Packaging Supplies
Browse articles written by our packaging experts
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October 05, 2023
What is Specialty Stretch Wrap?
Specialty Stretch Wrap is a subcategory of stretch wrap that includes products designated for special purposes. These stretch films offer unique protection, allow ventilation, or contain messages for workers.
Our Specialty Stretch Wrap
Product
Image
Gauge
Features
80 Gauge
Safeguards products from static electricity; tined pink for easy visibility and identification
30 - 80 Gauge
Made with a chemical additive that accelerates the plastic's biodegradation
N/A
Comprised of thin, durable fibers that circulate air and regulate temperature
160 Gauge
Secure palletized loads for transport or storage; quick, affordable alternative to rubber bands or twine
80 Gauge
Features the messages "DO NOT BREAK LOAD" and "DO NOT ACCEPT IS SEAL IS BROKEN", depending on the size
80 Gauge
Safeguards products from the sun’s ultraviolet rays; great for outdoor storage
100 Gauge
Protects metal products from environmental corrosion; tinted blue for easy visibility and identification
N/A
Made with die-cut holes that allows for ventilation and prevent condensation
What is Mil Thickness?
Gauge, as it relates to packaging, is one-hundred-thousandths of an inch. For reference, human hair comes in at around 400 gauge, or 0.4% of an inch. Gauge is a popular unit of measurement for the thickness of stretch film; the higher the gauge, the thicker the film. Thicker film is stronger than thinner film, but can be more costly.
Heavy Duty – We define heavy duty stretch film as anything over 100 gauge. Due to the thickness of the film, these products tend to have less length per roll but are the strongest available in our catalog. These are commonly recommended for wrapping heavy industrial products.
Regular – Any films that are 80-99 gauge are classified as regular. The 80 gauge films are the bestselling and most common products. This thickness offers the best strength for most applications without the added costs of thicker heavy-duty films. If you are unsure of which film to use, we recommend starting with an 80 gauge film in most cases.
Medium – Our medium gauges range from 60-79 gauge. These films are recommended for smaller loads or where lightweight items are being bundled.
Economy – We classify any film under 60 gauge as economy in our catalog. These films are only recommended for the lightest product bundling and wrapping applications. These films offer better pricing than heavier gauge films, but at the expense of strength.
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October 04, 2023
What are Packing List Envelopes?
Packing List Envelopes are pouches specifically designed to hold shipping documents, receipts, product info, and warranties during transit. These envelopes have a strong adhesive backing which allows companies to place them on palletized shipments. PLE pouches are an alternative to placing invoices inside packages.
We've made a short introductory video to packing list envelopes, covering the different types and how to use them:
What are the Types of Packing List Envelope?
Type
Image
Features
Full Face
Designed to maximize the print on the front of the pouch; highest visibility of all print types
Panel Face
Features a clear window so customers can easily identify documents
Clear Face
Clear front with zero text for quickly checking invoices or packing lists
What are the Types of Messages?
Type
Image
Features
Invoice Enclosed
Indicates to recipients the presence of a shipping invoice
Packing List Enclosed
Indicates to recipients the presence of a packing list
Packing List Enclosed (USA)
Indicates the presence of a packing list and that the products were made in the USA
Clear Packing List Envelopes
Clear Packing List Envelopes are completely transparent with zero text on the envelope.
Our Clear Packing List Envelopes
Product
Image
Features
Adhesive seal on the flap; clear window allows for easy identification
Reclosable press and seal zipper; clear window lets customers view documents
Invoice Enclosed Envelopes
Invoice Enclosed Envelopes keep invoices on the outside of the package and protect them from the elements.
Our Invoice Enclosed Envelopes
Product
Image
Features
Screens important documents from onlookers; strong poly covering protects against damages during shipping
Features a clear window to easily identify invoices, receipts, and warranties
Packing List Enclosed Envelopes
Packing List Enclosed Envelopes let customers quickly check packing lists to see if all products have been received.
Our Packing List Enclosed Envelopes
Product
Image
Features
Screens packing lists from view; strong poly covering protects against the elements
Features a clear window so customers can quickly view packing lists
USA Flag Print Envelopes
USA Flag Print Envelopes are designed to show customers that their products were manufactured in the United States.
Our USA Flag Print Envelopes
Product
Image
Features
American Flag on front; poly covering safeguards important paperwork
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October 03, 2023
What Are Labels?
Labels are small pieces of packaging material, often adhesive-backed, used for identification, marking, or providing information about a product, object, or container. They come in various shapes, sizes, and materials, depending on their intended use. Labels serve several purposes, including branding, organizing, providing instructions, promoting products or events, and conveying important details to consumers or users.
Our labels are available in two types: sheet and thermal.
Sheet Labels
Sheet Labels are pre-cut adhesive labels that come in the form of individual labels or multiple labels arranged on standard-sized sheets. These labels are designed for printing using standard office printers, such as inkjet printers, laser printers, and photocopiers. Sheet labels are versatile and commonly used for various applications in homes, offices, and industries.
Our Sheet Labels
Product
Image
Features
Works with conventional laser or inkjet printers; easy peel-off adhesive backing
Thermal Labels
Thermal Labels are specifically designed for use with thermal printers, which use heat to apply images directly onto the label material. Thermal printing is a popular method for producing labels quickly and efficiently, especially in commercial and industrial settings.
Our thermal labels are available in two types, based on the kind of printer they are compatible with: direct thermal and thermal transfer.
Direct Thermal Labels
Direct Thermal Labels are printed by Direct Thermal Printers, which heats the label paper as it passes by the print head. Wherever the heat was applied, the text appears. Direct thermal printers do NOT have a hot melt ink ribbon. When scratched, the scratch marks on the label will turn black from the friction.
Our Direct Thermal Labels
Product
Image
Features
Perforated and compatible with Zebra, Sato, and Datamax printers; perfect for printing event tickets, shipping labels, and bakery or deli labels
Stackable and perforated for ease of use; adhesive backing easily sticks to packaging
Thermal Transfer Labels
Thermal Transfer Labels are printed by Thermal Transfer Printers, which contain a ribbon of hot melt ink. The printer heats the ribbon, then "stamps" the label with the desired text. When scatched, the scratch marks on the label will NOT change color.
Our Thermal Transfer Labels
Product
Image
Features
Great for branding, identification, organizing, and general color-coding
Stackable and perforated for reduced printing time
Ideal for shipping, barcoding, and printing warehouse tags
Direct Thermal vs. Thermal Transfer
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October 02, 2023
Table of Contents
What is Tape?
Tape is a tool used to bind, seal, or protect items, surfaces, and packages. Tape is an essential item for any warehouse, office, or home.
Selecting the appropriate tape for specific applications is crucial. Using the wrong tape may cause adhesion issues or even critical failures, potentially leading to product or shipment losses and damages. By finding the right tape, you can save valuable time and money, ensuring secure and reliable packaging solutions.
We have separate product guides for our Carton Sealing and Kraft Tape products:
Carton Sealing Tape Product Guide
Bag Tape
Bag Tape is great for sealing food and other perishables inside poly bags. Bag sealing tape comes in various colors for coding and product identification.
Our Bag Tape
Product
Image
Mil
Adhesive
Features
2.3 Mil
Natural Rubber
Quickly seals poly bags; compatible with poly bag tape dispensers
Double Sided Tape
Double Sided Tape has adhesive on both sides to mount objects to surfaces. This tape is also perfect for bonding items together. Double sided adhesive tape is an alternative to strapping or glue. Double sided tape resists oils, ultraviolet light, and significant temperature changes.
Our Double Sided Tape
Product
Image
Mil
Adhesive
Features
3.9 Mil
Synthetic Rubber
BOPP backing material enhances the tape's strength and flexibility
4 Mil
Synthetic Rubber
Non-woven material is shear and moisture-resistant; easy to tear
3.3 Mil
Solvent Acrylic
Tissue backing is easy to tear and use; extreme temperature resistance
Duct Tape
Duct Tape is used for general maintenance and repairs. This ubiquitous tape can be easily torn by hand and applied to most surfaces. Waterproof and extremely durable, duct tape is perfect for minor repairs in industrial and residential areas.
Our Duct Tape
Product
Image
Mil
Adhesive
Features
6 - 9 Mil
Natural Rubber
High strength, robust cling, and versatile; available in black, silver, and red
6 - 9 Mil
Synthetic Rubber
High strength, robust cling, and versatile; available in black, silver, red, and pink
Filament/Strapping Tape
Filament/Strapping Tape is excellent for medium bundling and strapping applications. This high-quality tape adheres to a multitude of surfaces and secures multiple items for transit. Warehouse employees can use this tape to unitize pallets of product or add a layer of reinforcement around heavier parcels before shipping.
Our Filament/Strapping Tape
Product
Image
Mil
Adhesive
Features
4 Mil
Synthetic Rubber
100 lb/in tensile strength with fiberglass reinforcement
4 Mil
Synthetic Rubber
105 lb/in tensile strength with fiberglass reinforcement
4 Mil
Synthetic Rubber
110 lb/in tensile strength with fiberglass reinforcement
4.8 Mil
Synthetic Rubber
148 lb/in tensile strength with fiberglass reinforcement
2.8 Mil
Acrylic Emulsion
Bundling and palletizing, can be used in place of stretch wrap
Machine Length Tape
Machine Length Tape is 1000 yards long or more and are specially made for automatic box-taping machines. Machine length packaging tape has a standard 3-inch diameter core and is available in a variety of types.
Our Machine Length Tape
Product
Image
Mil
Adhesive
Features
1.75 - 2.5 Mil
Acrylic Emulsion
Resistance to humidity, extreme temperatures, splits, and breaks
2 Mil
Acrylic Emulsion
Available in a variety of colors; great for organizing and branding
1.6 - 2 Mil
Synthetic Rubber
Strong cling, high tensile strength, resists breaks and splits
Masking/Painter's Tape
Masking/Painter's Tape is perfect for painting and DIY applications. These tapes have high-performance adhesives that stick to most irregular surfaces. Plus, masking/painter’s tape does not leave a sticky residue after usage. These tapes are commonly used for protecting hardwood floors and trim while painting.
Our Masking/Painter's Tape
Product
Image
Mil
Adhesive
Features
4.3 Mil
Natural Rubber
Great for masking surfaces, making labels, and temporary bundling and hanging jobs
4.3 Mil
Natural Rubber
Great for masking surfaces, making labels, and temporary bundling and hanging jobs
4.3 Mil
Natural Rubber
Great for masking surfaces, making labels, and temporary bundling and hanging jobs
5.4 Mil
Natural Rubber
Highest strength masking tape; great for masking, labeling, bundling, and hanging
5.7 Mil
Acrylic
Specially made for painting, can be removed after 21 days residue-free
5.5 Mil
Acrylic
Specially made for painting, can be removed after 21 days residue-free
Printed Tape
Printed Tape has pre-printed instructions & warnings for recipients. Printed acrylic tape is specifically designed to grab the customer’s attention so that products are handled carefully.
Our Printed Tape
Product
Image
Mil
Adhesive
Features
2 Mil
Acrylic Emulsion
"CAUTION" printed in bold, red letters
2 Mil
Acrylic Emulsion
"FRAGILE HANDLE WITH CARE" printed in bold, red letters
2 Mil
Acrylic Emulsion
Stop signs and "IF SEAL IS BROKEN OR PACKAGE DAMAGED, CHECK CONTENTS BEFORE SIGNING RECEIPT" printed in red
Security Tape
Security Tape helps in shipping high-value items to customers safely. This tape is designed to help recipients identify tampered goods and deter thieves and vandals.
Our Security Tape
Product
Image
Mil
Adhesive
Features
1.9 Mil
Synthetic Rubber
Busy, striped pattern indicates tampering; features warning message: "CAUTION: IF SEAL IS BROKEN, CHECK CONTENTS"
Surface Protection Tape
Surface Protection Tape is ideal for protecting carpets and wood floors from construction debris. The larger rolls are perfect for contractors working in bigger spaces and the protection tape does not leave a residue upon removal.
Our Surface Protection Tape
Product
Image
Mil
Adhesive
Features
2.2 Mil
Acrylic
Protects carpeted surfaces during construction or home improvement; residue-free removal up to 45 days after application
3 Mil
Acrylic
Protects hard surfaces during renovations; residue-free removal up to 45 days after application; tinted blue for easy identification
What is Mil Thickness?
A mil is one-thousandth of an inch. Also known as a thou or a point, mil is the standard unit for measuring thickness in tape. As a point of reference, an average human hair is roughly 4 mil thick.
Carton sealing tapes are typically available in the 1.6-3.0 mil range, with 2.0 mil being the average. Acrylic tapes tend to be thinner, while hot melt tapes are usually thicker. High performance tapes like filament or kraft can be as thick as 4-6 mil.
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October 02, 2023
What are Mailing Envelopes?
Mailing Envelopes are essential packaging solutions designed to securely transport documents, letters, or other flat items through mail or shipping services. Also known as shipping envelopes, they are lightweight and durable, specifically designed for shipping and mailing. Mailing envelopes come in various types, each offering unique features and benefits.
Our mailing envelopes come in three main types: bubble, kraft, and poly.
Bubble Mailers
Bubble Mailers are designed with a layer of bubble lining to safeguard shipments from damage. They provide excellent cushioning and protection against impacts, making them ideal for shipping delicate items such as jewelry, electronics, or small breakable items.
Our Bubble Mailers:
Product
Image
Mil
Features
2.5 Mil
Outer protective bubble lining; clear window for visibility
2 Mil
Bright and vibrant aluminum foil exterior; great for special orders and occasions
2.5 Mil
Great for semi-fragile items, like CDs and DVDs
Kraft Mailers
Kraft Mailers are made from sturdy and eco-friendly kraft paper. These envelopes are known for their durability, tear resistance, and natural appearance. Kraft mailers are commonly used for shipping a variety of items, providing reliable protection while also being environmentally friendly.
Our Kraft Mailers:
Product
Image
Mil
Features
2.5 Mil
Safely and securely ship photographs, prints, artwork, and other delicate flat items
3.5 Mil
Durable and cushioning; professional appearance
3.5 Mil
High strength and durability, cushioning bubble lining
Poly Mailers
Poly Mailers are an economical alternative to corrugated boxes. These mailers are lightweight, flexible, and durable envelopes made from polyethylene material. They are commonly used for shipping and mailing a wide range of non-fragile items, such as clothing, accessories, books, or small electronics.
Our Poly Mailers:
Product
Image
Mil
Features
2 - 3 Mil
Lightweight and durable; ideal for non-fragile items
2.5 Mil
Transparent front panel allows items inside to be visible
3 Mil
Expandable side gussets accomodate bulkier and oddly-shaped items
2.5 Mil
Manufactured from recycled materials, eco-friendly
How Thick of a Mailer Do I Need?
Mailing envelopes are available in a variety of thicknesses to meet the demands of the job. While thinner mailers will be more cost-effective, thicker mailers offer greater protection.
Mil is the most common measurement of thickness for mailers. Also known as a thou or a point, mil is one-thousandth of an inch. For reference, human hair comes in at around 4 mil. Most poly mailers are available in the 2-3 mil range, while high-performance mailers come in at around 4-6 mil for extra strength.
For more information on the different units of measurement for material thickness, be sure to check out our article about micron, mil, and gauge.
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September 27, 2023
What Are Poly Bags?
Poly Bags are small bags made from FDA and USDA-approved plastic material, such as polyethylene (PE) or polypropylene (PP). Perfect for storing and organizing small items, these bags come in different sizes, shapes, and thicknesses to suit different purposes. Many poly bags come with reclosable openings, allowing for multiple uses and minimal waste.
Our Poly Bags
Product
Image
Mil
Features
2 - 4 Mil
Hang hole near the top, allows for easy hanging and display
4 Mil
Hang hole, write-on white label, reclosable zipper
0.4 Mil
Ultra thin; keeps produce fresh; comes as a roll of bags
2 - 6 Mil
Secure and reusable zipper seal
1.5 Mil
Reusable adhesive seal, suffocation warnings in 3 languages
2 - 3 Mil
Sliding zipper allows for easy opening and closing
2 - 4 Mil
White writable surface for labeling and marking
What is Mil Thickness?
Mil is the standard unit of measurement for poly/plastic bags. Also known as a thou or a point, a mil is one-thousandth of an inch. For reference, human hair is roughly 4 mil thick.
Most poly bags will be available in the 2-3 mil range, with some specialty bags coming in at 1.5 and 4 mil.
For more information on the measurements of thickness and how to convert between different units of measurement, be sure to check out our article about micron, mil, and gauge.
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September 27, 2023
What Are Equipment & Accessories?
Equipment & Accessories is comprised of various handles and dispensers that accommodate certain kinds of stretch film and packing tape. These tools provide a safe and ergonomic grip while dispensing the packaging materials, keeping workers safe and reducing the strain they experience on the job. Equipment and accessories are highly cost-effective, as they can be used and reused for as long as they last. When you use these accessories together with a roll of stretch wrap or packing tape, you’ll end up making your packaging processes faster, easier, and safer.
Our Stretch Wrap Equipment & Accessories
For 3” Core:
Product
Image
Function
Application
Advantages
Manual wrapping handle that holds the film steady during use
Best with 2-6” mini stretch film
Cost-effective, lightweight, reusable, and protective
Manual wrapping handle that holds the film steady during use
Great for 6-15” mini and hand stretch film
Comfortable, steady grip; firm hold on wrap
Protects hands from harm when holding the wrap by the core
Recommended for 8-20” hand stretch film
Improve wrapping speed; reusable and lightweight
Advanced wrapping device that bundles and palletizes loads
Ideal for 12-15” hand stretch film
Relieve muscle tension during application; high wrapping throughput
For 1” Core:
Product
Image
Function
Application
Advantages
Manual wrapping handle that fits onto extended core wraps
Recommended for extended core stretch film
Comfortable, steady grip; firm hold on core
Manual wrapping handle with a spinning head
Great for 2-6” mini bundling wrap
Spinning action makes for easy wrapping; reusable and lightweight
Manual wrapping handle that allows the film roll to freely spin
Great for 2-6” mini bundling wrap
Cost-effective, reusable and lightweight
For Coreless:
Product
Image
Function
Application
Advantages
Manual wrapping handle that extends beyond the wrap roll
Best for mini and hand stretch film
Improve bundling efficiency; lightweight, reusable, and protective
Protects hands from harm when holding the wrap by the core
Recommended for 8-20” coreless hand stretch film
Improve wrapping speed; reusable and lightweight
Our Tape Equipment & Accessories
For Carton Sealing Tape:
Product
Image
Function
Application
Advantages
Manual tape dispenser that quickly seals cartons
Best for standard carton sealing tape
Cost-effective; reusable and lightweight
Manual tape dispenser that quickly seals cartons
Best for heavy-duty carton sealing tape
Strong build, lasts longer; reliable and reusable
For Specialized Tape:
Product
Image
Function
Application
Advantages
Manual filament tape dispenser that quickly seals cartons
Specially made for 1-2” filament tape
Ergonomic design; reusable and lightweight
Automatic/manual kraft tape dispenser that quickly seals cartons
Specially made for kraft tape up to 76mm wide
Automatic and manual settings; adjustable moistening brushes
Manual tape dispenser that quickly seals poly bags
Specially made for 3/8” width poly bag tape
Table-mounted, easy to use
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September 22, 2023
What is Kraft Tape?
Kraft Tape, also known as gummed tape, is made from a kraft paper backing, a high-strength paper derived from chemically-treated wood pulp. The roll of kraft paper is coated on one side with a starch-based adhesive that requires water activation to become sticky. Kraft tape dispensers are equipped with sponges and/or moistening brushes that apply a thin layer of water to the tape to activate it. The kraft paper backing is durable and resistant to tearing, splitting, moisture, and common contaminants like dust and dirt. The water-activated adhesive is so strong that it penetrates the fibers of cardboard and paper packaging, creating a powerful and tamper-proof seal.
Our Kraft Tapes
Product
Image
Mil
Benefits
5 - 6.9 Mil
Guards packages, prevents damage, and eliminates theft and vandalism
6.7 Mil
No fiberglass reinforcement, more flexible and easier to handle; best used as an inner carton liner or for lightweight loads
4.8 - 5.9 Mil
Pressure sensitive tape that resists curling, abrasion, water, and breakage; no water activation
6.3 Mil
Strong and secure seal; high resistance to extreme temperatures and humidity
5.9 Mil
Durable water-activated adhesion; high-strength kraft paper backing
5.7 Mil
Stronger-than-average water-activated adhesive; best used for heavy-duty and important loads
5.5 - 6.3 Mil
Seals cartons, resists contamination, deters tampering and pilferage
What is Mil Thickness?
A mil is one-thousandth of an inch. Also known as a thou or a point, mil is the standard unit for measuring thickness in tape. As a point of reference, an average human hair is roughly 4 mil thick.
Kraft tapes are typically available in the 5-7 mil range, with 6 mil being the average.
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September 22, 2023
Our gloves are available in two main categories: disposable and work.
Disposable Gloves
Disposable Gloves are designed to be used once and thrown away by the user. These essential gloves keep common areas sanitary and promote overall wellness within medical and industrial facilities. Disposal gloves are available in two types: industrial and medical exam. Industrial gloves are thicker and provide greater protection, while medical exam gloves are thinner and offer greater flexibility.
Our Disposable Gloves
Product
Image
Mil
Colors
Styles
1.5 - 2 Mil
Blue, Clear
TPE Vinal, High Density Polyethylene
4 - 4.5 Mil
Clear
Industrial, Medical Exam
3 - 8 Mil
Blue, Clear, Orange
Industrial, Medical Exam
5 Mil
Black, Blue
Synthetic-Vinyl
5 Mil
Blue, Clear
Industrial, Medical Exam
Work Gloves
Work Gloves help multiple professionals succeed in their daily job duties. These indispensable gloves help individuals develop safe practices during shifts and can be used daily until visible wear and tear is seen.
Our Work Gloves
Product
Image
Material
Application
Polyester, Cotton
Stocking materials in warehouses and distribution centers; breathable
Cotton
Transporting fragile glassware, paintings, or other delicate objects; prevents fingerprints and smudges
Nitrile
Protection against cuts and abrasions when opening boxes; strong grip
Leather
High visibility for road crews and construction workers
Nitrile
Protection when handling oddly shaped or sharp objects; strong grip
Polyurethane
Safeguarding from minor cuts or scrapes within maintenance and industrial workspaces
PVC
Strong and comfortable grip when working with tools or small parts; single or double-sided dots
Cotton
Safeguards from cuts and scrapes for landscaping and manufacturing jobs
What Thickness of Glove Do I Need?
The thickness of disposable gloves is measured in mil. A mil, also known as a thou or a point, is one-thousandth of an inch. For reference, the average human hair comes in around 4 mil. Most disposable gloves are available in the 2-5 mil range. Medical exam gloves and food service gloves tend to be thinner, while industrial gloves are usually thicker.
Work gloves do not have their thickness listed. However, given the materials used to manufacture them, work gloves are much thicker than the thickest disposable gloves.