ndChoosing the right packaging insert material is one of the most important decisions in custom packaging design. The insert not only protects your product during shipping but also enhances presentation, organizes components, and creates a better customer experience when the package is opened.
From foam to paperboard and thermoformed plastic, each insert material offers unique advantages depending on the product, application, and budget.
What Are Packaging Insert Materials?
Packaging inserts are custom-engineered components placed inside a box to hold products securely in position. They reduce movement during shipping while creating an organized, professional presentation.
According to Raul Lopez, Account Specialist at Petra & Holum, customers have several insert options depending on their packaging goals.
“You can have foam inserts. And have paperboard inserts. You can have thermoformed plastic inserts.”
Each material serves a different purpose, making it important to match the insert to the product’s specific needs.
Foam Inserts for Maximum Protection
Foam inserts are often the preferred choice for products that require additional cushioning during transportation.
As Raul explains:
“Foam is going to be for vulnerable items… items that are going to break easily.”
Because foam can be precisely cut to match the shape of a product, it helps prevent movement while absorbing shock during shipping. This makes it an excellent choice for electronics, medical devices, instruments, and other fragile products.
Paperboard Inserts for Presentation and Branding
Paperboard inserts provide an attractive, economical option for many packaging applications. In addition to organizing products, they can also enhance branding through decorative printing.
Raul notes:
“The paperboard insert can be decorated… with lithography printed sheet or screen printed material.”
These inserts are commonly used for retail packaging, promotional kits, corporate gifts, and presentation boxes where appearance is just as important as product organization.
Choosing the Right Material for Your Project
Selecting an insert material involves balancing protection, appearance, manufacturing requirements, and cost.
As Raul explains:
“Quantity drives the price.”
Production volume often influences which insert material provides the best value. While foam offers superior protection for delicate products, paperboard can provide a cost-effective solution for many promotional and retail applications. Choose thermoformed plastic when your product needs durability, visibility, or precise positioning.
Working with an experienced packaging partner helps ensure the insert material aligns with both your performance requirements and your budget.
Find the Right Packaging Insert Materials with Petra & Holum
The right packaging insert does more than hold a product in place—it protects valuable items, improves presentation, and enhances the customer experience.
Petra & Holum works with customers to engineer custom insert solutions using foam, paperboard, thermoformed plastic, and other specialty materials based on each project’s unique requirements.
Ready to design the ideal packaging insert for your product? Contact Petra & Holum to discuss a custom solution that balances protection, presentation, and cost.
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