Packaging Element - TX

Packaging Element

Packaging Element is a data object that defines a fundamental part of a packaging structure. It can be associated with a Packaging Component, or directly to Stock keep Supply Chain Unit (Individual Sales Unit, Grouped Sales Unit, Transport Stock Unit), or Transaction Level Supply Chain Unit (e.g. Order Delivery Unit).

Unlike a Packaging Component, a Packaging Element is not an inventory item but rather a descriptive data entity used for structuring packaging hierarchies and material compositions.

Definition

A Packaging Element represents an individual part of a packaging system, such as a container, closure, label, or cushioning. It defines the material composition and function of a specific packaging feature, enabling structured data inheritance and standardization within the packaging taxonomy.

Key Characteristics

• Non-Inventory Item – Exists purely as a data entity, not as a physical item with an article ID.
• Hierarchical Structure – Can be linked to Packaging Components, Finished Goods, or Shipping Units to model multi-layered packaging structures.
• Material Definition – Each Packaging Element consists of one or more Materials (mono materials and composites), defining the physical composition.
• Data Inheritance – When a Finished Good references a Packaging Component, it automatically inherits its Packaging Elements and their associated materials.
• Flexible Data Exchange – Allows for direct integration when Finished Goods or Trade Units are sourced externally, ensuring that packaging specifications remain structured and standardized.

Examples

Packaging Element	Packaging Component with SKU ID	Materials
Can	459876 - 33ml Beverage Can	Aluminum
Lid	768744- Aluminium lid with PVC liner diameter 8cm	Aluminium, PVC
Bottle	657645 - PET Bottle 1 Liter- Colorless	PET

Relationship with Other Concepts

• Packaging Component – A Packaging Component is an inventory item that consists of one or more Packaging Elements.
• Supply Chain Unit SCU – A SCU can have direct associated packaging elements or can inherits the Packaging Elements of its associated Packaging Component.
• Packaging Material – Defines the materials used in a Packaging Element.
• DataTopic Packaging – Packaging elements can be used in the Packaging DataTopic.

Data Exchange Considerations

A Packaging Element is crucial for ensuring structured and interoperable data exchange within supply chains. It allows for:

• Consistency in packaging specifications across multiple Finished Goods.
• Automated material tracking and sustainability assessments.
• Seamless integration with regulatory compliance and packaging tax reporting."