Packing material refers to any material used to protect and cushion goods during transportation or storage. Packing materials can be made from a variety of materials, including paper, cardboard, plastic, foam, and even natural materials like straw or wood shavings. Choosing the right packing material depends on the type of item being shipped, its fragility, and the mode of transportation. It is important to use the right packing materials to ensure that items arrive at their destination in good condition.

The functions of packaging include shielding the contents from the elements, facilitating easy transportation, offering information, enhancing stocking convenience, marketing and communicating the value of the product, ensuring the products security to keep the consumer safe, and, finally, upholding environmental responsibility.