Export Packaging Challenges Faced by Indian Manufacturers

As India strengthens its position as a global manufacturing hub, the demand for high-quality export packaging has never been more critical. Indian manufacturers across industries – from automotive and engineering to pharmaceuticals and electronics – are increasingly exporting goods to international markets. However, the journey from factory floor to foreign shores is riddled with challenges, particularly in packaging. Poor packaging not only risks product damage but also jeopardizes brand reputation and profitability.

The Industrial Packaging Solutions companies in India work closely with manufacturers to understand and overcome these packaging hurdles.

Here are some of the most pressing challenges Indian exporters navigate when it comes to export packaging:

Lack of Standardization

Many Indian manufacturers struggle with the absence of universal packaging standards. While some countries follow ISO guidelines, others have region-specific regulations (such as REACH, ISPM-15, or ASTM standards). Failing to meet these requirements can result in product rejection at ports, customs delays, or even fines. For example, wooden packaging material must often be heat-treated or fumigated per ISPM-15 norms — a regulation not all exporters are aware of.
Well-established packaging companies that have pioneered overseas logistics, dealing globally, typically run these standard compliance checks before the loads leave their facilities.

Transit Damage Due to Poor Load Stability

Export goods often travel thousands of kilometers and undergo multiple loading/unloading cycles. Inadequate load securing or improperly designed packaging leads to product shifts, resulting in breakage, leaks, or deformation. This is especially critical in heavy-duty sectors like engineering, where steel coils, pipes, or machinery parts need strong, stable palletization.

You can find experts handling specialized facilities for niche industries such as steel and metal packaging, providing service centers like the contract packaging services by MVS ACMEI.
These facilities are essentially an extension of the manufacturer’s own production facilities that enable simultaneous packaging by MVS ACMEI.

Moisture and Corrosion Control

Export shipments are exposed to varying climatic conditions — from monsoons in India to high humidity at sea or freezing temperatures in Europe. Without proper moisture barriers and corrosion protection, metal components can arrive rusted or tarnished, leading to huge financial losses. Many SMEs overlook the need for vacuum packaging, VCI films, or desiccants due to cost constraints.

Limited Awareness of Advanced Packaging Solutions

Many exporters still rely on outdated materials like jute bags, loose corrugated boxes, or substandard shrink wraps. While cost-effective short-term, these materials often fail under rigorous export conditions. A lack of awareness about modern solutions —stretch films, wrapping fabrics, high-performance strapping, or composite protective systems- holds manufacturers back.

Cost vs. Quality Dilemma

Balancing budget constraints with the need for durable packaging is another common challenge. Exporters often choose the cheapest packaging option to keep costs down, unaware that packaging failures can cost far more in returns, replacements, and lost customer trust. An upfront investment in the right solution often pays off in the long run.

How MVS ACMEI Helps

At MVS ACMEI, we provide export-ready packaging solutions that combine durability, compliance, and efficiency. Our end-of-line systems and customized packaging designs help manufacturers optimize load stability, resist environmental damage, and meet international packaging norms —ensuring smooth passage of goods from India to the world.

We believe export packaging isn’t just a box, it’s a gateway to success— Let us help you make it count.