What is the main purpose of tertiary packaging?

The main purpose of tertiary packaging is to transport goods within a distribution system. Tertiary packaging is designed for the bulk handling and shipping of products, ensuring that they are organized and protected during transit from the manufacturer to warehouses and ultimately to the retailer or end consumer. This packaging typically includes palletization and the use of shipping containers or boxes that are not intended for direct consumer interaction, but rather facilitate the safe and efficient movement of goods across the supply chain.

In this context, it plays a crucial role in logistics by allowing for easier handling, storage, and transportation of large quantities of products, which contributes to efficiency in the supply chain. This contrasts with primary and secondary packaging, which focus more on product protection, branding, and consumer convenience rather than bulk transport logistics. The effectiveness of tertiary packaging in ensuring that goods are moved securely through various stages of distribution is why this is the correct answer.