All types of businesses want to package their goods in such a way that they reach their customers without getting damaged. This is where protective packaging and loose fill come in handy. In this article, we will answer frequently asked questions regarding loose fill.
What is Loose Fill?
Loose fill is a packaging material that is used to make sure that your valuable goods do not move around in the cardboard box during transportation. Also known as void fill, it is used to fill the empty spaces left in the box. For fragile goods bubble wrap is used to provide cushioning but void fill is used to fill open gaps so that items stay in their place in transit.
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Are Loose Fill and Protective Packaging Used for the Same Purpose?
Void fill and protective packaging are not used for the same purpose. Loose fill is a material that is utilised to ensure that any spaces or gaps left in the box after packaging are filled. This curbs the movement of your goods in transit ensuring no damage occurs.
On the other hand, protective packaging is utilised to safeguard fragile goods, like bubble wrap covers the item, providing a layer of cushioning. It saves delicate goods from physical damage. The work of both materials is to protect goods during transportation.
Are There Different Types of Loose Fill Materials to Choose From?
Yes, there are various types of void fill materials to choose from as per your business needs. Let’s know some of them:
Packing Peanuts: These are small foam pieces that are used to fill spaces in the box to prevent any movement in transit.
Air Pillows: These provide cushioning and are effectively used as void fill. They are made from plastic or paper material. Being created from a sealable material, they can be inflated with air using airwave inflators. These are lightweight and reusable.
Newspaper offcuts: These are popularly used to fill empty spaces in moving boxes to prevent the movement of goods.
Packaging Paper: Any type of paper (like Kraft paper) can be used by folding or crumpling to fill gaps in the packages. It is quite an affordable option.
Corrugated Inserts: For great protection corrugated inserts created from used corrugated cardboard boxes are inserted in the boxes as void fill.
Shredded Paper: Similar to packaging paper, the shredded paper is also an excellent option for void fill. This cost effective material offers cushioned protection.
What are the Advantages of Loose Fill?
There are several advantages of using void fill. As mentioned earlier, it is used to decrease the movement in the box so that goods inside are not at risk of getting scratched or broken. The cardboard box in which the goods are packed will be handled by numerous people during transportation. The void fill will safeguard your valuable items.
Void fill also safeguards the exterior packaging material like cardboard boxes. If void fill is not used when packing heavy goods within a box, then they will move around in the cardboard box. It can result in the box getting damaged. So, it is recommended to use void fill so that after the shipment is delivered, the outer box remains intact and can be reused.
Void fill also adds to the aesthetic appeal of the packaging. Your customers will get a great unboxing experience. You can also use the void fill material for branding by printing your logo and a ‘thank you’ message for your customers.
