Last year, 8.8 million wine bottles were sold in the UK, marking a 10% increase from the previous year. This represents a continuous growth trend over the past five years, with no signs of slowing down.

As many customers opt for online shopping due to its convenience and ease, ensuring that your bottles arrive in perfect condition is crucial.

This blog post looks at why bottle packaging is important, examines various options available and provides advice on selecting the right bottle packaging for your products.

The importance of bottle packaging

The right packing materials protect your bottles from damage and ensure your customers can fully enjoy their gifts.

When any product arrives damaged, online retailers need to think about:

• The cost of product replacement
• The damage to your brand’s reputation and the customer’s experience
• The expense and hassle of reverse or replacement logistics
• The environmental cost, as the carbon footprint of transactions increases when products need to be replaced

All this adds to your operating costs and can greatly influence how customers view your brand and whether they will buy from you again. Therefore, it is essential to select the appropriate bottle packaging to fulfil its purpose.

Types of bottle packaging available

The choice of the right bottle packaging can vary based on various factors. Below are a few options available.

1. Airsac® inflatable bottle packaging

Airsac is an innovative, inflatable packaging solution, made of 2% film and 98% air. It is supplied flat and inflated on demand. This makes it a great lightweight, storage saving alternative to traditional bottle packing methods, like polystyrene and bubble wrap.

It is suitable for transporting one, two, three, six or 12 / 70cl wine bottles. Customers can purchase the bags individually or in combination with an outer cardboard box for a comprehensive packaging solution.

A hand pump or air compressor is necessary to inflate the bags and there are automated inflation options available for high-demand environments. Airsac bottle packaging contains 50% recycled content and the inflatable bags can be recycled at large supermarkets.

2. Flexi-Hex® bottle packaging

Flexi-Hex is an excellent, paper-based bottle packaging solution. It features a unique honeycomb design that expands to snuggly fit around bottes for exceptional transit protection.

This eco-friendly bottle packaging choice is completely kerbside recyclable, made from up to 85% recycled content and renewable paper material.

You can choose from one, two and three bottle options for online retail that include the sleeves and shipping boxes, as well as single bottle gift packs.  

3. Cardboard bottle boxes with dividers

Cardboard bottle packaging, such as bottle boxes with dividers, are widely available as an “off-the-shelf” solution or can be tailored to fit your specific needs.

You can choose from single bottle boxes or packages designed for cases containing six or twelve bottles if you are selecting from stock items. All cardboard bottle packaging is kerbside recyclable, which is good for the environment. However, it’s important to ensure the bottle box you choose can support the weight and dimensions of your products to prevent damage during shipping.

4. UPS approved spirit packs

UPS approved spirits packaging is a bottle packaging solution created by Macfarlane Packaging in collaboration with UPS and Sealed Air.

It is available in four distinct styles, catering to a variety of spirit bottle shapes and sizes. This includes a traditional bottle pack designed to provide an ideal fit for shipping wine bottles. Each pack features an outer cardboard box with a Korrvu insert that securely holds the bottle in place, offering a good transit protection for breakable goods.

5. Polystyrene bottle packs

Moulded polystyrene is a traditional bottle packaging option, offering a high level of transit protection. It’s widely available to transport wine in packs for one, two or three bottles with peace of mind.

Polystyrene bottle packs can be quite hard to dispose of, which may lead to a negative customer experience and increased packaging waste. Additionally, this type of bottle packaging requires a significant amount of storage space. The extra bulk can also affect your shipping and courier costs, as the dimensions and weight of your parcels may be larger. This, in turn, can lead to higher CO₂ emissions during transit.

6. Moulded pulp packs

Made from paper pulp fibres, moulded pulp bottle packaging is an environmentally friendly, biodegradable alternative to polystyrene bottle packs.

It can be manufactured as endcaps to fit the top and bottom of a bottle or tailored to a specific bottle format.

This solution is easy and straightforward to pack, however, doesn’t provide as much protection as some of the other bottle packaging we’ve mentioned before. It can also be bulkier to store.

Choosing the right bottle packaging for your business

The bottle packaging you need will depend on several factors, including:

• How many bottles you send in each shipment
• The size of your bottles
• The weight of your bottles
• How damage prone your bottes are
• If your bottles are going in multi-pick packs  
• The storage space available in your packing area or warehouse
• How important the environmental credentials of your packaging are to your customers (and your own environmental impact goals)

Take a look at this concise bottle packaging comparison guide to find the most suitable bottle packaging option for your products, budget and requirements.

Support with bottle packaging

If you are unsure which bottle packaging solution is right for your products or would like to discuss your specific requirements, get in touch today.

Our team of friendly packaging experts, armed with extensive knowledge and a wide range of bottle packaging options, is here to help you find the perfect solution for your business needs.

The post How to pack wine bottles appeared first on Macfarlane Packaging.

While electronics can benefit from the protective properties of standard packaging solutions, they may need specialist protection from electrostatic discharge or ESD.

ESD-safe packaging comes in many forms and is popularly known as anti-static packaging or ESD packaging.

In this article, we’ll provide a comprehensive guide to anti-static packaging, the science behind it and discuss the different types of ESD packaging available.

Understanding anti-static packaging

So, what is anti-static packaging?

Anti-static packaging is packaging that can prevent electrostatic discharge (ESD) from damaging products.

It will sometimes be referred to as conductive packaging, static dissipative packaging, ESD packaging or shielding packaging too. These different types of anti-static packaging all perform similar functions, which we’ll explain later in this article.

Anti-static packaging is often made from materials like polythene or PET films that have additives that prevent static electricity. It can also be made from cardboard with specialist coatings, as well as foam.

The science behind anti-static packaging

Static electricity (or electrostatic discharge) might not seem like a big deal in everyday life. You’ll get a small shock from touching another person or object and think nothing of it.

These shocks are created by electrostatic discharge moving between two objects (or people!). However, this static electricity can create a large amount of heat. This in turn can cause electronic devices to break or become faulty.

Due to this, electrostatic discharge is an extra risk during storage, shipping and transit. Which is where anti-static packaging comes in. It provides protection from the usual rigours of shipping AND can prevent the build-up of static charges, as well as dissipate them.

Why anti-static packaging is important

Electrostatic discharge damage can be costly. It’s estimated by the ESD Association that damages caused by static in the electronics industry can run up to $5 billion. Some major companies suggest that ESD is responsible for 25% electronics part failures too.

In essence, anti-static and ESD-safe packaging help prevent the costly risk that static-sensitive microchips, motherboard and other electronics components might encounter.

So, what types of anti-static packaging are there?

Types of anti-static packaging

Anti-static packaging is often used as a catch all term of packaging that prevents and resits electrostatic discharge. As mentioned earlier in this article, it also known as conductive packaging, shielding packaging and dissipative packaging.

While these terms are sometimes used interchangeably, there are some technical differences:

• Anti-static packaging – this prevents electrostatic charges being created when products may rub against other objects or surfaces.
• Conductive packaging – this type of packaging conducts any potential static charges away from sensitive parts, keeping any flow of electricity under control. It does not accumulate static charges.
• Shielding packaging – this type of ESD-safe packaging provides a barrier that reduces electrostatic discharge.
• Dissipative packaging – this type of packaging slows down the flow of any static charges, rather than directing it like conductive packaging.

Across these types of anti-static packaging, the actual packing material can take many forms. Popular products include anti-static bags, anti-static bubble wrap, anti-static bubble bags and anti-static foam. Usually, these types of ESD packaging are coloured pink, so their distinguishable from their counterparts that aren’t ESD-safe.

Other anti-static shielding bags are metallised to provide protection as well.

In addition to these popular packaging products, you can also get anti-static packaging made from cardboard and corrugated plastic. Examples of these products include:

• Corstat® cardboard – this cardboard creates a Faraday Cage effect, protecting products inside it. It can be used to make anti-static boxes, layer pads, totes and dividers. It can also be used alongside anti-static foam fittings, to provide an all-round ESD-safe packaging solution.

• Corriplast® corrugated plastic – this corrugated plastic is Carbon loaded and provides protection from static charges. It’s very strong and durable, and is resistant to water, grease and other liquids. It’s also suitable for clean room environments. It can be made into boxes, collapsible totes dividers and layer pads, or custom designs.

The benefits of using anti-static, conductive and ESD packaging

Anti-static packaging can provide many benefits. Particularly if you’re an electronics manufacturer or are moving electronic components in industries like automotive, airspace and medical.  

Using ESD-safe packaging can deliver the following benefits:

• Reduced damages – anti-static packaging will ensure your products are protected from static damage, as well as the usual knocks, shocks and drops that could be experienced during handling and shipping.
• Reduced returns & reverse logistics – it can help reduce costly returns, reverse logistics and expensive product replacements by minimising the risk of damages.
• Improved productivity – the benefits provided by anti-static packaging will remove hassle from your packing operation by reducing the handling of returned goods. This will allow you to focus your resources elsewhere.
• Lower packaging costs – efficient, right-size anti-static packaging can help you lower your packing costs. Reducing damage will minimise replacement and reverse logistic costs in your operation too.

Specialist support developing anti-static packaging solutions

Are you looking for ESD-safe packaging?

At Macfarlane Packaging, we have extensive expertise in creating all sorts of packaging solutions. We have anti-static bubble bags, anti-static bubble wrap and anti-static foam rolls available from stock.

Plus, our specialist manufacturing brand can support you with custom packaging designs, including conductive packaging like Corriplast® corrugated plastic, anti-static inserts and conductive Corstat® cardboard packaging.

Get in touch today for more information.

The post A comprehensive guide to anti-static packaging and conductive packaging appeared first on Macfarlane Packaging.

In 2023 the SMMT reported that the Automotive-related manufacturing sector in the UK was on track to reclaim it’s £100bn trading hub status by the end of the year.  In fact, the year ended with total manufacturing numbers up 17% on the previous year, with the UK producing  905,117 cars, 120.357 commerical vehicals and an estimated 1.6 million engines.  It was the industry’s best year since 2019.

Automotive-related manufacturing in the UK generates approximately £67 billion of turnover annually. The UK produced almost 860,000 cars and 1.6 million engines in 2021, as well as approximately 73,000 commercial vehicles.

And as estimates indicate that a single vehicle can have as many as 30,000 parts, ensuring you are using the correct packaging can be a significant challenge.

If you work within the automotive industry, this guide to car parts packaging provides you with a detailed overview of considerations and options. Whether you are responsible for packaging at an OEM, tier 1, tier 2 or tier 3 supplier, this article details a range of tried and trusted options that allow you to pack and ship car parts successfully.

Car parts packaging can take various forms. It can include everything from returnable containers within the supply chain to corrugated boxes used for aftermarket parts. Your packaging can be designed to improve handling, protect components in transit, and enhance the efficiency of production lines.

Considerations when packing and shipping automotive parts

Before looking at the varying types of car parts packaging, it is essential to consider several factors. The six primary considerations for car parts packaging are:

1. The weight of the product/part you are shipping
2. The fragility of the parts
3. How valuable are the items you are shipping
4. The packing and unpacking processes
5. How your parts (and packaging) are handled in the supply chain
6. Any impact on the environment

Weight of products

The weight of your parts or components is important when specifying your automotive packaging. Heavier items need more durable packaging to ensure it does not fail during transit. Lighter items should have their packaging optimised to minimise weight and reduce costs and CO2 emissions through the supply chain.

Fragility of parts

How delicate your car parts are also influences the best packaging for your business. You may require cushioning and inserts to minimise damage caused by handling in the supply chain, although even the more robust items still need protection. You should also consider protection for surface finishes on painted, polished or decorative surfaces.

How valuable are the items you are shipping

The packaging you use for shipping high-value infotainment units or gearboxes, for example, needs to be a different specification than that used for relatively cheap plastic trims or ancillaries.

Packing and unpacking processes

It is crucial to consider how quick and easy it is to pack and unpack your products. Does your car part packaging use much secondary packaging such as bags, inserts or films? Is it easy to pack multiple smaller parts in the same outer container? Are there any additional processes that packing teams need to carry out which may impact production times and efficiency?

How do transport providers handle parts during transit?

It is wise to consider how your items are handled within the supply chains. For example, are there many touchpoints that could result in mishandling? Does packaging need to look presentable at its final destination (e.g. for aftermarket parts or retail items)?

As well as how items are likely to be handled, it is also essential to consider the methods of transport and the possible environments your car parts packaging may encounter – will it be left outside or have the potential to get wet, for example?

Impact on the environment

The final consideration is the impact that your packaging has on the environment. Does it allow you to maximise transport efficiency, or are you shipping lots of empty space? Can any single-trip packaging be easily recycled by the end user? Would returnable or extendable packaging be most suitable?

Expendable vs returnable

This final point leads nicely to arguably the most important consideration for shipping car parts – whether to use expendable or returnable packaging.

But how do you decide which is best for your business?

Generally, the longer the distances involved in the logistics leg, the less practical it becomes to use returnable packaging. The vast majority of returnable automotive packaging is used within short loops and those with fixed arrival and distribution points.

Of course, you may not have reliable return transport, your parts are for use by the end consumer (hence the packaging cannot be returned), or it is not economical to return empty containers to your warehouse or manufacturing site.

Another point to consider at the outset is what different manufacturing plants or customers accept. Many do not have facilities to dispose of large volumes of single-trip packaging and only accept products in returnable packaging. Others may specify expendable packaging. It is vital to check what your customers want!

Returnable supply chain packaging

However, it is likely that, as part of an automotive supply chain, you will use returnable packaging of some description.

Due to the vast numbers of parts and overall throughput of vehicle manufacture, using returnable containers eliminates the generation of huge amounts of packaging waste compared with single-trip.

Returnable containers are typically more robust, providing better protection for parts, and are frequently industry standard sizes that allow for improved space efficiency in transport and production lines. They can also allow for safer stacking and handling.

And arguably the most crucial point, returnable packaging provides a lower cost per trip or lifetime cost than expendable packaging.

Euro containers

Euro containers are the most commonly used returnable packaging for car parts and components. Often referred to as KLT containers or ALC (attached lid containers – when including a lid), these moulded plastic boxes are available in standard sizes to be compatible with most pallets, racking, conveyors and so on.

They are both cost-effective and robust, hence their popularity and widespread use.

Correx tote boxes

The main limitation of Euro containers, however, is their standard sizing. Fixed dimensions can sometimes mean wasted space within containers when shipping unusually shaped or sized items. This issue reduces transit efficiency (you are paying to ship fresh air) and can also mean adding a large volume of void fillers or other inserts. It also reduces assembly line part density.

As a result, a returnable packaging option that is growing fast in popularity is Correx tote boxes. The key benefit is that you can opt to manufacture them in custom sizes. This size flexibility means they can accommodate unusually shaped items or a defined number of parts for a specific assembly.

Correx totes are also lighter than moulded containers, which can help reduce transit costs and emissions. And, due to a range of material options, you can select to have them manufactured with strength comparable to euro containers or tailored to the requirements of specific items.

Expendable packaging

Despite the benefits of returnable car part packaging, there are scenarios where single trip or expendable packaging would be most suitable. As well as parts that ship directly to end users, there are uses within supply chains for these options. Particularly where parts travel long distances and/or return is difficult.

Heavy duty corrugated

Many businesses use corrugated packaging within automotive supply chains. It has the same advantage as Correx in that it allows for the production of custom-sized boxes. Bespoke sizing enables the benefits of space efficiency, lower transit costs, emissions etc.

Several heavy-duty material grades can provide surprising durability, including various double and even triple-wall materials.

Other benefits include easy printing of handling and other instructions directly onto the packs and, of course, cardboards’ ease of recycling.

Timber crates and cases

Timber crates are another option in certain parts of automotive supply chains. Like corrugated, they can be easily produced in bespoke sizes to accommodate specific parts. They are particularly suited to shipping larger panels, assemblies or even engine blocks.

Whilst they can offer some reusability, they are also more challenging to dispose of and more costly than cardboard equivalents.

Dunnage and inserts

Whether you use returnable or single-trip packaging to ship your car parts, you can enhance the performance and efficiency using dunnage – effectively different forms of inserts.

Inserts can allow for much-improved part density within an outer container and make packing and unpacking quicker and easier. Inserts also help minimise damage as they limit movement and prevent parts from colliding with each other. Inserts can also provide precise positioning of components to allow for robotic assembly.

Divisions

Simple divider sets manufactured using Correx or even cardboard can provide all of the benefits mentioned earlier. Usually created to suit a specific product or assembly process, you can choose the cell size and configuration (e.g. 4 x 4 cells within the container). Dividers can be removable and folded flat or integral to the construction of Correx totes or trays.

Textile dividers

Some parts – for example, interior fittings or painted parts – have decorative surfaces that customers can reject due to surface scuffs or marring. If this is a concern, using a material such as Bubble-board can eliminate this. The plastic material is laminated with spun-bond fabric to protect from scratches or foam to provide additional cushioning during shipment.

Custom inserts

For unusually shaped parts, custom fittings can provide a perfect fit for the item in question.

Vacuum-formed trays

Vacuum-formed trays are another option widely used to handle car parts and components. They have recesses moulded to the exact shape of the items they carry to provide protection and ease of packing/unpacking.

Foam

Finally, you can use various foam inserts for particularly delicate or high-value items. As per vacuum-formed trays, foam inserts can precisely match the contours of any part or component. They go a step further, however, in that they also provide excellent cushioning protection.

Specialist software even allows for the optimum level of protection to be engineered into the foam packaging – crucial for high-end parts that cost thousands of pounds.

Airsac cushioning protection

An inflatable packaging solution which moulds itself to your products, Airsac can be used on small automotive components or larger body panels for vehicles, such as doors and bonnets.  

Airsac utilises pockets of air to provide high levels of protection, making it extremely light and easy to handle. Available in a range of formats, such as a full bag or end cap, it can be used to replace traditional cushioning products like foam or stratocell.

As it’s inflated on demand, Airsac is an excellent way to remove bulky packaging from the packing process and free up storage space on site.

Protecting car electronics

As technology advances, more and more aspects of new vehicles rely on electronics and microchips. Everything from telematics, navigation, driver assistance systems and even infotainment units rely on increasingly sophisticated technologies.

But these parts and components can be susceptible to a different form of damage – electrostatic discharge (ESD).

What is ESD?

ESD is the transfer of an electrical charge between two objects. Whilst this occurs naturally, the heat generated during this process can cause significant damage to microchips and electronics. And whilst the effects may not be immediately apparent, latent damage can result in performance degradation and decreased lifespan of items that rely on electronics to function.

Conductive packaging options

Due to this, several anti-static and conductive packaging products are commonplace in automotive industries.

Corstat – a corrugated cardboard with a carbon coating – creates a “faraday cage” effect. This essentially channels any static around the outside of the packaging, protecting any items within.

Plastic options, including Corriplast conductive Correx and moulded plastics, operate similarly, whilst various ESD-safe foams are also available.

Other specialist car parts packaging

Several other specialist packaging applications are common within the automotive manufacturing industry.

VCI protection

A volatile corrosion inhibitor (VCI) is a material that protects metals from corrosion (i.e. rust). Vehicles use a considerable amount of metal components, so shipping these over long distances has the potential for this type of damage to occur.

Numerous VCI papers and bags are available to pack components in, whilst others may be coated in grease or similar substances to protect them during shipping. However, all these add another process to packing and unpacking operations.

An alternative is to coat your packaging with a VCI material, which can provide an equivalent level of protection.

Scuff protection

As mentioned earlier, inserts and dividers can be manufactured using material that prevents surface scuffing and marring. These properties are essential for painted, polished or coated parts or those which form part of the interior of a vehicle.

What is less well known is that cardboard can be surprisingly abrasive, although again, there are coatings for corrugated boxes that can help to minimise this.

Lithium batteries

A new challenge facing automotive manufacturers and parts suppliers is lithium batteries. Prevalent in electric vehicles, the UN classifies li-on batteries as hazardous goods. This classification requires specialist packaging that meets defined regulations (UN3480) to ship.

Options for this include returnable aluminium cases with specialist inserts that contain fires should batteries fail or malfunction during transportation.

Spares, eCommerce and retail

Of course, not all businesses in the automotive sector supply parts used directly in the manufacture of new vehicles. Many provide spares and aftermarket parts that go straight to service centres, garages and even consumers.

In fact, the aftermarket industry in the UK accounts for £21.1 billion in turnover each year.

The packaging required for shipping these car parts faces different challenges. Firstly, it tends to be a single trip as there is no easy option for returning it. Being expendable means considerations surrounding recyclability must be balanced against ensuring it performs well within courier and postal networks and the multiple touchpoints these comprise.

In some instances, there may even be a requirement to add branding, instructions and other information, as some parts may be displayed within retail stores or be required to provide some form of limited “unboxing” experience.

As such, businesses typically use corrugated packaging for applications of this type.

Summary

Whether you work for an OEM, or a tier 1, 2 or 3 supplier, a team of packaging experts at GWP and Macfarlane Packaging is on hand to ensure you select the most suitable car parts packaging for your specific application.

Get in touch today for advice and guidance on sourcing the optimum packaging for your business.

The post How to pack automotive parts – updated appeared first on Macfarlane Packaging.

While bubble wrap rolls can prove a good, lightweight choice for protecting products, they have drawbacks too. They can be bulky to store and transport, consuming lots of energy to move through supply chains.

Also, due to the Plastic Packaging Tax and Extended Producer Responsibilities being introduced. This legislation is placing a positive focus on reviewing the impact of transport for bulk solutions. Many plastics face a weight-based tax, so it is logical to explore alternatives with a lower footprint.

So, what’s the solution? Enter on-demand bubble wrap. It can help reduce your material use, free up storage space and cut your transport costs and emissions. It can be a game-changer for eco and cost-conscious companies!

This article explains on-demand bubble wrap and its benefits, comparing it to traditional bubble wrap for packaging.

Understanding Bubble on Demand

First, let’s look at understanding bubble on demand…

What is on demand bubble wrap?

Bubble on demand (aka on-demand bubble wrap) is a type of inflatable air cushion packaging. It combines the protective benefits of bubble wrap with the benefits of using a more compact packaging material.

It comes on deflated, compact, and manageable rolls in boxes that can be stacked and stored anywhere in a warehouse or facility. Before packing, the material is then inflated on-demand, as and when needed.

There are lots of different on-demand bubble wrap packaging products available. One of the most popular is Sealed Air’s NewAir I. B.^® Flex. It can inflate rolls of film, as well as bubble wrap bags and specialist films like anti-static bubble wrap.

How on-demand bubble wrap works

On-demand bubble wrap is designed for use with an inflation system. The deflated film is passed through an inflation machine as and when needed.

Typically, bubble on demand inflation systems have a small footprint and can produce ambient air – there is no need for a compressed airline to be fitted.

These systems can inflate bubble at a rate of approximately 27 metres per minute and can sit neatly on a packing station or on a purpose-made stand. A winder is commonly available to create bundles that are easy to handle.

Common uses for on demand bubble wrap

Just like regular bubble wrap, you can use bubble on demand to protect a wide variety of goods.

Films with a smaller bubble are best suited to lightweight application, like wrapping jewellery, books and cosmetics. On-demand bubble films with larger bubbles are better suited to protecting heavier products or the most fragile products, like ceramics. For electronic devices using anti-static bubble on demand can provide specialist protection.  

Unpacking the Benefits of Bubble on Demand

Now you know what bubble on demand is, what about the benefits it offers? Compared to regular bubble wrap rolls, on-demand bubble wrap offers significant advantages.

Cost effectiveness of bubble on demand

One of the main advantages offered by bubble on demand is its cost effectiveness.

Initially, the rolls of film are compact to ship and store. This means you can reduce associated transport and storage costs. If you are paying per pallet space for your storage, this could make a huge difference compared to traditional bubble wrap. For example, just one pallet of Bubble Wrap® IB film is equivalent to 90 large rolls of bubble wrap, which would take up 46 square meters of space or 38 pallet spaces!

In addition, using the automated inflation machine can help you control the amount of packaging material you use. For example, the above mentioned NewAir I.B.^® Flex system can reduce excess material use by up to 50%. The knock-on effect of this is controlling how much you spend on packing material compared to regular bubble wrap.

As using bubble on-demand is a type of packaging automation, it can help you more effectively control labour costs too, as your packing will be more efficient!

Environmental impact of using bubble on demand

Not only can on-demand bubble wrap save you money, but it also has a positive environmental impact.

Unlike traditional bubble wrap, bubble on demand produces the exact amount of cushioning needed for each pack. This eliminates material use and overall packaging waste created.

Plus, the more compact material can dramatically reduce CO₂ impact of your supply chain. As mentioned above, it can take 97% fewer vehicles to deliver, which can significantly cut emissions and fuel use.

How bubble on demand can streamline your packing process

A switch to on-demand bubble packaging can also offer efficiency savings and streamline your packing processes.

It all starts during goods in handing. Traditional bubble wrap is big and bulky compared to bubble on demand. Bubble wrap, even when compressed, can take up a significant amount of space relative to its weight. Its irregular shape can also make it difficult to stack neatly and efficiently, leading to wasted space and inefficient use of transportation capacity.  This all requires extra handling and takes up time.

However, just one pallet of on-demand bubble film can give your warehouse team back a significant amount of time that they were spending unloading cumbersome rolls of bubble wrap.

On top of reducing handling, using bubble on demand is a type of packaging automation. The speedy inflation systems can deliver the protective packaging you need in seconds. This can cut pack times and help you increase the number of parcels you’re able to dispatch.

Comparing Bubble on Demand and Buying Bubble Wrap

Now we know about bubble on demand, when we consider bubble on demand vs. buying bubble wrap, how do the two compare?

• Key similarities and differences – both options provide excellent protection and cushioning for your products, so they can be used for easy wrapping and filling. The key difference between the two is their format. This impacts how you handle, transport and store the packaging, as well as your packing processes. Bubble on demand can be produced instantly in the right quantity, eliminating waste.
• Cost comparison – on face value traditional bubble wrap rolls will look cheaper. However, bubble on demand systems can offer significant savings in the long run. While the initial investment may be higher, especially for larger-scale operations, the savings across storage, transport, labour, efficiency and the environment payback quickly.
• Sustainability – when it comes to the environment, bubble on demand systems have the upper hand. The compact material can help significantly decrease your emissions and fuel usage, plus on-demand delivery helps you cut your material use, reducing packaging waste.

Conclusion

In conclusion, making the switch from buying bulk bubble wrap to bubble on demand is a smart packaging choice that can deliver valuable cost-savings, while reducing your environmental impact. The eco-friendly swap can also offer improved productivity and significant space savings.

So, if you’re looking for ways to prioritise sustainability, while keeping costs in check and protecting your products, bubble on demand could be the solution for you.

Ready to make the switch to bubble on demand? Contact us now to find out about our eco-friendly packaging options and begin safeguarding your products in a sustainable manner.

The post Why Choose Bubble On Demand vs. Bubble Wrap appeared first on Macfarlane Packaging.

Palletised products require stability to embark on journeys. Vibration, shocks and knocks are common, so high levels of load containment are essential for preventing damage. It can even help reduce costs and maintain supply chain efficiency.

It’s important to select the right pallet stretch wrap to deliver the levels of load containment needed to protect the movement of products.

In this article, we will explore the importance of selecting the right pallet stretch wrap for load containment. Focusing on its impact on product integrity, operational efficiency, and overall customer satisfaction.

How important is pallet stretch wrap in providing product protection and integrity

Pallet wrap is a mainstay packaging product for any operation shipping palletised goods. The right choice of stretch wrap material ensures the stability and protection of the load. The wrap acts as a barrier against moisture, dust, and external contaminants that could potentially damage or compromise the quality of the products.

By securely holding the items together, the pallet wrap minimises the risk of shifting, tipping, or colliding during transportation. Greatly reducing the likelihood of breakage, spills, or spoilage.

For high-value goods where security is paramount, why not introduce a black stretch wrap? It’s a great way to ensure that goods are hidden from view, reducing incidents of theft.

How can the right pallet stretch wrap improve load stability and safety

Load stability is crucial for the safe handling and transportation of goods. Insufficient or incorrect pallet wrapping techniques can result in unstable loads, leading to accidents, injuries, and potential liabilities.

The right pallet wrap provides excellent load containment, distributing the weight evenly across the pallet and reducing the risk of load shifting. It helps maintain the centre of gravity, preventing toppling and imbalance during loading, unloading, and transportation.

By ensuring load stability, the appropriate pallet wrap contributes to a safer working environment. Both for employees and the product, as it minimises the chances of damage or loss.

What is the impact of pallet wrap on cost reduction

Using the right pallet wrap can significantly impact cost savings throughout the supply chain.

Effective load containment reduces the occurrence of damaged goods, minimising the need for returns, replacements, or refunds. By preventing product spoilage and breakage, the right pallet wrap reduces wastage, helping businesses save on materials, resources, and inventory costs.

Additionally, proper load containment enhances space utilisation within trucks or containers.  This optimises the number of products that can be transported in a single shipment by improving pallet stackability.

With the help of a load containment specialist, there may be opportunities to switch to a performance film. This is typically lighter than regular film; they provide excellent load containment with the minimum of material. Reducing the amount of stretch film used in your operation reduces material waste and the cost of wrapping each pallet.

This consolidation reduces transportation expenses and decreases the carbon footprint associated with multiple trips and stretch material manufacturing.

Can the right pallet stretch wrap deliver operational efficiency

Efficiency in logistics operations is vital for meeting customer demands and maintaining a competitive edge.

The right pallet wrap ensures the integrity and stability of the load. This facilitates easier and faster handling, storage, and retrieval of goods. It also simplifies inventory management by reducing product damage, improving inventory accuracy, and preventing stockouts caused by spoilage or breakage.

With the help of a load containment expert, you could also speed up the application of stretch wrap to your pallets. The right strength of stretch wrap can deliver secure pallets for transportation with fewer wraps.

Equally importantly, using an automated pallet wrapper can free up labour. That way, your team can bring/put away pallets whilst the machine is applying the film.

These efficiency gains contribute to streamlined operations, faster order fulfilment, and improved customer satisfaction.

What is the impact of pallet stretch wrap on customer satisfaction

The significance of the right pallet wrap extends to the end consumer.

By choosing the appropriate wrap for load containment, businesses can deliver products in pristine condition, meeting or exceeding customer expectations.

A damaged or compromised product not only results in dissatisfaction but may also harm the brand reputation and customer loyalty. Investing in the right pallet wrap for load containment ensures that products arrive intact, preserving their quality and functionality.

Consistently providing customers with undamaged goods enhances trust, fosters repeat business and promote positive word-of-mouth referrals. IMRG’s Home Delivery Review found that 40% of consumers say delivery satisfaction impacts their household decisions when using a retailer.

The importance of selecting the right pallet wrap for load containment cannot be overstated.

By ensuring product integrity, load stability, cost reduction, operational efficiency, and customer satisfaction, the appropriate choice of pallet wrap positively impacts the entire supply chain.

At Macfarlane Packaging, our load containment experts offer a free-of-charge stretch review. Firstly, we analyse your film performance, load stability & wrapping costs.

Then, our experts take the data and use it to make a recommendation. Afterwards, we’ll explain the best stretch wrap and equipment for your business. And finally, you’ll get an illustration of the savings. Why not contact us today to book an appointment?

If you’re looking for cost savings, why not check out the Packaging Optimiser. A market-leading tool we can use to help you quickly and easily find the hidden costs in your packaging operation. It’ll show you how much you can save, with even quite modest changes to packaging, warehouse layout or processes.

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Protective cases come in many forms. This includes well-known waterproof options, such as Peli cases, through to widely used custom flight cases. Everyone from engineers, service technicians, medical professionals, and even sales teams presenting samples can all benefit from protecting essential items with a suitable case.

The benefits of selecting the right case can be significant. For example, an engineer on-site may be unable to carry out their tasks if damage occurs to their equipment in transit. Similarly, a suitable sample case can be the difference between securing a large order in a sales pitch or walking away without a deal.

But what protective case options are available to your business?

Waterproof cases

Waterproof cases are one of the most widely used types of protective cases.

They provide a completely water-tight seal, protecting their contents from moisture and dust entering the case. Most waterproof cases have an IP (ingress protection) rating, which indicates the degree of protection they offer. This performance makes them ideal for protecting any tools or equipment that could become damaged if they get wet.

Besides protection from water and dust, waterproof cases also tend to be amongst the toughest and most durable cases available. They protect from knocks, impact, mishandling, and even being crushed. Besides this, nearly all waterproof cases feature a manufacturer’s lifetime guarantee.

Larger waterproof cases usually have wheels and telescopic handles, whilst all cases feature secure latches and ways to padlock the case (securing the contents).

Popular brands of this type of case include Peli, Storm, Explorer, SKB, Nanuk and B&W.

Their high performance means they are widely used in the defence sector to protect “mission-critical” equipment. They are, however, widely used by service technicians, engineers, film and broadcasting professionals, or anyone that needs to protect fragile, sensitive or expensive equipment.

Roto-moulded cases

Roto mould cases are similar to waterproof cases in that they are entirely water and dust tight. However, they are arguably the most heavy-duty protective case option available.

Manufactured using rotational moulding, the cases are incredibly tough and durable. This strength is enhanced by their ribbed design and increased material thickness in the corners (due to the moulding process).

Features of roto mould cases include being stackable (many having a locating pattern), pressure relief valves, various lid options and a wide range of colours. Specialist “rack mount” cases are also available to protect electronic equipment.

Roto mould cases are used extensively by military forces around the world. However, they are also popular for transporting large and heavy parts and components, for example, within the aerospace industry.

Popular options include those offered by Peli Hardigg (ISP2 and single-lid ranges) and SKB.

Aluminium cases

Aluminium cases are another option commonly used by aerospace and other technical industries and manufacturing businesses. However, their main benefit is their light weight – making them ideal for safely shipping parts and equipment internationally.

Aluminium protective cases provide several other benefits too. They maintain performance at high and low temperatures, unlike plastic cases that can soften or become brittle. They also do not rust, absorb impact, and are easy to clean.

This final point also means that professional sports teams commonly use aluminium cases as “kit skips”. They transport sports kit and equipment to training sessions and matches, with their easy clean surfaces making them ideal for transporting dirty kit too. All Premier League football teams use this type of case.

Zarges are the market leader in manufacturing aluminium cases, although Bott is also a popular option.

Plastic carry cases

It is not uncommon to have some equipment that doesn’t need a high level of protection. Or that will never be exposed to adverse conditions or mishandling. Lightweight plastic cases can be an excellent choice for applications such as this.

Similar to waterproof cases in appearance, plastic carry cases are a cost-effective option where the performance of a waterproof case is not required. As such, service engineers, field technicians and similar professionals may use this type of case for storing and organising tools and equipment.

This type of case is also widely used by salespeople to present samples in sales pitches and presentations. Some businesses even use them to add value to their products (e.g. a set of items are supplied in a case that the customer retains).

Hofbauer. Maxado, Rose Plastic and W.Ag make a range of plastic case options, meaning there will likely be a suitable size and style for your specific requirements.

Flight cases

If an off-the-shelf case isn’t exactly right for your business, you can specify a custom-made flight case instead.

Made using plywood or composite panels with metal edging and corners, the significant benefit of flight cases is the ability to manufacture them to almost any size. This size flexibility can significantly improve the efficiency of your transport and reduce emissions (as you are not paying to ship fresh air in a standard-sized case that is slightly too big).

Whilst they are not as durable as roto-moulded or waterproof options, they still provide good protection, along with options such as castors, wheels, handles, and different lid designs/heights.

Flight cases have long been associated with media, broadcasting and touring musicians (often referred to as road cases) but are also suitable for safely transporting almost any parts or equipment.

Foam inserts for cases

It is important to note that you can enhance all of the protective cases detailed here by adding foam inserts.

You can choose to source many of the waterproof cases with what is known as cubed or “pick and pluck” foam, where the case user can create their own semi-custom insert by removing 1cm cubes of foam to create pockets for their equipment.

However, custom foam inserts manufactured using plastazote foam provide many additional benefits.

Firstly, custom foam inserts allow for recesses that are exactly the shape and size of your equipment. Secondly, it is possible to use software that can calculate the exact thickness of foam required to provide the optimum level of cushioning protection. Many foam converters will mistakenly add too much foam to be sure items are protected, but as well as costing more, this can often make the foam less effective.

Another advantage of custom foam inserts for protective cases is that you can use different colours for the insides of any pockets. This effect, known as tool control or shadow boards, enables the case user to quickly identify if any parts or tools are missing from the case.

And finally, it is even possible to laser etch your company logo, part numbers or other information directly onto your protective cases’ foam inserts.

Other customisation options

Besides foam inserts, there are several other customisation options you can consider.

For example, it is possible to add printed branding and handling instructions to the exterior surfaces of most protective cases.

Besides this, many cases allow for a “bezel kit”. These will enable you to mount electronic equipment directly into the body of the case.

Many of the standard cases offer padded inserts and dividers, additional carry straps, and some even allow you to swap the standard lid with a transparent version (displaying the contents at all times).

What protective case is best for your business?

Deciding which case is the best option for your business or application can be challenging. So, if you would like guidance on selecting the most appropriate case, or any other types of protective packaging solution, please do not hesitate to get in touch. Our expert team can help your choices regarding customisation, or other advice on avoiding damaging your tools or equipment.

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The hassle of returning and replacing damaged goods is felt by both consumers and businesses alike. The packing, handling, and transport costs can double instantly, from one trip to the customer to two.

Last year, our Unboxing Survey found that out of over 1,000 consumers, 7% of parcels arrived damaged. Although that had dropped significantly since 10% in 2016, the impact on brand reputation could be even larger; this is why the protective packaging type chosen by businesses is crucial.

In this guide, you’ll learn how to choose the right protective packaging solution for your business, we’ll highlight protective packaging examples and answer some of the most frequently asked questions about this type of packaging!

What is protective packaging?

Protective packaging is an essential component of shipping goods. It ensures products are not damaged in transit and reaches customers in perfect condition.

Let’s consider the impact damages and returns can have on your business. Every time goods in a parcel arrive damaged:

• The customer feels frustrated. They will have the hassle of making a complaint and returning the broken goods.
• Your reputation is harmed. The customer may not want to buy from you again.
• Costs go up. You’re paying for reverse logistics, replacement product and additional handling.
• The environment loses too. Returning a damaged product doubles the carbon cost of the transaction (it triples it if you have to post out a replacement)

Choosing the right protective solution for you

The kind of packaging you’ll need will vary depending on the products you’re shipping. You’ll need the right amount of packaging material to protect your products, but you don’t want to overfill your parcels and be seen as wasteful.

When it comes to choosing the right protective packaging, there are a few things to consider, including:

• The size of your product
• The weight of your product
• How fragile your product is
• If you’re shipping a single item or multiple items in the same parcel
• How do you want to present your products
• The application of the packaging – e.g. void filling, blocking and bracing, cushioning etc.

For example, if you’re shipping non-fragile items, you might need a straightforward void fill solution. In this case, you could use loose fill packing chips or packing paper. However, if you’re shipping items prone to damage, such as glass bottles, you may need something more robust, like Flexi-Hex®.

Products	Void filling	Edge Protection	Surface protection	Cushioning, block and bracing
AirCap® Bubble Wrap	– extra-large bubble		– small bubble	– large bubble, extra-large bubble
AirCap® BubbleMask
Cell-Aire®
Cardboard Edge Protectors
Foam Corner Protectors
Foam Edge Protectors
Fill-Air Rocket®
Fill-Air® RF
Instapak® Simple
Korrvu® Retention Frame
Pregis MINI PAK’R® Machine and Renew Film
Pregis PRO PAK’R®
Ranpak® FillPak® Fanfold Paper
Ranpak® FillPak® M
Ranpak® PadPak® LC

Protective packaging products

We offer a wide range of protective packaging supplies to meet your shipping or storing needs. Our products are suitable for many industries to protect all products from glass bottles to electronics and much more!

Below you will see a small range of popular protective products we offer, but if you want a specific type, please contact us today!

• Geami WrapPak® – This solution is a combination of die cut kraft paper with a tissue interleaf paper. It offers great protection and enhances customer experience with beautiful presentation.
• Airsac® inflatable packaging – This solution moulds itself around your products to provide maximum protection. There is specific ranges for different products such as bottles, electronics, pharmacy and frames; and it provides good product protection for all industries.
• Bio loosefill packing chips – this eco-friendly, pourable loose fill is 100% compostable and perfect for filling voids, especially awkward spaces around packed items. This makes it ideal for putting multiple picks into one box or packing products that vary in size. We recommend this product for less fragile items, as sometimes movement in the pack can occur during transit.
• Korrvu® range – A cost-effective blocking and bracing solution that reduces the need for additional void filling or wrapping. It is quick to pack and widely recycled. Korrvu® is available as a suspension pack. Common questions about postal packaging

Frequently Asked Questions

Below we have listed some popular questions about protective packaging, but if you have any more queries that are not listed, our team of experts will be happy to help you.

Can I recycle protective packaging materials?

This will vary depending on the type of protective packaging you have selected.

All paper-based packaging will be kerbside recyclable as long as there are no special coatings on it. Plastic-based packaging, such as bubble wrap, while industrially recyclable, will be more difficult for end-consumers to recycle in their homes. It is always a good idea to direct people to the RecycleNow website to see what can be recycled and to apply clear recycling instructions on any packaging supplies you have.

What are the different types of protective packaging?

At Macfarlane Packaging, we provide a wide range of protective packaging solutions to suit various products and requirements. The protective solutions we offer include:

• Air pillows and air cushioning
• Bubble wrap rolls
• Bubble wrap bags
• Foam rolls and foam wrap
• Instapak® foam from Sealed Air
• Edge protection, including corner protectors
• Loosefill packing chips and packing peanuts
• Protective paper packaging, like paper cushioning and packing paper
• Geami WrapPak®
• Flexi-Hex® bottle packaging
• Airsac® inflatable packaging
• Protective packaging for glass bottles and other fragile items

Where can I buy protective packaging?

Whether you need bubble wrap, packing peanuts, paper packaging, or even mesh sleeves and corner protectors, Macfarlane Packaging offers a wide selection of solutions to suit your requirements.

Our products are available in a variety of sizes and styles, so you’re sure to find the perfect packaging for your products. You can order your postal product directly from our online store, or get in touch with our friendly team to discuss your options.

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The word counterfeit often brings to mind high end luxury items, like designer handbags, clothing and watches, but the problem goes much wider. The range of goods available includes electricals, car parts, vapes, cosmetics, toys, pharmaceuticals and even baby formula. Consumers need to be on their guard when purchasing, which can be increasingly difficult with the ease at which third party sellers can trade in online marketplaces.

Counterfeiting isn’t just a consumer problem either. Europol, the European Union Agency for Law Enforcement, includes business-to-business products such as machines, chemicals or spare parts as subject to falsification.

The growth of the counterfeit industry

Counterfeit goods are typically manufactured by individuals or organisations that aim to profit from their sale of fake products. Operating at different levels of sophistication, they range from small-scale operations to large, well-organised criminal networks.

In some cases, organised crime syndicates may be involved in the production and distribution of counterfeit goods. There is an underground economy devoted to copying and selling any conceivable product that you can think of including low value products like laundry detergent or soap.

The internet has increased the amount of counterfeit goods sold worldwide. The ease of setting up online marketplaces and the anonymity of online transactions have made it easier for counterfeiters to sell their goods. It’s also made it easier for counterfeiters to reach consumers in different countries.

This has led to an increase in the volume of counterfeit goods sold, as well as the types of goods being counterfeited.

The impact of counterfeit goods on the economy

This illicit trade not only translates to lost sales for legitimate businesses, but counterfeit goods may also pose health and safety risks to consumers, which can result in further costs to the healthcare system and other public services.

Counterfeit goods have a significant impact on the UK economy. According to a report by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), the value of imported counterfeit goods worldwide was around $509 billion in 2016, representing 3.3% of global trade. The UK is among the countries that are heavily affected by the trade in counterfeit goods, with a reported value of around £13.6 billion in 2016.

The risk of counterfeit goods to brands

Counterfeit goods can damage a brand’s reputation by diluting its value and authenticity.

Consumers who unknowingly purchase counterfeit products and do not have a positive experience with them, will have negative perceptions of the brand and it may impact product reviews, word of mouth recommendations and future sales.

Counterfeit goods can also result in a loss of revenue for brands, as counterfeiters often sell their products at a lower price than the genuine article. Stores offering fake products at a lower or indeed, bargain price, will win the sale, reducing potential sales on other platforms.

How brands can protect their goods against counterfeiting with tamper evident packaging

Packaging plays a crucial role in protecting brands against the risk of counterfeit goods. So, not only does can protect your product from damage, but the right packaging materials can protect your reputation too!

You may hear people refer to tamper evident packaging or anti-counterfeit packaging. So, what is tamper evident packaging? It is packaging that has indicators or barriers to entry, which if breached can be expected to provide visible evidence to the end user that tampering has occurred.

In short anti-counterfeit packaging or These are specific products that are designed to highlight if someone has tampered with a package. But there are lots of different ways you can combat the risk of counterfeiting with packaging.

Here are packaging tips to consider: 

• Think about branded packaging carefully – printed packaging with strong branding can make it difficult for counterfeiters to replicate. This includes using distinctive colours, logos, and fonts that are easily recognisable. Some brands choose to print their custom packaging on the inside only, so the exterior does not expose the contents of packages.
• Complex or unusual packaging designs can be hard to replicate – packaging designs that are complex and difficult to reproduce can make it harder for counterfeiters to copy the product.
• Design your packaging to include security features – this can include things such as holograms, or unique serial numbers. Alternatively, you can even include security folds into your cardboard box designs, to stop would-be thieves putting their hand in to parcels.
• Tamper evident markers can help prevent interference – tamper-evident seals and labels will help to verify the authenticity of your product and make it more difficult to remove without tearing or marking the pack, rendering it unable to be reused.
• Use connected packaging to track goods – connected packaging with tracking technology, such as RFID tags, which allow companies to monitor the movement of their products from the point of manufacture to the point of sale, makes it easier to detect any unauthorised diversion or tampering.
• Help your customers spot a fake – educate your customers about the packaging and labelling of your products to make it easier for them to spot fakes.

Support with tamper evident packaging

At Macfarlane Packaging, we work with customers to ensure their branded packaging delivers the high levels of security and protection, helping to protect their product, their brand and their reputation.  

If you would like to find out more about our branded packaging solutions, contact us today.

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Damages in transit can have an impact on both your reputation and your operating costs. It’s not a good look to have parcels (or any product) arrive damaged. The knock-on effects can include:

• Reverse logistics costs
• Product replacement costs
• Handling costs
• Reputation damage
• Loss of repeat sales
• Increased carbon emissions from logistics

If you’re experiencing damage in transit, this blog is for you. We’ll be taking a closer look at the common causes of shipping damage, the role of packaging in preventing damages, and some popular packaging materials that can protect your products.

Common causes of shipping damages

So, what’s causing your parcels to be damaged? Here are 8 common issues that could be creating shipping damages:

1. Too much space in your pack

Are you using packaging materials that are too big for your product? This is an incredibly common cause of shipping damages as packaging that’s too big leads to product movement.

If your product can move easily during shipping, it is more likely to be damaged as it goes through the rigours of the supply chain. Movement can expose the most fragile parts of your product to the edges or corners of a pack, where crushing or knocks are likely to occur.

2. Outer packaging that isn’t fit for purpose

If you’re experiencing frequent damages, it’s worth considering the outer packaging you’re using.

For example, if you’re using a single wall cardboard box, you may need to trade up to a double wall or even triple wall box for extra protection. The specification for the outer packaging you need will depend on the size, weight, and fragility of your product as well as the shipping method and potentially any storage environment.

3. Not enough in-pack protection  

If your outer packaging is working, but you don’t use the right in-pack protection, your products could be damaged during transit.

Just like a pack that is too big, if you don’t use the right quantity of packing material or it crushes easily under the weight of your product, damages could be on the horizon. Just like the outer packaging you choose, the packing material used inside also depends on product weight size and fragility, as well as the potential shipping journey it will take.

It is worth bearing in mind that the right in-pack protective packaging can often be a “Goldilocks moment” as you need to strike a balance between sufficient protection and not being wasteful.

4. Inconsistencies in your packing processes

You might be using the right packaging materials, but when your team pick, pack and dispatch your product, there could be inconsistencies.

In most packing operations, there will be significant human intervention and therefore human error. For example, one person may use too little void full material, or someone could choose the wrong size box. Packing guidelines or packaging automation can be great tools to combat this.

5. Incorrect or insufficient labelling

The right labelling can help to minimise damages. If your parcel doesn’t indicate there’s sensitive cargo inside, couriers or delivery handlers may not take as much care with it.

Some examples of labelling to prevent transport damage include: fragile markers on boxes, labels indicating any hazards (e.g. if it is chemicals) or even if a product is perishable (such as meal kits).

6. Poor handling during delivery

Chances are, lots of people will handle your product during the shipping and delivery processes. Even when your goods are properly labelled, they may be mishandled. Ensuring you have insurance or cover for improper handling can be useful in protecting your business against this.

7. Water or humidity damage

Inclement weather – particularly rain (we are in the UK!) can lead to packages getting damaged. If a parcel is left outside and it rains – the packaging can deteriorate and the goods inside end up spoiled or damaged. Not ideal.  

In an industrial setting, humidity or condensation can lead to corrosion, warping or even mold, depending on the product. This is where climatic testing of your packaging can be a great option. Particularly if your goods may pass through different conditions. 

8. Theft and tampering

Unfortunately, packages in transit are not immune to theft and tampering. In some instances, parcels may go missing entirely. In others, packages may arrive damaged.

For businesses shipping high end or high value products, security measures and tamper-evident packaging may be needed.

The role of packaging supplies in preventing shipping damages

The packaging supplies you use are critical when it comes to preventing shipping damage. In fact, protection is transit packaging’s primary function.

If you want to prevent damage ensuring you’re using optimised packaging, which is fit-for-purpose, is important too. As we alluded to earlier, packaging that’s the wrong size or specification can lead to damaged products.

Some tips to prevent shipping damages include:

• Choosing outer packaging (like a cardboard box) that’s big enough for your product and strong enough to hold its weight.

• Ensure empty space in your pack is filled with appropriate void fill material – this could be as simple as using bubble wrap or packing chips through to using air pillows, paper cushioning or foam. The right material will depend on the application. For example, do you need to block and brace or just fill the void?

• Put your packaging through supply chain simulations (like the testing facilities we have at our Innovation Labs) to see if you need to make any improvements.

• Have packing guidelines in place, so there is a standard for packing quality and consistency.

• Labels packs appropriately, to give handling guidance. You can also invest in impact or shock indicators, that can inform you if parcels are mishandled.

3 popular packaging materials to minimise shipping damage

So, what are common packaging materials that people use to protect their products? Here are three of the most popular protective packaging products we sell:

1. Bubble wrap – a good all-rounder, bubble wrap has been a popular means of protecting products for years. The bubbles absorb shocks and knocks in transit, helping keep goods safe. It can take up a large amount of storage space though, so if this is a challenge for you – consider something more compact.
2. Paper cushioning – compact paper blocks are a great space-saving option that can be used for cushioning as well as blocking and bracing. Paper cushioning is also recyclable and is available with high recycled content too – like Rankpak FillPak® Recycled Fanfold Paper.
3. Airsac® – for electronics and bottles, Airsac® is a popular pre-formed protective packaging product that is available in a wide range of designs. It is made of recyclable film, that is only inflated upon use. So, it can be stored in a small space.  

Support protecting your products

At Macfarlane Packaging, we have an extensive range of packaging materials and the expertise to help you prevent damage in transit and reduce your operating costs. Get in touch today.

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