If you want to keep your delivery costs in check and optimize the efficiency of your packaging operations, it is vital that you start with the right packing materials.
Although there are many options out there, flexible film remains a favorite among manufacturers across a variety of sectors, including food and beverage, as well as consumer goods. Industrial manufacturers consistently turn to flexible film as well due to its unique properties and versatility.
Here is everything you need to know about flexible film so that you can decide whether it’s a proper fit for your packaging needs.
Flexible film is exactly what it sounds like — a thin, flexible, and versatile plastic film that can be used to package all sorts of different products, including foods, consumer goods, and industrial supplies.
Flexible film falls under the umbrella of “flexible packaging,” which, generally speaking, refers to any type of packaging solution that incorporates non-rigid materials. Such solutions may include pliable containers, stand-up pouches, quad bags, and of course, plastic film.
Flexible film and packaging material can be produced using many different materials, the most common of which include the following:
POF is an FDA-approved material that has been deemed “food-safe.” As such, it is commonly used to package perishable food products for transport. It offers great puncture resistance and is ideal for packaging odd-shaped items, such as fruits and vegetables.
LDPE is extremely resistant to chemicals, moisture, and impact and is easy to recycle as well. It is often used when packagers need to create a heat seal around a product.
PET is incredibly flexible and lightweight. It is 100% recyclable and offers great protection against moisture. PET is not only used to create films but bottles and product containers like peanut butter jars as well.
Flexible film and other non-rigid packaging supplies quickly gained traction among manufacturers over the years. The invention of modern, more economically- and environmentally-friendly plastics has certainly contributed to the widespread adoption of flexible film as well.
Flexible film has also become a popular choice amongst packagers and manufacturers because it is:
Flexible film and other flexible packaging solutions are exceptionally versatile. For instance, manufacturers can use flex packaging to create containers that hang on displays, stand upright, and minimize space consumption.
In terms of flexible film, it is a product that can be used to wrap just about anything. Whether a manufacturer needs to protect a shipment of oddly-shaped objects or create a moisture barrier around sensitive electronics, flexible film offers the perfect solution.
Flexible film is also versatile in terms of storage. The lightweight material takes up very little space and is also easy to handle, attributes that make it far more appealing than cumbersome alternatives like cardboard and packing paper. As an added benefit, flexible film has an exceptional shelf life.
By nature, cardboard boxes are not very customizable. As a result, cardboard and other rigid packaging supplies create a lot of unused space when packing odd-shaped objects.
Conversely, flexible film can be customized based on the needs of your business. No matter the dimensions or shape of your products, you can tailor-make flex packaging to fit your needs.
Other elements of flexible film can also be customized accordingly. For instance, you can select a film that is transparent — so that consumers can get a clear glimpse of your product while it sits on store shelves — or you can opt for a thicker, more protective film to safeguard your product against moisture and other natural elements.
Modern consumers are more environmentally conscious than ever before. They want to do business with brands that are stewards of natural resources, and they actively avoid brands that use wasteful packaging or other manufacturing processes that place undue strain on the environment.
Likewise, numerous government organizations and private entities are making a push for manufacturers to implement sustainable business practices. The push is largely evidenced by the creation of initiatives like the Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) framework.
Businesses that embrace this framework and demonstrate themselves as environmentally conscious brands find themselves in better standing with both vendor partners and consumers.
You may wonder, though, just what that all has to do with flexible film. The answer is simple: Modern, flexible film packaging is highly recyclable. Some film materials are 100% recyclable, which means that using these materials will enable your business to drastically reduce its packaging-related environmental footprint.
Some manufacturers have bought into the misconception that there is an economic tradeoff when investing in sustainable business practices. While there may be instances when this is the case, switching to flexible film can actually be a savvy way to reduce your environmental impact and cut costs.
Flexible film reduces costs and waste production in several ways. First off, flexible film can be tailored to meet the unique dimensions of your product. In other words, you can use the exact amount of packaging materials you need — no more and no less — thereby reducing your total material consumption and driving down packaging costs.
Additionally, flexible film can provide better product protection than traditional materials like cardboard and paper, which in turn can lead to fewer instances of product damage or spoilage and a likely boost in profitability.
Korpack is a full-service packaging solutions provider. Our team offers a dynamic suite of services, including automation, design, engineering, and providing you with packaging materials, such as flexible film.
If you want to incorporate flexible film into your packaging processes, Korpack can help. We can provide you with the supplies and machinery needed to cut costs and expedite packing processes using this versatile material. Our leading-edge machinery allows you to apply flex film to your products with lightning-fast efficiency.
To learn more, contact our team to schedule a consultation. Alternatively, you can request a quote on machinery, design services, and packaging supplies.
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