[PT] What is flexible packaging and what are its advantages?

Choosing flexible packaging is the best option for preparing certain packages and shipments because, unlike rigid packaging, flexible packaging can be adapted to the contents, both in terms of shape and size. What’s more, choosing packaging with these characteristics not only ensures that the dimensions of the container are optimised, but can also be eco-responsible.

What is flexible packaging?
As the name suggests, flexible packaging is made from flexible and elastic materials with the ability to adapt and adjust to the product or content they contain and protect. The materials used are light and easy to handle and include paper, aluminium and plastic. They are very versatile due to their resistance and adaptability, which allows them to change shape without tearing or breaking.

Flexible packaging is very common in industries such as food, textiles, pharmaceuticals and cosmetics.

Differences between flexible and rigid packaging
While flexible packaging is characterised by its adaptability, rigid packaging is made of hard materials such as metal, wood, glass or certain plastics. This type of packaging retains its original shape without undergoing any changes that vary according to its contents.

The choice between flexible or rigid packaging will depend on the type of product it contains or the level of protection you need.

Advantages of using flexible packaging
Flexible packaging offers several benefits that you should consider:

• They adapt to any shape. As could not be otherwise, malleability and flexibility are the main advantages, adjusting in size and shape and even avoiding empty spaces.
• They are versatile and have many uses. Initially, they were used for shipments that needed little protection, but the industry has developed flexible materials that are strong and resistant to knocks or twists and can preserve different types of products, whether electronics, cosmetics or food.
• They save money. Because they are lighter, they are much cheaper to manufacture than rigid materials.
• They are practical in terms of weight and dimensions. Volumetric weight is an essential measure to take into account when making any shipment, so choosing packaging that can adjust to the size and volume of the contents is ideal for optimising space, weight and costs as much as possible.
• They speed up the logistics process of preparing parcels. With small dimensions, it’s possible to reduce preparation times in any warehouse.
• Reduce environmental impact. Choosing lighter, less bulky packaging makes it possible to utilise the space in delivery vehicles as an eco-responsible measure.
• They convey the brand image. They are easily customisable materials that allow logos or messages to be printed on them, showing a connection with the company’s values and involving the consumer in the unboxing experience.
• They offer facilities to the user. Because of their size, sometimes it will be enough for the courier to leave the parcel in the letterboxes without the end customer having to go and pick it up at delivery points if they’re not at home.

What kind of flexible packaging can you find at RAJA?
As RAJA is aware of all these advantages offered by flexible packaging, we’ll show you some of the products of this type that you’ll find in our catalogue:

• Paper envelopes. This is the most common packaging for sending documents or small items that fit in a letterbox.

• Cardboard envelopes. The thin cardboard or the adaptable flaps of the cases offer more resistance and are ideal for sending books.

• Kraft paper envelopes. The most eco-responsible option, as kraft paper is recycled and recyclable. The alternative with bellows adapts more to the content.

• Padded envelopes. In addition to their practical size, the inner bubble filling provides extra protection.

• Plastic messenger envelopes. They are flexible and light, but very resistant. Being opaque, they guarantee discretion and also have a practical adhesive closure.

• Stretch film. In the case of large shipments, the film can be moulded into any shape to wrap sets of packages on pallets, while pallet wrapping machines simplify wrapping.

You already know about flexible packaging, its advantages and the products you can find in our catalogue. At RAJA we’re flexible too and we adapt to your needs!