Choosing the right packaging starts with understanding the options available. However, with so many technical terms, materials and regulations involved, packaging terminology can often feel confusing or overly complex.
Welcome to our packaging glossary, a comprehensive guide to key ecommerce and packaging terms. This page has been created to provide clear, practical explanations of commonly used language across mailing, fulfilment and sustainable packaging.
Whether you're looking to improve your packaging efficiency, explore more sustainable ecommerce packaging solutions, or understand regulations such as Plastic Packaging Tax (PPT), this glossary is designed to give you the knowledge you need to make informed decisions.
From materials and packaging types to operational and environmental terms, you can use this page as a quick reference guide, helping you better understand your options and choose the most suitable packaging for your business.
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B
Book Wrap
Adjustable, paper-based packaging designed to securely wrap flat items such as books or vinyl records without excess material. It helps reduce waste while providing strong protection during transit.
C
Circular Economy
An economic system focused on reducing waste by keeping materials in use for as long as possible through reuse, recycling, and responsible packaging design.
Crashlock Box
A pre-glued cardboard box that automatically locks into shape when opened, improving packing speed and efficiency in ecommerce fulfilment operations.
E
Ecommerce Fulfilment
The end-to-end process of storing, packing and shipping online orders to customers. Packaging plays a key role in protecting products and ensuring efficient delivery.
F
Fibre-Based Packaging
Packaging made from paper or cardboard materials that offers a recyclable alternative to plastic and supports sustainable ecommerce packaging strategies.
P
Plastic Packaging Tax (PPT)
A UK tax applied to plastic packaging containing less than 30% recycled content. It is designed to encourage the use of recycled materials and reduce plastic waste.
Plastic Reduction Strategy
A business approach focused on reducing reliance on plastic packaging through substitution, optimisation or elimination in favour of more sustainable materials.
Poly Mailers
Lightweight plastic shipping bags commonly used in ecommerce. They are increasingly impacted by sustainability pressures and Plastic Packaging Tax due to limited recyclability.
Paper-Based Alternatives
Packaging solutions made from paper or cardboard that replace plastic materials, supporting sustainability goals and helping businesses comply with Plastic Packaging Tax regulations.
R
Recycled Content
The proportion of previously used material that has been reprocessed into new packaging. Under Plastic Packaging Tax rules, packaging must contain at least 30% recycled content to avoid the tax.
Right-Sizing Packaging
The process of selecting packaging that closely fits the product to reduce waste, lower material usage and improve shipping efficiency.
S
Sustainable Ecommerce Packaging
Packaging used in online retail that reduces environmental impact through recyclable, paper-based or responsibly sourced materials designed to minimise waste and plastic use.
V
Variable-height Packaging
Packaging designed with multiple fold lines that allow the height of the box to be adjusted to fit the contents, reducing empty space.
Void Fill
Additional materials used inside parcels to fill empty space and protect products during transit, such as paper cushioning or other protective packaging materials.
0
0201 Boxes
A standard FEFCO box style that requires manual assembly and sealing with tape.