Paper vs Plastic: Why Sustainable Packaging Matters

In the world of shipping, there are two main types of materials that are used: paper and plastic. Each has its own set of benefits and drawbacks, but in recent years, there has been a shift in favor of corrugated shipping materials. When comparing corrugated packaging with plastic packaging, corrugated has both environmental and practical advantages. In fact, a recent study found that 85% of consumers prefer corrugated shipping containers over plastic packaging.¹ In the study, when asked about their preference for corrugated shipping containers, consumers cited a number of reasons. Let’s see why an overwhelming majority of respondents made corrugated their choice.

Corrugated Packaging Is Friendly to the Environment

When it comes to sustainability, corrugated shipping containers have the edge over plastic packaging options. That’s because they’re made from paper, which is a renewable resource and requires less energy to produce. One of the most important reasons why consumers prefer corrugated shipping containers over plastic is because paper is more environmentally friendly. In addition, once they’ve served their purpose, corrugated shipping containers can easily be recycled and reprocessed into new paper products an infinite number of times. Whereas plastic can only be recycled a limited number of times before it becomes unusable – often ending up polluting our water and crowding our landfills. It’s important to consumers who are looking to reduce their carbon footprint to support businesses that have adopted eco-friendly processes.

Corrugated Packaging Is More Durable Than Plastic

One of the most important qualities of a good shipping container is strength. After all, you want your customers’ purchases to arrive at their destination in one piece. Corrugated shipping materials are strong and durable, making them ideal for protecting your products during shipment and transit. Right-sized shipping boxes protect the contents of your package, allowing your products to arrive at their destination in pristine condition.

Corrugated Packaging Is Practical

In addition to sustainability and durability, consumers also preferred corrugated shipping containers because they have a number of practical advantages over plastic packaging.

• Customizable

Corrugated shipping material can be easily customized to fit the specific needs of your business. Right-sized corrugated boxes customize the size and shape of your shipping container, resulting in less waste.

• Easier to Open

Corrugated boxes are generally easier to open because the flaps on a corrugated box are not fused together. Meaning, they can be pulled apart with relative ease. In contrast, the seals on a plastic container are much more difficult to break. As a result, it often takes significantly more time and effort to open a plastic container.

• Cleaner

Plastic shipping containers can harbor bacteria and other contaminants, which can be transferred to the items being shipped. Corrugated shipping boxes are less likely to harbor contaminants because they are made from a porous material that allows air to circulate.

• Versatile

Corrugated shipping materials can be used for a variety of purposes, such as packaging, interior padding, or as void fill material. This makes them a versatile option for businesses that need packaging solutions for their products.

• Cost

Another factor to consider is cost. Cardboard boxes are much less expensive than plastic totes. That’s because they’re made from recycled materials, while plastic totes are made from petroleum products. Another benefit of using corrugated packaging material is that it is lightweight. This is important because it can help you save on shipping costs. The lighter your package, the less it will cost to ship, making corrugated packaging material an excellent option for businesses that are looking to cut costs.

Work with a Reputable Sustainable Packaging Partner

If you run an e-commerce business, it’s important to partner with a company that specializes in sustainable e-commerce packaging. When choosing a packaging partner, look for one that will understand your packaging goals, and design a custom packaging process flow to meet you where you are, like Packsize. Packsize offers more than custom corrugated sustainable boxes. They create packaging processes that fit your business, your product, and your customers. When it comes to shipping, corrugated containers are the preferred choice for businesses and consumers alike. This is due to a number of advantages that corrugated materials have over plastic alternatives, including sustainability, durability, and a host of practical advantages. So, if you’re looking for a sustainable and cost-effective way to ship your products, consider using right-sized corrugated boxes. Your wallet, and the environment, will thank you. For more information on custom corrugated packaging, contact Packsize today.  ^{1 Source: Packsize’s Consumer Packaging Perceptions Survey, conducted in March 2022 by Corus; N=1,903 U.S. adults who make online orders (excluding food) and receive corresponding shipments at least once per month.}