Flexible Packaging vs Rigid Packaging: Which one should you pick?

But how do you decide on the right packaging design for you? What are the pros and cons of the two? Let’s explore them to help you choose better. 

Flexible Packaging and Rigid Packaging: What really are they? 

• Flexible packaging is lightweight bags or pouches sealed using heat or pressure. As in the name, Flexible packaging can easily be modified or customized. For example: stand up pouches with a Ziplock,  laminated tubes, vacuum pouches, etc. 
• Rigid packaging takes up the opposite corner of the room. Rigid packaging usually includes tin cans, cardboard or plastic boxes, or glass containers. They are heavier, more expensive than their flexible counterparts, and offer better protection. 

Recent trend shifts in Packaging Industry 

With growing consumer needs, the flexible packaging market is predicted to have a 3.95% growth rate to reach $299 Billion by 2024. And keeping up with the trend it is estimated that 49% of brand owners will switch to flexible packaging to reduce production costs. 

Key Difference between Flexible and Rigid packaging 

Both flexible packaging and rigid packaging have a wide range of uses. The differences, however, lie in construction, durability, customizability, and pliability. 

1. Durability and Barrier Properties 

Rigid packaging provides better protection to the contents packaged in it. But, it’s prone to external deformation. The surface can easily be dented or scratched, damaging the surface or print of the packaging.  

On the flip side, flexible packaging does not dent or deform easily, flexible packaging is less likely to be affected or damaged from wearing away. 

2. Weight and Size of Packaging 

Rigid packaging is heavier than flexible packaging. That’s because rigid packaging is made from dense and thicker materials like tin cans, and paperboard boxes. Flexible packaging, on the other hand, uses lighter materials such as plastic or polypropylene. 

In case of size and storage, rigid packages generally take up more space as they cannot be squeezed together whereas flexible packages are flat, and can bend easily and save up space. 

Which Packaging is the Right Choice for you? 

When choosing which packaging will be your final choice, one point to consider is that there isn’t any right or wrong choice. But there are certain factors that will have a significant impact when making a choice: 

• Budget: Flexible packaging using lightweight materials has lower manufacturing, warehousing, and shipping costs as they save up a lot of shelf space. 
• Protection and Barrier properties: Flexible packaging offers better barrier properties. But for products that require protection from extreme heat or crushing, rigid packs make a better choice, especially during transportation. 
• Consumer Experience: Rigid packaging can carry sensitive information about the product like expiry dates or certain instructions. Flexible packaging is easily disposable, can be resealed, and is easier to carry and open. 
• Branding: Flexible packaging offers customization, hence can be printed with attractive graphics to catch a consumer’s attention. Rigid packaging, on the other hand, can add a high-end appeal to items. 

Take time to plan out your budget, package design, materials, and marketing goals, to decide on the best packaging for you. And once you have gone over all the points mentioned, you will be able to make a better sustainable choice. 

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