Classifications Of Packaging

• Unit pack: It is also called primary pack or consumer pack and the consumer receives the roduct in that pack. The size and number of units going into each pack depends on the nature of the product and the merchandising method.


• Intermediate pack: Also called secondary pack, the purpose of the inter¬mediate pack can be utilization of couple of unit packs, distribution, require¬ment, display value etc.


• Bulk pack: Master pack, distribution pack, transport pack all refer to bulk pack only. This pack is used for distribution of unit packs or intermediate packs. In general the bulk pack has to take care of protection against mechani¬cal hazards.

Funtions:

Packaging serves 3 major functions-protection, preservation and promotion.

• Protection of the product can be from climatic hazards and mechanical hazards. Climatic hazards would include atmospheric moisture, oxygen, light, heat, cold and microbial attack. Mechanic hazards are those happening dur¬ing packing, storing, transportation and distribution and in the form of im¬pacts, vibrations and compressions.


• Product preservation means the extent of time a product could be pre¬served in a packaging system. The product should maintain the quality till it is consumed.


• Promotion is to attract the consumer towards the product. The package is a silent salesman. Manufacturer can cut the cost of advertising by proper package.