Purchasing Resources for Loose Fill Packaging Materials

Loose Fill Packaging Materials Key Terms

Some key terms for loose fill packing materials
By J. Stoltzfus, writer/programmer LOCAL CITIZEN Any time a business has to protect items in transit, loose fill is a popular choice. A diversity of loose fill materials are convenient for filling any size of container to make sure items do not shift excessively as they are en route to recipients. There are a lot of loose fill products to choose from, and knowing about some common key terms will help a business to take a closer look at what is right for shipping their products anywhere around the world.
 

Packing peanuts

Packing peanuts are small items, usually made from styrofoam, but sometimes from other materials, that are one of the most common kinds of loose fill packaging material. Packing peanuts are a more versatile alternative to loose fill "sheets" that are sometimes used to protect products during shipping.
Try: See more on packing peanuts at WiseGeek.

Paper loose fill

Paper loose fill products are small-cut from sheets and sold in a bagged or boxed mix that will protect items during transit. Paper loose fill often serves a decorative purpose for holiday shipping or similar projects.
Try: See more on paper loose fill materials at Spring Fill.

Biodegradable loose fill

These days, with ecology a looming issue for most businesses, there is a movement toward biodegradable products. This is prominent in the loose fill industry, where biodegradable loose fill made of corn starch is becoming popular.
Try: See more on elements of biodegradable loose fill at Sigma Supply.

Recycling loose fill

Another way to use loose fill responsibly is with recycling programs for loose fill materials. Businesses that do not use the biodegradable materials look for ways to reuse packing materials for a better future for the earth.
Try: See more on recycling loose fill at the website of the Plastic Loose Fill Council.

Interlocking loose fill

Some loose fill products are made to lock together to provide more packing protection. Businesses can look for popular items, like Scotch Packing Noodles, that have interlocking design.
Try: Look for news on types of interlocking loose fill materials at Star Tech. See Scotch Packing Noodles on display at The Green Office.

Anti-static loose fill

Many loose fill products are engineered for anti-static protection. Static charges in loose fill can damage fragile materials like electronics. Businesses should consider the anti-static properties of loose fill options carefully.
Try: Get a detailed example of treating loose fill products for an anti-static result at Flo-Pak.