This question often arises from ambiguous wording. "Packing vs packing" usually reflects two different uses of the same word: one referring to the process (the action of packing goods) and the other to the package (the physical materials used). We clarify the contexts below.
Packing as a process
When used as a verb or process, packing covers planning, material selection, packing operations, labeling, and compliance steps to prepare goods for shipment or sale.
Packing as a noun (the package)
As a noun, packing can mean the protective materials — boxes, trays, fillers — that become part of the product's packaging system.
Why the distinction matters
Clear language helps teams coordinate: engineers design trays and boxes (the tangible packing), while operations and logistics manage the packing process to meet throughput and cost goals.
Practical tip
When documenting or communicating, specify "packing process" or "packing materials" to avoid confusion.
Conclusion
Although the same word is used, context determines whether you're discussing the activity of packing or the physical materials used to pack products.