The Ultimate Guide to Void Fill & Protective Packaging

For manufacturers, ensuring your products arrive at their destination in pristine condition is paramount. The last thing you want is to deal with damage, frustration, and costly returns. That’s where void fill and protective packaging come in—two essential solutions that work together to ensure your shipments arrive safely and securely. The right combination protects your products, safeguards your brand’s reputation, and helps your bottom line. In this guide, we’ll break down the differences, benefits, and best practices for integrating these packaging solutions into your shipping strategy.

Popular Void Fill Products:

Air Pillows

Lightweight and versatile, air pillows provide excellent cushioning while minimizing additional weight. 

Paper Fill

A sustainable option made from recyclable materials, ideal for companies prioritizing eco-conscious solutions.

Packing Peanuts

Traditional yet effective, these small foam pieces conform to various shapes, offering superior void fill capabilities.

What is Protective Packaging?

Protective packaging focuses on safeguarding products from external forces such as impacts, vibrations, and environmental factors. Unlike void fill packaging, which stabilizes items within a box, protective packaging provides a barrier or cushion directly around the product itself.

Bubble Wrap

A classic choice for wrapping fragile items, bubble wrap absorbs shocks and protects surfaces from scratches.

Foam Sheets

Lightweight and pliable, foam sheets are ideal for cushioning delicate items such as electronics and glassware.

Edge Protectors

Designed to shield the edges of products, corner protectors are a must for furniture and heavy equipment.

Why Protective Packaging + Void Fill Is a BIG DEAL

It’s not just about protecting products; it’s about using the right protective products. Without a solid solution in play, there are damage risks involved, which can cause all sorts of problems for customers and businesses. For example:

• Delays in production leading to decreased productivity
• Frustrated clients, reducing brand trust and reputation
• Time and effort in returning/exchanging damaged goods
• Costs involved with re-packaging and re-shipping after damage

The good news is that there are lots of options when it comes to product protection, and they can each be tailored to various business needs.

Choosing the Right Solution for Your Business

Selecting between void fill and protective packaging often depends on your product’s characteristics and shipping requirements, and often, you will need to utilize both of them. For example:

• If you’re shipping multiple small items in one box, air pillows or paper fill may be ideal for void fill.
• For fragile, high-value goods like electronics, bubble wrap or foam sheets might be your go-to for protective packaging.
• Sometimes, you will need to surround your product with protective packaging and then surround the protective packaging with additional void fill to keep it stable.

By understanding the strengths of each solution, you can create a packaging strategy that not only keeps your products safe during transit but also enhances your customer’s Unboxing Experience.

Purpose

Void fill addresses empty space, while protective packaging focuses on direct product protection.

Application

Void fill is typically used to stabilize items within a box, whereas protective packaging wraps or encases individual products.

Customization

Many void fill and protective packaging solutions can be tailored to specific product needs.

Interchangeability

Some protective packaging solutions can be used as void fill (think bubble wrap) and vice versa.

Sustainability Options

Both categories offer sustainable alternatives, such as biodegradable packing peanuts and recyclable paper fill.

At BradyPLUS, we’re passionate about helping businesses find the perfect packaging solutions. Whether you need high-quality void fill, protective packaging, or a combination of both, our team is here to guide you every step of the way. Let’s protect what matters—together!

Ready to elevate your packaging game? Contact us today⬇️ to explore our extensive range of products and expert services.