Packaging Materials Explained: From Kraft to Bioplastics

The Ultimate Guide for Brands Choosing the Right Packaging

Packaging is more than just a container. It is the first brand impression your customers see, and it determines sustainability impact, cost efficiency, and product performance. With dozens of materials on the market, choosing the right one can feel overwhelming.

This guide explains the most common packaging materials—from kraft paper to bioplastics—along with their pros, cons, and best applications. Use it as your roadmap to select packaging that protects products, aligns with your brand values, and earns customer loyalty.

Why Packaging Material Choice Matters

The material you choose affects every part of your business:

• Product safety during shipping and handling

• Customer experience at unboxing and on the shelf

• Sustainability footprint in recycling or composting

• Cost structure in both materials and freight

• Brand perception — premium, eco-friendly, or budget

The right decision blends performance, cost, and customer expectations. Let’s dive into the top options.

Kraft Paper: The Classic Eco-Friendly Choice

Kraft paper has been a staple for decades. Made from unbleached wood pulp, it is recyclable, compostable, and instantly recognizable as an eco option.

• Best for: Mailers, shopping bags, food wraps, corrugated liners

• Pros: Affordable, recyclable, compostable, customizable

• Cons: Limited barrier protection against moisture and grease

Kraft is ideal for small products, apparel, candles, or lifestyle goods where natural branding matters.

Recommended suppliers:

• EcoEnclose Kraft Mailers

• Sticker Mule Custom Kraft Tape

Corrugated Cardboard: The Workhorse of Shipping

Corrugated cardboard is the backbone of e-commerce and retail logistics. Its fluted middle layer provides cushioning and stack strength.

• Best for: Shipping boxes, subscription packaging, retail displays

• Pros: Durable, recyclable, stackable

• Cons: Bulkier than paper, not naturally moisture-resistant

Kraft vs Corrugated at a Glance:

FeatureKraft PaperCorrugated CardboardCostLowLow–MediumStrengthMediumHighRecyclabilityHighHighBest UseSmall/light itemsShipping & subscription

Corrugated is the best choice for subscription boxes or branded e-commerce shipments.

Recommended suppliers:

• Uline Corrugated Shipping Boxes

• Packhelp Custom Printed Boxes

Plastics: Durable but Under Pressure

Plastic remains one of the most widely used materials thanks to its strength and barrier properties.

• Types:

  • PET (water bottles, food containers)

  • HDPE (detergent bottles)

  • LDPE (stretch film, mailer bags)

• Pros: Lightweight, strong, excellent for moisture or oxygen barriers, cost-efficient

• Cons: Environmental concerns, low recycling rates, regulatory scrutiny

If you ship liquids, frozen goods, or products needing moisture protection, plastics are still a reliable option.

Recommended suppliers:

• EcoEnclose 100% Recycled Poly Mailers

• West Marine Heavy-Duty Plastic Storage Bins

Bioplastics: The Renewable Alternative

Bioplastics are made from renewable resources such as corn, sugarcane, or algae. They represent a growing category in sustainable packaging.

• Pros: Renewable, compostable in some cases, lower carbon footprint

• Cons: Higher cost, limited durability, often require industrial composting

A Nielsen study found that 73% of consumers are willing to pay more for sustainable packaging—making bioplastics a strong option for eco-forward brands.

• Best for: Foodservice, cafés, direct-to-consumer eco brands

Recommended suppliers:

• Eco-Products PLA Cold Cups

• WorldCentric Compostable Food Containers

Glass and Aluminum: Premium and Sustainable

Both glass and aluminum provide durability and full recyclability—while instantly signaling premium value.

Glass

• Pros: Reusable, recyclable, premium appearance

• Cons: Heavy, fragile

• Best for: Beverages, cosmetics, gourmet foods

Aluminum

• Pros: Lightweight, endlessly recyclable, strong barrier

• Cons: Higher cost than plastics

• Best for: Beverages, trays, specialty goods

Recommended suppliers:

• Berlin Packaging – Glass Jars & Bottles

• Ball – Aluminum Beverage Cans

Flexible Packaging Films: Space-Saving and Shelf-Ready

Flexible packaging, such as pouches and films, has surged in popularity for food, supplements, and lifestyle products.

• Pros: Lightweight, customizable, cost-efficient, strong branding potential

• Cons: Many laminates are not recyclable

Flexible vs Rigid Packaging:

FeatureFlexible FilmsRigid Options (Glass/Aluminum)WeightLightHeavyCostLowerHigherShelf PresenceModeratePremiumRecyclabilityLimitedHigh

Flexible films are ideal for coffee, snacks, powdered mixes, and retail-ready pouches.

Recommended suppliers:

• Arka Custom Stand-Up Pouches

• Sticker Mule Resealable Pouches

Sustainable Innovations to Watch

The packaging landscape is evolving quickly. Keep an eye on these game-changers:

• Mushroom Packaging (mycelium-based): Compostable alternative to Styrofoam

  • Supplier: Ecovative

• Seaweed Films: Edible and biodegradable packaging

  • Supplier: Notpla

• Plant-Based Fibers: Trays and packaging made from agricultural waste

  • Supplier: Loliware

Forward-thinking brands that experiment now will build differentiation and regulatory resilience.

How to Choose the Right Packaging for Your Brand

There is no universal “best” material—only the one that fits your product and goals. Here’s a framework:

1. Product type: Fragile? Perishable? Heavy?

2. Customer expectations: Eco-friendly? Premium? Convenient?

3. Brand values: Sustainability, luxury, affordability

4. Cost factors: Balance upfront cost with long-term savings

5. Compliance: Ensure certifications and recyclability meet market standards

Pro Tip: Many brands mix materials for optimal results. For example:

• Corrugated boxes for outer shipping

• Kraft inserts for eco-friendly branding

• Compostable tape or film for sealing

Final Takeaway

Packaging is both a cost and an opportunity. Choosing the right material can:

• Protect products during shipping

• Reduce returns and replacements

• Improve sustainability scores

• Enhance unboxing and shelf impact

• Build customer trust and loyalty

Quick Reference:

• Kraft & Corrugated = Affordable staples

• Plastics = Moisture and barrier protection

• Bioplastics & Fiber = Renewable and future-proof

• Glass & Aluminum = Premium look and recyclability

• Flexible Films = Lightweight and cost-efficient

Your packaging is more than protection. It is a profit lever and a brand statement. Choose wisely, test consistently, and let your packaging tell your story.

Where to Start:

• Compare sustainable mailers at EcoEnclose

• Design custom boxes with Packhelp

• Explore compostable packaging at WorldCentric