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METHODOLOGY

How PackIndex Calculates Packaging Prices

A three-layer cascade model published exclusively by Open Packaging Network. Updated weekly.

Three-Layer Model

L1 Raw Materials — verified market data ingested weekly covering fibres, polymers, metals, and energy. Forms the foundation of all PackIndex values.

L2 Semi-Finished — derived from L1 using documented bill-of-materials conversion weights. Covers board grades, films, and intermediate materials.

L3 Finished Units — BOM-weighted sum of L2 inputs plus mill energy overlay, adjusted by Pulse contributor signals (±15%). Published every Tuesday.

Pulse Contributor System

Packaging professionals submit directional signals (price trend, volume, lead time, supplier mood) for any category. Signals are anonymised, aggregated into a diffusion index (−100 to +100), and applied as a sentiment overlay on L3 values. Contributors earn credits that unlock additional PackIndex features.

Geographic Coverage

All indices are published in USD with live conversion to EUR, GBP, CAD, BRL, MXN, CLP, and COP. North American polymer prices are also displayed in ¢/lb and $/short ton — standard North American trade units. Latin American prices reflect local currency equivalents at live rates.

Update Frequency

Data LayerFrequency
L1 Energy (gas, electricity, diesel)Daily
L1 Metals (LME aluminium, steel)Daily
L1 Fibre & board (OCC, pulp, kraftliner)Weekly (Tuesday)
L1 Polymers (PP, PE, PET, naphtha)Weekly
L2 Semi-finished (films, board grades)Weekly
L3 Finished unit indicesWeekly (Tuesday)
FX ratesDaily

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