
Secondary pharma packaging services can be a game-changer for pharmaceutical companies looking to streamline their operations and reduce costs. By outsourcing these services, companies can focus on their core business while leaving the packaging to the experts.
According to a recent survey, 75% of pharmaceutical companies outsource some or all of their packaging services, citing cost savings and improved efficiency as the primary reasons.
Outsourcing packaging services can also help companies avoid the high costs associated with maintaining in-house packaging facilities, including equipment, personnel, and regulatory compliance.
Packaging Services
We offer a range of packaging services to meet the unique needs of pharmaceutical companies. Our expert team provides hand labeling services to ensure that all necessary information is present on the labels.
From secondary packaging to finished products, we carefully ensure that all labeling requirements are met. This includes accurate and clear labeling, including drug information, dosage instructions, expiration dates, and any necessary warnings.

We provide GMP-compliant documentation, labeling, repackaging, printing of variable data, and 2D data matrix codes in the serialization process. We also offer protection against manipulation and organize secondary packaging materials.
Our services include:
- Durability: We ensure that secondary packaging withstands transportation and storage conditions without compromising the primary packaging or the medication.
- Labeling: We provide accurate and clear labeling, including drug information, dosage instructions, expiration dates, and any necessary warnings.
- Tamper-Evidence: We include features to indicate if the secondary packaging has been opened or tampered with.
- Environmental Consideration: We choose packaging materials with environmental impact in mind, aiming for sustainability where possible.
We understand the importance of balancing primary and secondary packaging to achieve pharmaceutical excellence. This requires careful consideration of both functional design and marketing strategies to ensure that primary packaging protects the medication and appeals visually, while secondary packaging balances cost-effective shipping with clear patient communication.
Quality and Compliance
We take quality and compliance very seriously in secondary pharma packaging. Our manufacturing permit and wholesale permit for medicinal products and veterinary medicinal products prove our commitment to regulatory requirements and product safety.
To ensure compliance, we adhere to GMP/FDA guidelines and other relevant regulations. Our packaging solutions meet the required standards for labeling, packaging materials, and tamper-evident features.
Secondary packaging also includes necessary safety features and information like expiration date, storage instructions, and legal information. This is crucial for compliance and safety in the pharma industry.

Pharmaceutical companies must ensure that their secondary packaging meets the required standards for labeling, packaging materials, and tamper-evident features. This includes the use of tamper-evident seals or labels to prevent unauthorized access.
To meet regulatory standards, companies must design and test their secondary packaging for stability, durability, and performance. This involves rigorous testing for factors such as temperature, humidity, and light exposure.
We provide GMP-compliant documentation, labeling, and repackaging services to ensure our clients' products meet regulatory requirements. Our services also include protection against manipulation and inspections to guarantee product safety.
By adhering to regulatory guidelines, companies can ensure that their secondary packaging not only protects the product but also complies with all regulatory requirements. This is essential to prevent counterfeiting and ensure product authenticity.
Supply Chain and Logistics
Our secondary pharma packaging services are designed to optimize the handling, transportation, and storage of pharmaceutical products. We use innovative solutions to streamline processes and ensure seamless production for manufacturers.
International standards such as Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) and regulatory bodies like the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the European Medicines Agency (EMA) help ensure our packaging meets strict safety legislation and quality control standards.
Secondary packaging is critical for protecting products and maintaining stability in sensitive medications. It adds an extra layer of protection to medical products while also serving to carry information that can be used to inform patients and verify product authenticity.
We offer a range of innovative features to enhance patient care, improve compliance, and meet sustainability goals. Some of these features include:
- Micro-optics for robust authentication
- Smart packaging with NFC and RFID technology for improved track and trace capabilities
- Re*flect sustainable metallic effects
- Clear Code technology for complex variable codes
Our facilities maintain ISO 9001, PS9000, and GMP compliance certifications, ensuring our secondary packaging meets the highest quality and regulatory requirements across global markets. This is a rigorous process that ensures our packaging is safe and effective for pharmaceutical products.
Regulatory and Safety
Secondary packaging in the pharmaceutical industry is heavily regulated by national and international bodies to ensure safety and security.

These organizations focus on aspects like labeling, tamper-evidence, poison prevention, and environmental considerations.
Regulatory bodies set standards and guidelines to maintain the overall quality and safety of pharmaceutical products.
Pharmaceutical companies must comply with these regulations to deliver high-quality products to patients.
To ensure compliance and safety, secondary packaging includes necessary safety features and information like expiration dates, storage instructions, and legal information.
Quality control and testing are critical components of secondary packaging, including labeling and packaging material testing, packaging material compatibility testing, and packaging material stability testing.
Pharmaceutical companies must implement robust quality control measures throughout the packaging process to ensure that their secondary packaging meets required standards for safety, efficacy, and quality.
Regulatory Pharma Aspects
National and international regulatory bodies set standards for secondary packaging in the pharmaceutical industry to ensure it's safe and secure.
Regulatory bodies focus on aspects like labeling, tamper-evidence, poison prevention, and environmental considerations to maintain the overall quality and safety of pharmaceutical products.
In the pharma industry, secondary packaging includes necessary safety features and information like expiration date and storage instructions.
These safety features and information are crucial for compliance and safety, and regulatory bodies require them to be included on secondary packaging.
Regulatory bodies also consider environmental considerations when setting standards for secondary packaging in the pharmaceutical industry.
Safety and Efficacy
Ensuring safety and efficacy is crucial in the pharmaceutical industry. Quality control and testing are critical components of secondary packaging.
Labeling and packaging material testing are key tests to ensure compliance with regulatory requirements. Packaging material compatibility testing checks if the materials affect the product's quality or safety.
Packaging material stability testing verifies that materials can withstand transportation and storage. Drop testing and vibration testing ensure the packaging can endure physical stresses.
Pharmaceutical companies must implement robust quality control measures throughout the packaging process. This includes inspecting packaging materials and finished goods.
Testing of packaging materials and finished goods is also crucial. Implementing track-and-trace systems prevents counterfeiting and ensures product authenticity.
Training personnel involved in the packaging process is essential to maintaining high standards of quality control. By implementing these measures, companies can ensure their secondary packaging meets safety, efficacy, and quality standards.
Benefits and Selection
Choosing the right secondary pharma packaging services can be a daunting task, but it's essential to ensure that your products are packaged to the highest quality standards.
Selecting a contract packaging partner is crucial for the success of your pharmaceutical business. It's essential to choose a provider that can meet your specific packaging needs, including blister packaging, cartoning, labeling, and other specialized services.
The pharmaceutical industry is highly regulated, so it's imperative to choose a provider with a proven track record of success in the pharmaceutical industry, including experience in packaging, regulatory compliance, quality standards, and other industry-specific requirements.
Here are some key factors to consider when selecting a contract packaging partner:
- Type of packaging services required
- Experience and expertise in the pharmaceutical industry
- Quality standards, including certifications and accreditations
- Cost-effectiveness and value for money
- Availability and capacity to meet production needs
- Location and regulatory requirements
By carefully selecting a contract packaging partner, you can ensure that your products are packaged to the highest quality standards, and your packaging needs are met efficiently and cost-effectively.
Why Choose Upm Pharmaceuticals
UPM Pharmaceuticals stands out as the ideal partner for primary and secondary packaging solutions. Their state-of-the-art 475,000-square-foot facility in Bristol, Tennessee, is a testament to their commitment to excellence and innovation.

Their tailored packaging solutions ensure that specific project requirements are met with precision, making them a great fit for companies with unique needs. One size doesn't fit all, and UPM Pharmaceuticals excels in providing solutions tailored to each client's unique needs.
UPM Pharmaceuticals has extensive experience in primary and secondary packaging, making them well-equipped to meet the highest industry standards. Their experienced leaders in pharmaceutical packaging have a deep understanding of the industry.
UPM Pharmaceuticals combines cutting-edge technology with a personalized approach, guaranteeing quality, reliability, and efficiency in their packaging and warehousing services. This blend of technology and personalization is a key factor in their success.
Here are some key benefits of choosing UPM Pharmaceuticals:
- Tailored packaging solutions
- Experienced leaders in pharmaceutical packaging
- Technology and personalization
Selecting the Right Solution
Selecting the right solution for your pharmaceutical packaging needs is crucial for ensuring the quality and safety of your products. You can choose from various secondary packaging solutions, including cardboard boxes, cartons, and specialized tertiary packaging.

The type of packaging services required varies depending on the product and business needs. For instance, blister packaging, cartoning, labeling, and other specialized services may be necessary. A comprehensive list of requirements should be made to ensure the contract packaging provider can meet all of them.
Experience and expertise are essential when selecting a contract packaging provider. Look for a provider with a proven track record of success in the pharmaceutical industry, including experience in packaging, regulatory compliance, quality standards, and other industry-specific requirements.
Quality standards are paramount in the pharmaceutical industry. Ensure the contract packaging provider adheres to the highest quality standards, such as Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) and ISO standards.
Here are some key factors to consider when selecting a contract packaging provider:
By carefully selecting a contract packaging provider, businesses can ensure their products are packaged to the highest quality standards, and their packaging needs are met efficiently and cost-effectively.
Innovations and Sustainability
Innovations in secondary packaging are pushing the boundaries of what's possible, particularly in terms of sustainability and efficiency. Ongoing advancements in materials and design are helping to address environmental concerns.
Using recyclable materials is a key strategy for minimizing environmental impact. This includes materials from sustainable sources that help reduce waste and promote eco-friendliness.
Effective secondary packaging is critical for the efficiency of the pharmaceutical supply chain. It ensures that medications are delivered safely and efficiently.
Designs that minimize waste are also essential for reducing environmental impact. By using minimal packaging materials, companies can reduce their carbon footprint and promote sustainability.
Using recyclable materials helps to maintain high standards of protection while also being environmentally friendly. This is a win-win for both the environment and the pharmaceutical industry.
Global Pharma Excellence
MM Packaging is a global leader in secondary pharmaceutical packaging solutions, operating 25 dedicated production sites across 11 countries. They combine international scale with local expertise to deliver innovative healthcare packaging solutions.

Their comprehensive range includes pharmaceutical cartons, labels, and leaflets. These are enhanced by value-adding security features and sustainable materials that meet the healthcare sector's evolving needs.
The company's expertise in packaging design focuses on both innovation and environmental impact. They create secondary packaging pharmaceutical products that serve the sector's demanding requirements.
MM Packaging continuously invests in new technologies and sustainable practices to maintain their position at the forefront of pharmaceutical packaging innovation.
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Design and Consumer Experience
Effective design in secondary packaging not only ensures product protection but also aids in optimizing storage and shipping. It can even prevent contamination and extend shelf life.
Innovative features in secondary packaging, such as those that reduce waste, can make a significant impact on the environment. This is especially important for pharmaceuticals, which have a direct impact on human health.
Secondary packaging plays a subtle yet significant role in consumer experience, ensuring that pharmaceuticals are easy to access, use, and understand. This is especially important for products intended for elderly or differently-abled consumers.
Materials and Design

Choosing the right secondary packaging materials can significantly impact protection, efficiency, and sustainability. It's essential to consider both primary and secondary packaging needs when selecting materials, as they have different purposes.
Paper-based solutions like cardboard boxes are a popular choice for secondary packaging. They offer a cost-effective and eco-friendly option.
Effective design in secondary packaging not only ensures product protection but also aids in optimizing storage and shipping. This is crucial for businesses that rely on efficient logistics.
Cardboard boxes can be customized to prevent contamination and extend shelf life. This is particularly important for products that are sensitive to environmental conditions.
The type of packaging material used depends on the protection needs and environmental factors involved. For example, plastics and composites may be used for products that require additional protection.
Innovations in secondary packaging design have led to features that reduce waste and improve sustainability. By choosing the right materials and design, businesses can minimize their environmental impact.
Enhancing Consumer Experience
Consumer experience is a crucial aspect of product design, and it's often overlooked.
Secondary packaging plays a subtle yet significant role in consumer experience.
Easy access to products is vital, especially for elderly or differently-abled consumers, as it ensures they can use products independently.
Pharmaceuticals are a prime example of products that require careful consideration of consumer experience.
The packaging of these products must be easy to open and use, which is especially important for consumers who may have limited dexterity.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is secondary packaging in pharmaceutical industry?
Secondary packaging in the pharmaceutical industry refers to the outer packaging that provides extra protection to the primary packaging during storage and transportation. It helps reduce the risk of breakages and damage to the primary packaging.
What are the requirements for secondary packaging in pharma?
Secondary packaging in pharma must be suitable for its intended use and protect contents from light, air, and contamination to meet FDA requirements
What are the different types of packaging in pharmaceutical industry?
In the pharmaceutical industry, there are three main types of packaging: primary, secondary, and tertiary. Understanding these types is crucial for ensuring the safe and effective delivery of medications.
Sources
- https://nextpharma-logistics.com/en/solutions/pharma-support/secondary-packaging-for-the-pharmaceutical-industry/
- https://mm.group/packaging/markets/pharmaceutical-packaging/
- https://www.upm-inc.com/primary-packaging-vs-secondary-packaging
- https://adragos-pharma.com/secondary-packaging-solutions-enhancing-supply-chain-resilience-in-pharma/
- https://www.ecobliss-pharma.com/blog/secondary-contract-packaging
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