Understanding How Contract Packaging Works

It’s important for any small industry to produce quality products at a continual speed to ensure success and growth. Still, for many industries, like food, beverages, and pharmaceuticals, there needs to be a proper packaging system in place. Surprisingly, many small industries can’t handle the specific or large-scale requirements of industrial packaging. Fortunately, that’s where contract packaging comes in handy. Any small industry or business must understand how contract packaging works to ensure a smooth supply chain for its clients.

​What is Contract Packaging

Also known as co-packing, contract packaging is a form of logistics in which shipping carriers assemble and distribute packages for clients. This can include simple or complex processes depending on the demand and scope of the product. It can occur via liquid filling, shrink wrapping, blister sealing, or other types of specialized packaging service. Ultimately, contract packagers provide a service to package products as an extension to the client. This packaging occurs in retail, commercial, and trade industries

How it Works

There are many reasons why a company would need to use a contract packager. Some contract packagers have specialized equipment and expertise needed for specific operations. Others reduce the capital cost from the needed machinery or line workers for their clients. Still, a simple need for additional packaging capacity could result in using contract packagers, too. No matter the reason, contract packagers offer greater flexibility and scheduling than businesses that do it themselves. Contract packaging is also efficient for industries like pharmaceuticals or medical devices, since these require limited packaging using specialized materials

Who Uses It?

Naturally, many industries benefit from using these services. As previously mentioned, the medical device industry and the pharmaceutical industry are two prominent examples. Other industries include beauty and cosmetics, private label companies, nutrition, food, dental, adhesives, beverages, and industrial products. For example, warehouse retailers like Costco require special printing and packaging sizes for their products. Ultimately, whether it’s a product like sports supplements, soaps, shampoos, toothpaste, or packaged cookies, all these products require either specialized or large-scale packaging to ensure a smooth supply chain.
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If you’re looking for a trusted contract packager to handle your packaging requirements, contact us at 18 Wheels Logistics. As one of the best large-scale packaging companies in Vancouver, it’s no surprise that we offer professional primary and secondary packaging for product distribution. Whether you need packaging, transport, or warehouse storage, we’re prepared to ensure a smooth supply chain that’s reliable and state-of-the-art.