should be consistent with your brand identity. Ask your designer about their process for researching your brand’s values, mission, and personality. They should also have a process in place for ensuring that your packaging aligns with your brand’s values, color palette, typography, and messaging. Can you explain your approach to typography and color? Typography and color are critical elements of packaging design. Ask your designer how they plan to use typography and color to create a design that is visually appealing and communicates the product’s unique features and benefits. They should be able to explain their approach to font selection, font pairing, font size, and color selection. You’ll also want to know if they plan to use any special printing techniques, such as metallic ink or embossing. How do you take regulatory requirements into account when designing packaging? Depending on your product, there may be regulatory requirements that must be met. For example, food packaging must meet specific requirements for nutrition labeling, allergen warnings, and ingredient lists. Your designer should be aware of these requirements and ensure that the packaging meets them. Ask them about their knowledge of these regulations and how they plan to incorporate them into the design. What is your process for creating mockups or prototypes? Seeing a mockup or prototype of your packaging will give you a better idea of how the finished product will look and feel. Ask your designer about their process for creating mockups or prototypes. Will they create a physical mockup or a digital one? How many iterations are included in the design process? What is the timeline for creating and reviewing these prototypes? These questions will help you understand how your designer plans to bring your packaging design to life and ensure that you’re happy with the final product. How do you handle revisions or changes to the design? It’s common for revisions or changes to be necessary during the design process. Ask your designer about their process for handling these changes in a timely and efficient manner. Will they provide a certain number of revisions before charging extra fees? How quickly will they respond to your requests for changes? What is the process for finalizing the design and approving it for production? Knowing this information upfront will help you manage your expectations and ensure that the project stays on track. What is your timeline for completing the packaging design? Finally, you’ll want to know when you can expect the final packaging design. Ask your designer for a timeline for completing the project, including milestones and deliverables. You’ll want to know how long each stage of the design process will take and what you can expect in terms of communication and updates. Make sure to discuss any deadlines or launch dates you have in mind so that your designer can plan accordingly. Summary: 10 Questions You Should Ask Your Packaging Designer Working with a packaging designer is a critical part of launching a successful product. By asking these
Sustainability in pet product packaging involves balancing environmental impact with functional performance. Materials must protect against moisture, oxygen, and pests while also meeting recyclability or compostability goals. Choosing the right approach requires a clear understanding of available technologies, regulatory compliance, and supply chain realities. Recyclable Mono-Material Films Description: Flexible packaging made from a single resin type (e.g., all-PE or all-PP). Benefits: Compatible with store drop-off or curbside programs in certain municipalities. Eliminates the separation challenges of multi-material laminates. Limitations: Lower barrier properties compared to foil or metallized films unless enhanced with coatings. May require thicker gauges for equivalent performance. Post-Consumer Recycled (PCR) Content Description: Packaging that incorporates recycled resin from consumer waste streams. Benefits: Reduces reliance on virgin plastic. Demonstrates brand commitment to circular economy principles. Limitations: Variability in resin quality can impact clarity, seal strength, and barrier. Regulatory restrictions for direct food contact in some markets. Compostable Films Description: Materials derived from plant-based sources (e.g., PLA, starch blends) designed to break down in industrial composting conditions. Benefits: Reduces landfill waste when properly disposed. Appeals to eco-conscious consumers. Limitations: Requires access to industrial composting facilities (rare in many regions). Lower mechanical strength and shorter shelf life than conventional films. Paper-Based Pet Food Packaging Description: Multiwall kraft paper bags with or without barrier liners. Benefits: Widely recyclable in paper streams when unlined. Strong consumer perception of sustainability. Limitations: Requires additional barrier layer for moisture or grease resistance. Lower tear resistance than woven poly or laminated film. Bio-Based Plastics Description: Plastics derived from renewable biomass sources such as sugarcane ethanol-based PE. Benefits: Reduces carbon footprint compared to petroleum-based resins. Matches performance of conventional PE in many applications. Limitations: Availability and cost can be volatile. Does not inherently solve end-of-life recycling challenges. Performance and Testing Considerations Barrier Testing: ASTM F1249 for WVTR and ASTM D3985 for OTR confirm material suitability. Seal Strength: ASTM F88/F88M ensures structural integrity. Life-Cycle Analysis (LCA): Quantifies environmental trade-offs of each packaging option. References ASTM International. (2013). ASTM F1249-13: Standard test method for water vapor transmission rate through plastic film and sheeting using a modulated infrared sensor. ASTM International. https://doi.org/10.1520/F1249-13ASTM International. (2010). ASTM D3985-10: Standard test method for oxygen gas transmission rate through plastic film and sheeting using a coulometric sensor. ASTM International. https://doi.org/10.1520/D3985-10Sustainable Packaging Coalition. (2023). Sustainable materials and design strategies. https://sustainablepackaging.org (714)300-0650 request@brownpackaging.com Most Recent Posts: Categories: Corrugated Ecommerce ESD Design Display Flexible Packaging Foam Folding Carton Packaging Plastic Packaging Pouch Printing Protection Retail Rigid Box Thermoform Sustainability Subscribe To Our Newsletter By submitting your information, you agree to our terms and conditions and privacy policy. Pet Packaging Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Pinterest Relevant Posts
Corrugated boxes are an essential part of the shipping and storage process for businesses worldwide. They are made of corrugated paperboard, which comprises three layers: an inside liner, an outside liner, and a corrugated medium. The fluted medium provides cushioning and strength to the box, while the liners provide a surface for printing and labels. There are several types of corrugated boxes, with full overlap (FOL) being one of the most popular due to its superior strength and durability. What is Full Overlap (FOL) Corrugated Boxes? Full overlap (FOL) corrugated boxes are designed with flaps that completely overlap, providing extra protection to the contents inside. The flaps on both the top and bottom of the box extend all the way to the opposite side of the box, ensuring maximum protection and support. The FOL design provides a stronger and more secure seal than other types of corrugated boxes, making it ideal for shipping and storage of heavy or fragile items. Benefits of Full Overlap (FOL) Corrugated Boxes: Durability and Strength FOL corrugated boxes are known for their superior strength and durability, making them ideal for shipping and storing heavy and fragile items. The complete overlap of the flaps ensures that the box can withstand rough handling during transit without compromising the contents. Protection The complete overlap of the flaps provides an extra layer of protection to the contents inside the box, reducing the risk of damage during transit. The FOL design also prevents dust and dirt from entering the box, keeping the contents clean and protected. Customizable Full overlap corrugated boxes can be customized to fit the specific needs of the contents being shipped. The size and shape of the box can be tailored to fit the contents, and additional cushioning or inserts can be added to provide extra protection. Cost-Effective Despite their strength and durability, FOL corrugated boxes are cost-effective and affordable. They are also recyclable, making them an environmentally friendly choice for packaging. Security These corrugated boxes can be sealed tightly and securely with tape, ensuring that the contents remain inside the box during transit. The secure seal also helps prevent tampering and theft. Branding FOL boxes can be customized with a company logo or branding, providing an opportunity for businesses to promote their brand while also protecting their products. Sustainability Full overlap boxes are made from renewable materials and are recyclable, making them a sustainable packaging choice for businesses. Compliance Corrugated boxes can be designed to comply with various shipping regulations, ensuring that the contents arrive at their destination safely and securely. Full Overlap Box Customization FOL corrugated boxes can be customized to meet specific business needs. Customization options include: Size and shape The size and shape of the box can be tailored to fit the contents being shipped. Custom sizes and shapes can be created to ensure a perfect fit for the products. Printing FOL boxes can be printed with company logos, branding, and product information. This can enhance the customer experience and promote brand awareness. Inserts and Cushioning Additional inserts and cushioning can be added to FOL boxes to provide extra protection for fragile or delicate items. Closure Options FOL boxes can be customized with different closure options, including plastic or paper tape, Velcro, or staples. When to Use Full Overlap (FOL) Corrugated Boxes: FOL corrugated boxes are ideal for shipping and storing heavy or fragile items that require extra protection. They are commonly used in industries such as manufacturing, automotive, and aerospace, where heavy and delicate components are shipped. FOL boxes are also commonly used for packaging equipment, machinery, and electronic devices. In addition, FOL boxes are ideal for shipping and storing items that require long-term storage, as they provide excellent protection against dust, dirt, and moisture. FOL boxes can be used for a variety of products, including: Industrial Full overlap boxes are often used to ship and store large and heavy industrial equipment, such as generators, compressors, and pumps. The boxes can be customized to fit the specific dimensions of the equipment and can be reinforced with additional cushioning or inserts for added protection. Automotive Auto parts such as engines, transmissions, and axles are commonly shipped with full overlap boxes. The boxes can be customized to fit the specific dimensions of the parts and can be reinforced with additional cushioning or inserts for added protection. Electronics These boxes are ideal for shipping and storing electronic devices, such as computers, printers, and televisions. The boxes provide excellent protection against dust, dirt, and moisture, which can damage electronic components. FOL boxes can be customized with additional cushioning or inserts to provide extra protection for delicate electronic components. Medical FOL boxes are commonly used to transport medical supplies, such as surgical instruments, laboratory equipment, and diagnostic kits. The boxes can be customized to fit the specific needs of the contents and can be reinforced with additional cushioning or inserts for added protection. Food and Beverage Food and beverage products, such as canned goods and bottles are often packaged inside this type of box as it provides excellent protection against damage during transit and can be customized to fit the specific dimensions of the products. Retail These boxes can be used to package retail products, such as clothing, shoes, and accessories. The boxes can be customized with branding and logos to promote the brand and enhance the customer experience. E-commerce FOL boxes are commonly used for e-commerce shipments, as they provide a secure and durable packaging solution for products being shipped directly to consumers. Summary: Full Overlap Boxes Explained In summary, Full Overlap (FOL) corrugated boxes are an excellent choice for businesses that require a strong, durable, and protective packaging solution for their products. FOL boxes provide superior protection to heavy or fragile items during transit, and they can be customized to fit the specific needs of the contents being shipped. Customization options include size and shape, printing, inserts and cushioning, and closure options. Whether shipping industrial equipment, automotive parts, electronics, medical supplies, food and beverage