Understanding the Legal Definition of a Package

Definition & Meaning

The term package refers to any container or wrapping that holds a consumer commodity for sale or display to retail purchasers. This definition excludes certain types of containers, such as:

  • Shipping containers or wrappings used solely for transporting bulk commodities to manufacturers or distributors.
  • Outer wrappings used by retailers for shipping that do not contain any printed information about the commodity.
  • Containers governed by specific historical acts, such as the Act of August 3, 1912, and the Act of March 4, 1915.

Table of content

Real-world examples

Here are a couple of examples of abatement:

Here are a couple of examples of what constitutes a package:

  • A cereal box sold in a grocery store is a package, as it contains the product and is intended for retail sale.
  • A cardboard box used to transport bulk flour to a bakery is not considered a package under the legal definition.

Comparison with related terms

Term Definition Differences
Container A general term for any vessel that holds products. Packages are specifically for consumer goods, while containers can refer to any type of holding vessel.
Label Information attached to a package providing details about the product. A label is part of a package but does not define the package itself.

What to do if this term applies to you

If you are involved in the sale or distribution of consumer goods, ensure that your packaging complies with relevant labeling laws. You can explore US Legal Forms for templates and resources to help you create compliant packaging and labeling materials. If you encounter complex issues, consider consulting a legal professional for tailored advice.

Quick facts

Attribute Details
Definition A container or wrapping for consumer commodities.
Exclusions Shipping containers, outer wrappings without labels, certain historical containers.
Relevant Law 15 USCS § 1459

Key takeaways

Frequently asked questions

A package is any container or wrapping that holds a consumer commodity intended for retail sale, excluding certain shipping containers.