Crates & Cartons 101: Eco-Friendly Packaging Solutions for Filipino Businesses
Understanding the fundamentals of crates and cartons is essential in Filipino businesses. These packaging solutions offer durability, functionality, and environmental benefits, making them ideal for various industries, from agriculture to retail and logistics. In a Data Bridge Market Research report, the Asia-Pacific corrugated board packaging market is expected to reach USD 153.22 billion by 2029, growing at a CAGR of 6.1% from 2022 to 2029.
Types of Crates and Cartons Used in the Philippines
Corrugated Cartons
Corrugated cartons are widely utilized in the Philippines for shipping and storage due to their strength and recyclability. In 2023, the country imported approximately 484,161 kilograms of corrugated paper and paperboard, valued at $1.49 million, primarily from China, the United Kingdom, and South Korea.
Wooden Crates
Wooden crates are widely used in the Philippines and Asia for shipping heavy goods like produce, seafood, and industrial items, especially for exports. Known for their strength, these crates are segmented by wood type and application, with steady growth projected through 2031. In 2024, Asia-Pacific’s wooden case and box production reached $44.8 billion, highlighting strong regional demand
Folding Cartons
Folding cartons, made from paperboard, are commonly used for packaging consumer goods like snacks, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals. The Asia-Pacific paper packaging market, which includes folding cartons, held a significant share in 2023, accounting for more than 38% of global revenue.
Common Use Cases in Filipino Businesses
Agriculture
In the Philippines, crates, particularly reusable plastic ones, are essential for transporting fresh produce like mangoes from Zambales, bananas from Davao, and vegetables from Benguet. These crates help reduce post-harvest losses by minimizing bruising and contamination during transport from farms to wet markets or distribution centers. Government and NGO programs promoting farm-to-market supply chains often endorse the use of stackable, ventilated plastic crates for improved hygiene and shelf life.
E-commerce and Logistics
Corrugated cartons are the backbone of packaging for e-commerce platforms like Lazada and Shopee Philippines. They are used to ship everything from electronics to cosmetics, ensuring items remain intact through last-mile delivery. As online shopping continues to grow nationwide, many logistics providers are also shifting to using recyclable, FSC-certified cartons to meet sustainability targets and reduce waste.
Retail and Food Packaging
Folding cartons are widely used in the Philippines for packaging dry goods like powdered milk (e.g., Bear Brand), instant noodles, pastries, and pharmaceutical products. These cartons are lightweight, printable, and easy to customize—making them ideal for branding while also being recyclable. Local manufacturers are also exploring biodegradable coatings and soy-based inks to further enhance their sustainability profile.
Why Crates and Cartons Make Sense for Sustainability
Recyclability: Paper-based cartons are widely recyclable, supporting waste reduction efforts.
Reusability: Plastic and wooden crates can be reused multiple times, decreasing the need for single-use packaging.
Customization: Local suppliers offer customizable options, allowing businesses to align packaging with brand identity and sustainability goals.
By understanding the types, market trends, and applications of crates and cartons, Filipino businesses can make informed decisions that align with sustainability objectives and consumer expectations.
Contact us if you need further information or assistance in selecting the right packaging solutions for your business.
