Cardboard Sleeve vs. Shrink Wrapping: Which one is better for multipack packaging?

Multipack packaging is a cost-effective way to package and transport multiple products together, reducing the overall packaging costs and environmental impact of shipping. When it comes to multipack packaging, two popular options are shrink wrapping and cardboard sleeve packaging. In this blog, we will compare and contrast these two packaging methods and help businesses determine which one might be best for their particular needs.

Shrink Wrapping for Multipack Packaging

Shrink wrapping involves covering a product or group of products with a plastic film that shrinks when heated, conforming tightly to the shape of the product(s). Shrink wrapping is commonly used for larger products, such as furniture, appliances, and electronics, as well as for food products that require longer shelf life. Shrink wrapped multipacks offer several benefits:

1. Protection: Shrink wrapping provides an airtight seal that prevents dust, moisture, and other forms of damage from reaching the product.
2. Visibility: Shrink wrapping provides clear visibility of the product, which can be important in marketing the product.
3. Stability: The tightly sealed shrink wrap helps stabilize the products during shipping and handling, reducing the risk of damage.
4. Customizable: Shrink wrapping can be customized to fit various shapes and sizes of products, making it a versatile option.

However, there are some drawbacks to shrink wrapping:

1. Cost: Shrink wrapping can be more expensive than other packaging methods because it requires additional equipment and materials to heat and shrink the plastic film.
2. Environmental Impact: Shrink wrapping is not very environmentally friendly, since it is made of plastic and may not be recyclable in all areas.
3. Aesthetics: Shrink wrapping may not be as visually appealing as other packaging methods, as the plastic film may be opaque or have a matte finish.

Cardboard Sleeve Packaging for Multipack Packaging

Cardboard sleeve packaging involves placing multiple products within a cardboard sleeve or tray, often with a clear plastic window to showcase the products inside. An example of such a packaging is the ClusterPak® by WestRock Cardboard sleeve packaging is commonly used for food products, such as beverage cans, cereal boxes, and frozen meals, among others. Some benefits of cardboard sleeve packaging are:

1. Eco-Friendly: Cardboard sleeve packaging is considered a more environmentally friendly option than shrink wrapping, since it is made of recyclable materials.
2. Cost-Effective: Cardboard sleeve packaging can be less expensive than shrink wrapping since it requires fewer materials and equipment.
3. Customizable: Cardboard sleeves can be customized to fit various shapes and sizes of products.
4. Aesthetics: Cardboard sleeve packaging offers an opportunity for branding and unique design options that can be appealing to consumers.

However, some drawbacks of cardboard sleeve packaging include:

1. Limited Protection: Compared to shrink wrapping, cardboard sleeve packaging may not offer as much protection against environmental factors like moisture and dust.
2. Stability: Cardboard sleeve packaging may not provide as much stability during transportation and handling compared to other packaging methods.
3. Limited Visibility: Cardboard sleeve packaging may not allow for full visibility of the product, especially if the product is covered by a cardboard sleeve or tray.

Conclusion

In conclusion, both shrink wrapping and cardboard sleeve packaging have their own unique advantages and disadvantages when it comes to multipack packaging. Shrink wrapping provides more protection, stability, and visibility of the product, whereas cardboard sleeve packaging is often considered more eco-friendly, cost-effective, and customizable. Ultimately, businesses must consider their specific needs, priorities, and budget to determine which packaging method will work best for their products.

Looking for Multipack Packaging Solutions with Cardboard Sleeve?

Do you know that ÉLITER Packaging Machinery has introduced in late 2022 a new model of wraparound sleever (wrap-around cartoner) that can applies cardboard sleeve and wrap it around various containers such as yogurt cups, ready meal trays, dessert pots, etc.?

To meet both manufacturing companies’ expectations of economic packaging and consumer’s concerns around sustainability, ÉLITER Packaging Machinery offers a full range of packaging machines to provide automation solutions for cardboard sleeve and multipack packaging and allows meal trays, tubs, pots, cups, bottles on our machines with a high level of efficiency and improved stability.