Overpackaging is the use of excess packaging. The Institute of Packaging Professionals defines it as "a condition where the methods and materials used to package an item exceed the requirements for adequate containment, protection, transport, and sale". It aligns with the hierarchy principle of reduce, rescue, recycle, prioritizing the elimination of unnecessary package.

Reducing overpackaging is a key strategy in source reduction, which aims to minimize waste before it is generated. It aligns with the waste hierarchy principle