{"id":884,"date":"2021-06-10T09:14:16","date_gmt":"2021-06-10T09:14:16","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/pack-blog.packola.com\/blog\/?p=884"},"modified":"2026-11-11T02:26:59","modified_gmt":"2026-11-11T02:26:59","slug":"packaging-101-basic-packaging-definitions-and-terminologies","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.packola.com\/blog\/packaging-101-basic-packaging-definitions-and-terminologies\/","title":{"rendered":"Packaging 101: Basic Box Packaging Definitions and Terminologies"},"content":{"rendered":"
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Packaging has its own vocabulary, and understanding these terms makes it easier to choose the right products, compare materials, and communicate clearly with your suppliers. This guide breaks down the most common words and concepts you\u2019ll encounter when creating custom packaging.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/section>

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\"Store<\/div>\n<\/section>
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\nPackaging Levels\n<\/h2>

\nPrimary Packaging\n<\/h3>
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Primary packaging<\/strong> is the layer that directly contains and touches the product. It keeps the product safe, sealed, and ready for use.<\/p>

Example<\/strong><\/p>

For a canned beverage, the aluminum can itself is the primary packaging. It holds the liquid and includes the product label and required information.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/section>

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\nSecondary Packaging\n<\/h2>
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Secondary packaging<\/strong> surrounds one or more primary packaged items. It groups products together, adds branding, and can provide additional protection for storage or display.<\/p>\n<\/div>

\nSecondary packaging may:\n<\/h3>
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  • Bundle products into multi-packs<\/li>
  • Provide shelf presence and branding<\/li>
  • Add protection for transport to retailers<\/li><\/ul>

    Example<\/strong><\/p>

    A cardboard carton holding six soda cans is secondary packaging. It keeps the cans together, displays branding, and makes the product easier to stock and purchase.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/section>

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    \nTertiary Packaging\n<\/h2>
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    Tertiary packaging<\/strong> is used for bulk handling, storage, and transportation. It helps move large quantities of products safely through warehouses and distribution networks.<\/p>

    Example<\/strong><\/p>

    Multiple cartons of soda cans stacked on a pallet and wrapped in stretch film form the tertiary packaging. This allows the products to be transported efficiently by truck and stored in bulk.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/section>

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    \nHow the Levels Work Together\n<\/h2>
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    Using the canned beverage example:<\/h3>
    • The can is the primary packaging<\/li>
    • The carton holding multiple cans is the secondary packaging<\/li>
    • The pallet of cartons wrapped for shipping is the tertiary packaging<\/li><\/ul>

      Each level supports a different stage of the product\u2019s journey, from production to store shelf to customer.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/section>

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      \nBox Types and Structures\n<\/h2>
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      Regular Slotted Container (RSC)<\/h3>

      Standard shipping and moving box with flaps that meet at the center.<\/p>

      Example: Packola Shipping Boxes<\/p>

      Roll End Tuck Front (RETF)<\/h3>

      Sturdy mailer-style box with front flaps that tuck into the sides. Popular for e-commerce.<\/p>

      Example: Packola Mailer Boxes<\/p>

      One Piece Folder (OPF)<\/h3>

      A single sheet of corrugated board wraps around the contents. Often used for books and documents.<\/p>

      Tuck Top<\/h3>

      A box with a top panel that tucks into either the front or the back of the box. Common for retail packaging.<\/p>