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Tag Archive: packaging

1. Biodegradable Plastic Packaging

   March 16, 2026 6:14 pm Comments Off on Biodegradable Plastic Packaging

   

   Environmental responsibility has moved from a “nice‑to‑have” to an operational requirement. Customers and regulators are increasingly focused on how packaging materials behave after use, not just during transit. 

   For many applications, biodegradable plastic packaging products offer a practical path forward. These materials are engineered to maintain strength and consistency while enabling accelerated breakdown once they reach end‑of‑life environments such as landfills. 

   Biodegradable plastics represent one approach within a broader packaging sustainability strategy that also includes material reduction, recyclability and responsible sourcing. Rather than relying on ideal disposal scenarios, biodegradable plastics are designed for the reality of modern waste streams.

    

   Key Terms for Plastic Packaging 

   Misunderstanding disposal terminology can lead to unintended environmental outcomes. Biodegradable plastics address a different challenge than compostable or recyclable materials. 

   Biodegradable Plastics 

   Biodegradable materials are designed to break down through microbial activity over time. The rate and effectiveness of degradation depend on environmental conditions such as oxygen availability, temperature, and microbial presence. Many biodegradable plastic films are specifically engineered to degrade in anaerobic landfill conditions, where most flexible packaging ultimately ends up.

   Compostable Materials 

   Compostable packaging must break down into non‑toxic components that safely enrich soil. Most compostable plastics require industrial composting facilities, which are limited in availability and often do not accept films, tapes or stretch wrap. Compostable does not mean the material will degrade in landfills or home compost environments.

   Recyclable Plastics 

   Recyclable materials can be reprocessed into new products, but only when collection and processing infrastructure exists. Flexible films are often technically recyclable yet rarely recovered due to limited access and contamination concerns.

   Oxo‑Degradable Plastics 

   Oxo‑degradable plastics fragment when exposed to oxygen and UV light. These materials do not fully biodegrade and can introduce microplastics into the environment, making them an increasingly discouraged option.

   For organizations evaluating multiple material paths, it’s helpful to understand how biodegradable options fit alongside other sustainable packaging approaches.

    

   BioNatur® Biodegradable Film

   BioNatur® biodegradable films are primarily conventional polyethylene with a small percentage (approximately 1%) of an organic polymer additive. Microorganisms consume this additive, initiating molecular chain breakdown within the plastic structure.

   These films retain the durability, shelf life, and processing characteristics of standard polyethylene and can be recycled alongside conventional plastics. In landfill conditions, BioNatur films break down in an average of 1,697 days, compared to the centuries‑long persistence of traditional plastics.

   Because the additive strengthens the polymer matrix, BioNatur films can often achieve required performance using less material, supporting both material reduction and durability goals.

   Designed for industrial use, BioNatur films are compatible with automated packaging systems, offer excellent printability and remain cost‑competitive, without the risk of premature degradation during storage or use.

   Importantly, this technology acknowledges a critical reality: most flexible plastic packaging is not composted or recycled. Biodegradable polyethylene solutions are increasingly being adopted by global logistics and e‑commerce organizations as part of broader environmental initiatives.

    

    Sigma VANISH™ Stretch Film with Eclipse™ 

   For palletized loads, TPC Packaging Solutions offers Sigma VANISH™ Cast Stretch Film, powered by Eclipse™ Technology for accelerated bio‑assimilation.

   Unlike conventional stretch films that can persist for centuries, Sigma VANISH is engineered to fully bio‑assimilate in approximately two years after disposal. Once its service life ends, naturally occurring microorganisms consume the material, leaving no microplastics or toxic residue.

   Sigma VANISH delivers reliable load containment during use and integrates seamlessly into standard hand and machine stretch wrapping operations. This makes it a practical solution for organizations seeking biodegradable pallet wrap without sacrificing performance or productivity.

    

   Complementary Packaging Materials from TPC 

   While biodegradable plastics address end‑of‑life concerns for flexible films, TPC Packaging Solutions also supports material efficiency and recovery through paper‑based packaging options. These include recycled paper mailers with honeycomb cushioning, paper fragile wrap, decorative and protective void fill, and innovative padding materials made from grass fibers or vegetable starch. 

   Many of these products are sourced from responsibly managed supply chains and carry certifications such as FSC®, SFI®, PEFC™, and CMA.

    

   Making Biodegradable Packaging Decisions with Data 

   Selecting biodegradable materials alone does not guarantee meaningful environmental improvement. Packaging performance, material usage, and operational efficiency must be evaluated together. 

   TPC Packaging Solutions applies data‑driven tools such as the Paragon Client Analysis Tool to assess current packaging systems and identify opportunities for optimization. This analysis considers equipment settings, material usage, throughput, load characteristics, and reduction potential, enabling measurable improvements without disrupting operations.

    

    Move Forward with Biodegradable Packaging 

   Biodegradable plastics are most effective when they align with real disposal conditions, operational demands, and performance requirements. TPC Packaging Solutions offers engineered biodegradable films, stretch wraps and supporting materials to help organizations reduce long‑term environmental impact while maintaining efficiency.  

   If you’re still defining your sustainability goals, understanding the full range of material strategies can help clarify which options make the most sense for your operation. 

   Ready to evaluate biodegradable packaging options tailored to your operation? Contact TPC Packaging Solutions to speak with a packaging expert and explore solutions that fit your products, processes, and sustainability goals.

2. Vacuum Sealed Packaging for Non-Food Items

   January 28, 2026 9:25 pm Comments Off on Vacuum Sealed Packaging for Non-Food Items

   

   Vacuum sealed packaging is no longer limited to food products. Across eCommerce, pharmaceuticals, apparel, and industrial manufacturing, vacuum sealed packaging for non-food items is becoming increasingly popular as companies look to reduce shipping costs, protect products, and improve storage efficiency. Even major online marketplaces like Amazon now rely heavily on vacuum sealed packaging to ship soft goods, medical products and sensitive components more efficiently.

   As supply chains become more cost-conscious and sustainability-driven, vacuum sealing has emerged as a practical solution for packaging a wide range of non-food products.

    

   What Is Vacuum Sealed Packaging?

   Vacuum sealed packaging works by removing nearly all the air from a package and creating an airtight barrier around the product. This process significantly reduces exposure to oxygen and humidity; two of the most common causes of product degradation.

   Industrial vacuum sealed packaging systems typically use:

   • A vacuum sealer packaging machine (chamber or external style)
   • Durable, puncture-resistant vacuum bags or films
   • Controlled compression settings based on product type

   Unlike food-focused systems, many non-food vacuum package sealer machines are designed to handle larger, softer or irregularly shaped items without damage.

    

   Key Benefits of Vacuum Sealed Packaging for Non-Food Products

   Protection
   Vacuum sealed packaging creates a secure barrier against moisture, dust, dirt, oxidation and pests, helping safeguard products throughout storage and transit. This level of protection is especially critical for pharmaceuticals, electronics, metal components and goods intended for long-term storage.

   Preservation
   By removing oxygen from the package, vacuum sealing helps products maintain their quality and appearance over time. From medical supplies to apparel and textiles, sensitive items benefit from a stable, contamination-free environment.

   Cost-Effective Performance
   Improved protection and preservation reduce product damage and returns, while smaller, more efficient packages help lower freight costs. Together, these advantages make vacuum sealed packaging a cost-effective solution for manufacturers and high-volume shippers.

   ROI of Space Saving
   One of the most measurable returns on investment from vacuum sealed packaging comes from reducing package volume and dimensional (DIM) weight charges. FedEx and UPS bill shipments based on the greater of actual weight or dimensional weight, meaning excess air inside a package can significantly increase shipping costs.

   As of August 18, 2025, both carriers round every package dimension up to the nearest whole inch, increasing cubic volume and pushing shipments into higher pricing tiers. By removing air and compressing products, vacuum sealed packaging reduces package height and overall size. Switching from a corrugated box to a vacuum-sealed mailer can lower dimensional weight for soft goods and other compressible items, resulting in consistent freight savings.

   For high-volume shippers, these space reductions translate directly into ROI through lower per-package shipping costs and reduced warehouse space requirements, making vacuum packaging a practical strategy for controlling logistics costs.

    

   Common Non-Food Applications for Vacuum Sealed Packaging

   Vacuum sealed packaging is widely used across non-food markets, including:

   • Apparel and Textiles: Sneakers, clothing, bedding, pillows, towels, and soft goods are commonly vacuum compressed to reduce shipping volume.
   • Pharmaceuticals and Medical Supplies: Vacuum sealing helps maintain effectiveness by protecting products from humidity and contamination.
   • Industrial Components: Machine parts, metal components, and tools are protected against oxidation, corrosion, dust, and dirt.
   • eCommerce Fulfillment: Businesses use vacuum sealed packaging to reduce dimensional weight charges and improve packaging consistency for platforms like Amazon.

   Specialized manufacturers now offer vacuum sealer packaging machines designed specifically for clothing, bedding, and other compressible non-food items, which are distinct from traditional food vacuum sealers.

    

   How Vacuum Sealed Packaging Works

   The vacuum sealing process for non-food items generally follows three steps:
   1. Air Removal: A vacuum package sealer removes nearly all air from the package.
   2. Sealing: The package is sealed to create an airtight barrier.
   3. Compression (if applicable): Soft goods are compressed evenly to reduce volume without damaging the product.

   Depending on the application, businesses may use chamber-style systems or external vacuum sealers with adjustable settings for different materials.

    

   Choosing the Right Machine

   Selecting the right vacuum sealed packaging solution depends on:

   • Product type and material
   • Required compression level
   • Production volume
   • Bag size and durability needs
   • Manual vs. automated operation

   At TPC Packaging Solutions, we help companies evaluate vacuum sealed packaging options that align with their operational goals, whether that means reducing freight costs or improving product protection.

    

   Vacuum Sealed Packaging Beyond Food

   As logistics costs rise and product protection becomes more critical, vacuum sealed packaging for non-food items continues to gain traction. From apparel and pharmaceuticals to industrial components and eCommerce fulfillment, vacuum packaging delivers measurable efficiency and cost savings across industries.

   If you are exploring vacuum sealed packaging solutions for non-food products, TPC Packaging Solutions can help you identify the right equipment, materials and automation strategy to support your operation.

   Contact us to learn more.

3. Crucial Considerations for E-Commerce Packaging

   January 2, 2025 2:36 pm Comments Off on Crucial Considerations for E-Commerce Packaging

   

   Packaging is not only a necessary part of shipping and transport, it is also one of the most effective ways for a business to provide online customers with a personal touch and a positive first impression. Everything about e-commerce packaging, from its size to its coloring and aesthetic design, serves to establish a brand identity while improving the profitability of your business. Memorable, attractive e-commerce packaging designed with the following factors in mind increases brand recognition, improves overall efficiency, and reduces costs.
   

   
   (Click to Expand)

   Consider the Box/Package Size

   Compared to standard packaging, e-commerce packaging can often be smaller and softer, eliminating the need for many features such as hanging tabs. This means that you can design your box and packaging to be optimized for shipping. Even light items can be heavy and bulky if packaged improperly, making them expensive to ship. Many items that are not delicate or fragile can be shipped in a padded mailer, unprinted or printed. This reduces shipping material costs and shipping costs.

   To reduce costs, it is vital to consider the size of the product, as well as how many products will need to fit into one box. By choosing lightweight packaging that perfectly fits the product, you will be able to reduce the size of your boxes. This helps protect the product, as there is less space for it to slide around. Additionally, by reducing the need for void fill, your company will be more eco-friendly and save money on unnecessary materials.

   Consider the Box/Package Material

   In addition to the size of the packaging, the material itself plays an important role in the durability and weight of the final product. Although always an important consideration, durability is particularly essential for e-commerce packaging, as the product must uphold during shipping and arrive to the customer in pristine condition. Packaging that fails to protect the product during transit will result in dissatisfied customers and higher return rates (and likely, negative reviews).

   Wherever possible, choosing flexible packaging over rigid packaging is optimal. Flexible packaging is easier to fit into compact boxes or envelopes, reducing weight and making it easier to ship items without unnecessary amounts of negative space. This also helps reduce waste, lessening your impact on the environment and improving your brand image. 

   However, more fragile items may require stiffer packaging for protection. In these cases, double-walled cardboard boxes and the proper void fill or product cushioning are often a good way to ensure the product reaches its final destination without damage.

   Tape Selection

   Although packing tape may seem to be a straightforward, set-in-stone aspect of the packaging process, it can actually serve several important purposes at once, including:

   • Sealing the box
   • Providing a marketing message
   • Improving brand recognition

   Tape can also serve as additional advertising on every box. If you choose to print your logo on packing tape, it will help your packaging stand out to customers from the moment it lands on their doorstep. It will also be recognizable to anyone else around who may see the box, driving new customers to your business.

   Void Fill, Packaging Cushioning, Make-Your-Own Mailers, and Automated Packaging Systems

   E-commerce manufacturers looking to optimize the safety and protection of their products throughout the shipping process should explore the various void fill packaging, packaging cushioning, and custom mailer solutions available to them – as well as packaging automation systems to make dispensing these products much more efficient.

   Void fill and cushioning products are types of packaging fillers, and they are excellent, protective means of bracing products from facility to destination. You have likely encountered EPS- or styrofoam-based void fill (the peanut-shaped, lightweight, and pourable variety). As sustainability is one of the biggest up-and-coming trends in the realm of packaging, the use of paper-based void fill has quickly become a popular packaging solution. Paper void fill is 100% biodegradable and a great way to immediately improve the sustainability of your packaging, and to resonate with eco-conscious customers.

   Foam and bubble cushioning offer high levels of protection, as well. Foam is an ideal option for those looking to protect products in transit from scratches (paper is not as effective for this case). Bubble cushioning is a reputable and sturdy protector, and it is a great option for high-shock, high-vibration conditions. A hot topic in the packaging industry is the use of on-demand inflatable systems over traditional bubble cushioning, as this can largely improve the speed, safety, and waste reduction of protective packaging. These systems are particularly worth considering if rapid production growth and space constraints are expected.

   

   The Storopack PAPERplus® Chevron Pack Table provides flexible and protective paper cushioning.

   Traditionally, customers have had to adapt existing mailers to their needs – today, make-your-own mailers make it possible to have these packaging solutions tailor-made to customers’ own specifications. For example, PAC offers build-your-own mailers to bring an exact mailer size and look to life.

   Automated packaging systems are an excellent way to significantly increase the speed and efficiency of dispensing void fill, cushioning, and custom mailers. Examples of automated equipment include the PACJacket, which can produce 15–20 bags per minute with quality, precision and speed, and the Polyair® X-Fill™ System, which features a rapid throughput speed of 335 ft/min and produces a higher yield. 

   Consider Branding and Unboxing

   When it comes to e-commerce packaging, the box is your customer’s first and main interaction with your business. While retail shops are able to create an in-person experience for the customer, e-commerce depends on packaging to connect with the customer and provide a memorable experience.

   Brand-specific colors and designs on the exterior of the box will improve brand visibility, but the interior of the packaging is equally important. Consider the customer’s unboxing experience: the box should be easy to open and aesthetically pleasing on the inside. Depending on the type of products you are shipping, you may opt for modular packaging to keep the products in place and avoid a disorganized appearance. 

   E-commerce Packaging at TPC Packaging Solutions

   For over five decades, TPC Packaging Solutions has been working closely with companies in virtually every industry to provide expert packaging products, equipment, and services. We attend trade shows globally, and are continually expanding our knowledge on the latest trends and technologies to provide the most accurate guidance on e-commerce packaging. To work with us on your next project, contact us here and a TPC Packaging Solutions team member will reach out to help.