Keeping your shipments protected during their travels is vital for business success. When customers and clients receive their shipments, they should arrive with little to no marks or issues. That’s where protective packaging comes in—to provide a buffer between the product and harm, ranging from glass, plastic, metal, and so on.

As materials get shipped out daily, knowing how to package them is crucial. Knowing the types of protective packaging and shipping materials helps further your business reputation and reliability, satisfying customers and clients. So, it’s beneficial to learn the different types, how they get used, and when they get used.

Loose-Fill Materials

Loose-filled materials are one of the most common types of protective packaging and shipping materials used in shipments. Some loose-filled materials, such as foam peanuts and packaging peanuts, are foam-based products that incorporate the use of Styrofoam. As they are similar to the shape of peanuts, they provide cushioning and absorb impacts.

They serve as a filler to protect fragile items in cardboard boxes and offer the perfect solution to create a cushioning effect. However, they shouldn't get used to package flat or narrow things that can shift or move quickly within a package.

Padded Divider Sets

Padded divider sets are padded, compartmentalized boxes used to organize shipped goods. Due to their all-over padded surface, they provide extra protection. They offer the best protection for smaller objects, provide optimal protection when mailing out a collection of goods, and ship incompatible items together in one box.

Additionally, padded divider sets help you save money, enabling you to only spend money on one package versus two. They tend to protect smaller, more fragile items, such as household wares and electronic products.

Bubble Wrap

Bubble wrap is a classic protective packaging material used in all sorts of shipments. It's known for having tiny bubbles that work to cushion goods, preventing shock and other threats from penetrating through.

Luckily, bubble wrap is available in roll form, which is especially useful for wrapping large items. But stay wary, as the bubbles can rupture, leaving the product unguarded. Otherwise, they make a great protective layer for any item.

Packaging Foam and Paper

When it comes to the largest protective packaging category, packaging foam can work with various products. It can get cut and shaped into whatever form best suits the specific item. Since the shipped item gets encased in foam, it's better protected from accidents.

As for packaging paper, it’s specialized for far denser and sturdier protective layer and differs from average writing paper. It’s available in rolls and comes in two types: kraft and butcher. Usually made from wood or sulfate pulp, it's great for protecting dishes, glass, art supplies, and small items.

Whether a product is getting shipped to a customer or if you're packing moving boxes, protective packaging is beneficial. If you’re looking for some high-quality shipping supplies, check out our packing supply store and Pantero. We offer dozens of supplies for any shipment type you’re looking for. From corrugated boxes to packing peanuts, we have you covered.