Tertiary packaging
Tertiary packaging (also known as transport packaging) forms the third layer of packaging and is used for bulk handling, storage and transport. The most common form of the third package is to place the products on the pallets of the load unit that the packages are tightly sealed in the containers. In the foreground is the protection against damage during transport. Packaging is often adapted to the dimensions of the truck or container in order to achieve optimal use. Transport packaging consists of various materials, such as corrugated cardboard, wood or foamed plastics, so that it can be protected against impacts and impacts from the outside. Tertiary packaging is intended to facilitate the handling and transport of a number of unit loads or packaging, while preventing damage[1]. Due to the fact that consumers rarely see the tertiary packaging of boxes used for transport usually do not have a company logo or it is very small. However, changes are coming as retailers of large boxes have pallets with the product displayed below or above the main merchandise. The main and original role of tertiary packaging is determined by its efficiency in terms of production, packaging, palletising, shipping, storage and unpacking. Although tertiary packaging is useful in the mass transport of products, it contributes to the generation of so-called packaging waste[2].
The product packaging layers[3]:
- Primary packaging is the material that first surrounds the product and holds it. It is usually the smallest unit of distribution or use and is a package that is in direct contact with the content.
- Secondary packaging has no direct contact with the product, performs branding functions and facilitates storage and transport.
- Tertiary packing is most commonly used for transport.
Examples of Tertiary packaging
- Bulk Pallet Containers: Bulk pallet containers are large boxes usually made of cardboard, plastic, or wood. These containers are used to transport multiple packages of a product in one unit. This form of packaging reduces the amount of time and resources needed to ship products, as it allows multiple packages to be transported at once.
- Wood Crates: Wood crates are often used to transport items that require extra protection, such as fragile products or items with sharp edges. These crates are usually made of plywood and are designed to keep the item inside safe during transport.
- Plastic Wrap: Plastic wrap is often used to protect items in transit. This type of packaging is often used to protect items from dust and dirt, as well as from scratches and other damage that may occur during transport.
- Corrugated Boxes: Corrugated boxes are cardboard boxes that are often used for transport purposes. These boxes are strong enough to protect the items inside from damage, while still being lightweight and easy to handle.
Advantages of Tertiary packaging
Tertiary packaging has many advantages, including:
- Cost savings: Tertiary packaging can help to reduce costs by allowing products to be transported in bulk rather than individually. This reduces the amount of labor needed to move the products, as well as the cost of materials.
- Durability: Tertiary packaging is designed to be strong and durable, so that it can withstand the rigors of transportation without breaking or being damaged. This helps to ensure that products arrive at their destination in good condition.
- Flexibility: Tertiary packaging can be customized to suit different products and transportation methods. This makes it ideal for a variety of uses, from shipping large items to storing smaller items in bulk.
- Efficiency: Tertiary packaging can help to maximize efficiency in the supply chain. By consolidating multiple products into a single package, it reduces the amount of time and energy needed to transport the products. This can help to reduce overall shipping costs.
Limitations of Tertiary packaging
Tertiary packaging has its limitations, such as:
- Cost: Tertiary packaging is usually more expensive than primary and secondary packaging, as it is designed to provide protection and support for a large number of products.
- Size: Tertiary packaging must be carefully designed to fit the dimensions of the product, container and vehicle, which can limit the number of products that can be transported.
- Weight: The additional weight of the tertiary packaging can add to the cost of transportation and can increase the cost of product transportation.
- Durability: The tertiary packaging must be robust enough to withstand the rigours of transport and storage, while still providing adequate protection to the products.
- One approach related to Tertiary packaging is the use of shrink wraps to tightly secure the products and protect them against external damage. This type of packaging is ideal for products that require a lot of protection and need to be held together securely.
- Another approach is the use of protective foams and bubble wraps which are used to cushion the products and protect them from shock and vibration. These materials are usually used in combination with other packaging materials such as corrugated cardboard to ensure maximum protection.
- Another approach is the use of protective films, which are used to cover the products and protect them from dust and moisture. These films are often used in combination with other packaging materials such as bubble wraps or foams to ensure the maximum protection of the products.
- Protective boxes are also used for tertiary packaging. These boxes are used to securely protect the products from external damage. They are usually made of strong materials such as cardboard or plastic and are used in combination with other packaging materials such as bubble wraps or foams to ensure maximum protection.
In summary, tertiary packaging involves a variety of methods which are used to protect the products from external damage and ensure that they are securely held together. These methods include the use of shrink wraps, protective foams and bubble wraps, protective films, and protective boxes. By using these methods, the products can be safely transported and stored without any damage.
Footnotes
- ↑ Ek, M., Gellerstedt, G., Henriksson, G. (2009)., Paper Products Physics and Technology, Walter de Gruyter
- ↑ Muthu, S. (2015)., Environmental Footprints of Packaging, Springer
- ↑ Capsule (2008)., Design Matters: Packaging 01: An Essential Primer for Today's Competitive Marke, Rockport Publishers
| Tertiary packaging — recommended articles |
| Transloading — General cargo — Stacking height — Internal transport system — Break bulk cargo — Weep hole — Public warehouse — Loose cargo — Batch picking |
References
- Buclet, N., Godard, O. (2013). Municipal Waste Management in Europe: A Comparative Study in Building Regimes, Springer Science & Business Media
- Griffin, R. (2012). Principles of Package Development, Springer Science & Business Media
- Levy, G. (2012). Packaging in the Environment, Springer Science & Business Media
- Mallet, C. P. (1993). Frozen Food Technology, Springer Science & Business Media
- Palsson, H. (2018). Packaging Logistics: Understanding and managing the economic and environmental impacts of packaging in supply chains, Kogan Page Publishers
Author: Weronika Kmiecik
