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. Our APAC team in Bangkok advises you on the ideal cover/tray concept for your products and market.
Pre-packaging
- Folding cartons – Cereals, muesli, tea bags, instant noodle multipacks, bakery products
- Cans – Coffee beans, cocoa tins, convenience products
- Jars – Baby food, canned goods, spreads, sauces
- Bottles – Sauces, dressings, cleaning agents
- Stand-up pouches – Coffee, tea, dried snacks, pet food, single-serve sachets
- Thermoformed packaging – Cheese, fresh meat, poultry portions, seafood, cold cuts
- Blister packs – Healthcare products, cosmetics, small parts
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, particularly important for logistics in tropical and high-humidity climates across Asia Pacific
- Robust structure – mechanical stresses are reliably absorbed
- Secure stacking – excellent stackability for efficient palletising, including long-distance and ocean freight logistics common in the Asia Pacific region
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
The packaging process
- Feeding and grouping: Pre-packaged products are fed individually, accumulated and grouped to the desired carton content.
- Covering: The cover is folded around the grouping in a product-friendly manner and glued if necessary.
- Positioning: The covered grouping is positioned on the flat tray blank.
- Tray forming: The tray carton is folded around the covered pack and bonded with hot-melt adhesive.
FAQ
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. Our experts from SOMIC APAC analyse your requirements and recommend the optimal packaging solution.
Phone: +66 2 030 2450
E-mail: info(at)somic(dot)asia


