Why Packaging Material Matters
Choosing the right packaging material is essential not only for protecting the product but also for customer experience, logistics, sustainability, and brand image. With environmental concerns rising in Australia, businesses are under pressure to balance durability, eco-friendliness, and cost-efficiency.
If you’re in bulk manufacturing or retail, working with a trusted packaging materials wholesale supplier is a game-changer for quality control and cost savings. Let’s explore the 8 most essential types of packaging materials used in the Australian market today.
1. Corrugated Cardboard
What Is It?
Corrugated cardboard is made from a fluted sheet sandwiched between flat linerboards. It’s widely used due to its strength-to-weight ratio and eco-friendliness.
Why It’s Popular
Most Australian online stores and exporters prefer corrugated boxes for their cost-effectiveness and recyclability. It’s also easy to print on, making it great for branding.
Pros:
- Lightweight yet durable
- 100% recyclable
- Customisable in shape and size
Cons:
- Vulnerable to water
- Limited protection for fragile items without padding
2. Plastic Packaging
What Is It?
Plastic is the most versatile packaging material, ranging from soft films to rigid containers. Common plastics used include PET, HDPE, and LDPE.
Where It’s Used
From food packaging to cosmetic containers, plastic dominates many industries because of its barrier properties and low weight. However, sustainability is a concern.
Pros:
- Airtight and moisture-resistant
- Flexible and durable
- Cost-efficient for mass production
Cons:
- Environmental impact unless recyclable
- Often single-use
👉 Upgrade your supply chain with wholesale packaging solutions that offer recyclable and biodegradable plastic packaging.
3. Glass Packaging
What Is It?
Glass is made from silica sand and offers a non-reactive, premium-looking solution for packaging sensitive liquids.
Best Use Cases
Commonly used for perfumes, gourmet foods, and pharmaceutical liquids, glass conveys quality while preserving freshness.
Pros:
- Premium, aesthetic appeal
- Non-reactive and airtight
- Fully recyclable
Cons:
- Fragile
- Expensive to transport
4. Aluminium Packaging
What Is It?
Aluminium packaging is lightweight, non-corrosive, and offers excellent protection against UV rays, moisture, and contaminants.
Where It’s Ideal
It’s a go-to material for beverages (cans), pharmaceutical tubes, and even cosmetic packaging in the premium market.
Pros:
- Long shelf life
- 100% recyclable
- Excellent oxygen and light barrier
Cons:
- High production cost
- Requires sealing technology
5. Flexible Packaging Films
What Is It?
Flexible films include plastic or foil layers that can bend and adapt to product shapes. They’re commonly used in pouches, sachets, and vacuum-sealed food packs.
Benefits in E-commerce and Food
These materials reduce weight, save space in transit, and offer creative branding opportunities.
Pros:
- Lightweight
- Cost-effective
- Customisable print design
Cons:
- May not be easily recyclable if multi-layered
- Limited protection against crushing
6. Foam Packaging
What Is It?
Foam packaging (often EPS or EPE) is used for protective cushioning in boxes for fragile or high-value items.
When to Use Foam
It’s especially useful in the electronics and glassware industries where shock absorption is critical.
Pros:
- Excellent impact resistance
- Lightweight
- Can be moulded for product fit
Cons:
- Not biodegradable
- Bulky for storage
7. Biodegradable Packaging
What Is It?
Made from organic materials like cornstarch, mushroom mycelium, or seaweed, biodegradable packaging breaks down naturally over time.
Why It’s Trending
With growing consumer demand for sustainable choices, eco-conscious brands across Australia are moving to compostable mailers and packaging.
Pros:
- Environmentally friendly
- Reduces landfill waste
- Suitable for food and small items
Cons:
- Costlier
- May have shorter shelf life
📊 Australia’s green packaging sector is expected to reach $3.4 billion by 2026, highlighting a major shift in buying behaviour.
8. Wooden Crates and Pallets
What Is It?
Wooden packaging is ideal for shipping large, heavy, or industrial products. It’s durable and often reusable.
When to Use Wood
Best for exporting machinery, bulk chemicals, or heavy-duty tools. It adds protection for long-haul logistics.
Pros:
- Strong and reusable
- Can handle heavy loads
- Biodegradable if untreated
Cons:
- Heavy
- Requires treatment for export compliance
Packaging Trends in 2025: Australia Insights
- The packaging industry in Australia has crossed $18.2 billion in value as of 2025.
- Over 70% of Australian consumers say they prefer eco-friendly packaging.
- Flexible and biodegradable packaging demand has grown by 32% YoY since 2024.
Brands must now innovate by combining durability and sustainability.
Conclusion: Make the Right Choice
Understanding these 8 packaging materials allows you to select the right fit for your business. From corrugated boxes for eCommerce to biodegradable options for eco-conscious branding, each material serves a purpose.
Choose a trusted packaging materials wholesale supplier to keep your packaging durable and cost-effective. Upgrade your logistics with wholesale packaging solutions that meet your industry needs.
FAQs: People Also Ask
1) What are the 8 types of packaging materials?
Corrugated cardboard, plastic, glass, aluminium, flexible films, foam, biodegradable, and wooden crates.
2) Which material is best for food packaging?
Flexible films and aluminium offer high barrier protection and preserve freshness.
3) Are biodegradable packaging materials cost-effective?
While slightly costlier, they offer long-term brand value and consumer preference.
4) Is plastic packaging recyclable?
Yes, but it depends on the type. PET and HDPE are widely recyclable in Australia.
5) Where can I find bulk packaging suppliers in Australia?
Premium Packaging offers reliable and eco-conscious bulk packaging solutions.
