Abstract: A packaging unit is provided for accommodating a syringe having a barrel for slidingly receiving a plunger at one end, and having an opposite needle end, and includes a housing defining a chamber for receiving the syringe. Included in the housing are a first cavity for receiving the syringe plunger, and having a first set of side walls for directly engaging a head portion of the plunger without engaging a middle portion of the plunger; a second cavity for receiving the syringe barrel, and having a set of upper walls for directly engaging an upper surface of a flange portion of the barrel; and a third cavity for receiving the needle end of the syringe, and having a second set of side walls for directly engaging a cover for enclosing the needle end. The second cavity is in fluid communication with the first and third cavities.