Although, by January, you have doubtlessly taken down your Christmas lights and recycled your tree, the festivities aren’t over. That’s right, January 25th is National Bubble Wrap Appreciation Day, which Americans celebrate on the last Monday of January. We here at SSI Packaging love the bubbly stuff, even though we have to save the fun of popping it for our customers. In celebration of bubble wrap, here are 6 facts about it that may surprise you. 

Bubble Wrap was originally marketed as wallpaper 
 
Bubble Wrap’s original incarnation was, believe it or not, wallpaper. This isn’t so crazy when one considers the context of the late 1950s. As more and more household gadgets entered the public market, it became quite normal for designers to experiment with futuristic-seeming textures, materials, and patterns. In 1957, an engineer named Al Fielding and a Swiss inventor named Marc Chavannes teamed up to create a three-dimensional, raised wallpaper. To test their idea, they glued two shower curtains together, leaving pockets of air throughout. Ultimately, the wallpaper idea never took off…but luckily, the inventors managed to find a great buyer for their product, in a small manufacturing company called IBM. 

Bubble Wrap® is a brand name 

Like Chapstick, Kleenex, and Crock-Pots, Bubble Wrap is actually a brand that’s dominated the market so well and for so long that it’s become a ubiquitous term for all items like it. Fielding and Chavannes themselves filed several patents for Bubble Wrap in 1960, and created a company to sell it, called Sealed Air Corporation. More than 60 years later, Sealed Air is still going strong, and its star product has been embraced around the world as a lightweight, yet protective shipping material. Writers beware: if it doesn’t come from Sealed Air, it’s “laminated cushioning material.”

It has incredible protective qualities 
But just how protective is it? In 2000, Sealed Air itself decided to answer that question via the rather unconventional method of dropping a pumpkin onto a bubble wrap landing pad. The 815-pound pumpkin, nicknamed “Gourdzilla”, survived the 35-foot fall completely intact—for a few seconds, anyway. “The pumpkin survived the drop,” said then-CEO William Hickey. “The problem is that it bounced.” 
Popping Bubble Wrap is scientifically good for your health 
For many people—or, dare we say, most people—popping Bubble Wrap ranks among one of life’s greatest pleasures. And beyond being fun, there’s some scientific evidence that it’s actually good for our mental health, too. In 1992, psychology professor Kathleen M. Dillon conducted a study wherein a trial group of undergraduate students were given two sheets to pop, while a control group remained pop-less. At the end of the study, the pop-ers reported that they felt more calm, energized, and alert than they had been before, while the pop-less control students reported feeling more or less the same. Dillon theorized that bubble wrap popping, like finger tapping and other sensory habits, might be a way anxious humans find a way to relieve muscle tension while simultaneously freezing in their tracks. 
It sent a military base into lockdown
When most of us picture Bubble Wrap bubbles, we imagine the small, pill-sized kind which make relatively quiet pops. But Sealed Air manufactures its product in all kinds of sizes, and it was sandwich-bag-sized bubbles that ended up sending a New Mexico Air Force base into lockdown. After a civilian employee stomped on several “air pillows” in order to flatten them, another civilian mistook the sound for gunfire, and called 911. Base Director of Public Affairs, Eric Elliott, noted that the caller’s response was doubtlessly influenced by a mass shooting which had occurred in San Bernadino, California, earlier that week. In any case, all was well that ended well, and local authorities were appreciative for the unplanned emergency. “We got a good exercise out of it,” Elliot said. 
Get bona-fide Bubble Wrap in Richmond, VA 
It’s safe to say that no packaging material has brought more joy to consumers than Bubble Wrap. Whether you need a roll to protect some fragile materials during shipping, or to simply relieve some stress, SSI Packaging has what you need—real, authentic Bubble Wrap made by its original manufacturer, Sealed Air. We also offer a wide range of packaging and shipping materials such as cardboard boxes, bubble mailers, foam cushioning, and packing tape. If you live in or near Richmond, Virginia, stop by and see us, or check out our product inventory online.  

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Without a doubt, the impacts of the COVID-19 virus have been devastating. At the time of this writing, the disease has claimed over 1.75 million lives worldwide, 330,000 of them in the U.S. alone. However, as we look back on this past year with respect and grief for the many lives lost, we can also reflect on a few small positives that resulted from the pandemic. Many industries were able to alter their manufacturing and distribution practices in ways that will benefit our world for decades to come, and packaging is chief among them. Below are 5 ways the Coronavirus changed the packaging industry for the better.
 
It created an Ecommerce boom

As brick-and-mortar stores began to shutter their doors in response to the pandemic, consumers turned in droves to Ecommerce alternatives to satisfy their needs. The leap from brick-and-mortar to online retail was significant; according to data from the US Census Department of Commerce, Ecommerce spending leapt by 42.2% from the first quarter of 2020 to the second, a period of about 6 months. The packaging industry, in turn, benefited from the surge in Ecommerce sales, particularly pharmaceutical packaging and plastics. According to market research by Reportlinker.com, the global packaging market is projected to grow to $1.6 billion by 2021.
 
It changed the way we package and prepare food
 
Perhaps no other sector was impacted by COVID as much as the food industry. In just a few short months, restaurants, grocery stores, and other food suppliers had to adjust to meet new safety standards and assuage the fears of anxious customers. Salad bars, food steam tables, and “bulk bins” of products like beans and nuts were converted into display areas for prepackaged foodstuffs. And everyone in the food distribution chain became more conscious of the way we handle and prepare food. Already, food manufacturers are exploring ways to make their wares more hygienic and tamper-resistant while remaining easy for consumers to open and use. While the future is never certain, it seems likely that the COVID-19 pandemic may have shifted the way we buy and consume prepackaged food forever.
 
It expedited a technological transformation
 
Even though, as noted above, the effects of the pandemic were mostly negative, it did have the silver lining of speeding up business adoptions of new technologies—not by just one or two years, but several. For instance, in the 2020 McKinsey Global Survey, executives across several major industries reported that the pandemic accelerated the digitization of their customer and supply-chain interactions, as well as internal operations, by as many as four years. Company leaders also reported a big shift to digital offerings—a change that may have otherwise taken five to seven years.
 
According to Keith Higgins, VP of digital transformation for Rockwell Automation, the tech revamp will continue long after 2020. In an interview with Digital Journal, he stated, “The pandemic has demonstrated the need to adopt digital tools to automate processes, obtain real-time information, and create agile supply chains that comply with new restrictions.” He went on to say that flexible adaptation to new technology will be a must for companies that wish to thrive in a post-COVID world.

It brought awareness to longstanding distribution issues
 The U.S. has long been reliant on other countries, especially China, to supply pharmaceutical products like acetaminophen, antibiotics, and blood pressure medication, but it was not until the pandemic that the issue was brought to the forefront of public awareness. Leading news outlets such as the Wall Street Journal and the New York Times ran articles about the chaos the US would face should it suddenly lose access to China—which supplies over 80% of crucial medications—due to war, trade disagreements, natural disaster, or another pandemic. While, again, the future remains to be seen, it seems far more likely, post-COVID, that lawmakers will push for American-made pharmaceuticals, and that their constituents will demand it.
 
It brought DIY-ers together

As the nation’s biggest manufacturing and distribution centers struggled to execute their gigantic pivot, everyday Americans stepped in to create badly-needed PPE equipment for healthcare workers and first responders. Individuals and small “mom-and-pop” companies used their own 3D printers, laser cutters, sewing machines, and other fabrication equipment to create face shields, masks, and more for their local communities. In a year characterized by loss and anxiety, it stood as a stark reminder that, even in the darkest times, total strangers will come together to fulfill a cause bigger than themselves.
  
Need Packaging Supplies in Richmond, Virginia?
During this tough time in our nation’s history, SSI Packaging is proud to provide packaging products to small local businesses and individuals. Our product catalogue includes everything you need to package your products, including bubble wrap, envelopes, and cardboard boxes. To place an order, check out our online store here.

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 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. 

​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.   

When sealing packages its important to consider the many factors at play that could help or hurt your distribution system. The strength of the sealants that you decide to use along with their resiliency to different climates can determine if your packages will be secure and theft-resistant. They types of cargo you are shipping and their weight can also result in varying methods transport. There are a myriad of options available for sealing containers, and in this post we break them down to find out what methods are the most efficient for your bottom line. 

​Pressure Sensitive Tapes
 
Pressure sensitive tapes are petroleum based tapes, made out of plastic film with a sticky substance on one side that is designed to adhere to most surfaces.  You have probably seen this kind of tape applied with tape guns or similar tools that make application easy and efficient. Since pressure sensitive tape is made from petroleum it is typically an inexpensive product to use to seal packages, yet the costs could accumulate if sealing required multiple layers of tape. In addition, the shiny plastic makes it harder to print upon and companies could lose on a valuable opportunity for branding. This kind of tape is easy to apply, but also easy to remove leaving little to no trace of breaching. Because of this factor theft is a big concern when using pressure sensitive tape. In addition pressure sensitive tape is not resilient to extreme climate fluctuations. Extremely hot, humid, cold or dry environments can impact the tape, allowing for dirt and grime to breach the sticky seal and ultimately leave your items exposed.  Acrylic packaging tape is one of our most popular pressure sensitive tapes

​Water Activated Tapes
 
Water activated tape is made out of Kraft paper and a sticky adhesive that is developed from starch. This adhesive reacts strongly to water, and once moistened the tape will form a permanent seal by molding to the carton material of the container. To get this water-bonding effect suppliers will apply the tape with a type of dispenser that is activated by water. This style of tape is very strong and occasionally can contain layers of additional reinforcement like fiberglass. Water activated tape is more costly than pressure sensitive tape, although its possible to use less while packaging and achieve a good result. And for companies interested in taking advantage of taping space for additional branding, water activated tape easily allows for printing or stamping. Because of the strong bond that occurs when the adhesive is activated it is nearly impossible to break this seal without avoiding detection, meaning that water activated tape is an excellent choice for theft prevention. In addition, this strong adhesion also prevents wear and tear from varying climate conditions. Most types of extreme weather can be handles by water activated tape without the pesky side effect of dirt or debris creeping under the seals. 

Strap Close
 
The kind of carton closure that you choose might also vary based upon the physical characteristics of your particular shipment or product. A series of straps (also known as poly strapping) can be used to lash together your cargo, joined together at strategic points called the seal joint. These joints buckles are made from either plastic or steel and are the weakest point of this style of sealing so it is wise to select your particular seal joint with considerations to your needs. If your particular shipment is low in volume, tension and weight you could use plastic or steel buckles that don’t require the additional application of tools to hold things in place. However, for shipments that are lower volume but have high levels of tension or weight probably need a combination of metal seals and manual tensioners. For these heavy freights you’ll want to select a system that has a high percentage of joint efficiency (the percent of joint strength in relation to the break strength of the strap). As a general rule, the heaviest of loads typically require strapping made from resilient polyester strappings and metal seals that have additional texture as a component for extra reinforcement.
 
 
Hopefully these tips have you ready to pack, seal and ship your item to its destination. If you have any more questions about the different ways you could seal your package, or if you just want to find out more about what we offer feel free to give us a call at 804.649.1111.

​At SSI Packaging Group we have a dedicated team of packaging specialists who are ready to fill all of your packaging needs. 

Keeping your shipments safe from damage during transport is extremely important. According to recent studies the number one complaint among transportation managers was damaged goods. Although you might hope that the people in charge of shipping your cargo will treat it very carefully, the reality is that many times deliveries are rushed and corners are cut- incurring damages. To make sure that your shipments arrive intact, try these methods to fortify your packaging process.
 
Block and Brace Shipping
Block and brace shipping is a way to keep goods secured during transit, reducing the risk of excessive movement and damaged cargo. Packages that have been placed into shipping containers can slide around if they are unsecured. Blocking and bracing is a process that reduces the shifting of packages from the front of the shipping container to the back. To do this, metal or wooden beams are placed at strategic points within the shipping container in order to hold items in place.  If you are shipping a product with wheels you need to first keep the wheels stabilized and prevent them from spinning. You need to make sure these bracing systems are locked to the container as securely as possible and ensure that the braving systems do not allow for any movement of the cargo they hold.
 
Void Fill
Void fill is any type of cushioning that is added to your package with the intention of protecting your goods while they are in transit. Void fill should be used in cases when your products are fragile, if there is excess space in the package, if they heavy, or if your product has sharp corners that could be bent or broken during shipment. Typically used in corrugated boxes, void fill has many different options that serve a variety of functions. Some examples of void fill options would be packaging paper, inflatables, loose fill or newsprint paper. Packaging paper is used to fill empty space, protect edges or corners, or to fully protect the product. The protective qualities vary depending on the thickness, strength and resilience of the type of paper that you select. Similar to packaging paper is newsprint paper, which is thinner and generally well suited to provide light protection. Loose fill is convenient and very easy to use; these components are made from expanded polystyrene and can be added to a box to fill in any extra spaces.
 
Surface Protection
Surface protection can be used to protect a wide variety of products, such as painted car parts, mirrors, or anything else with a delicate surface. Surface protectors generally are designed to protect edges, and prevent shock or compression. Bubble wrap, packing foam and protective film are all types of surface protection that work in several different ways. Bubble wrap is a light film that can be supplied in sheeted forms, in pouches, or in rolls. Packing foam is elastic, flexible and water repellent material that offers very good cushioning properties. Protective film is generally used to prevent scuffs and scratches, and can be removed without leaving a residue even after long-term use.
 
These products and techniques are sure to help your shipments arrive safely to their destination. Having been in the packaging business for over 40 years, SSI Packaging Group understands the need for cost effective and quality packaging. Our premium products help your shipments get from point A to point B. For more information or assistance on how to protect your items in transit feel free to contact us at 804.649.1111.

​Typically when it becomes time to ship an item you are faced with a variety of considerations. You need to think about the size of your item, the distance it will go, how much it weighs and how it is shaped. These factors can help you determine what kind of container to ship your item in and the materials it should be made from. When faced with these choices you can decide between boxes and mailers. The intricacies between these two options are broken down in this post. 

​Corrugated Boxes
To ship bigger, bulkier items corrugated boxes are recommended because they are designed to protect items from bursting, crushing or puncturing the boxes when in transit. Corrugated cardboard boxes are strong and lightweight, made from layers of Kraft paper, a type of paper that was designed to be resistant to damage. Kraft paper is commonly made out of pine that has been pulped and processed. There is also a type of paper that is often used for the process called Test paper. Test paper is resilient yet has been made from recycled materials is also a reliable and sometimes less expensive option. Either types of this strong paper is processed in a facility and then crimped on a giant machine called a corrugator.

​For the typical corrugated box that is single wall, two layers of flat paper sandwich between them one layer of paper that has been crimped. When purchasing corrugated cardboard boxes generally this will be the most widely available option that you will see, however there do exist two other types of corrugated cardboard that have been designed with varying levels of strength in mind. Double wall corrugated cardboard consists of two pieces of crimped paper, which are glued together by one ply of non-fluted (or, not-crimped) paper or cardboard. The exposed outer surfaced are then covered with one piece of paper respectively. If the items that you chose to ship are especially heavy and you think they would need extra reinforcement, triple wall cardboard is the best solution. Triple wall corrugated cardboard is similar in its construction to double wall cardboard, with three plies of fluted paper instead of two. These layers of paper are held together by two pieces of paper or cardboard, and the outer surfaces are each covered with one ply of paper or cardboard. This extra layer provides additional support, perfect for large and bulky items.

Mailers
If your items are small and lightweight, resilient to shipment and are of varying degrees of fragility you can choose to ship with mailers. Bubble mailers are envelopes that are made from protective bubble wrap, and are designed to cushion and protect your items from damage during transit. In a similar vein, padded mailers are paper envelopes that include a layer of padding on the inside, so that they can lessen the impact of rough transport. Both of these types of mailers are efficient in protecting your items, however oftentimes you can find padded mailers made from recycled materials, which could be a benefit to your business if you are seeking ways to be more eco-friendly. Poly mailers are flat mailers made from durable polyethylene film, which means they are moisture resistant and lightweight. They are a great choice for e-commerce sellers because of their lower price point, small size and durability. Paper mailers are also lightweight, and are often made from renewable materials and are able to be recycled post shipment. However paper mailers are not weatherproof and can be a little bit more expensive than poly mailers, which tend to be cheaper because they are easier to produce. Finally, if you find yourself shipping items that need to retain their shape during shipment like photos or diplomas, your best possibility is flat mailers because they are rigid and retain their shape during shipping.

​Whether you want mailers or boxes, SSI Packaging Group has every necessity to get your shipment out the door. We specialize in providing personalized service and a variety of options for any of your packaging needs. Call us at (804) 649-1111 to speak with a representative or view our products to find out more. 

Everyone has had moments popping the sheets of bubbles that are leftover from packaging. But the next time that you have some leftovers, try to resist the magnetic pull of breaking those little bubbles. There are tons of other cool uses for bubble wrap that you can take advantage of.
 
Protect your windshield
 
Bubble wrap is a great insulator, and can be used in a variety of ways to protect things from the cold. You can tape sheets of it to the inside of your windows to contain heat during cold snaps and reduce your heating bill. In addition, bubble wrap is a great tool to keep your car windshield frost-free during the snowy winter months. You can also use bubble wrap to protect your home’s windows.
 
Insulate your plants
 
Speaking of frost prevention, you can use bubble wrap to protect plants that are too large to bring inside during harsh conditions. By cutting the bubble wrap to the appropriate size and taping around the entire plant, pot included, you can prevent freezing and keep your plants alive until springtime.
 
Keep your groceries cold
 
When things start to heat up in the spring and summer, you can use bubble wrap to keep the cold in. Wrap it tightly around your cold groceries when you have a long ways to transport them. It’s a crafty way to make sure you aren’t bringing ice-cream soup to the park picnic!
 
Store accessories
 
Bubble wrap is a great medium for holding the shape of delicate items like handbags or tall boots. It is soft enough to prevent stretching, won’t attract moths or rodents, and lasts forever. They’re a great way to preserve the freshness of your accessories when you put them in storage.
 
Make your travels pop
 
Next time you have a big adventure, take a little bubble wrap with you in your suitcase. The bubble wrap will save space in your suitcase for any souvenirs you’d like to bring back, and will protect them on the bumpy ride back to your home.
 
Pad your sleeping bag
 
If you’re a fan of the great outdoors, bubble wrap can help keep you comfortable. Instead of buying an expensive sleeping pad from a camping store, use bubble wrap as a cheap alternative. You might also find other uses for bubble wrap on your trip that you hadn’t thought of. Lightweight, waterproof, and strong, bubble wrap is just a handy thing to have around during a camping trip.
 
Get crafty
 
Bubble wrap is such a tactile material that it’s no wonder kids are naturally drawn to it. Craft ideas for bubble wrap are almost endless: dip it in paint and use it to stamp patterns onto paper; make a jellyfish Halloween costume; or tape it to the floor and let kids roll toy cars over it. Next time the kids are feeling a little bit of cabin fever, grab a bit of bubble wrap and get crafty!
 
Get everything you need from SSI Packaging Group
 
When you need bubble wrap or just about any other packaging material, SSI Packaging Group has you covered. We are a leading distributor of Sealed Air product packaging products, including:

• Bubble Wrap®
• Bubble Mask
• Adhesive Bubble
• Multi Purpose bubble
• Cold Seal Bubble
• Limited Grade Bubble
• Recycled Bubble
• Strong Grade Bubble.

Our bubble wrap stays bubbly--we pride ourselves on providing quality products that don’t lose air in transit. To learn more, view our products or contact us at (804) 649-1111. 

If your packaging could talk, what would it say? First impressions count, and packaging is a great way to communicate brand values to consumers from the bat. Items that are delivered in poor conditions do more than just risk damage to the products that you are sending. Big packaging errors tell customers that you don’t have your head in the game. Here are some common packaging mistakes, and how to resolve them.
 
Tape it up
 
Contrary to what you might have assumed, there is no one-tape-fits-all in the world of packaging. Different tapes are especially designed for a variety of package sizes, weights, and even temperatures. If you ship out boxes without regard to these specifics your customers could end up with peeling issues, boxes that have been over taped and are difficult to open, or some that are falling apart entirely due to weather fluctuations in transit. Play it safe and match your tape specifically to your shipments individual needs.
 
Label your stuff
 
Have you ever tried to read a label and just couldn't quite make out what it said? This irritating event is downright dangerous in some cases (think food production) and can impact the perception of your brand. It is important that your items are marked clearly and efficiently using appropriate coding and marking systems.
      
 
Take note of dimensions
 
There is a good reason that packaging materials come in all different shapes and sizes. Whether your items need tubes, small boxes or mailers, it is important to make sure you select the ideal sizes and materials for your items. Imagine opening up a huge box to find a delicate piece of jewelry inside that has been bounced around during transit! Not matching the sizes of your packaging materials to the needs of your items runs the risk of damaging them. Not only practical, this tip is also environmentally friendly. By paying attention to these details it gives the added benefit of downsizing any potential waste from excess packaging.
 
 
Play it safe
 
Your items should be distributed with care, and this means choosing the appropriate materials to pack with them. There are a few key rules here- for heavy items it is important to use Instapak foam packaging for effective caution and protection.  For void fill applications, fill air by Sealed Air  will provide light weight solutions to prevent product shifting. For medium to light items paper packaging, inflatable packaging,  Bubble wrap, and bubble bags are all excellent choices for protection.  Light foam is an excellent choice for surface applications (think table tops, mirrors, etc.).  And for electronic items, consider antistatic bubble rolls and bubble envelopes. The shipping process can be rough on your packages, which is why it’s so important to make sure you choose the best materials to protect them.
 
 
By identifying and resolving these common packaging issues you can make sure that you are proving your true value to your customers! We know how important packaging is towards building your brand, which is why at SSI Packaging Group “we help you pack and tack your image”®. We offer the latest in industrial marking, coding, and printing technology, as well as premier packaging solutions like bubble wrap, corrugated cardboard, foam, and more to help you beat any and all common packaging mistakes.