Cover/Tray packaging

Packaging concepts

Cover/Tray packaging

Multi-component packaging solution with an internal cover for optimal transport protection and perfect shelf-ready presentation

The cover/tray packaging is a two-part solution that combines optimal transport protection with outstanding retail presentation. The principle is simple and effective: an inner cover protects your products throughout transport. In retail, this cover is simply removed—leaving a flawless, undamaged shelf-ready tray on the shelf.

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For which products is tray/cover packaging suitable?

Tray/cover packaging is ideal for products that require maximum protection during transport and need to be presented perfectly at the point of sale. SOMIC tray/cover packers process a wide range of primary packaging – flexibly and reliably.

Pre-packaging

  • Folding cartons –  Cereals, muesli, tea bag packaging, bakery products
  • Cans – Coffee beans, cocoa tins, convenience products
  • Jars – Baby food, canned goods, spreads, sauces
  • Bottles – Sauces, dressings, cleaning agents
  • Stand-up pouches –  Ground coffee, snacks, pet food
  • Thermoformed packaging –  Cheese, sausages, fresh meat, cold cuts
  • Blister packs – Healthcare products, cosmetics, small parts

Advantages of cover/tray packaging

The tray/cover packaging combines optimal transport protection with first-class retail presentation – and offers decisive advantages over conventional packaging solutions.

The main advantage of the tray/cover solution: the outer tray remains completely intact when opened.

  • No perforations – clean, high-quality appearance on the shelf
  • No adhesive residue – professional presentation without distracting visible traces
  • No damage – the cover is simply removed, the tray remains flawless
  • Combination available as a snap-on cover or as a glued cover with hot-melt adhesive

The enclosed, two-part design reliably protects your products throughout the entire transport chain:

  • Fully enclosed – no ingress of dust, dirt or moisture
  • Robust structure – mechanical stresses are reliably absorbed
  • Secure stacking – excellent stackability for efficient palletizing

The lid/tray packaging also stands out in terms of cost and environmental performance:

  • Optimized cardboard cut patterns – consulting for efficient material use
  • Reduced material costs – through minimized cardboard use
  • Lower CO₂ footprint – less material means fewer emissions
  • Recyclability – mono-material cardboard packaging for easy disposal

Our machinery solutions for tray/cover packaging

SOMIC offers two machine solutions for the automated production of tray/cover packaging. Each solution is individually tailored to your requirements – the platforms differ in performance, flexibility and functionality.

SOMIC 434
SOMIC 434

Highest efficiency in the packaging process

Learn more about the SOMIC 434

SOMIC 323
SOMIC 323

High-performance and adaptable

Learn more about the SOMIC 323

The packaging process

  1. Feeding and grouping: Pre-packaged products are fed individually, accumulated and grouped to the desired carton content.
  2. Covering: The cover is folded around the grouping in a product-friendly manner and glued if necessary.
  3. Positioning: The covered grouping is positioned on the flat tray blank.
  4. Tray forming: The tray carton is folded around the covered pack and bonded with hot-melt adhesive.

Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently asked questions about cover/tray packaging

In cover/tray packaging the cover is inside, directly against the products. The tray forms the outer shell. In tray/cover packaging it is the other way around: here the cover is positioned on the outside over the tray. Both concepts offer different advantages for transport and shelf presentation.

SOMIC tray/cover packers handle various types of board: both solid board and corrugated board in different flute types (B, C and E). The machine is tailored to your carton specifications.

Both options are possible. The cover can be designed as a snap-on cover or glued with hot-melt adhesive – depending on your requirements for product protection and retail handling.

The tray/cover packaging is used across many industries: food, pet food, non-food, cosmetics and healthcare. It is suitable for all products that require an attractive shelf-ready presentation.

Achieving the perfect packaging concept together

Would you like to know whether cover/tray packaging is suitable for your products? Our experts will be happy to advise you. Together we analyze your requirements and develop the optimal packaging solution for your production.

Phone: +49 8075 916-0
Email: info(at)somic(dot)de

Schedule a consultation now