Skip to Content
Exit

Daniel

Author Archives: Daniel

  1. Why Pallet Cones Are an Essential Industrial Packaging Solution

    Leave a Comment

    Pallet cones are specialized components securely fastened to the top of pallets using durable straps or adhesive tape. Their primary purpose is to prevent overstacking items on a pallet, ensuring that freight orders adhere to weight and space limitations. This practice keeps the integrity of the shipments and contributes to safer handling and more efficient storage within warehouses and during transit.

    Advantages of Pallet Cones

    Pallet cones offer the following benefits in industrial settings:

    Damage Prevention From Double Stacking

    Double stacking can exert excessive pressure on the lower items, causing deformation, breakage, or other forms of damage. Pallet cones act as a protective barrier, clearly communicating that additional items should not be stacked on top. This visual warning helps maintain the integrity and quality of the goods throughout the supply chain.

    In addition, damaged products because of double stacking can result in financial losses for businesses. Replacing or repairing these items incurs additional costs; in some cases, the entire shipment may be compromised. Fortunately, the cones are a cost-effective preventive measure that minimizes the risk of damage and the associated financial implications.

    High Visibility Warning

    The bold red and white print is designed to catch the eye instantly. This immediate recognition is vital in fast-paced warehouse environments where efficiency is paramount. Workers, forklift operators, and other personnel can quickly identify the cones, ensuring that stacking instructions are noticed and followed without delay.

    Clear and visible warnings are essential for safety in busy warehouses with multiple activities and movements. The cones’ high visibility reduces the risk of accidents by drawing attention to the prohibition of double stacking. This is especially important in preventing mishaps when heavy loads are improperly stacked or balanced.

    Quick and Secure Attachment

    Pallet cones are engineered with pre-cut slots and edge tabs, which simplify attaching them to pallets or products. This efficiency is crucial in fast-paced environments where time is of the essence. Workers can quickly secure the cones, reducing downtime and running operations smoothly.

    Stability on Uneven Surfaces

    Pallets are sometimes placed on uneven surfaces, leading to stability issues during handling, storage, or transportation. These surfaces may cause the pallet to tilt or shift, increasing the risk of accidents, product damage, and even worker injuries. The cones mitigate these risks by providing a level and stable platform for stacking additional items.

    Space Efficiency and Eco-Friendliness

    Pallet cones are typically constructed from special cardboard and are supplied in a flat or disassembled form. This design significantly reduces the storage space requirements compared to traditional pallet accessories or protective materials. Warehouses and distribution centers often contend with limited space, and these cones help optimize the areas by minimizing the space they occupy when not in use.

    Moreover, they are not single-use items. They can be reused multiple times, contributing to cost savings and resource efficiency. When they eventually reach the end of their lifecycle, these cones are recyclable, which aligns with sustainability objectives. Using cardboard, a renewable and recyclable material, further enhances their eco-friendly profile.

    Choose Cougar Packaging Solutions for Top-Notch Services

    At Cougar Packaging Solutions, we pride ourselves on our unwavering commitment to delivering exceptional packaging products and services! We leverage our extensive industry knowledge and experience to recommend the most effective and efficient solutions for your business. We can provide outstanding results whether you require custom designs or innovative approaches.

    Contact us today to partner with us!

  2. What To Look For in Void Fill Packaging

    Leave a Comment
    Click to ExpandWhat-To-Look-For-in-Void-Fill-Packaging

    In supply chain management and logistics, packaging is one of the key components to ensure the safe delivery of products. It protects the goods from damage during transportation and is vital in keeping the product presentable to customers.

    There are two main types of packaging: protective packaging and void fill packaging. Protective packaging safeguards the product from external factors such as impact, vibration, and compression. Conversely, void fill packaging occupies empty spaces in parcels to prevent product movement during transportation.

    Here are the 8 factors to consider when choosing the right void fill packaging for your items:

    1. Compatible Material Properties

    Common void fill materials include air pillows, foam peanuts, and paper padding. When evaluating the performance of each, it’s important to consider cushioning, resilience, and durability. The ideal void fill material should provide adequate padding to protect the product and have good stability to maintain its shape even after multiple impacts. Additionally, it should be able to withstand the rigors of the shipping process.

    2. Effective Prevention of Product Shifting

    It is important to evaluate whether the void fill material effectively reduces movement and keeps the product in place during transit. Conducting drop, vibration, and compression tests on the chosen void fill is important to guarantee this aspect.

    3. Low Environmental Impact and Sustainable Lifecycle

    Many businesses are transitioning to sustainable, eco-friendly void fill solutions that minimize waste and reduce their carbon footprint. To do so, consider their lifecycle assessment raw material extraction, production, transportation, usage, and disposal phases. Opt for materials that are recyclable, contain PCR (Post Consumer Recycled) content, or made from renewable resources to minimize environmental impact.

    4. Cost-Effectiveness

    Pricing is always a critical factor in any business decision, and choosing the right packaging is no exception. Conducting a cost-benefit analysis can help businesses determine the most cost-effective solution for achieving the desired level of product protection. Factors to consider include material, shipping, and labor costs. You must also take into account the potential expenses of damaged goods resulting from an inadequate void fill.

    5. Optimal Space Utilization

    Its important to maximize storage and transportation capacity in supply chain management and logistics. Hence, void fill solutions should be evaluated based on their ability to optimize space within the package while providing the necessary padding. For instance, consider lightweight and easy storage materials like air pillows or expandable foam.

    6. Versatile Customization and Branding

    Branding and customization significantly enhance customer experience and brand perception. Packaging materials that offer customization options, such as printed logos or branded colors, can allow businesses to create a unique unboxing experience for their customers.

    7. Flexible Material Engineering

    Certain products may have specific requirements due to their fragility, weight, or shape. Choosing void fill options engineered to meet these particular needs is essential in such cases. For example, naturally antistatic void fill materials can be used for electronic products, while food-grade materials are necessary for perishable items. Consult with packaging experts to determine the most suitable material for your product requirements.

    8. Compliance With Regulatory and Industry Standards

    Lastly, ensure that the chosen packaging materials follow relevant regulatory requirements. This may include compliance with food safety regulations, hazardous material handling guidelines, or international shipping restrictions. By adhering to these standards, businesses can avoid potential legal issues, fines, and damage to their reputation.

    Discover the Perfect Void Fill Packaging With Cougar Packaging Solutions

    At Cougar Packaging Solutions, we prioritize safe and efficient product delivery by providing you with the ideal void fill packaging. Our experts will help you meet your needs while optimizing costs, space, and sustainability. We offer various customizable, eco-friendly void fill materials tailored to numerous requirements.

    Contact us today to discuss your void fill packaging needs.

  3. Storopack AIRplus® Applications

    Leave a Comment
    Click to ExpandStoropack AIRplus® Applications

    Ensuring that delicate and sensitive products arrive at their destination in pristine condition can pose a significant challenge for businesses involved in shipping. Traditional packaging materials — such as foam, bubble wrap, and peanuts — can be bulky, expensive, and often not environmentally friendly.

    Fortunately, Storopack AIRplus® provides a lightweight and reliable protective packaging solution that offers superior protection for a wide range of products. This article will delve into the various applications of Storopack AIRplus® and examine how it can benefit businesses across different industries.

    Industry Specific Applications

    Here are some of the applications of Storopack AIRplus® in different industries:

    1. E-Commerce

    As online shopping continues gaining traction, e-commerce companies seek reliable, cost-effective packaging solutions. Storopack AIRplus® air pillows protect delicate electronics, glassware, ceramics, and more.

    2. Pharmaceuticals and Medical Supplies

    Storopack AIRplus® can provide superior protection for delicate medical equipment and supplies during transit with its reliable shock resistance and customizable pillow shapes. Additionally, they can fill empty spaces in packages, preventing items from shifting or getting damaged.

    3. Food and Beverages

    Food and beverage products require specialized packaging to protect against contamination and damage during shipping. Storopack AIRplus® air pillows are made from materials suitable for consumption, ensuring they do not contaminate the products they preserve.

    4. Electronics

    Storopack AIRplus® provides cushioning and shock absorption to protect delicate electronic components during shipping. Furthermore, the AIRplus® pillow film machine can produce various pillow shapes, making it ideal for packaging multiple shapes and sizes of electronic products and appliances.

    5. Retail

    Storopack AIRplus® offers flexibility in design and shape to fit any product, reducing the need for multiple packaging materials. Additionally, it can reduce the overall weight of packages, reducing shipping costs.

    6. Automotive

    The automotive industry requires durable and robust packaging to protect its heavy and bulky components during shipping. Storopack AIRplus® gives excellent cushioning, shock resistance, and protection against scratches and other damages.

    How To Integrate Storopack AIRplus® Into Your Packing Process

    Introducing Storopack AIRplus® into your packing process is easy and can benefit your business. Here are some steps to help you get started:

    Step 1: Evaluate Your Current Packing Process

    The first step in integrating Storopack AIRplus® air pillows into your packing process is to evaluate your current process. Next, identify the areas where the air pillows can be combined to improve your efficiency and product protection.

    Step 2: Choose the Appropriate AIRplus® Machine Type

    Storopack offers various machine types for different packaging needs, such as the AIRplus® GTI, AIRplus® Mini, AIRplus® Wrap, and more.

    Step 3: Install the AIRplus® Machine

    Ensure the machine is properly installed and connected to a power source. You must also check that the air pillow film is loaded correctly. This will help prevent downtime and ensure a consistent and reliable packaging process.

    Step 4: Train Your Staff

    Educate your workers or staff on how to operate the machine, load the film, and troubleshoot common issues that may arise. This reduces the learning curve and enhances the effectiveness and efficiency of your packing process.

    Step 5: Enjoy the Benefits of Storopack AIRplus®

    After integrating it into your packing process and training your staff, you can now enjoy the solution’s benefits!

    Cougar Packaging Solutions: Your Reliable Partner for All Your Packaging Needs

    Cougar Packaging Solutions is committed to providing top-quality industrial package design and products that will lower your costs and help build your brand. With a broad array of capabilities, we offer single-source convenience, efficiency, and accountability. In addition, our team is dedicated to providing excellent service and expertise to ensure that your packaging needs are met.

    As part of our commitment to excellence, we proudly offer Storopack AIRplus® as one of our premier packaging solutions. Trust us to help you streamline your packaging process and safeguard your products during transit!

    Contact us today to learn more about our products and services.

  4. Key Considerations in Custom Packaging Designs

    Leave a Comment

    Product packaging goes beyond being a mere container for a product; it can shape consumer perception, differentiate a product from competitors, and enhance customer experience. Thus, it plays a crucial role in the overall success of a product.

    Often, packaging is the first point of contact for consumers, providing them with important product information. Hence, the right packaging can capture attention, convey brand messaging, and influence purchasing decisions. Well-designed packaging can create a sense of trust, showcase the product’s value, and ultimately drive sales and brand loyalty.

    This blog will help you maximize product appeal by mastering key considerations for custom packaging designs that complement the product and captivate your target audience.

    1. Consistency With the Product

    Consistency with the product is essential for businesses to maintain a strong brand presence. This involves three key aspects:

    1. Design and branding: Align marketing materials with the product’s design elements to create a unified and recognizable brand identity.
    2. Features and benefits: Consistently highlight the product’s unique selling points and advantages to make the product stand out.
    3. Target audience: Tailor messaging and advertisingto resonate with the preferences and values of the target audience.

    2. Functionality and Practicality

    Create user-friendly packaging with features like easy opening mechanisms and clear instructions. Moreover, choose materials that offer sufficient protection to ensure the product reaches customers in optimal condition. To enhance usability, you may even incorporate convenient features, such as resealable options or portion control mechanisms. This will differentiate your brand and leave a positive impression on consumers.

    3. Visual Appeal and Aesthetics

    One way to stand out from competitors is by incorporating unique visual elements. For instance, you can effectively communicate the product’s message using colors, typography, and imagery. These can helpyou can engage consumers, create a positive perception of your product, and increase its chances of being picked from the shelf.

    4. Branding and Messaging

    Consistency in branding across various product variations unifies the brand’s presence and enhances its impact. In particular, emphasize the brand’s logo, name, and tagline for instant recognition and better recall. Moreover, you can explore ways to communicate the product’s exceptional value proposition with clarity and conviction, captivating and informing consumers effectively.

    5. Sustainability and Eco-Friendliness

    Your brand’s dedication to environmental responsibility through impactful messaging and visual cues can attract eco-conscious consumers. Thus, embrace eco-friendly materials, prioritize waste reduction, and encourage recyclability.

    6. Practical Considerations

    Businesses can attain efficient, practical product packaging through cost-effective designs and optimized sizes for transport and storage. Additionally, adhering to regulatory compliance and safety standards is crucial. Considering these will make your brand reduce costs, minimize waste, and enhance customer satisfaction with their products.

    7. Consumer Experience

    Create a remarkable customer experience through product packaging. For example, you can enhance the unboxing process with thoughtful design elements. Moreover, consider including clear and informative product labels and instructions. By prioritizing these elements, you can leave a lasting impression, foster satisfaction, and build strong customer relationships.

    Elevate Your Product Packaging With Cougar Packaging Solutions

    Are you ready to take your product packaging to the next level? At Cougar Packaging Solutions, we emphasize custom packaging designs to complement your product and engage your target audience. Whether you need eco-friendly materials or user-friendly features, we’ve got you covered!

    Our team of experts is committed to providing exceptional products and services that align with your brand’s values and goals. Our 50 years of industrial packaging experience have also allowed us to acquire deep and broad problem-solving expertise to deliver excellent, cost-effective packaging solutions.

    Contact us today to learn how we can help you elevate your product packaging and be a total stand-out!

  5. How To Choose the Right Void Fill

    Leave a Comment
    Click to ExpandHow-to-Choose-the-Right-Void-Fill

    Void fill is an essential part of the packaging process for any business and company that ships products. It acts as a cushion to fill the void space ,preventing the item from moving around during shipping. It is also available in various shapes, sizes, and materials. These include air pillows, paper, foam, and bubble wrap.

    Leaving space inside a package can be risky since it can cause products to collide with the container, resulting in potential damage. That is why choosing the right type of packaging filler material that can cushion and secure the product is important. In this article, we will present key factors to consider when selecting the right type of void fill for your application.

    Factors To Consider During the Void Fill Selection

    Selecting inappropriate filler material can have serious consequences, potentially resulting in damage or loss of products during transit. If it also does not provide adequate protection or is incompatible with the product, it can lead to shifting, jostling, or even breakage. Here are several key factors to consider when selecting the right material to avoid shipping problems:

    Cushioning Capabilities

    The primary purpose of cushioning is to absorb shocks and impacts that may occur during shipping. Therefore, when choosing packaging filler materials, it is essential to consider the product’s weight, fragility, shape, shipping method, and duration. For example, lightweight products may require less cushioning, while heavier and more fragile items may need more cushioning to prevent damage.

    Several cushioning materials are available, such as bubble wrap, foam, paper, and air pillows. The choice usually depends on the product’s specific needs and shipping conditions. The amount of cushioning is also crucial. Over-cushioning can increase the cost and environmental impact, while under-cushioning can put the product at risk of damage.

    Presentation Qualities

    Presentation is an important factor to consider, particularly if the product’s aesthetic appearance is critical. For instance, when shipping a high-end luxury item, the appearance of the filling material should be considered to preserve the product’s value.

    Some materials like shredded paper or newspaper can make the packaging look untidy or unprofessional. Meanwhile, decorative air pillows can enhance the presentation of the product and provide a more visually appealing unboxing experience for the customer. Additionally, the right void fill should be easy to install and apply to expedite the packaging time.

    Blocking and Bracing Efficiencies

    Preventing products from moving inside the packaging is the primary objective of blocking and bracing. Therefore, it is crucial to balance providing adequate blocking and bracing to ensure protection and minimize excess material. Achieving this balance involves considering the weight and shape of the product being shipped. For instance, fragile items require more rigid blocking and bracing materials such as foam blocks or molded pulp.

    Protection Capabilities

    Void fills have varying protection capabilities, depending on their composition and density. For instance, foam inserts, air pillows, and bubble wraps effectively cushion delicate and fragile items. Conversely, paper fillers are suitable for lighter and less fragile products.

    Ensuring that the filler materials are compatible with the product is also essential. Some materials may chemically react with certain products, which can cause damage or degradation over time. Therefore, it is advised to check the compatibility to avoid reactions that may affect the product’s quality or integrity.

    Cost

    It is crucial to find the right balance between cost and performance. While opting for the cheapest option available may be tempting, this can lead to inadequate protection and potential product damage. Businesses can also reduce costs by purchasing them in bulk or exploring sustainable and eco-friendly options.

    Trust Cougar Packaging Solutions for Your Packaging Needs!

    With over 50 years of experience, Cougar Packaging Solutions offers high-quality industrial packaging solutions, products, services, and supplies! We have established successful partnerships by delivering our customers cost-effective, high-performance solutions. Moreover, our team’s extensive problem-solving expertise enables us to provide innovative and customized products and services.

    Contact us today to learn more about our capabilities. Trust us to be your go-to partner for all your industrial packaging requirements!

  6. Recycled and Recyclable Products

    Leave a Comment
    Click to ExpandRecycled and Recyclable Products” data-lazy-src=

    Packaging materials like plastic are prominently used in many industries to wrap and protect products for distribution, storage, and shipping. However, these materials make up a significant portion of municipal solid waste, equalling 82.2 million tons of generation in 2018.

    Because of consumer pressure to address the danger that packaging materials cause the environment, the demand for eco-friendly materials has boomed. This pursuit of sustainability paved the way for using recycled and recyclable packaging materials.

    Cougar Packaging Solutions is your one-stop shop for environmentally-friendly packaging needs. We deliver a broad scope of products, from corrugated boxes to compostable fillers, created from post-consumer and post-industrial recycled materials.

    PCR Resins and Its Advantages

    A substance from recycled plastic, such as beverage bottles, is called post-consumer recycled (PCR) resin. It offers a more environmentally friendly alternative to the virgin plastic resin typically used to create packaging materials, including sheets, containers, and packaging films.

    PCR resins are excellent for almost every packaging purpose since they adhere to standards and regulations for food, pharmaceutical, medical, electronic, and general retail packaging. Its advantages include the following:

    • Reduces the quantity of plastic dumped in landfills (4,800 16-ounce plastic bottles equal about a cubic yard of landfill space)
    • Decreases carbon footprint (traditional plastics production produces nearly 900 million tons of carbon dioxide each year)
    • Decreases the need for non-renewable petroleum products to make new polymers
    • Reduces the energy required to create new plastics (recycling a pound of PET plastic instead of creating new can save up to 12,000 BTUs)
    • Promotes a company’s sustainability goals and visions

    Importance of Using Recycled and Recyclable Products

    Plastics are the most common packaging materials used in many industries. Because of their durability and flexibility, they can store food, cover clothes, and carry other products in the market.

    Although mostly recyclable, much plastic packaging is put to waste and poses many environmental problems — waste, soil, and air pollution, negative impact on human health, and threats to oceans and wildlife. Because of this, many businesses have been switching to recycled and recyclable materials for their packaging needs to contribute less to the growing packaging waste problem worldwide.

    Storopack has devised a system to reclaim post-consumer material from the US consumer and create plastic products, including air pillows and bubble wrap, utilizing a minimum of 50% post-consumer plastic. The other 50% of these products are made from post-industrial waste, making this the first 100% recycled plastic packaging line that includes a minimum of 50% post-consumer material.

    Recycled and recyclable materials also benefit business operations, providing several advantages to their users. For instance, eco-friendly packaging helps save the environment, is cost-efficient, and improves brand image.

    Benefits of Recycled and Recyclable Products in Businesses

    While recycled and recyclable products are mainly favored for their environmental benefits — such as increased sustainability and less carbon footprint, harmful toxins, and landfill waste — they can also positively impact businesses. Below are some benefits of eco-friendly packaging for your business:

    Offers Versatility

    Recycled and recyclable packaging can be used in various applications. Aside from serving as a wrap, they are also used as fillers to protect products inside their packaging.

    Improves Brand Image

    When a business presents itself as an environmentally-responsible company, it creates trust within the customer base. Through this, the company achieves an enhanced brand image, which leads to more consumers patronizing its products. Taking consumer waste out of landfills and making it useful again in packaging products is our company’s way of giving back to the environment.

    Expands Customer Base

    Customers often choose companies who adhere to sustainable practices and goals. Using recycled and recyclable packaging would attract more consumers with the same advocacy.

    Recycled and Recyclable Products at Cougar Packaging Solutions

    At Cougar Packaging Solutions, we understand how crucial it is to promote sustainability, as environmental degradation is a global problem. Due to this, we developed products made of post-consumer and post-industrial materials to help reduce businesses’ environmental impact.

    Our recycled and recyclable products include the following:

    Fun Pak Loose Fill

    These are compostable, plant-based fillers that are shock-resistant and used to block and brace products inside packaging boxes.

    PAPERbubble

    This product is an eco-friendly alternative to bubble cushions that provide exceptional, robust, and long-lasting protective features.

    STARCHwrap

    This plant-based wrap is an alternative to bubble wrapping. It protects products from scratches, shock, and damage during shipment and transport, and it is compostable as well.

    PAD LOC RENATURE

    This fully compostable cushion delivers optimal blocking and bracing with superior shock and vibration absorption.

    Eco-Crates

    These corrugated containers incorporate plastic from recycled water bottles. Eco-Crates can meet International Safe Transit Association (ISTA) or American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) shipping standards.

    Paper Void Fill

    Paper void fills are a more practical choice for shipping sharp and heavy objects. These are additional protective padding placed between the item and the shipping box and comes in different varieties — Storopack’s PAPERplus® Cushioning Systems, PAPERplus® Classic, PAPERplus® Shooter, PAPERplus® Papillon.

    Air Pillows

    This eco-friendly alternative to paper wrapping and styrofoam peanuts offers excellent protection from shock for fragile and lightweight products. It comes in two variants — AIRplus® and AIRmove². All air pillow equipment can be configured to meet your needs with tabletop and overhead options.

    Get Your Recycled and Recyclable Packaging Materials From Cougar!

    We at Cougar Packaging Solutions have committed to providing exceptional products and services to our clients. With our 50 years of industrial packaging experience, we acquired deep and broad problem-solving expertise to deliver excellent but cost-effective packaging solutions to our customers.

    Contact us today to learn more about our developments!

  7. PAPERbubble: A Natural Wrapping for Perfect Protection

    Leave a Comment

    Products are vulnerable to damage and deformation during the shipping process. Because of this, manufacturers use protective wraps like bubble cushions to keep items in perfect condition while in transit. Bubble cushions are clean, flexible, lightweight air cushioning materials typically made from plastics. Their primary purpose is to minimize damage when storing, packing, or shipping goods.

    Drawbacks of Using Bubble Cushions

    Although widely used in the packing industry, using bubble cushions has some disadvantages, including the following:

    • Contains Toxins: The plastic polymer used to create bubble cushions is extremely toxic to the environment.
    • Clogs Up Landfills: Bubble cushions take up a significant volume of landfill space and take hundreds of years to decompose.
    • Takes Up Big Storage Space: For manufacturers, storing bubble cushions is a practical and ecological nightmare. Since most of their component is air, bubble cushions are challenging to keep as they consume considerable storage space.
    • Flammable: When a fire occurs, bubble cushions can act as an accelerant that throws bursts of oxygen into the fire.

     

    Due to these disadvantages, many companies switched to alternative packaging solutions that are safe for the environment.

    Cougar Packaging Solutions offers various sustainable packaging materials that can be applied for different purposes! One is Storopack’s PAPERbubble, an environmentally friendly option that delivers optimum performance and quality.

    PAPERbubble Applications

    PAPERbubble is a protective packaging solution made of natural materials like paper and air. Unlike bubble cushions, this natural packaging is 100% recyclable and eco-friendly, as it lessens the need for primary raw materials and fossil resources.

    Manufacturers can utilize PAPERbubble to wrap products and fill voids inside crates and boxes to safely ship and deliver goods to their consumers. This packaging option offers the same exceptional, powerful, and long-lasting protective properties as traditional bubble cushioning without the environmental risks posed by plastic packaging. This makes PAPERbubble ideal for companies that practice sustainability measures in their operations.

    With its 23″ width x 15″ length perforated paper sheets, PAPERbubble is the perfect choice to wrap and cushion delicate materials like cosmetics, electronic components, and other online mail-order goods.

    Why Use PAPERbubble for Your Packaging Needs?

    PAPERbubble comes in a specialized box with 300 paper sheets that are easily dispensible and ready to use. Thus, manufacturers no longer need complex machinery to dispense packaging wraps, making the process user-friendly and cost-efficient. PAPERbubble is also perfect as a packing void fill that protects items from shock and vibrations during shipment.

    Moreover, this packaging solution adds a sleek and impressive appearance to products in the shipping carton. This gives customers a positive and memorable unpacking experience.

    Packaging Solutions From Cougar

    At Cougar Packaging Solutions, sustainability is not a hindrance but a driver of success! We are committed to bringing superior-quality eco-friendly products to positively contribute to protecting and conserving our planet and natural resources. Cougar also ensures that we partner with brands with the same sustainability goal.

    With this advocacy in mind, we have meticulously curated a kaleidoscope of custom packaging solutions, products, supplies, and services for the past 50 years! Our capabilities and the team’s problem-solving expertise allowed us to provide the best packaging solutions to exceed customer expectations.

    Contact us to learn more about our innovative solutions. Our competent team would be delighted to assist you in creating the perfect custom packaging solutions for your business needs!

  8. Paper Void Fill

    Leave a Comment
    Click to ExpandPaper-Void-Fill

    When packaged items are in transit, the shifting and moving increase the likelihood of damage. To prevent this from happening and keep the integrity of products, packages are kept intact with different types of paddings; one of these is called paper void fill. Paper void fill, also referred to as void fill, is a type of filler material used to secure products by filling empty spaces in shipping boxes or containers.

    In this article, we will discuss the applications and benefits of paper void fill and the various paper filling systems available in Cougar Packaging Solutions.

    When Do You Need Paper Void Fill?

    Like other packaging paddings, paper void fill has many applications, from heavy to light products. This packaging paper is well suited for e-commerce applications, especially for eco-conscious businesses and consumers looking for a recyclable and more sustainable alternative to other fillings.

    Here are a few other applications of paper void fill:

    • Addition of protective padding between the item and the cardboard box when shipping goods
    • Prevention of movement and sliding of goods during the shipping process
    • Wrapping of glasses, ceramics, and other fragile items when storing or transporting goods
    • Enhancement of unboxing experience for consumers
    • Improvement of aesthetic purposes when assembling a package or a gift box

    What Are the Benefits of Paper Void Fill Packaging?

    Void fill provides several advantages for packaging companies. First, its semi-course surface reduces movement within the package, preventing valuables from being damaged or broken. It is also ideal for long-distance deliveries where the package is likely to be managed by multiple people and organizations.

    Compared to air pillows, paper void fill is also a more practical option when shipping heavy or sharp objects. The paper packaging alternative is more versatile and less fragile, making it suitable for a wide range of products. Pointed tips can pierce air pillows, releasing the air and rendering the padding useless, and heavier items could flatten air pillows and cause them to burst.

    Paper void fill is one of the most recyclable materials available compared to plastic packaging. Although plastic may be recycled a limited number of times, air pillows are almost exclusively used for packaging, while void fill can be reused for purposes other than basic filling. Some other advantages of using paper packaging are that it is lightweight, easy to store, and inexpensive.

    Storopack’s PAPERplus® Cushioning Systems

    Cougar Packaging Solutions use Storopack’s PAPERplus® paper cushioning, which provides all-around perfect protection for your packaged goods. Storopack offers a diverse range of systems that produce the proper packaging padding for every application. Their solutions can be used alone or in combination with existing packaging systems.

    PAPERplus® Classic

    The PAPERplus® Classic paper cushioning system is an excellent choice for heavy-weight products. Heavy items can be safely restricted, braced in cartons, and cushioned with paper pads and two-ply paper.

    PAPERplus® Shooter

    The PAPERplus® Shooter converts single-layer kraft paper into multi-layer paper cushioning, which you can use to fill cartons and block and brace products. It can produce up to 3.7 m. of paper cushioning in a second. In addition, customers can seamlessly integrate the PAPERplus® Shooter into their existing packing processes, creating piece cushioning directly at the packing station.

    PAPERplus® Papillon

    The unique, patented shape of PAPERplus® Papillon system’s paper cushioning offers superior protection for small to medium-sized shipping goods. It is also ideal for filling spaces and wrapping products due to its high volume at a low weight.

    Having Trouble With Your Packaging Needs?

    What’s beneficial to the environment is also helpful to businesses. Paper void fill is a simple, sustainable, and effective method of filling empty spaces in a shipping box to ensure the safety of your goods.

    Cougar Packaging Solutions has carefully curated a diverse range of industrial packaging solutions, products, services, and supplies over the last 50 years. Our industrial packaging expertise has allowed us to foster many successful partnerships by demonstrating our ability to reduce our customers’ costs and improve their performance. With our team’s deep and broad problem-solving expertise, we create the best and most innovative packaging solutions!

    Our experts can assist your company in creating a functional and efficient packaging facility in your warehouses. Contact us today to learn more about our void fill solutions.

  9. What You Don’t Know About Shrink Wrap

    Leave a Comment

     

    Click to ExpandAbout Shrink Wrap

    Consumers expect products and their packaging to be intact and protected from tampering, contamination, weather, dust, and other hazards. Shrink wrapping is one of the easiest, fastest, and most cost-effective ways to achieve these goals. Whether it’s protecting individual products, bundling multiple products together, or both, heat shrink wrap can maintain product and packaging integrity while improving customer satisfaction and simplifying tasks for retailers.

    There are two main types of shrink wrapping: shrink bundling with polyethylene film and shrink wrapping with polyolefin film. Shrink bundling creates bullseyes on the ends of the product(s) for easy handling, while shrink wrapping creates a complete seal around the product(s). Here we’ll talk about both types generally as shrink wrapping, explaining the process, advantages, and applications of this simple but effective packaging method.

    What Is Shrink Wrap?

    The shrink wrapping process involves briefly applying heat to one or more products wrapped in polyolefin or polyethylene film to form a close-fitting, protective layer of plastic that conforms even to oddly-shaped items (but not sharp objects). Versatile and FDA-approved for food-safe use, polyolefin shrink wrap film is clear and strong, even in very thin layers. Polyethylene shrink wrap film is a type of polyolefin available in different densities: high-density, low-density, and linear low-density. As a shrink film, polyethylene is flexible, strong, and resistant to moisture, impact, and chemicals.

    With just a shrink wrap film and heat source, packagers can make nearly any product of any size weatherproof, waterproof, and tamperproof.

    Shrink Wrapping Process

    The shrink wrapping process is usually automated, allowing for varying speed and quality of the resulting shrink wrap. Here are the basic steps of the process:

    1. Group products: Products are placed in the desired formation (for example, 2 x 3 to form a 6-pack) along the packaging line. Slower machines group products within the machine, while faster machines group together pre-collated products.
    2. Form bundles: A bundle is formed when shrink wrap film conforms around the products. Two rolls can be used at once, with a hot knife cutting and sealing in a single step, or one roll can be overlapped and cut, leaving the sealing for the heat tunnel.
    3. Heat shrink wrap: Heat must be applied to the wrapped products for the shrink wrap to conform to product contours. In the heat tunnel, hot air is circulated briefly to shrink the film, followed by setting it in cooler air.

    Advantages of Shrink Wrapping

    Shrink wrapping offers benefits to manufacturers, retailers, transportation providers, and consumers.

    Protection

    Shrink wrapping offers a protective barrier between products and the environment, dramatically reducing the risk of product damage by moisture, air, dirt, dust, or abrasion. Some shrink wrapping materials also provide UV protection to prevent degradation when exposed to the sun.

    Improved Durability

    Shrink wrap adds resilience and strength to packaging, ensuring bundled products stay together and remain visually appealing and shelf-ready. Shrink wrap resists tears, punctures, and sagging in hot and cold ambient conditions.

    Tamper-Evident Protection

    Since shrink wrap can completely enclose a product without gaps or changing shape, any attempts at tampering are obvious. This is why most companies in the pharmaceutical, food, and financial industries rely on shrink wrapping to safeguard product integrity.

    Affordability

    Since they are lightweight and conform to products without extra bulk, shrink wrapping keeps transportation costs low. Shrink wrapping materials and processes are also fast and cost-effective, easily paying for themselves with the protection and safety they provide.

    Branding

    Because shrink wrap can be custom colored and printed, it offers a larger, more visible canvas to share your brand identity.

    Convenience and Ease of Handling

    From individual parts to large bundles of multiple products, shrink wrapping can make it easier to handle products and keep components together. Shrink bundling with polyethylene film can be done with openings—called bullseyes—on the ends, which makes bulky or oddly-shaped products like cases of bottles much easier for retailers and consumers to manage.

    Shrink Wrapping Applications

    While shrink wrapping can accommodate virtually any object size and shape—from tiny pieces of hardware to entire boats—most shrink wrapping applications include the following:

    • Bottles, cans, jars, boxes, or cartons containing food, beverages, or other consumer goods
    • Products and materials for the printing and paper converting industries
    • Medical and pharmaceutical uses where safety and tamper-evident packaging are critical
    • Third-party logistics and contract packaging providers
    • Home improvement and construction products

    Shrink Wrapping With Cougar Packaging Solutions

    At Cougar Packaging Solutions, our shrink bundling and multipacking machines are designed to help you take advantage of the many benefits of shrink wrapping, saving you time, labor, and money. Backed by over 50 years of packaging experience, we are dedicated to providing efficient packaging products and services to our customers. Contact us today to learn how we can help you with your packaging needs.

  10. What Are the Benefits of Air Pillows?

    Leave a Comment

     

    Click to ExpandBenefits of Air Pillows

    Consumers and businesses alike are increasingly interested in sustainability. Air pillows are a cost-effective way to reduce the growing amount of packaging waste inherent to e-commerce without sacrificing packaging reliability. Compared to alternatives like paper wrapping and styrofoam peanuts, versatile packing air pillows result in far less waste generation, reduce packing material storage needs for business owners, and have a lesser impact on the environment. Read on to learn more about the advantages of air pillows as a high-performance packaging method.

    Minimal Waste and Energy Consumption

    Paper is a common packaging option because it is cheap and plentiful, but this material tends to have a one-time-use life cycle, meaning that, at best, it makes its way to a recycling center after one packing application. More often, it ends up in a landfill. Compared to paper, packing air pillows generate 99% less waste, which, in addition to being environmentally friendly, equates to cost savings. Also, in bulk, paper is not a light material. Its use has the unpleasant side effect of increasing freight costs and energy expenditures for its transportation. In addressing these issues, air pillows have become an increasingly popular packing solution.

    Reduced Material Usage and Storage Needs

    When you consider their construction, air cushions are almost entirely air, yet they still offer supreme protection for packaged goods. They are ideal for bracing, blocking, interleaving, protecting corners, and more to eliminate any dead space in a box, all while requiring little material. Alternately, styrofoam packing peanuts utilize 99% more material in comparison, and they are more expensive. As manufacturers store thin-film packaging on rolls and then inflate the pillows on demand, air pillows also require significantly less storage space. Once again, this has a positive impact on your budget in regard to warehousing costs.

    Sustainability

    When it comes to environmental-friendliness concerns, air pillows are the clear choice. They are highly recyclable and certain varieties can be compostable, as well. A responsible consumer can easily deflate and recycle the small pieces of film that remain once the pillow has served its purpose, or they can reuse them for another packaging application. Either way, air pillows reduce the burden on landfills. As for shipping costs, air pillows do not add any significant weight to a package, reducing energy consumption for their transportation.

    Ideal Alternative to Styrofoam

    Using little more than air itself, air pillows enable you to package your products more efficiently and affordably while minimizing waste for consumers and reducing harmful environmental effects. Styrofoam peanuts are messy, bulky, and can break up into bits or degrade, making it bothersome for consumers to use and dispose of them. Also, if they shift during transit, their effectiveness decreases. Air pillows are a highly versatile and efficient packaging method that conforms to the product, an advantage not offered by packing peanuts.

    Air Pillows From Cougar Packaging Solutions

    Reducing waste and costs by leveraging inventive ways to package products helps businesses stay competitive and strengthen their brand in the eyes of consumers. At Cougar Packaging Solutions, we have 50 years of expertise as a distributor of high-quality packing supplies and equipment. Our team is committed to innovation, and we offer a variety of industrial packing options to our customers with a focus on accountability and efficiency. The air pillow packing solutions we provide for securing your product during transit include:

    • AIRplus®. Reliable AIRplus® technology from Storopack provides optimal protection and shock resistance for fragile products, with four film types available. Easy to incorporate into existing packaging operations, AIRplus® reduces storage needs, allowing you to produce pillows in various shapes right at the packing station. We offer a range of AIRplus® products, such as AIRplus Void, AIRplus Cushion, AIRplus Bubble, AIRplus Wrap, and AIRplus CX or ESD film.
    • AIRmove². For small- to medium-sized packaging operations, AIRmove² features quick-start functionality for fast filling, providing a film output of 10 meters per minute at the push of a button or foot pedal. Its roll angle enables you to quickly and easily insert and extract the film, and its heat-sealing unit and cutting system further enable fast packaging. You can choose from void, cushion, or bubble formats to ensure that your packaging conforms exactly to each product.

     

    Our goal is to be a single-source provider for your industrial packaging needs, working with you to enhance your operations and reduce costs. Contact us today to learn more about how air pillows from Cougar Packaging can support your business.

The first step to lower costs and better business performance.

We have built many lasting relationships over the years by proving our ability to reduce our customers’ costs and improve their performance with our industrial packaging expertise and range of offerings.

Contact Us Today