What are the most popular materials used for internal packaging?

Packaging is so much more than a purely functional way to send products to customers. Done well, and it can be a form of marketing in itself. Poorly executed and of low quality, it can not only do damage to the goods it’s meant to protect but to the reputation of a company too. That’s why internal packaging – which provides a cushioning effect and stops items from sliding about in transit – is so important. 

So, what are the most popular materials used for internal packaging and what are the pros and cons of the different options available? We’ll discuss a few of these below.

Crumpled paper packaging

Crumpled paper is often used to fill up empty space in a larger outer box and is a widely used choice due to its ready availability and lightweight nature. 

However, with more fragile, temperature-sensitive items it isn’t ideal – and to ensure what even limited protection it has to offer, it’s best to crumple the paper as tightly as possible. What’s more, because it has no insulating properties, this form of packaging isn’t suitable for transporting delicate items such as medicines, electrical goods and food and beverages.     

Bubble wrap packaging

Bubble wrap is great for protecting lightweight goods and a popular choice for internal packaging. Still, to ensure good levels of protection it’s advisable to wrap items in many layers, securing the bubble wrap in heavy duty tape. 

This method often has good intentions but the end result is frequently less than satisfactory. For instance, sending an expensive electrical item wrapped in tape and layers and layers of bubble wrap might not give the best impression to a customer on the receiving end. 

Polystyrene chips or peanuts packaging

Loose polystyrene chips are perfect for filling the smallest of gaps and providing just the right levels of protection and cushioning during transportation. Strong and durable, yet still lightweight, unlike paper polystyrene chips are also resistant to moisture. That’s a big plus if you are concerned about the effects of the weather when shipping your goods to customers. 

Moulded polystyrene inserts packaging

Smaller polystyrene balls can be extruded or moulded into strong and robust inserts which ‘suspend’ items inside a larger package. Keeping goods in suspension in this way stops them from touching in transit and reduces the potential for breakages. 

Polystyrene packaging benefits

Overall, there are many benefits of using polystyrene for internal packaging:  

  • Superior insulating properties which protect against fluctuating temperature
  • Moisture resistance 
  • Shock absorption 
  • Lightweight yet durable and strong

Ultimately, your chosen packaging will depend on the goods to transport, the expectations of customers and your budget. A suitable solution can always be sought where polystyrene is concerned.

Speak to us about internal packaging materials

If you’re looking for cost-effective polystyrene materials for internal packaging, request a free, no obligation quotation by contacting the Vertapak team on 01384 457730 or visit our extensive web blog pages and product pages for more information and send an online enquiry.

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