What is the difference between packing and packaging?

The terms packing and packaging are often used interchangeably, but they are not the same. Both play important roles in product protection and presentation, yet they serve different purposes in the supply chain. Let’s break down the difference.

What is Packing?

Packing refers to the process of enclosing products for storage, handling, and transportation. Its primary goal is safety and protection.

Examples of Packing:

Wrapping glassware with bubble wrap
Placing clothes in a carton for shipping
Sealing items in corrugated boxes

Simply put, packing focuses on keeping the product safe during transit and storage.

Picture from : Pinterest

What is Packaging?

Packaging goes beyond protection—it’s about design, branding, and consumer appeal. Packaging is the outer covering that communicates with the buyer while still protecting the product.

Examples of Packaging:

A toothpaste tube with branding and product details
A chocolate wrapper with attractive design
A cosmetic box displaying logos and labels

Packaging serves both functional and marketing purposes, making the product more appealing to customers.

Aspect	Packing	Packaging
Purpose	Safety, storage, transport	Branding, marketing, consumer appeal
Focus	Protection	Presentation + Protection
Examples	Cartons, bubble wrap, pallets	Product boxes, labels, branded wrappers
End User	Warehouse, logistics	Customers/consumers