Why Is It Important to Know Your Packaging?

packaging types
How Do You Know Which Packaging Works Best for Your Products?

With so many packaging options, selecting the right one can be overwhelming. Understanding the basics for different kinds of packaging helps you make an informed decision. Because your product has a unique shape, size, and density, you need a particular packaging solution. Which is it: Trap blister, custom plastic clamshell, stock clamshell, or skin packaging?
We’ll help you:

  • Understand the differences between trap blister packaging, custom clamshell packaging, stock packaging and skin packaging
  • Analyze the pros and cons of each kind of packaging
  • Consider the costs associated with these forms of packaging
  • Identify the best option for your needs
Differences Between Trap Blister Packaging, Custom Clamshell Packaging, and Skin Packaging

Making a trap blister package begins with a sheet of plastic. The plastic might be PET (polyethylene terephthalate), HIPS (polystyrene) or any number of others. A process called thermoforming uses heat to form the plastic into a mold. In the case of trap blister packaging, the thermoformed plastic molds into a pocket. Then, the pocket is applied to a backer (cardboard, for example). Your product will be contained within the pocket and backer.

Whereas trap blister packaging involves a single piece of thermoformed plastic, clamshell packaging requires two pieces. Like their namesake, some clamshell package units have a hinge. The hinge allows them to open and close. Clamshell packages without hinges are also available. DCP offers both stock and custom clamshells. Stock clamshell packages are simple to design. Furthermore, they are more cost effective than custom clamshell packages. On the other hand, custom plastic clamshell packaging makes your product more visible while protecting it.

Encasing an item with skin packaging entails placing the product on a flat piece cardboard or other corrugated material. Plastic used in skin packaging is heated to make it pliable. Skin packaging flexes to conform to the shape of that which it protects. It fits around products like a thin layer of skin, hence the name.

Analyzing the Pros and Cons of Each Kind of Packaging

Between trap blister, clamshell, and skin packaging, there are pros and cons, depending on the product that is being protected. A cost effective option is trap blister packaging which also has applications across a wide range of industries. A disadvantage of blister packs, however, is the backer. Someone who intends to steal from a trap blister pack needs only to pry the plastic from the backer.

On the other hand, custom plastic clamshell packaging uses two pieces of thermoformed plastic which gives it additional layers of security over trap blister and skin packaging. Extra security means less tampering, decreased theft, and more protection for your product. However, customers may find clamshell packages difficult to open.

Skin packaging works well for food products. You’ll frequently see it in grocery stores to preserve meat, fish, and poultry. Plus, it aids in waste reduction. Unfortunately, the thin layer of plastic used in skin packaging does little to deter tampering and theft.

Costs of Different Forms of Packaging

The main purpose of plastic packaging is to protect your product. Skin packaging, while useful for perishable food goods, is inexpensive to produce, but it would not be effective in protecting other types if consumable goods, such as pharmaceuticals and medications. Trap blister packaging incurs more cost, but it provides more protection than skin packaging. There may be additional costs, however, such as damage, theft, and tampering. To keep costs at an absolute minimum, DCL International recommends clamshell packaging. We carry both stock clamshell packaging and custom clamshell packaging.

The Best Packaging Option for You

A transparent clamshell gives you both the most security and the most product visibility. You want a packaging option that protects your product, while also promoting it. Research our process for assurance of our clamshell packaging capabilities. Then, reach out to us and request a quote. DCP provides small custom runs domestically with a short turnaround time. For bigger savings, we also ship large runs offshore.

Contact Pioneer to Find Your Packaging Solution Today!