Flexible packaging materials are used in a variety of industries to provide products with packaging that is easy to use for the consumer and simple for packaging companies to get the product into the packaging. Flexible packaging is made from many different materials, some of which include plastic and thin metals.

Companies that manufacture flexible packaging should know what material is best suited for packaging different types of products. There are many ways to learn about flexible packaging products and material. From classroom training to educational resources on the latest materials, you can find flexible packaging materials education and training opportunities through:

1. Classroom training that teaches all aspects of packaging.

2. Organizations that set industry standards for quality.

3. Industry events that showcase the latest in flexible plastic packaging.

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

Train to work with bendable packaging materials by getting a degree in packaging

A few colleges and universities offer students a chance to learn more about the science of packaging through majors, minors and even master's programs in packaging science. These programs focus on creating new packaging materials, better design, and the marketing skills needed to sell packaging products to other industries.

I recommend: Clemson University offers a packaging science major that focuses on designing and marketing packaging materials. Michigan State University offers both undergraduate and graduate degrees in packaging science, with many classes available online.

Learn about industry standards for industrial flexible packaging materials

An International Organization for Standardization (ISO) rating shows consumers that your company provides quality products. ISO has developed standards specifically for the flexible packaging materials industry. All employees of a packaging company should have compliance training to meet these benchmarks.

I recommend: The ISO provides the standards for many packaging types, listed under the 9001 category. Caliso offers ISO 9000 training for those who want to work with flexible packaging materials. The company also provides lead auditor training.

Attend industry events to learn more about the latest innovations in plastic flexible packaging

Industry events for flexible packaging materials are held throughout the year across the United States. These events allow employees and companies to network with other professionals in the field, take a look at the latest technology in packaging design, and talk with experts about the business side of a packaging company.

I recommend: HealthPack is an annual industry event for packaging companies that specialize in making flexible packaging materials for the healthcare industry. South Pack is an annual event where packaging manufacturers in the southern United States gather to network and talk to experts about flexible packaging materials for food, medical and other consumer products.

Flexible packaging offers the packing protection you need to secure your products during shipping and handling. Flexible plastic packaging should fit your product to help maintain the integrity of your product during shipping, so it's important to find the right styles of plastic flexible packaging for your product.

Flexible packaging distributors can provide bendable packaging products that meet your product specifications. Whether you need flexible plastic packaging boxes, flexible packaging plastic sleeves or other types of flexible packing material, an experienced distributor of flexible packaging can help you. When you shop for flexible packaging products, you should:

1. Choose a distributor that offers a variety of flexible packaging material solutions.

2. Buy industrial flexible packaging materials in bulk to save money.

3. Pick eco-friendly flexible packaging materials.

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

Buy from a flexible packaging distributor who offers a variety of bendable packaging materials

Choose a flexible packaging material distributor who offers a variety of plastic flexible packaging solutions to meet the changing needs of your business.

I recommend: The professionals at Paper Mart offer an assortment of plastic flexible packaging products to meet your product specifications. From bubble wrap bendable packaging materials to special packaging paper, Paper Mart offers a variety of flexible packaging at competitive prices. Use AllPackagingServices.com for a wide selection of flexible plastic packaging at affordable savings.

Buy flexible plastic packaging wholesale

Wholesale flexible packaging material is the cost-effective solution to your flexible packaging needs when you want to purchase large quantities. Distributors often offer volume discounts on large bendable packaging material orders.

I recommend: Choose ULINE as your supplier of wholesale flexible packaging products. ULINE offers convoluted foam products that supply versatile flexible packaging at volume price discounts. GlobalIndustrial.com offers a variety of flexible packaging material in bulk to save you money.

Choose flexible packing material that is friendly to the environment

Flexible packaging products that are environmentally-friendly not only help to save the environment, but also promote your business as being eco-friendly, an attractive attribute to potential customers.

I recommend: Use PaperNuts.com for your eco-friendly flexible packing needs. They offer environmental packaging made from 100% recycled paper. UFP Technologies offers Cushion Cubes, a biodegradable flexible packing alternative to plastic packaging materials.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Ask distributors of flexible packaging materials for samples of the bendable packaging products that interest you to ensure the products are sufficient for your business's shipping needs.