Void fill packaging (also called box filler or dunnage) fills empty space in shipped parcels to keep products from moving around inside the box during transit. Using void fill packaging allows eCommerce fulfillment operations to buy bulk amounts of various-sized boxes, reducing the overall cost of packing and shipping high volumes of goods sold online.
As an example, most readers will find foam packaging peanuts familiar, though this particular type of void fill has fallen into disuse because it makes a mess, creates a negative customer experience, and is not eco-friendly. While the packaging peanut still has its occasional uses, there are several more viable options for void fill packaging in eCommerce shipping.
The ideal void fill will provide a balance between smaller items that require a full protective nest and medium or larger items that have some inherent durability but need some cushioning to keep them from shifting around in a box. Below are the most frequently used void fill packaging products in eCommerce packaging, with a summary of PROs and CONs.
Kraft paper is a simple brown paper with many different names – butcher paper, packing paper, brown paper, wrapping paper, crafting paper, and many others. They all refer to this same solution. As void fill packaging, kraft paper offers these benefits:
Kraft paper drawbacks include:
Air pillows have become a popular solution for void fill packaging. A specialized machine inflates plastic film and uses heat to seal it, creating a plastic bubble that effectively protects goods during shipment. Some of the major benefits of air pillows include:
Air pillow disadvantages include:
Bubble wrap consists of a plastic sheet with dozens or hundreds of protective air pockets that absorb shocks and keep products safe. Used as both void fill packaging and as wrap, bubble wrap offers a versatile packaging solution in specific cases. Advantages include:
Downsides include:
The best void fill packaging for your operation will depend largely on the type of products you ship and how well those products fit into standard box sizes. Ultimately, you must pick the solution that best protects your products, so they will reach your customers undamaged. Keep in mind that the popular solutions above may not work with every product type. Some fragile or liquid-filled products might need non-standard solutions or fully custom packaging.
At Staci Americas, we’ve worked with a full gamut of product types over many years, so we know how to identify the best void fill packaging solution to protect your product while minimizing your costs. Contact us today for more information about our pick and pack fulfillment services.