Packaging Trends: What to Expect Going Forward

Consider these trends that will help you stay competitive and relevant in B2B manufacturing and shipping:  
 

Increased Complexity
Complexity is revolutionizing packaging. Manufacturers recognize that one-size-fits-all solutions can be inadequate. Packaging is now tailored to specific product dimensions, branding elements, customer preferences and for optimizing the space within the containers. 
 

“Packaging that you're getting now is more engineered,” says Kevin Ackeret, Engineering/New Product Development at Pro-Form. “This engineering makes packages more compact and allows the components to be strategically placed inside the boxes.”

Customer/Vendor Interaction
Packaging designers are able to generate and send 3D renderings, images, cross-sections and more to the customer. Once the design is confirmed, a working model can be created and a sample can be sent for approval. 

There’s also online collaboration tools that allow the packaging designer and the customer to review progress, make notes, and collaborate back and forth. 

Transparent Packaging
There are several methods to enable vendors and OEMs to conveniently check their shipments without opening the box. Viewing ports make it possible to see inside of a sealed container without the risk of damaging the product inside. Cameras on the inside of packages also allow for continuous monitoring of the product’s journey. Eliminating the unsealing and resealing step makes for a more efficient supply chain. 

Functionality
Functional packaging involves durable materials, such as corrugated cardboard, which can protect products and have versatile purposes. Along with viewing ports, packages and dunnage trays can be designed with ramps, hinges, rolling pedestals, recessed casters and more to simplify the loading and unloading process.

Sustainability 
Manufacturers are increasingly prioritizing eco-friendly materials and practices. Packaging solutions providers have responded by adopting recyclable, biodegradable and even compostable materials. 
 

“The world is getting greener,” says Ackeret. “We're starting to realize that putting a bunch of polyethylene in our landfills probably isn't a good thing.”
 

Smart Packaging & the Internet of Things (IoT) 
Incorporating QR codes, near-field communication (NFC) tags and radio frequency identification (RFID) technology empowers manufacturers with traceability and monitoring capabilities. These technologies can provide real-time data on product location, condition and usage. 
 

Smart packaging also facilitates automation and improves inventory management. Human workers and autonomous robots can easily find and identify packages within IoT-enhanced warehouses. 

Regulatory Compliance
Strict product safety and environmental standards are pivotal to the design and implementation of packaging solutions. Vendors need to be aware of current and upcoming regulations and be capable of achieving compliance.