There are many different types of packaging available on the market today, and each has its own set of advantages and disadvantages. Rigid and flexible packaging are two of the most popular options, and each has its own unique benefits.
Here, we’ll take a closer look at rigid packaging vs. flexible packaging to help you decide which option is right for your needs.
Rigid Packaging
Rigid packaging is the exact opposite of flexible packaging. Rigid packaging materials have a heavy and thick material, which is also good if your products should be protected for a long time.
Unlike their flexible packaging, these containers are more difficult to open and even open because of the material they are made of. Luckily, these days, a lot of manufacturing companies have innovated ways to make it easier for consumers to use rigid packaging, especially for canned goods.
Furthermore, rigid packaging is well-described by the phrase “unable to bend or be forced out of shape.” Rigid packaging is known for its durability and protects the items it encases.
Greater shelf-life
On the plus side, rigid packaging can offer a high level of product protection, as well as greater shelf life. Rigid packaging can provide a barrier against light, oxygen, and moisture.
Tamper-resistant
Rigid packaging is also tamper-resistant and theft-resistant, making it a good choice for products that need to be kept safe. Products such as pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and food items are often packaged in rigid containers for this reason.
Examples of Products for Rigid Packaging
Rigid packaging is often used for products that need a high level of protection, such as:
Fresh produce
Bakery goods
Dairy products
Meat
Seafood
Flexible Packaging
The term “flexible packaging” refers to any kind of packaging that can be bent or folded. Seal bands, blister or skin packages, and clamshells are examples of flexible packaging. Other typical types include shrinking film and stretch film.
In point of fact, flexible packaging refers to any kind of protective packaging that is constructed from materials such as plastic, paper, foil, wax-coated paperboard, and other materials of a similar nature, or combinations of these materials.
Over the last five to ten years, flexible packaging supplies like flexible pouches have completely dominated the worldwide packaging industry, and this trend is expected to continue in the foreseeable future.
Sustainable
This makes it a more sustainable option. Flexible packaging is also easier to open and can be resealed, making it more convenient for consumers.
The materials used for flexible packaging are paper, foil, film, and fabric. It’s less expensive than rigid packaging and uses fewer materials.
Lighter
Furthermore, it takes up less space and is lighter than rigid packaging, making it more cost-effective to transport. They are also easier to open than rigid packaging, which is a big advantage if you’re selling products that need to be consumed quickly (such as food or drink).
So, if you are looking for a more sustainable and cost-effective option, then flexible packaging may be the right choice for you.
Examples of Products for Flexible Packaging
Flexible packaging is often used for products that need to be consumed quickly, such as:
Snacks
Beverages
Chips
Cookies
Candy
Rigid Packaging vs. Flexible Packaging
Weight
Rigid packaging is heavier than flexible packaging in terms of weight. These materials are often heavier and denser than those used in flexible packaging.
A few examples include paperboard boxes, tin cans, and glass bottles. Sealable pouches made of lightweight materials like polyethylene or polypropylene, on the other hand, are often used in flexible packaging.
The packing size is determined by the needs. Rigid packages often occupy more space because they cannot be compressed when packaged.
A rigid package is designed to keep its contents from deforming. Flexible packaging is flat, bendable, and may be packaged to conserve space. So, when it comes to shipping delicate items, kraft paper or poly mailers are the obvious choices.