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What is Stick Pack Filling?

Stick pack packages, or pouches, are small and narrow and perfect for single-serve products. Stick pack pouches are convenient for products required on the go, such as drink powder pouches, nutraceuticals, liquids, concentrates, and many other products where a quick one-time use is ideal for consumers.

Stick Pack Pouches and Common Uses

Stick pack pouches have become a lot more popular over recent years and are used for many things other than drink powder mixes. Anywhere a one-time, single-serve use of a product would provide convenience to consumers is a good place to evaluate the benefits of stick-pack packaging. Common uses for stick pack pouches include:

1. Drink powder mixes
2. Nutraceutical packaging
3. Spices and flavorings
4. Lotions and shampoos
5. Hand sanitizer
6. Marketing, sample giveaways, brand promotion

Stick pack pouches are a type of flexible packaging, and many companies are making the switch wherever possible to reduce their carbon footprint as cylindrical-shaped pouches can require anywhere from 10 to 40% less packaging material than square or rectangular pouches.

Stick packs are an actual type of film structure, a series of laminates that provide a specific shape with sealing characteristics and product barrier to allow for easy removal of products with little residue left on the inside of the bag. Special equipment is required as stick packs arrive ready to run on an automated machine with printing already on the roll.

Benefits of Stick Pack Pouches

There are many benefits for companies to package various products in stick pack pouches ranging from internal efficiencies to consumer convenience.

Reduce carbon footprint – Packaging products in these slim stick packs can cut costs with less waste in materials and fewer costs required for packaging and shipping. Less packaging material also equals less waste to dispose of, ending up in landfills.

Product protection – stick packs are durable and protect products inside against moisture, dirt, or contamination.

Compact – the small packaging size fits easily in a pocket or purse and makes it easy to open and pour out contents.

Convenience – consumers enjoy the convenience of grabbing a pouch that contains a single serving as they’re walking out the door. It’s easier to hold a stick pack in your hand than cumbersome rectangle pouches.

No spillage – contents inside of a stick pack pour out a lot easier than a rectangle pouch which could spill around a water bottle opening, for example, or not pour out evenly. Stick packs are easy to open with no spillage or residue left inside the pouch.

Improved marketing – stick packs give products a higher perceived value over rectangle pouches with a sleek, classy look.

Messaging options – stick patches still provide ample room for brand awareness marketing with eye-catching, colorful, and unique designs as well as content information.

Companies that take care to evaluate their packaging options, including choice of materials and types of packaging, will reap major benefits with improved product quality as well as brand awareness and increased sales.

Packaging Solutions with Auto Bag Filling

Consulting with an experienced contract packaging company will help businesses to understand their options and how to improve their packaging process. Peoria Production Solutions, PPS, has been providing production solutions for companies of all sizes for more than 80 years. We offer high-quality and efficient wrapping and packaging services, including secondary packaging, flexible packaging, and auto bagging and bag filling.

PPS has experience with a wide range of manufacturers and companies in various industries providing bag-filling services for many types of materials, including dietary supplements, nutraceuticals, single-use powders, plant and bird seeds, and more.

PPS offers vast expertise in a wide range of flexible packaging services as well as other production solutions such as kitting, assembly, and secondary packaging, including variety pack and gift set packaging, and more. We follow strict quality policies and utilize state-of-the-art, modern equipment, including our ERP system, for complete lot code traceability. Contact us to learn more about our flexible packaging solutions, including auto bag filling.

Cost Saving with Shrink Wrap Packaging Service

Shrink wrapping is a common term that simply means wrapping products with a thin film to protect products, often with heat shrink wrap that protects various items when wrapped and sealed. Shrink wrapping is also a term used for wrapping a pallet of goods with a stretch film material, a process more accurately described as stretch wrapping.

Types of Shrink Wrapping Film

There are various types of films used for shrink-wrapping products, including PVC (polyvinyl chloride) shrink film, one of the most commonly used types of shrink-wrap film before being replaced with polyolefin (POF) shrink wrap. POF shrink film does not contain plasticizers like PVC and can be used in various temperature ranges without hardening or softening like PVC film.

Cross-linked POF shrink films is standard polyolefin shrink film with irradiation applied that creates a stronger film with better seal strength capability. Cross-linked shrink films are sterile and meet FDA approval for food contact.

No matter the type of shrink-wrapping film used, there are several things that companies can do to reduce shrink-wrapping packaging costs.

Tips to Reduce Shrink Wrapping Costs

Negotiate Your Shrink Wrap Roll Cost

Negotiate your cost per roll of shrink-wrap film material and ask about quantity price breaks. Many suppliers offer reduced costs for larger quantity orders which also saves in fewer deliveries.

Evaluate Your Packaging Film Width Requirements

Evaluating precise film width requirements can save a lot of money and reduce waste. Some packagers may not be aware of the flexibility available in width sizes and should ask their shrink-wrap film suppliers about variations from full-inch increments, such as 7.5” instead of 8”. Shaving just half an inch off your film width can save a considerable amount of money, particularly for high-volume jobs.

Carefully Measure Shrink Film Cutoff Requirements

The film cutoff length is the length required for each shrink-wrap bag for each package. Know the minimum length requirements for shrink film cutoff, as shaving ½ an inch to an inch can save a considerable amount of money and make your material last longer. To determine the correct cutoff length, place a product on your shrink wrap machine and remove it right before it enters the shrink tunnel. Slit the end of the film to remove the product, lay the film flat, and measure from one end of the seal to the other to get your cutoff length.

Adjust Shrink Wrap Film Gauge

Shrink wrap film gauge simply means the thickness of the film and is one of the most critical aspects to optimize any shrink-wrapping process. Using the wrong shrink film gauge could be a costly mistake that wastes thousands of dollars. Shrink film thickness is measured in terms of gauge or mil. Mil is a standard term used to define the thickness of packaging films, although gauge is a common term used in the industry.

Packagers may talk about 45 gauge film, 60 or 75 gauge, etc.…, all referring to the film thickness. One single mil equals one-thousandths of an inch, .001”. To convert mil to gauge, simply multiply the number of mils by 100. Therefore, one mil is equal to 100 gauge.

Optimize Your Packaging Line

Even companies that feel their packaging process is the most efficient it could be should continually strive to improve efficiency and quality. Consulting with an experienced packaging company can provide many benefits in terms of identifying waste and recognizing areas for improvement. Many companies may realize cost savings by outsourcing shrink wrapping and packaging to an experienced contract packaging company.

PPS Offers Contract Packaging and Shrink Wrapping Services

Peoria Production Solutions, PPS, is a leading contract packaging company in Illinois with more than 80 years of experience. We offer shrink wrapping services in our modern, state-of-the-art facility with the capacity, automated equipment, and trained staff to improve your packaging and shrink-wrapping process. We utilize L-sealers and shrink tunnels for various products of all sizes up to 18 inches in width and height and 24 inches in length.

PPS is experienced in heat shrink wrapping of many types of products in various industries. We offer high-quality wrapping and packaging services aimed at providing production solutions with quality products delivered on time. Contact us to learn how to improve your wrapping and packaging process with quality shrink-wrapping services.

How Does Product Packaging Affect Quality and Sales?

All companies, whether manufacturers or retail sellers, realize the critical importance of product packaging. High-quality packaging provides better protection for the products inside and simply sells more retail products. Product packaging is something that business owners put a lot of thought into, while consumers sometimes take it for granted.

We expect our products to be packaged well and free of defects like scratches, dents, or other damage. We, as consumers, also do not give it much thought when we gravitate toward the product package that catches our eye that looks exactly like what we are looking for. Whether it is flashy, modern looking, clean, informative, protective, or just appealing messaging and use of colors, product packaging clearly sways purchasing decisions and is one of the most important choices companies make in promoting their goods.

Packaging Serves More Than One Purpose

The importance of choosing the right product packaging cannot be overstated, as packaging today serves more than one purpose. There are different types of packaging, such as:

Primary – packaging that is in direct contact with products, such as the actual bottles or cans that beverages are stored in.

Secondary – distinctly different from primary packaging in that secondary packaging is a protective layer such as the outer box that all the beverage cans are stored in. Secondary packaging typically includes eye-catching designs, company logos, and information to attract and inform consumers.

Tertiary – this type of packaging includes pallets and stretch wrapping film used for packaging and shipping or relocating large fulfillment orders.

For the purpose of product protection and consumer appeal, we are mostly focused on secondary packaging. Secondary packaging serves two purposes to protect the products inside and provide the brand recognition necessary to help move the products off the shelves.

Quality secondary packaging is crucial for product sales and prevents product contamination or damage, which increases customer loyalty. Building up that customer loyalty with aesthetically pleasing, eye-catching, colorful, and informative packaging, such as product labels on food and beverage items, is all attributed to quality secondary packaging.

Quality Secondary Packaging Sells More Products

Consumer Appeal

Product packaging is often what gives consumers a first introduction to the product inside. With the right packaging design, companies can differentiate their products from the competition and provide a good first impression to secure lasting brand loyalty. Quality secondary packaging is a multifaceted process that requires careful consideration for companies selling products in all industries.

Informative Packaging

Quality product packaging promotes the products on display and provides information to consumers about the products inside. Secondary packaging may contain information like assembly instructions, what is included in the box, and what may be required, such as batteries for toys. Quality secondary packaging helps consumers to make informed decisions and promotes customer satisfaction.

Brand Recognition

Brand recognition should be clear on secondary packaging, as most retailers group similar products together on shelves making it important to differentiate your product from the competition. Interesting, eye-catching secondary packaging helps to build brand recognition and sway purchasing decisions to your products over comparable items.

Secondary Packaging and Product Protection

Secondary packaging must exceed expectations for eye-catching, appealing designs while also providing maximum product protection. Quality packaging that protects products increases customer satisfaction and reduces product returns due to damage. Be sure to use quality packaging materials and follow best practices when packaging goods. Working with an experienced packaging company can help companies to achieve both product protection and brand recognition with quality-packed items.

Peoria Production Solutions, PPS, offers quality contract packaging services with more than 80 years of experience. We are knowledgeable about the many types of quality packaging materials and follow best practices according to strict quality policies. Contact us to learn how to improve your secondary packaging operations with an experienced packaging company on your team.

Effective Inbound & Outbound Logistics

An effective strategy to manage any company’s supply chain management is critical for inbound and outbound logistics to work in harmony. Inbound logistics refers to a company’s requirements for receiving goods and supplies, such as raw materials for manufacturers. Outbound logistics fulfill a company’s demand for orders. Perfectly timing incoming materials is important to meet order demands on time and for cost-efficient inventory management.

Businesses that provide contract assembly, packaging, and palletizing can help manufacturers of all sizes improve inbound and outbound logistics.

Inbound Logistics

Many manufacturers utilize just-in-time inventory management to schedule incoming raw materials and supplies just-in-time to go straight into the production of finished goods. This alleviates the need to store raw materials for an extended period of time which increases time in inventory, capacity required, and overall expenses, which eat into profits in the long run. Just-in-time inbound logistics allow for a company to receive supplies in their warehouse, fulfillment center, or distribution center to meet all requirements in a timely fashion without any excess waste.

Outbound Logistics

Outbound logistics is all about moving finished goods out of inventory to fulfill and deliver orders to retail establishments or end users. Outbound logistics requires effective warehouse picking and packing, packaging, quality inspection, labeling, and shipping on time to meet order requirements. Streamlined outbound logistic processes improve a company’s productivity and profitability.

With the continuing increase of e-commerce, companies that improve their logistics processes for maximum efficiency will experience many benefits. Companies that fail to evaluate and improve logistics will continually struggle to maintain an adequate supply of goods and meet order fulfillment on time, thus jeopardizing customer satisfaction and overall sustainability.

Efficient inbound and outbound logistics improve the flow of goods throughout the entire company supply chain, increasing inventory turns, order accuracy, and optimizing the speed of delivery. This leads to cost reductions, maximum sales and revenue, and increased profitability.

Outsourcing Packaging and Palletizing Services

Contract packaging and palletizing companies focus solely on helping other companies meet their production goals. When manufacturers outsource kitting and assembly, packing, packaging, and palletizing, they can focus on other core manufacturing processes while relying on logistics experts to meet their needs. This improves internal efficiencies and the flow of goods.

When manufacturers ship components for assembly or finished goods to a contract packager, they can rely on those products being packaged properly and efficiently, labeled and palletized ready for shipping. Combining packaging and palletizing services can facilitate packaging needs quicker and oftentimes for less expense than paying for internal labor. Outsourcing to a contract packaging company also frees up internal floorspace, increasing capacity.

PPS Offers Experienced Packaging and Palletizing Services

Peoria Production Solutions, PPS, has been providing contract packaging services for more than 80 years. PPS offers industry-leading packaging services with experience in quality packing materials and processes. We offer kitting, assembly, auto bag filling, wrapping, packing, repackaging, secondary packaging, stretch wrapping, and palletizing. PPS follows strict quality policies as part of our ISO9001:2015 registration, with a fully trained staff dedicated to total customer satisfaction.

We help businesses to improve their logistics processes by providing quality packaging and palletizing services with quick turnaround time and complete traceability with our automated Enterprise Resource Planning, ERP, system. Leave the packaging and palletizing to us, and have confidence in receiving quality packaged products, wrapped and palletized for protection, shipped to your specification.

PPS is a leading contract packaging and palletizing company in Illinois, helping companies to meet production goals as a valuable part of many business supply chains. We utilize automated and modern equipment in our state-of-the-art facility, with 15 shipping and receiving bays for an organized and streamlined flow of goods. Contact us with any questions and learn how we can improve your packaging and palletizing services for more efficient company logistics.

Freight Palletizing Tips to Maximize Safety and Efficiency

Proper packaging is essential to protect goods throughout the entire shipping journey, and palletizing is one of the best ways to ensure your cargo arrives safe and sound. Pallets, also called “skids,” are transport plates typically made of wood that provide a foundation to stack packages on with open slats at the bottom for easy handling with a forklift or pallet jack. Palletizing and stretch wrapping packages protect them during loading, shipping, and unloading and support efficient shipping processes.

Safety First When Palletizing

It is important to make sure that your palletizing and stretch wrapping processes are efficient and safe for all workers, including warehouse and transportation employees. There should be a limit on how many rows high packages can be stacked with consideration given to the weight and type of material packaged. For example, bottled water may seem harmless enough, although when stacked high and toppled over, this has been the cause of more than one tragic death in warehouses.

Working with an experienced packaging and palletizing company can alleviate in-house palletizing needs. Safety should always be the first concern when palletizing any type of goods. Here are some freight palletizing tips to maximize safety and efficiency.

Tips to Maximize Safety and Efficiency When Palletizing

1. Use the right size of pallet – make sure that your pallet is big enough to hold all packages without hanging over the edges and that it is sturdy enough to support the weight load.

2. Use only quality pallets and shipping materials – never use pallets with protruding nail heads or broken boards. Quality packaging materials such as undamaged, sturdy corrugated boxes, quality pallets, and quality stretch wrap all contribute to protecting packages on pallets.

3. Make sure all boxes are packed properly – every individual box should be packed full without excess air space to help prevent the box from being crushed or damaged in transit. Proper packaging also more evenly distributes the weight when stacked on a skid. Fill any void areas with the appropriate type of dunnage, such as air pillows, paper, Styrofoam peanuts, etc. Seal all boxes securely with quality packing tape.

This is one area where a contract packager can help companies as they are experienced in proper packaging methods, knowledgeable about quality packaging materials, and efficiently perform quality packaging processes. Using a contract packager with experience in palletizing adds a lot of value to manufacturers and many types of businesses.

4. Carefully stack boxes on pallets – stack boxes together with the weight evenly distributed. Place heavier boxes on the bottom and lighter boxes on top, staggering or aligning the boxes for maximum stability. Incorrect stacking of boxes can lead to worker injury or damage to cargo. You can add a layer of flattened cardboard in between rows of boxes for added stability and weight distribution, which is particularly helpful when shipping several small packages instead of fewer larger boxes.

5. Use plastic or metal strapping – secure any individual packages that are 150 pounds or more with bands or straps. Make sure all straps and banding are close to the load to mitigate damage.

6. Use quality stretch wrap – boxes stacked in columns and rows can be sensitive to shifting. The best solution to keep your packages and places to use quality stretch wrap that can be applied manually or with the help of a stretch wrapping machine.

7.Avoid stacking boxes in Pyramids – even when stretch wrap, boxes stacked in a pyramid shape are much less stable, with all packages at the top at high risk for damage. Boxes that are evenly distributed on the pallet are much more secure and stable.

Contact Peoria Production Solutions, PPS, for assistance with your palletizing and stretch wrapping needs.

Peoria Production Solutions is an industry-leading contract packaging company with more than 80 years of experience. PPS offers a host of secondary packaging services and production solutions, including all types of secondary packaging, flexible packaging, kitting, assembly, repackaging, palletizing, and more. Contact us to learn more about improving your packaging and logistics processes with high-quality, experienced palletizing services.