Sustainable Packaging: Reusable vs. Expendable – When to Use Each and Why
As businesses increasingly seek eco-friendly solutions, sustainable packaging has become a key focus in supply chains. Packaging materials not only protect products during transit but also contribute to a company’s environmental footprint. Two common types of packaging used in industrial shipping are reusable (multi-use) and expendable (single-use) packaging.
Understanding when to use each type is essential for balancing cost, efficiency, and sustainability. In this article, we’ll break down the key differences between reusable and expendable packaging, helping you determine which is best suited for your business needs.
Reusable (Multi-Use) Packaging
Reusable packaging is designed for multiple trips, making it a sustainable and cost-efficient solution for companies shipping high-value products or operating within closed-loop supply chains. These packaging solutions can endure multiple cycles, reducing waste and the need for frequent replacement.
When to use reusable packaging:
- Closed-loop supply chains
Reusable packaging is ideal for closed-loop systems where products are shipped between fixed locations, allowing for repeated use and waste reduction. - High-value or fragile products
Durable reusable packaging provides enhanced protection for high-value or sensitive items, making it a go-to for industries like aerospace and electronics. - Sustainability initiatives
Companies focused on sustainability choose reusable packaging to reduce environmental impact, cutting material use and waste.
Types of reusable packaging:
- Plastic or metal pallets – These pallets can endure numerous shipping cycles and are often more durable than wood.
- Returnable or reusable crates and containers – Sturdy and designed for easy return, these crates can be reused for multiple shipments, reducing waste.
- Custom-engineered packaging – High-end packaging solutions designed to protect specific products, often made from durable materials like aluminum or reinforced plastics.
While the initial investment in reusable packaging may be higher, the long-term savings and environmental benefits often outweigh the upfront costs.
Refurbished Crates: Another Economical Option
A reusable crate can sometimes be easier to access than you may have thought. Reid Packaging’s partnership with TransPak means that our customers have access to TransPak’s crate refurbishment program, which can help achieve environmental goals. Here’s how it works: after a customer’s shipment is complete, TransPak arranges to pick up the crate, bring it back to TransPak’s facility and refurbish the crate for future use. This is a great way to reduce material waste from single-use crates and get more mileage out of an investment in a custom crate.
Learn more about TransPak’s refurbishment program.
Expendable (Single-Use) Packaging
Expendable packaging refers to packaging materials designed for one-time use. After fulfilling its purpose, these packages are either discarded or recycled. This type of packaging is commonly used for high-volume distribution, one-off solutions, or when the return of packaging materials isn’t feasible.
Single-use packaging in the consumer market has been limited in recent years by regulations seeking to eliminate it (think: single use plastic bags). There are some signs that governments may start pushing industrial manufacturers to likewise reuse and refurbish packaging, so we recommend planning for expendable packaging only when options for reuse and refurbishment aren’t possible.
When to use expendable packaging:
- High-volume, low-cost products
For large volumes of low-value items, expendable packaging keeps costs down and simplifies logistics, eliminating the need for returns. - Customized or one-off shipments
Custom-designed expendable packaging suits heavy or irregularly shaped items. Once delivered, it can be discarded without extra costs. - Limited return logistics
When packaging return isn’t practical due to distance, cost, or time, expendable options can make the most sense for one-time or remote deliveries.
Types of expendable packaging:
- Custom corrugated boxes – Lightweight and recyclable, ideal for a variety of goods.
- Wooden crates – Often used for heavy or sensitive equipment, providing robust protection during transport.
- Pallets and skids – Single-use wooden pallets may be discarded after one shipment, especially for international freight.
Expendable packaging is often viewed as less sustainable due to its single-use design, but many materials, like corrugated cardboard and wood, are fully recyclable. At Reid Packaging, we prioritize eco-conscious solutions by using recyclable materials, such as corrugated fiberboard made from 79% post-consumer recycled paper pulp, and focusing on waste reduction wherever possible.
Reusable vs. Expendable: How to Choose
Choosing between reusable and expendable packaging depends on several factors, including the nature of your shipments, your company’s sustainability goals, and more. Here’s a quick guide to help you decide:
| Reusable Packaging (or refurbished crates) | Expendable Packaging | |
| Product value | Ideal for high-value or fragile products | Suitable for low-cost, high-volume items |
| Return logistics | Requires a closed-loop system or return process | No need for return; one-time use |
| Cost efficiency | Higher upfront cost, but long-term savings through reuse | Lower upfront cost, but continuous repurchasing |
| Sustainability | Reduces waste through reuse and diversion | Recyclable options available |
Helping You Meet Sustainability Goals
At Reid Packaging, we are committed to helping businesses find the right balance between cost, efficiency, and sustainability. Whether your shipments require durable, reusable packaging for repeat deliveries or custom expendable packaging for one-time use, our team is here to offer tailored solutions that meet your needs and consider your environmental goals.
Ready to explore your options? Contact Reid Packaging today to discuss how we can help you optimize your packaging for both performance and sustainability.
