Polyethylene foam, also called pe foam, is a substance made from the polymerization of ethylene. Foam materials are available in a wide variety of forms to suit business needs, and polyethylene foam is no exception. While it does have a few different uses, packaging is very common. Closed cell polyethylene foam is flexible, shock absorbing and won't rot or mildew.

When using polyethylene foam, you can rest assured that you aren't harming the environment. Polyethylene foam is recyclable, doesn't produce polluting substances when burned and the manufacturing process doesn't produce ozone depleting carbons. Because the polymerization process consumes energy, polyethylene isn't as inexpensive as many raw materials. However, it is still among the least expensive artificially fabricated packing materials.

1. Purchase different sizes, shapes and thicknesses from your pe foam supplier to fit all of your packaging and shipping needs.

2. Save money by purchasing your foam products from a wholesale distributor or directly from a polyethylene foam manufacturer.

3. Use an adequate amount of foam to protect merchandise from damage during storage and shipping.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Choose polyethylene foam manufacturers and sellers who offer a large selection

With so many polyethylene foam manufacturers and sellers today, you can shop around to get the best price. Remember also that polyethylene foam comes in various thicknesses so that you can buy only the size you need.

I recommend: Get a free quote from Pal Group. Simply enter the desired thickness, dimensions and quantity of the foam product you want. Compare prices from other suppliers to foamorder.com. You can buy polyethylene foam in various sizes. They also have a clearance section on their website where you can get great deals.

Purchase wholesale products from a polyethylene foam supplier

If you need large amounts of polyethylene foam for your packaging, consider ordering wholesale to save money. In some cases, you can buy your foam from a polyethylene foam manufacturer.

I recommend: Wholesale Packaging Ltd. stocks rolls of a long polyethylene foam sheet that you can wrap around merchandise during packing. Place an order with Uline, who carries a wide range of foam products, including polyethylene foam rolls.

Use thick pieces of polyethylene foam to protect heavier items

Polyethylene foam comes in all sizes and shapes, including expanded polyethylene foam, which is thick and can protect bulkier, heavier items from damage during shipping and storage.

I recommend: Foam Packaging Company has a good selection of 2 inch thick polyethylene foam in various colors. Foam Factory, Inc. began as a foam supplier in 1980. Polyethylene foam is one of the many products that they sell.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Request samples of foam products before you place a large purchase to ensure that the foam will meet your needs.
• •  Utilize polyethylene foam insulating products to package temperature sensitive products.