Benefits and Differences in Packaging Foams

When it comes to packaging items for your business, there are certain expectations. You want a solution that is easy to use and remove, as well as an affordable solution to avoid going over your budget. However, the most important factor is always going to be protection. When shipping items, packaging foam is the best solution for providing stable support and trusted softness which protects from breaks, scratches, dents, or other damages to the item being shipped. While foam may be the best solution, you may have a few questions about the matter.

The first question most people ask is regarding the different types of foam available. There are three main compositions of packaging foam and each one has its own unique benefits based on the differences in material and function. Let's take a look at the benefits and differences in packaging foams in more detail.

Polyurethane
An open cell foam which offers a softness that molds to the object with ease, this type of foam is ideal for use with a wide range of items. With the superior cushioning element, this type of packaging foam supplies superior protection while offering a soft, scratch resistant surface perfect for delicate objects such as fine china, glass, and other items of a delicate nature. While this is usually a softer grade of foam, it can be manufactured in varying levels of firmness and densities for more security.

Polyethylene
A slightly denser solution compared to polyurethane, polyethylene foam is often used for objects of higher sensitivity requiring more rigid stability. The closed cell nature of this foam also ensures superior vibration and impact dampening properties to further ensure protection. It is also highly resistant to damage, chemicals, and moisture making it ideal for transporting sensitive items. Polyethene foam is often used for packaging items such as medical devices, weapons, and other items in need of extra protection. This material is also used to create profiles which slide easily onto the sides of items such as picture frames. Profiles can also be used within a box to create an interior edge of protection.

Pick and Pull Grid
This type of foam is ideal for adding extra security to a case or package. Available in a range of sizes and thickness, pick and pull grid is easy to add to any package. The great thing about this type of foam is that it can be used to wrap a range of items regardless of shape or size. While it provides a thinner layer of protection than other options, it is ideal for dealing with objects such as vases or sculptures which can be trickier to transport.

Antistatic
Used with electrical components for everything from computers to automotive, anti-static foam is designed to eliminate and absorb electrical charges, vibrations, and electro-shock static, as well as other disturbances, which can be an issue when dealing with electrical current products. This type of foam protects the electrical components of not only the item being shipped, but also removes the threat to surrounding electrical elements, as well as removing the threat of shocks to humans coming into contact with the device during shipping and handling. This type of foam also offers superior cushioning to ensure damages are eliminated.

Eggcrate
While many foams are flat in shape, eggcrate has raised areas which add to the protection factor. The unique shape allows it to more easily pick up and absorb vibrations and impacts while adding an extra layer of support and protection for items. Best of all, this type of foam can be reused for years thanks to the improved durability of the shape. It can be used as loose sheets to wrap around items or as part of a custom case.

Custom Cases
When shipping or transporting sensitive items, a custom case has several benefits to it. With a custom case, the fit is improved for a more snug and secure protection. Custom pieces can also be cut to fit the exact dimensions of the items such as the curves of a guitar or the smaller parts of a microscope. While many people assume this may be too expensive for some packaging needs, it is a reasonable solution when compared to the cost of damage to highly sensitive items of an expensive nature.

When choosing the right foam for your packaging needs, the more you know about the options available, the more confidence you will have in your decision. Of course, it is important to bear in mind, that the object being packaged will play the biggest role in the process of choosing foam.