The rise of industrialisation and consumerism has undoubtedly led to greater demands for plastic packaging materials. With more and more products being shipped and delivered worldwide, and the need for safe and efficient packaging solutions, it's solidified its place in the industrial sector. As such, it yields a vast spectrum of supplies, from the most versatile to the most specific types.

What Supplies Are Used for Industrial Packaging?

Depending on your particular industry and the type of products you're dealing with, your needs may vary in terms of varieties and quantities. Even so, a handful of options have a ubiquitous presence in plastic packaging across the board.

Stretch Wrap Film

One of the most widely used and versatile supplies, durable and high-density machine stretch film offers a cost-effective method of securing pallets and large loads. The stretch film is typically made from linear polyethylene, which is stretched and wrapped around a load. It helps protect goods from dust, moisture and tampering during transportation.

Thanks to the stretch film's excellent flexibility, it can conform to any shape of the product without adding significant weight. It wraps the load tightly, preventing shifting and movement while also protecting against damage and contamination.

While doing everything by hand is possible, machine stretch film is the better choice for industrial-scale shipping. Using specialised machines allows you to significantly decrease your labour costs, increase your productivity and have a finished product that is consistent in quality. All you have to do is feed the machine with the desired specifications, and it will automatically wrap your load in a matter of seconds.

For instance, businesses in the food industry will find stretch film very useful for wrapping and protecting perishable goods such as meat, fruits and vegetables. The same goes for companies that deal with delicate products like electronics and glassware, especially during transportation. It's also commonly used in warehouses and factories for storing and organizing goods, as well as in retail stores for displaying products and preventing theft.

Another advantage of stretch wrap film is that it is entirely biodegradable, making it an environmentally friendly option for packaging needs. This also helps businesses meet sustainability goals and reduce their carbon footprint, which ultimately benefits both the company and the environment.

You may require different types of stretch films depending on your specific needs. For example, more lightweight and thinner films are suitable for smaller, lighter loads, while heavier and thicker films are better for larger, heavier loads.

Plastic Bags and Pouches

Next up on the list is a packaging staple that we all are familiar with - plastic bags and pouches. These versatile and cost-effective packaging materials are widely used across various industries, from retail to food and beyond.

Plastic bags come in different sizes, shapes, and thicknesses, making them suitable for a wide range of products. They can be clear or opaque, with handles or without, and can even be custom-printed with branding and logos. Pouches, on the other hand, provide a sealable option for packaging items like snacks, liquids, and even powders.

The benefits of plastic bags and pouches are numerous. They offer protection from moisture, dust, and other external factors that can damage or contaminate products. They also help prevent spillage or leakage, particularly in the case of pouches with secure seals. Plastic bags and pouches are also lightweight and easy to store, making them a convenient packaging solution for both businesses and consumers alike.

Bubble Wrap and Air Pillows

When it comes to protecting fragile and delicate items, bubble wrap and air pillows are the go-to packaging materials. These cushioning options provide a layer of protection between products, preventing them from getting damaged during transportation or storage.

Bubble wrap is made from plastic film that has small air pockets evenly distributed throughout. It features a layer of air cushioning that absorbs shock and impact, making it perfect for wrapping fragile items like glassware or electronics. Air pillows, on the other hand, are small plastic bags filled with air. They can be used to fill empty spaces inside packages or as a buffer between products.

Both bubble wrap and air pillows offer lightweight and flexible protection, which can be quite cost-effective for businesses. They are also reusable and recyclable, making them a more sustainable option compared to traditional foam packaging materials.

Foam Packaging Materials

Both polyurethane foam and expanded polystyrene (EPS) foam are commonly used in packaging to protect products during transportation. Polyurethane foam is commonly used for cushioning and insulation, while EPS foam is mostly used as a lightweight packaging material.

As a plastic-based material, foam packaging is lightweight and can be moulded into various shapes and sizes to fit different products. It also provides excellent shock absorption, ensuring that products remain safe during transit. However, foam packaging materials are not biodegradable and can take hundreds of years to decompose in landfills, which makes them a less environmentally friendly option.

Protective Tapes

Last but not least, protective tapes provide another layer of protection for products during transport or storage. Plastic varieties, such as polypropylene and PVC tapes, are the most commonly used types of protective tape due to their strong adhesive properties and ability to withstand harsh environments. They can also be easily customised with company logos or specific handling instructions.

Paper tape is another popular option for eco-conscious businesses as it is made from renewable resources and is biodegradable. However, it's not as durable as plastic varieties and may require additional reinforcement for heavier products.