Pie Packaging: The Complete Guide for Bakeries, Retailers & Food Businesses

Pie packaging plays a central role in the bakery and foodservice industry. Whether you sell fresh pies in a storefront, ship pies across the country, or package single slices for grab-and-go retail, the right pie packaging ensures protection, freshness, presentation, and a smooth customer experience.

In today’s competitive market, customers expect bakery packaging that looks professional, aligns with sustainability values, and keeps pies safe during transport. This guide covers everything you need to know about pie boxes, pie slice packaging, custom pie packaging, eco-friendly options, and more.

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What Is Pie Packaging and Why Does It Matter?

Pie packaging refers to any box, container, dome, or protective packaging used to store, sell, display, or transport pies. Businesses rely on durable and visually appealing packaging to:

• Maintain pie structure and prevent damage

• Preserve freshness during storage and delivery

• Improve brand presentation using custom pie boxes

• Support eco-friendly and recyclable packaging goals

• Enhance retail visibility with window pie boxes

From bakery kitchens to grocery shelves, premium pie packaging builds trust and elevates your brand image.

Types of Pie Packaging

Full Pie Boxes

These are classic paperboard pie boxes used for 6”, 8”, 9”, 10”, and 12” pies. They are the most common for bakeries and supermarkets.

Pie Slice Packaging

Perfect for cafés and grab-and-go retail. A pie slice box or clamshell container keeps single portions fresh and hygienic.

Mini Pie Packaging

Ideal for tarts, hand pies, and mini bakery items. Often available in kraft or white paperboard.

Clear Plastic Pie Domes

Typically made from PET or rPET. Great for visibility and premium retail presentation.

Corrugated Pie Shipping Boxes

Used by e-commerce bakeries and nationwide food distributors to ship pies safely without crushing.

Popular Pie Packaging Materials

Paperboard Pie Boxes

Lightweight, printable, and cost-effective. A common choice for pastry packaging and bakery goods.

Kraft Pie Boxes

Eco-friendly and recyclable. Their rustic look is popular for artisanal bakeries.

Corrugated Cardboard

Best for shipping pies long-distance, offering superior protection.

Plastic PET / rPET

Used for clear domes and clamshells. Recycled PET (rPET) is a more sustainable option.

Grease-Resistant Liners

Essential for fruit pies or cream pies with high moisture content.

Pie Packaging Styles & Functional Features

• Window pie boxes for visual appeal

• Auto-pop boxes for fast assembly

• Stackable and tamper-evident containers for retail and delivery

• Inserts and trays for deep-dish or fragile pies

• Vent holes to reduce condensation and sogginess

These features help prevent breakage, maintain texture, and enhance the customer experience.

Pie Packaging Sizes & Dimensions

Standard pie box sizes include:

• 6-inch pie box – mini pies

• 8-inch pie box – classic pies

• 9-inch pie box – most popular retail size

• 10–12 inch – large family-size pies

Deep-dish pies require taller box walls or supportive inserts.

Pie Packaging for Shipping & Delivery

Businesses shipping pies nationwide need packaging designed for protection and temperature control.

Best Practices for Shipping Pies

• Use corrugated shipping boxes with sturdy walls

• Add internal inserts, dividers, or trays

• Consider insulated liners for cream pies

• Apply tamper-evident seals for added safety

Good packaging reduces returns, damage complaints, and negative reviews.

Retail & Merchandising Pie Packaging

For grocery stores, bakeries, and grab-and-go displays, good merchandising matters.

Top Retail Features:

• Window cutouts for attractive display

• Durable pie domes to show the full product

• Branding and labeling for ingredients, allergens, and barcodes

• Seasonal designs (holiday, Thanksgiving, Christmas)

High-quality retail packaging increases impulse purchases.

Eco-Friendly Pie Packaging Options

Sustainability is now a major purchasing factor. Popular eco-friendly materials include:

• Kraft paper pie boxes

• Recyclable paperboard

• Compostable coatings

• rPET clear domes

Consumers and food businesses increasingly prefer packaging that reduces waste and aligns with green values.

Custom Pie Packaging & Branding

Custom pie boxes help businesses stand out. You can customize:

• Size and shape

• Printing (digital, offset, or flexographic)

• Colors and branding

• Window shapes

• Special finishes

Custom packaging boosts brand recognition and enhances product presentation.

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Cost Factors of Pie Packaging

The price of pie packaging depends on:

• Material (kraft, paperboard, PET, corrugated)

• Box thickness and durability

• Custom printing and coatings

• Minimum order quantity (MOQ)

• Shipping fees from suppliers

Using standard sizes and fewer print colors can help reduce costs.

How to Choose the Right Pie Packaging

Consider:

• Pie size and depth

• Whether it’s for retail, delivery, or shipping

• Desired durability

• Branding and design needs

• Eco-friendly requirements

• Budget

Selecting the right packaging improves customer satisfaction and reduces waste.

Common Pie Packaging Problems & Solutions

Best Places to Buy Pie Packaging

Reliable sources include:

• Wholesale packaging suppliers

• Foodservice distributors

• Eco-friendly packaging brands

• Custom packaging manufacturers

• Online marketplaces (for small MOQs)

Look for suppliers offering food-safe certifications and high print quality.

FAQs 

1. Are pie boxes recyclable?

Most kraft and paperboard pie boxes are recyclable if free from excessive grease.

2. What is the best packaging for shipping pies?

Corrugated pie shipping boxes with inserts and insulated liners.

3. Can I customize pie boxes with my logo?

Yes. Most suppliers offer custom printing with low or medium MOQs.

4. Are plastic pie domes eco-friendly?

PET is recyclable, and rPET (made from recycled plastic) is a greener alternative.

5. What size pie box do I need for a 9-inch pie?

A standard 9-inch pie box typically measures around 9–10 inches to allow space for the crust and toppings.

Conclusion

Choosing the right pie packaging is essential for protecting your product, creating a strong brand identity, and meeting modern sustainability expectations. From kraft pie boxes to clear pie domes, the options today support every bakery, café, and food business whether selling in-store, catering events, or shipping pies nationwide.