The diecast collecting corner of the internet seems to be up in arms over Matchbox’s new Moving Parts packaging (just as they were over their last Moving Parts packaging change) but now that I have it in hand, I don’t think it deserves the hate it’s been getting. Let’s take a look at each of the arguments I’ve heard against this packaging, and see how it holds up.
It’s Ugly!
Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, so I can’t tell you how to feel about the look of this packaging, but the outgoing hourglass design wasn’t exactly pretty, was it? In comparison, I think this design is an obvious improvement, especially because these packages are stackable, which is nice for carded collectors.
I Want To Be Able To See The Whole Car!
I can understand this criticism, as I’m also used to checking for imperfections on diecast cars when I buy them. Frankly, if these were Hot Wheels models I’d be outraged, but Matchbox has a reputation for excellent tampo printing accuracy and relatively few error cars, so I don’t think it’s that much of a concern. These models are cheap enough that if one has an egregious error on the rear, I’ll just buy a new one. Even with the plastic blister, you couldn’t really see the back side of the model…at least this packaging doesn’t leave you with the guilt of a pile of non-recyclable plastic blisters after you’ve opened your models!
They’ll All Be Stolen!
Mattel is fundamentally a packaged goods company; they’re not stupid. While at first glance this packaging looks easy to steal from, the model is actually very well secured in there. Not only does the paperfoam fit tightly around the model, but the back wheels of the model are actually hooked into openings in the back of the paperfoam. If anything, the models are a little too hard to remove once you’ve actually opened the package! Certainly, you could rip one of these models free with enough dedication, but a plastic blister wasn’t exactly going to stop you then, was it? From my testing, these packages seem more secure against theft than the outgoing design.
I Don’t Want My Models Exposed To The Elements And Getting Damaged!
This is probably the most valid downside to this new packaging, as the front left half of the model is exposed. However, the model still sits inboard of the edge of the paperfoam, which means it’s unlikely to be damaged when hanging on the pegs. Anecdotally, I have yet to encounter a new Moving Parts model with visible damage to the exposed section. In fact, the only damage I’ve found with this new packaging is actually on the protected inner part of the model! This Charger has some visible marring on the hood where it was rubbing against the tight-fitting paperfoam. I have no doubt that Mattel will get small fitment issues like that sorted out in the future, but that issue is definitely one to keep your eye out for.
I’ve always liked Matchbox’s eco-friendly Power Grabs packaging, so I’m glad to see them expand the eco-friendly packaging to other lines. To me, this is far more meaningful than their push to make models of every boring EV crossover on the planet. With any luck, we’ll see this kind of packaging on more of the Mattel range of products in the future!
diecastleno.com 
Leave a comment