In-Mold Labeled (IML) Containers
In-Mold Labeled (IML) Containers for CPG Packaging
Sonoco plastic IML containers give consumer packaged goods (CPG), food and pharmaceutical brands a durable, injection-molded format for premium shelf graphics, efficient production and recyclable polypropylene packaging. Sonoco delivers IML packaging and tubs built for brand performance and manufacturing efficiency, from design and prototyping through production and assembly.
What Are IML Containers?
IML containers use in-mold labeling, a process that molds the label and container together so the graphics become part of the package instead of a separate paper label. When the label and container are made from compatible polypropylene, the structure can support recyclability while helping protect the package graphics.
IML packaging can help brands:
- Keep graphics integrated with the package
- Reduce peeling, fading, scuffing and wear
- Support a clean, high-impact shelf presentation
- Combine decoration and structure in one package
- Use IML tubs for applications that need durable branding and strong shelf presence
How IML Packaging Advances Brand, Safety and Operations Goals
IML packaging helps consumer packaged goods (CPG), food and pharmaceutical brands balance shelf impact with practical performance. Sonoco IML containers are designed for brand presentation, tamper evidence, shipping efficiency, line compatibility and recyclable polypropylene packaging.
Shelf Impact
- Premium look and feel with high-quality graphics, metallic inks and embossing
- Product visibility through clear or windowed containers
- Brand differentiation with a wide variety of shapes that stand out on the shelf
Tamper Evidence
- Built-in safety features with tamper-evident designs
- No membranes, shrink bands or detachable parts required
Shipping & Line Efficiency
- Stackable, lower-cube IML tubs that help reduce shipping costs
- Designed to run on existing production assets
- Efficient format options for brands comparing injection-molded containers
Recyclable Polypropylene Packaging
- Made with 100% recyclable polypropylene
- Helps brands meet sustainability goals without compromising package performance
IML Containers for Food and CPG Brands
Sonoco IML containers serve food and consumer packaged goods (CPG) that need durable structure, strong shelf graphics and integrated decoration. These food-grade plastic containers and IML tubs can be used for refrigerated, shelf-stable and specialty products, as well as CPG packaging that requires clear branding, compartmentalized formats or tamper-evident features.
Best for brands moving from traditional labels to molded-in graphics that hold up through handling, shipping and shelf display.
A 3-Piece Can for Consumer and Pharmaceutical Packaging
Sonoco’s FSSC 22000-certified 3-piece can is designed for consumer and pharmaceutical brands that need dual-compartment packaging with moisture resistance, efficient handling and reliable stackability. The compact format is built for products that require separate compartments, recyclable single-resin construction where collection infrastructure exists and easy loading into pouch packaging equipment.
Key features and supply benefits include:
- Flexible dual-compartment design with two separate moisture-resistant compartments
- Compact size: 2.75 inches in diameter and 0.940 inches in depth
- Single-resin construction, recyclable where collection infrastructure exists
- Made in the United States to support local manufacturing and reduce transportation impact
- Just-in-time supply management to help optimize inventory and lower storage costs
- Efficient design that minimizes waste and reduces corrugate use
- Stackable structure for easier transport, storage and product protection
- Packaging designed for easy, single-person loading into pouch packaging equipment
3 Piece Lid
3 Piece Cap
3 Piece Body
Custom IML Container Manufacturing and Assembly
Sonoco manages product and prototyping through mold-making, production and assembly in the United States, Mexico, the Netherlands and Germany. With more than 50 years of injection molding experience, Sonoco helps brands develop injection-molded containers, custom IML tubs and food-grade plastic containers for CPG packaging and other brand-critical applications.
As an experienced food grade product manufacturer, Sonoco maintains strong custom mold capabilities, with 95% of products made using custom injection molds.
Talk to Sonoco About IML Containers and Food-Grade Packaging
Frequently Asked Questions About IML Containers and Packaging
What types of products are IML containers used for?
IML containers are used for consumer packaged goods (CPG), food, consumer and pharmaceutical packaging where brands need durable shelf graphics and practical package performance. Sonoco IML tubs and containers are a fit for applications that require tamper evidence, product visibility, stackability, custom container design or integrated decoration for high-impact CPG packaging.
Are IML containers recyclable?
Yes, when the package structure uses compatible recyclable materials and collection infrastructure exists. Sonoco IML containers are made with 100% recyclable polypropylene, helping brands use packaging that supports recyclability goals without separating paper labels from the package structure.