Earth Day 2020 is something we will all remember, even if we're a little confused on which day today is.  With most of the world's population observing stay-at-home orders, we're seeing an amazing impact on the environment.  The canals in Venice, Italy are crystal clear, toxic gas levels have had a sharp decline, and pollution in major cities and remote villages have been replaced with clear skies.  In a way, the corona-shutdown has given the Earth a much needed reset. 

While the environmental impacts of the corona-shutdown is great for Mother Nature, it has also had major impacts on businesses and global economies.  Some companies have closed and may never open again while others are thriving like never before.  The thing about the American economy is that challenging times often give birth to innovative solutions from entrepreneurs and business leaders. We are already seeing factories pivot from things like clothing production and car manufacturing to high-volume mask and ventilator production.  New innovations are already on the market like gadgets that let you open doors and use ATMs without actually touching anything to new methods of supply-chair production and delivery.

As new innovations develop, SSI Packaging is here to help solve your packaging and shipping needs while providing eco-friendly solutions that help protect the environment.  Our eco-friendly packaging supplies can help continue the healing of the Earth while delivering the much needed goods and services needed around the globe.  For example, our boxes are 100% recyclable and, even better, reusable.  We have bubble wrap, loose fill (packing peanuts), kraft paper, and shredded paper solutions that can protect your products in shipping and transportation while being environmentally conscience.  

If your business needs reliable eco-friendly packaging and shipping supplies, we're here to help.  Our Richmond, VA warehouse is stocked with thousands of eco-friendly packaging supplies that are ready for curbside pickup.  Just call one of our packaging specialists at 804.649.1111 for curbside pickup or order online at www.ssipackaging.net and we will ship it to you right away.  ​

As we all do our best to stay home and continue with life the best we can amidst COVID-19, some folks find ourselves snacking more than ever.  Maybe it's nerves, or maybe you're like millions of others who are working from home.  Whatever the reason, we are snacking more and also finding learning new things.  For example, did you know there are many types of "date codes" on foods?  Here is a short explanation of the various types of date codes and what they mean for you.

"Sell-By" date tells the store how long to display the product for sale. You should buy the product before the date expires.

"Best if Used By (or Before)" date is recommended for best flavor or quality. It is not a purchase or safety date.

"Use-By" date is the last date recommended for the use of the product while at peak quality. The date has been determined by the manufacturer of the product.

"Closed or coded dates" are packing numbers for use by the manufacturer.
If you are a manufacture of food products, healthcare products, or paper goods (these days think toilet paper, right?), then let us help you solve the problem of accurate date coding for your production.  SSI Packaging Group has been in the date coding business for decades and we are ready to listen to your needs and find the right solution. 

Do you need cate coding equipment on a short-term basis?  We rent coding equipment so that you can focus on fulfilling orders and we'll worry about the equipment.

Call one of marking and coding experts now to help you get production done on time and accurate the first time.  804.649.1111

Bubble wrap is very practical for packaging, but hey, let's just say what everyone is thinking... it's just fun to pop too!  As part of National Bubble Wrap Day we wanted to share this short video about how Sealed Air Corporation actually makes Bubble Wrap.  It's actually, pretty fun to watch.

Of course, if you'd like to order some Bubble Wrap to protect your valuable products or you just want to go on a popping bing, give us a call at 804-649-1111.

If you’ve ever had to prepare a few bags for a trip you know how stressful packing can be. You want to make sure you bring the right things, that your items are organized, and that you don’t forget anything! This confusion is amplified when you’re moving to a new place. The mess of packing and managing things during a big move can be overwhelming to some people. Hopefully these tips can help you get ready for moving day!

1) Organize beforehand
 
Before you begin, make a checklist of everything you might need during the move. You will want to prepare by getting a variety of materials and items to facilitate your move. To protect your things you will want protective foam, bubble wrap, loose fill, moving blankets and floor protection. It’s also important to gather a variety of boxes like wardrobe boxes, hand-hold boxes, and file boxes to suit all of your packing needs. Lastly, what goes on the outside of the box matters just as much as what you put inside. We’ve all had the experience of the bottom of a box falling out because it was not taped properly. Be sure to gather the right kinds of packing tape to prevent this from happening, and also labels and markers so that you can label your packages.
 
Some other techniques to organize before hand can help you save time and limit stress during your move. Create a moving file that will hold all-important documents related to the move like hotel reservations or the realtors contact information. Keep this file in a space where it will not get mixed into the things going into your moving boxes. Make sure you accurately document everything, and take this moment to capture photos of complicated electronic setups, like the back of your TV for example. This way you wont wonder how to put things back together when you’re settling into your new place.
 
2) Get rid of things you don’t use
 
This tip can be difficult to follow for the packrats among us, but it’s worth it. Take the few weeks before moving to analyze how much you use everything you own, and sell anything that you haven’t used in over a year. You can also donate unwanted clothes, shoes or electronics to donation centers to lighten your load and help others in the process.  
 
Part of this cleansing process will also include food in the weeks leading up to your move. Try to eat up anything in the house that you don’t want to drag with you. An in the week directly before your move, don’t buy lots of perishable items. If your budget allows it, try to eat most of your meals outside of the home to reduce the amount of food that you’ll have to throw away on moving day. Take advantage of your empty fridge by defrosting it, saving you messy cleanup later on during your move.
 
3) Pack smart
 
Begin by organizing your belongings into categories; the general rule is to pack up one room at a time. This way you will find it easier to unpack and stay organized once you arrive to your new place. Another tip is to try to begin packing at least a few things a couple of weeks before hand. One box a night is much more manageable than packing the whole house during a long weekend.
 
Remember those materials you gathered earlier? This is when they come in handy. Having a variety of boxes on hand will help you while you pack, and you can use specific types of boxes for certain items. For example, your hand-hold boxes are ideal for the heaviest items because they are sturdy and give you a good grip. You should pack the heaviest items on the bottom of your boxes, and pay close attention to the positions of your items. Bubble wrap, kraft paper and foam will fill in any extra spaces making a snug fit for your valuables.
 
 
 
SSI has you covered on moving day! You can order everything you need for the big day on our site, and if you’re in a hurry you can drop by our RVA warehouse to grab what you need. Are you moving a lot of stuff? We even offer pallets of moving boxes, and we can deliver them right to your location. Call us today to speak to a packaging expert at 804-649-1111 

As the world becomes more globalized and new technologies become mainstream, it’s certain that the shipping industry will see big transformations in the coming years. Changes in the global shipping industry have been triggered by geopolitical shifts, and new initiatives to reduce turnaround time and increase the speed of shipments are being implemented wide scale. To keep up to date with the many developments that are occurring in this industry keep an eye out for the following trends.
 
 
1) Cyber security concerns
 
The increasing security concerns over technological disruptions are on the rise, and pose a big risk to the shipping industry. Researchers from Pen Test Partners recently conducted a study showing that there are multitudes of ways to breach the navigations systems of freighters, potentially causing major incidents. As other industries like financial institutions fortify their cyber security practices, the shipping industry lags behind in establishing a strong defense system.
 
2) Big and small groups join forces
 
The mergers and acquisitions that have become so common within this industry ensure that shipping companies maintain strong relationships. The most efficient companies tend to benefit from these practices, stabilizing their offerings in the face of tough markets. And when companies share their assets they can operate at a lower cost, thus benefiting the end users.
 
3) Industry giants re-organize with Blockchain
 
Blockchain technology, originally created to organize digital currency in chronological order, is being applied to various industries. The functionality of this technology lets information be distributed more easily within an organization. It maintains a level of security because it is not copied when it is shared, meaning that it exists as a continuous virtual ledger. As the shipping industry continues to consolidate, this technology will be used to increase efficiency and transparency among big groups. Long gone are the days of bills and documents, the ease and efficiency of blockchain will allow for additional streamlining of the freight processes.
 
4) AI technology impacts transport
 
AI technology makes it possible to have autonomous options for freight, minimizing risks and streamlining the shipping process. As investors continue to invest in this technology, the industry can shift towards adapting their methods to accommodate smarter ships and reducing manpower. Ships and freighters can be redesigned with less focus on the human element of the processes, meaning that space and weight are distributed more efficiently.
 
5) Environmental focus
 
The sharp rise in carbon emissions and global pressure to reduce energy consumption puts energy management into clear focus for shipping companies. The industry is investing heavily in technology to try to reduce the environmental impact of each shipping process. Although this can be detrimental for costs in the short term, it is seen that many parts of the chain of logistics offer preference to companies that work to improve their environmental policies.
 
Shipping trends and the impact of technology on major carriers impacts us more than we might think. As big groups make moves that streamline their processes and reduce costs, we feel the benefits as end users. At SSI Packaging Group we stay up to date on all the latest packaging news, so we can be an informed resources for our clients. Contact us for the best, most affordable marking and coding solution for your specific needs at 804.649.1111
  

If you’ve ever had to make a big move you know how stressful planning, packing and shipping your things can be. Making sure that your items arrive to their destination in one piece can be difficult when there are so many unknown variables involved in the process.  When shipping glassware, factors like clumsy movers or bumpy highways can have a big impact on delicate items. Learning how to pack up your glassware correctly can prevent any nasty surprises when you’re unboxing after your move.
 
To begin, you’re going to need to select some boxes. Make sure you pick at least double layer corrugated cardboard boxes because the additional layers will add stability to your package. You could also go to grocery stores and ask if they have divided boxes, which are like normal cardboard boxes but the inside is segmented into sections. The layers of cardboard will separate your items, protecting them even further. You should also take the size of the box into consideration. If you pack a big box with lots of glassware, it will become pretty heavy which increases the risk of bumps and drops. Choose medium sized boxes instead to make sure you’re using space efficiently, but not overdoing it.
 
Before packing your box cover the bottom with a thick layer of material. You can use Kraft paper, sheets, newspaper or dishrags; the key to this step is making sure the layer is thick enough to cushion your glassware. If you decide to use fabric to cushion the bottom of the box it can work well, as long as you make sure it is layered enough. And if you use old newspapers for this purpose keep in mind that you’ll have to wash the glasses after they arrive at your new home because oftentimes the print can transfer onto glassware.
 
To wrap your items, use alternating layer of packing paper and bubble wrap. Wrap the item in a layer of paper and then one to two layers of bubble wrap and secure the wrapping with a piece of tape. If you have glasses with fragile stems like wine glasses you should always wrap the stem first, and wrap the glasses one at a time rather than in pairs. This helps to make sure that the most easily breakable part of the glass is sufficiently protected.  Your most breakable glasses should be packed on top, meaning they are placed into the box last.
 
Now you should fill the spaces in between your items with filling, whether it is packing peanuts (loose fill) or more layers of paper. After adding extra cushioning to the top layer of your box, you are all set to seal it. It would be a good idea to try to shake the box to make sure there are no big gaps left to fill. You can choose to tape the box closed, or to place it in an entirely different and larger box, which will give it even more reinforcement. Just make sure to fill the extra space with more materials if this is your desired option.
 
 
Whether you are shipping family heirlooms or the wine glasses that you used at your wedding ceremony, it’s sure that you want your items to arrive in one piece. For all of your shipping needs you can turn to SSI Packaging Group. We are dedicated experts in packaging, specializing in personalized service. Call us at (804) 649-1111 to speak with a representative or view our products to find out more. 

​SSI Packaging Group is excited to welcome CJ Stevens to our team!  CJ is our newest Packaging Product Specialist serving Richmond, VA and surrounding areas.  With strengths in his proven customer service history and his passion for finding the best solutions for customers, CJ will add incredible value to not only SSI, but to the businesses and clients that he impacts.  Cj joins us after previously being a part of the CoStar Group and the Virginia Department of Taxation.  

If you have questions about packaging products and you're just not sure of the best solutions for your application, reach out to CJ Stevens at 804.649.1111 or cj.stevens@ssipkg.com.

​As Seattle became the first city in the US to ban plastic straws this summer, the concern over single use plastics and non-biodegradable packaging is growing fast. Social media feeds are inundated with scenes of marine animals struggling through debris, and islands made up of trash are swirling in the oceans. It’s pretty hard to change habits once they are formed, and in a busy world convenience usually wins out over concerns for environmental sustainability. But these 7 products are leading the way to innovate eco packaging, and maybe reduce some trash in our landfills while they’re at it.

​This slippery green stuff is an extremely versatile material and can be used for more than just the wrapping for your sushi. Evoware is a company that takes advantage of this substance, and by collaborating with seaweed farmers they have been able to develop a packaging material that is 100% biodegradable. The packaging dissolves in warm water, leaving behind no trace (and can even act as a natural fertilizer for plants!). Without any preservatives their material has a shelf life of two years, which is pretty good for a packaging solution that is completely organic.

​Next time you host a birthday party or family cookout, take stock of all of the paper and plastic materials that get thrown into the trash. When organizing big events like these it’s always easier to simply throw things away then spend hours washing plastic utensils. Luckily, this scenario finally has an eco-friendly solution. “Free The Seed” utensils are created by Australian based DB packaging and are made from organic materials. The materials dissolve naturally when they are disposed, regardless of soil conditions.  The packaging is 100% organic and is made from post- harvest rice fiber, which makes use of a substance that would otherwise be discarded.  The cost saving materials are inexpensive to make and are the perfect solution for those concerned with waste.

When we think of a liquid item like hand soap or shampoo we usually imagine it to be in a plastic container. It's only logical- isn’t it? But new innovators have developed a way to make bottles out of recycled newspaper and cardboard, lined on the inside with a layer of very thin recycled plastic to hold the liquids. Lots of companies are catching on to this new design, including L’Oreal who created a water resistant paper bottle that uses an interlocking design rather than glue to hold it together. 

​Nasty Styrofoam egg cartons can never be broken down once they are introduced to the environment, so it’s better to avoid them when possible. Marian Obando did just that when she developed a method to hold free-range eggs with one strip of newspaper. The paper is folded into a way that secures the eggs and prevents them from cracking against each other, and a strip of cardboard in the middle holds everything in place. 

​Organic soap is a real treat, but one that can sour when you throw away the packaging only to realize that it is made from plastic or other materials that don’t biodegrade. That’s why Pangea Organics developed a way to incorporate organic seeds like thyme or basil into the boxes of their 100% plant based soaps. All you have to do to plant your own herb garden is slip off the label, soak the box in water and plant it in the earth.
 

​The next time you order late night hot wings to the house during a midnight craving, imagine it arriving in these neat to-go boxes! Joann Arellos invented these boxes in an effort to create a sustainable and efficient way to transport delivery food. No need for plastic bags and Styrofoam containers, these boxes are made from cardboard are held together with a series of cords.  

Are you the type of coffee drinker who craves a bite of something sweet alongside your morning brew? This edible cup from KFC might be the perfect packaging for you. The cups are made from sugar cookies, with a coating on the inside of heat resistant chocolate. The paper on the outside is also made from sugar, and is printed with edible ink. The idea is that as the chocolate coating melts the customer can eat the cup, enjoying their coffee and their sweet treat all in one (and leaving zero waste behind).
 
 
We love to see the many ideas that are out there, and the changes that are being made to the packaging industry! At SSI packaging industry, we are always thinking about the future. Our experts can guide you towards making the right choices for your packaging needs, and help you increase your eco-friendliness by streamlining your process.

​For any questions feel free to contact at (804) 649-1111 to speak with a representative or view our products to find out more.