The purposes of packaging and package labels

Packaging and package labelling have several objectives such as Physical Protection, Barrier Protection, Information transmission, Marketing and Convenience

Physical Protection - The objects enclosed in the package may require protection from, among other things, Shock, vibration, compression, temperature, etc.

Barrier Protection - A barrier from oxygen, water vapor, dust, etc., is often required. Some packages contain desiccants or Oxygen absorbers to help extend shelf life.

Information transmission - Packages and labels communicate how to use, transport, recycle, or dispose of the package or product. With pharmaceutical, food, medical, and chemical products, some types of information are requried by governments.

Marketing - The packaging and labels can be used by marketers to encourage potential buyers to purchase the product. Package design has been an important and constantly evolving phenomenon for dozens of years. Marketing Communication and graphic design are applied to the surface of the package and (in many cases) the point of sale display

Convenience - Packages can have features which add convenience in distribution, handling, display, sale, opening, reclosing, use, and reuse.


Reference : http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Packaging_and_labelling#Packaging_types