With the consumer-packaged goods space, several companies boom with rigid packaging, yet, some go for flexible packaging. However, when it comes to choosing to package products, you would get numerous options, such as cardboard boxes, glass jars, tin cans, and much more.
Yet, another packaging type is custom packaging, which is only used for exile packing. However, the most common types in the packaging industry are rigid and flexible packaging. This packaging is.
Although the fact is, there is no one solution for all products, that’s why the packaging is done in two ways for different purposes; flexible packaging vs. rigid packaging. Both types carry equal benefits but depend on the product type being packed.
But, what exactly is the difference between rigid and flexible packaging? Let’s discover everything about the two types of packaging and see which one is suitable for what product type.
Flexible Packaging vs. Rigid Packaging
Flexible packaging is lightweight packaging that can be shaped and changed. This type of packing includes stretch film, pouches, seal bands, clamshells, shrink films, and blister packs, etc. Flexible packaging is now commonly used for the marketing of a wide range of products globally. The material used in this type of packaging is wax-coated paperboard, plastic, foil, paper, and such materials can be molded.
On the flip side, rigid packaging is firmer and heavier packaging that is not or relatively less flexible. This sort of packing comprises cans, glass containers or jars, cardboard, metal, hard plastic boxes, etc. Comparatively, rigid packaging is more expensive than flexible one. This is because this type of packaging delivers more protection and cannot be bent as flexible packaging.
Did you know?
The rigid plastic packaging market is anticipated to rise from USD 198.9 billion in 2021 to USD 250.2 billion by 2026, at a CAGR of 4.7% during the forecast period.
Differences Between Flexible and Rigid Packaging
Both flexible and rigid packaging is used for a wide variety in the present packaging market. These packages are used for multiple purposes yet deliver great flexibility, customization, durability, and construction.
Size and Weight
As the name of both types expressed the structure_ the rigid packaging is more substantial and denser than falls on the heavier side. The size of rigid packaging relies upon the product requirements and packaging shape. However, it takes a much larger space while packing a product.
Flexible packaging is built in a lighter way that consumes less space and weighs much lighter than the rigid type. Yet, because of its lighter structure, the protection might be lacking. Therefore, there is a need for added security while shipping goods to ensure product safety.
Eco-Friendliness
This factor typically depends upon the material being used in the packaging. Usually, rigid packaging is more popular regarding eco-friendliness because it uses recyclable and eco-friendly material.
On the other hand, flexible packaging also uses multiple materials; thus, there could be different standards of environment that can be measured. But, it can be said that flexible packaging comes on the secondary position concerning sustainability.
Customization
When it comes to customization, flexible packaging is quite malleable in this aspect. You can get customized packaging, such as printing and branding on the packaging. The printing on flexible packaging looks great, but you may get its results temporarily. Printed packaging increases brand value for the company.
Contrastingly, rigid packaging cannot be printed because of its firm structure. But it could be possible to print the paper before using it for rigid packaging. This thing can bring a lot of customizing and creativity options for the consumers.
Construction
The rigid packaging is constructed more firmly. It is developed with hard materials such as metal, stiff cardboard, plastic, and other non-bendable materials. Thus, the rigid packaging offered excellent protection to goods and was constructed robustly.
Flexible packaging, on the other hand, is vulnerable to de-shape during transportation or rarely during the packaging process. It probably uses fragile and thin materials usually used for portable goods such as milk, chips, bread, and other stuff.
How to Choose the Right Packaging for You?
While choosing the correct packaging type, you cannot decide whether one packaging is right or wrong because the purposes of both types vary. Notwithstanding, you can choose the perfect option by considering various aspects and identifying what you are looking for.
Product Type
Rigid packaging is used to pack premium products such as watches, wallets, electronics, or other expensive stuff which require more protection. In contrast, flexible packaging is used for some liquids, edibles, and other accessible items.
Transportation
Most goods can be damaged during transportation. Therefore, rigid packing is used for most items prone to damage, such as glass. Moreover, rigid packs are easy to stack and store. Yet, flexible packaging is generally used for food items that can be tossed and thrown without any harm.
Branding
Although flexible packaging can be customized easily, it does not last long. However, rigid packaging is harder to print, yet it stays enduring.
Budget
Flexible packaging is cheaper to manufacture and store in warehouses because of its size, shape, and weight; it consumes lesser space. Rigid packaging tends to be heavier and consumes ample space, which costs more.
You must consider all these factors while choosing the most appropriate packaging type in order to get the best marketing goals since the packaging is an excellent deal for any company to deliver its products safely to the consumer. In case you have any queries, feel free to ask; our packaging experts would bring the right solution to your problem.
