Shipping Plastic Packaging Materials

Plastic accounts for roughly 36–40% of total global packaging materials, according to the UN Environment Programme. It dominates in the food, beverage, and e-commerce sectors because of its strength-to-weight ratio and cost efficiency.

Food and beverage manufacturers use the majority, followed by healthcare, personal care, consumer goods, and industrial sectors. These industries depend on plastic for hygiene, shelf life, and barrier protection.

Chemical recycling (breaking plastics into base monomers), advanced bio-resins, lighter multilayer films, and digital watermarking for better sorting are all emerging. Brands are also experimenting with refill stations and reusable container models.

Because it’s lightweight, plastic often reduces overall freight cost compared to heavier alternatives like glass or metal. However, overly bulky or low-density packaging can raise dimensional weight (DIM weight) charges, especially in parcel shipping.

Reduce overall material use, choose single-resin structures, include recycled content, and design for easy separation of closures or labels. Transparency about recyclability and clear disposal instructions also help end-users recycle correctly.

Yes. Rigid plastic containers, crates, and industrial bins are often reused many times. Just ensure they are cleaned, not degraded, and compatible with the product.

Under sunlight, oxygen, mechanical stress, or heat, plastic chains can fragment — contributing to microplastics. Oxo-degradable plastics intentionally break into fragments, but that’s controversial because they still pollute.

Not necessarily. Alternatives like molded fiber or paper may use more energy, weigh more (raising freight cost), or not provide equivalent protection. The full life-cycle analysis matters.

Track legislation by region, engage packaging suppliers early, and prioritize recyclable or reusable formats now. Setting internal packaging reduction targets helps businesses stay ahead of compliance deadlines.

Yes, especially as resin prices fluctuate. Using post-consumer resin (PCR) can lower material costs and qualify for sustainability incentives or retailer partnerships that favor circular packaging.

Often yes. Plastics create stronger barriers against moisture, air, and impact than paper or cardboard. For perishable goods, this extends shelf life and reduces food waste—a sustainability benefit often overlooked.

Consumer pressure, brand sustainability goals, and government mandates. Many large companies have pledged to make their packaging 100% recyclable or reusable by 2030, which has spurred investment in recycling capacity.

Major logistics providers are auditing waste streams, switching to stretch-film alternatives, and implementing closed-loop systems. Some use compactors or balers to recycle pallet wrap on-site before it enters landfill streams.

It’s unlikely; rather, it’s expected to evolve, not vanish. Expect a shift toward recyclable, reusable, or bio-based plastics and improved waste systems. The future lies in circular design, not complete elimination.

Absolutely! Call us at (800) 716-7608 or use our quote tool—we’ll guide you through it every step of the way.