Glossary Of Packaging Definitions

Understanding the language of packaging is essential for professionals across industries. Whether you’re a designer, procurement manager, or brand strategist, knowing the right terminology improves communication, minimises errors, and drives innovation. This ultimate A-Z glossary of packaging terminology is your complete guide to mastering the lingo of packaging. You’ll gain clarity on industry-specific terms, explore practical use cases, and streamline your workflow along the way.

Why is Packaging Terminology Important?

From material sourcing to product delivery, packaging professionals rely on precise communication. Misinterpretation of terms can lead to significant delays, increased costs, and even product damage. By becoming fluent in packaging terminology, you can collaborate effectively across teams, understand supplier specifications, and optimise your packaging strategies.

Dive into the comprehensive A-Z glossary below and upskill your packaging literacy!

A – Z Glossary of Key Packaging Terms

Terms Starting with A

Acrylic: A durable plastic material used for packaging that requires transparency and strength. It’s often used for display cases and packaging that demands visual appeal.
Additive: Substances added to packaging materials to enhance properties like flexibility, durability, or UV resistance. Example: UV inhibitors prevent discolouration in plastic over time.
Aseptic Packaging: A sterile packaging method used to maintain product freshness, especially for food and beverages.
Amber Glass: Brown-tinted glass that blocks UV rays, commonly used in pharmaceutical packaging.
Anti-Counterfeit Label: Security feature added to packaging to prevent product tampering or fraud.
Adhesive Seal: Glue or sticky tape used to seal boxes and packages securely.
Active Packaging: Packaging that interacts with the contents to prolong shelf life.
Air Pillows: Inflatable packaging used to cushion products inside shipping boxes.
Auto-Bottom Box: Pre-glued box that quickly forms when opened, speeding up packing.

Terms Starting with B

Barrier Material: A substance designed to prevent gas, moisture, or light transmission, safeguarding product integrity. Use Case: Retaining the aroma of coffee beans in vacuum-sealed bags.
Biodegradable Packaging: Packaging that decomposes naturally without harming the environment.Example: Plant-based packaging for eco-conscious brands.
Blister Pack: A type of packaging with a clear plastic cavity attached to a backing, often used for medications or small electronics.
Box Board: A form of paperboard used for folding cartons.
Bulk Packaging: Large-scale packaging used for warehouse distribution.
BOPP Film: Biaxially oriented polypropylene used for flexible packaging.
Bottle Neck Tag: Promotional tag fitted around the neck of a bottle.
Branded Tape: Custom-printed tape used for sealing and promoting brand identity.
Bioplastic: Plastic derived from renewable biomass sources.

Terms Starting with C

Carton Board: A stiffer paperboard used for multi-layered boxes like cereal packaging.
Corrugated Material: A three-layer material with a fluted middle layer for enhanced strength. Example: Used in shipping boxes to protect fragile goods.
Clamshell Packaging: A hinged container made from rigid plastic, commonly used for electronics and retail products.
Carded Packaging: Product affixed to a printed backing card and wrapped in film.
Cold Seal: Adhesive that bonds under pressure, no heat required.
Corner Protectors: Padding elements used to reinforce box corners during transit.
Chipboard: Low-density cardboard used for lightweight packaging.
Crash Lock Bottom: A folding box base designed for fast assembly.
Cut-Out Window: Transparent area revealing the product inside the packaging.

Terms Starting with D

Die Cut: A custom-cut shape created during the packaging production process. Use Case: Intricate packaging designs for luxury products.
Dividers: Inserts used within packaging to separate multiple items, reducing damage during transit. Example: Wine bottle carriers.
Drop Test: A quality assessment where packaging is tested against impact by simulating drops.
Double-Wall Box: A box with two layers of corrugation for extra protection.
Dust Flap: Inner flap on folding cartons to protect product and close the box neatly.
Dispenser Box: Box that allows easy access to contents, often with a tear-strip.
Display Carton: Packaging that doubles as a point-of-sale display.
Debossing: Indented design element for decorative branding.
Document Enclosed Wallet: Clear pouches for attaching invoices or receipts to packages.

Terms Starting with E

E-Flute: A type of corrugated cardboard that is thin yet sturdy, ideal for lightweight retail packaging.
EPS (Expanded Polystyrene): Lightweight foam material offering excellent cushioning, used for electronics or appliances.
Eco-Friendly Packaging: Packaging materials that are sustainable, recyclable, or compostable. Example: Kraft paper packaging.
Edge Protectors: Reinforcements used along box edges to prevent crushing.
Elastic Bands: Used to hold packages or lids in place.
EVA Foam Inserts: Durable and flexible inserts ideal for delicate product packaging.
Envelope Mailers: Paper or padded packaging for posting documents or light items.
Extended Content Labels: Multi-layer labels offering more product or legal information.
E-Commerce Boxes: Flat-pack boxes specifically designed for online product shipping.

Terms Starting with F

Folding Carton: A versatile type of packaging made from paperboard, commonly used in retail. Example: Packaging for beauty products.
Foam Inserts: Custom-moulded inserts that cushion delicate items during shipment.
Flexographic Printing: A high-speed printing method commonly used for packaging materials.
Foil Stamping: A metallic print method used for premium packaging aesthetics.
Fibreboard: A thick, rigid form of cardboard used in heavy-duty boxes.
Flat Pack Box: Box supplied flat to reduce shipping volume.
Film Lamination: Plastic coating applied for surface protection.
Friction Lock Closure: Common tuck closure on retail packaging.
Front Tuck Flap: Used in mailers to create secure and easy-open designs.

Terms Starting with G

Gloss Finish: A shiny coating applied to packaging surfaces. Use Case: Enhances the visual impact of product labels.
Grammage: The weight of packaging material, measured in grams per square meter (gsm).
Glassine: A smooth, transparent paper used for wrapping items like confectionery.
Gusset: Side fold added to increase packaging volume.
Greaseproof Paper: Prevents oil or grease from seeping through.
Glue Strip: Adhesive area for self-sealing envelopes or boxes.
Gift Box: Decorative packaging used for premium retail or personal gifts.
Gable Box: Box with a top handle and gabled roof-like structure.
Gravure Printing: High-speed, high-volume printing technique.

Terms Starting with H

HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene): A strong and lightweight plastic used in bottles, containers, and crates.
Hinged Lid: A packaging design where the lid and base are attached with a hinge for easier opening.
Heat Seal: A method of sealing packaging materials using heat and pressure. Example: Sealing pouches for ready-made meals.
Hang Tab: Adhesive-backed tab allowing packages to hang on retail hooks.
Header Card: Card attached to the top of plastic bags for branding and hanging display.
Hot Foil Stamping: A printing process applying metallic foil to a surface for a luxurious look.
Handle Box: Packaging with an integrated or added handle for easy carrying.
High Barrier Film: Material designed to block moisture, oxygen, or UV.
Holographic Film: Decorative, light-reflective film used in luxury and promotional packaging.

Terms Starting with I

Inkjet Printing: A cost-effective option for customising packaging with high-quality designs.
Injection Moulded Packaging: A process used to create rigid plastic containers such as tubs and jars.
Integrated Handles: Handles built into packaging for convenience and mobility. Example: Large detergent bottles.
Inner Pack: A smaller unit packed within a larger outer box.
Inserts: Custom-cut supports used to stabilise products inside packaging.
Intelligent Packaging: Packaging with embedded technology to monitor or communicate data.
Ink Coverage: The amount of ink printed across the surface of packaging.
Indented Board: Packaging material with a textured finish or scored line.
Instruction Panel: A printed area that guides end users on product use.

Terms Starting with J

JIT (Just-in-Time): An inventory strategy where materials are delivered exactly when required, minimising storage costs.
Jigsaw Packaging: Cushioning elements that interlock to secure multiple items during transit.
J-Cut Flap: A stylised cut often used in custom folding cartons.
Jar Packaging: Widely used format for creams, food, and personal care products.
Joint Reinforcement: Strengthening material applied to packaging seams.
Jumbo Roll: Large roll of material used in high-volume printing or lamination.
Jet Printing: Another name for digital inkjet printing.
Jewellery Box: A small rigid or folding box made for protecting and presenting jewellery.

Terms Starting with K

Kraft Paper: A brown paper known for its strength and eco-friendliness. Example: Used in shopping bags and padded envelopes.
Knocked Down (KD): Packaging shipped in a flat form to reduce shipping costs.
Kiss Cut: A light cut through sticker material without slicing the backing.
Korrvu Packaging: A packaging solution that suspends the item inside for better protection.
K-Fold Insert: A structural insert design for segmented compartments.
Kraft Board: A heavy-duty version of Kraft paper used in rigid box production.
Kitting: Grouping products together into a single package.
Keyline: A layout template that indicates print and cut lines.

Terms Starting with L

Laminated Packaging: Multi-layered materials providing high durability and functionality. Use Case: Chips and snack packaging to preserve freshness.
Low-Density Polyethylene (LDPE): A flexible and lightweight material used for bubble wraps and plastic bags.
Label Stock: Base material used in making labels.
Lift-Off Lid: Removable top used in rigid box packaging.
Lithographic Printing: High-resolution printing method for sharp and consistent images.
Lid and Base Box: A rigid two-piece box for premium packaging.
Label Applicator: A machine or tool that applies labels to packaging.
Locking Tabs: Flaps that secure into slots for firm closure.
Lug Cap: A metal lid used for sealing glass jars.

Terms Starting with M

MOQ (Minimum Order Quantity): The smallest quantity an order can be placed with a supplier. Example: Many custom packaging companies require an MOQ of 1,000 units.
Moulded Fibre: Pulp-based packaging often used for egg cartons.
Mailer Box: Sturdy flat-pack box ideal for e-commerce and postal packaging.
Matte Finish: A non-glossy coating for a refined appearance.
Material Grade: Specification indicating thickness and durability of board.
Multipack: Packaging that contains multiple items or SKUs.
Monomaterial Packaging: Packaging made entirely from one type of material for easier recycling.
Magnetic Closure Box: Premium rigid box with built-in magnetic flap.
Manual Sealing: Hand-application of adhesives or tape to close packaging.

Terms Starting with N

Nanomaterials: Advanced materials with nanoscale features enhancing packaging strength or antimicrobial properties.
Nestable Packaging: Containers designed to stack when empty, saving storage space.
Natural Kraft: Unbleached paperboard with a rustic finish.
Neck Tag: Promotional paper piece fitted over bottle necks.
Non-Woven Bag: A reusable bag made from spun-bonded polypropylene.
Neutral pH Board: Packaging material used to store delicate or archival items.
Notch Cut: A small cut for easy opening or to accommodate design features.
No-Print Zone: Area in packaging reserved from print due to glue or folds.

Terms Starting with O

Offset Printing: A premium printing technique known for delivering sharp, high-quality images.
Opaque Packaging: Packaging designed to block light, safeguarding light-sensitive products like cosmetics.
Overwrap: Additional film or paper wrapping used to protect primary packaging.
One-Piece Folder: A single sheet die-cut into a box structure.
Opening Flap: Part of the box designed for user access.
Outer Carton: A shipping box used to contain smaller individual packages.
On-Demand Packaging: Creating packaging in real time based on order needs.
Overprint: Additional print layer applied after primary design.
Orientation Marks: Print indicators ensuring artwork alignment.

Terms Starting with P

PET (Polyethylene Terephthalate): Widely used plastic in beverage and food containers.
Point-of-Sale Displays (POS): Strategically designed packaging to boost product visibility at checkout counters.
Pouch Packaging: Flexible bags used for food, supplements, and cosmetics.
Pallet Wrap: Stretch film used to secure goods on a pallet.
Printed Tape: Tape customised with branding or handling instructions.
Perforation: Series of small holes for easy tearing.
Paperboard: Stiff paper-based material used in folding cartons.
Palletisation: Organising packaged goods onto pallets for storage or shipment.
Pop-up Box: Box that springs into shape for quick assembly.

Terms Starting with Q

Quality Control (QC): Ensures all packaging meets specific standards before distribution.
Quick-Pack Bins: Pre-packed supplies for rapid order fulfilment.
QR Code Label: Scannable code printed on packaging linking to product info.
Quarantine Packaging: Used for separating defective or suspect items.
Quad Seal Bag: Four-panel construction for strong shelf display and structure.
Quantity per Unit (QPU): Measurement for how many items fit in a package.
Quick-Release Adhesive: Allows easy opening without damage.
Quality Seal: A stamp or label indicating a product has passed inspection.

Terms Starting with R

Rigid Packaging: Sturdy materials like hard plastic, metal, or glass to protect valuable products.
Recyclable Packaging: Materials designed to be processed and reused.
Roll End Tuck Top (RETT): A common e-commerce box design.
Returnable Packaging: Designed to be used multiple times across logistics chains.
Retail Packaging: Consumer-facing packaging that’s shelf-ready.
Resealable Strip: Adhesive allowing the packaging to be closed again.
Rubber Based Adhesive: Flexible and strong sealant for cartons and labels.
Ribbed Kraft Paper: Textured Kraft offering enhanced strength and grip.

Terms Starting with S

Sustainable Packaging: Solutions designed to reduce environmental impact. Example: Compostable packaging.
Shrink Wrap: Thin plastic film that shrinks tightly around products when heated.
Sleeve Packaging: Printed wrap used over a tray or box.
Silk Lamination: Ultra-smooth lamination combining matte and soft-touch properties.
Spout Pouch: A pouch fitted with a resealable spout, often used for liquids.
Structural Packaging: Custom-engineered packaging for form and function.
Shelf-Ready Packaging (SRP): Designed to go directly from shipping to store shelf.
Slotted Container: Traditional corrugated box with flaps for easy closure.
Spot UV: Glossy coating applied to specific areas for visual contrast.

Terms Starting with T

Tear Strip: A built-in feature for easy opening. Use Case: Mailer boxes with rip-open strips.
Tuck End Box: A folding box with tuckable flaps, commonly found in product packaging.
Tamper-Evident Seal: Security measure showing if packaging has been opened.
Telescopic Carton: Two-piece box where one part slides over the other.
Top Load Box: Box designed to be filled from the top.
Tri-Fold Brochure: Marketing material folded in thirds, often inserted into boxes.
Tray with Sleeve: Inner tray enclosed in an outer printed sleeve.
Tensile Strength: Resistance of material to being stretched or pulled.

Terms Starting with U

UV Coating: A protective layer cured with ultraviolet light, enhancing durability and gloss.
Unbleached Paperboard: An eco-friendly material offering a natural aesthetic.
Uncoated Paper: Paper with a matte finish, ideal for writing or stamping.
Universal Product Code (UPC): Barcode used for retail product identification.
Underprinting: Printing beneath the surface or other design layers.
Ultra Sonic Sealing: High-frequency vibration to seal plastic packaging.
Unit Pack: The smallest individual retail unit of a product.
Upright Pouch: Stand-up pouch often used for snacks or supplements.

Terms Starting with V

Vacuum Packaging: Seals items by removing all air, extending product shelf life. Example: Vacuum-sealed coffee bags.
Varnish: A finishing coat enhancing the packaging’s appearance and durability.
Vertical Form Fill Seal (VFFS): Automated packaging forming bags vertically.
Void Fill: Material used to fill space inside a box to protect products.
Velvet Touch Laminate: Soft, premium-feel laminate used for luxury packaging.
Vinyl Stickers: Durable adhesive labels for branding and compliance.
Vent Hole: A small hole that prevents package bloating during shipping.
Visual Packaging: Packaging that prominently displays the product inside.

Terms Starting with W

Wax Coated Cardboard: Cardboard treated with wax for water-resistant properties. Use Case: Ideal for fresh produce.
Window Patch: A clear plastic film added to boxes showcasing the product inside.
Wrap-Around Label: Label that encircles a product container.
Water-Based Adhesive: Eco-friendly glue alternative.
Wadding: Padding used to protect delicate contents.
Wire Bound Packaging: Used for securing multi-piece shipping crates.
Wedge Insert: Angled support for displaying or securing product.
White Kraft Paper: Bleached version of Kraft for a clean and bright look.

Terms Starting with X

XPS (Extruded Polystyrene): Rigid foam with insulation properties, useful for cold chain packaging.
X-Fold Carton: Specialty fold pattern used in promotional packaging.
X-Ray Transparent Film: Used in medical packaging that requires inspection.
Xylan Coated Paper: Paper coated with moisture-resistant Xylan compound.
X-Link Film: Cross-linked polymer film for high-performance packaging.

Terms Starting with Y

Yield (Material Efficiency): The amount of packaging material derived per unit weight.
Y-Seal Pouch: Pouch sealed in a Y-pattern to ensure even distribution of contents.
Yellow Kraft Paper: A dyed version of Kraft used for distinct product lines.
Yarn-Wrapped Box: Decorative handmade box featuring yarn embellishment.
Y-Fold Flap: Special flap design to ease product removal.

Terms Starting with Z

Zipper Pouches: Flexible packaging with resealable tops, perfect for snacks and pet food.
Z-Fold Brochure: Informational leaflet folded in a Z pattern.
Zebra Print Packaging: High-contrast design used in fashion or luxury packaging.
Zero Waste Packaging: Designed for full recyclability or compostability.
Zigzag Edge: Decorative edge cut into tear-open areas.

Most Asked Questions

What is the purpose of a corrugated box?

Corrugated boxes provide structural strength, making them ideal for shipment and storage.

What makes packaging eco-friendly?

Eco-friendly packaging uses recyclable, compostable, or biodegradable materials to minimise environmental impact.

What is shrink wrap used for?

Shrink wrap tightly secures items, preventing tampering during transit.

Why is MOQ important in packaging production?

MOQ ensures cost efficiency in production, especially for custom designs.

What is the role of die-cut packaging?

Die-cutting customises packaging to precise specifications, enhancing aesthetics and functionality.

What are the benefits of aseptic packaging?

Aseptic packaging extends shelf life and eliminates refrigeration requirements.

How does embossing enhance packaging?

It creates raised designs or text that add a premium and tactile quality to the product.

Conclusion

Unlock the potential of innovative packaging for your business! Whether you’re after eco-friendly options, custom designs, or structural solutions, our expert team is here to help. Get in touch with Healey Packaging today for a tailor-made solution that elevates your brand!