When it comes to packaging, the spotlight often shines on the primary package — the container or wrapper that directly holds the product. But secondary packaging is just as crucial. It plays a vital role in protecting products during shipping, optimizing the supply chain, enhancing shelf presence, and improving the overall customer experience.
From safeguarding goods in transit to reinforcing brand identity in retail environments, secondary packaging is a strategic tool for manufacturers and retailers.
Secondary packaging refers to the outer packaging that groups primary packages together. This includes cartons, trays, shrink wraps, overwraps, and cases used to bundle individual products for shipping, handling, and display. Unlike primary packaging, which directly contacts the product, secondary packaging is designed primarily for protection, transport efficiency, and marketing.
According to the Packaging Industry Association, secondary packaging accounts for a significant portion of the packaging market — and is critical for reducing product damage and optimizing shelf impact.
One of the primary functions of secondary packaging is to safeguard products during warehousing and transit. Proper secondary packaging absorbs shocks, prevents contamination, and reduces the risk of damage from stacking or mishandling.
For example, International Journal of Packaging Technology studies show that using robust corrugated cases or custom trays can reduce product damage by up to 30% during shipping. This not only saves costs but protects brand reputation.
Secondary packaging also improves logistics efficiency by facilitating bulk handling and palletizing. Efficient secondary packaging reduces shipping volume and weight, lowers transportation costs, and simplifies inventory management.
Secondary packaging offers valuable real estate for branding and marketing messages. Retailers and consumers often see secondary packaging before the primary package, especially in bulk or multi-pack formats. This makes it an ideal platform to reinforce brand identity, highlight promotions, or provide additional product information.
For instance, brands like Coca-Cola use secondary packaging to stand out on store shelves and create a more memorable consumer experience. Multi-packs with eye-catching graphics, convenient carrying handles, or limited-edition designs not only protect the product but also enhance shelf appeal and encourage impulse purchases.
Sustainability is increasingly shaping secondary packaging decisions. The eco-friendly packaging market is experiencing significant growth, driven by increasing consumer demand for sustainable products. Projections indicate that the market will expand from approximately $257.73 billion in 2025 to $498.29 billion by 2034.
Elmark Packaging promotes sustainable practices by supporting custom corrugated trays, shrink bundles, and flexible packaging that optimize material use without sacrificing durability. These solutions help businesses meet both sustainability goals and operational needs.
Secondary packaging is more than just an afterthought — it’s a crucial component of your product’s journey from production to consumer. Well-designed secondary packaging protects your products, reduces costs, supports sustainability, and strengthens your brand presence on the shelf.
Elmark Packaging brings decades of industry expertise to help manufacturers implement effective and efficient secondary packaging solutions. From case tapers, formers and handlers and bundlers and shrink systems, we offer equipment and support that improve protection, streamline logistics, and enhance shelf appeal. Our team works closely with you to ensure every solution fits seamlessly into your operation.
Learn more about how Elmark can support your packaging goals at elmarkpkg.com/products/secondary-packaging.
