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What are Different Types of Packing Tools?
Packing tools are used in all types of industry. Manufacturing and distribution have different packing needs than small businesses, however, so packing tools are designed to accommodate a variety of needs. Among the most common packing tools are cardboard boxes, plastic bags, packing tape and box cutters.
Cardboard boxes are packing tools used to hold items. Products are placed inside and secured with newspaper, bubble wrap, packing peanuts or other types of packing materials for safe shipping. Cardboard boxes can be used to transport large quantities of merchandise from a manufacturing plant to a store, or they can be used to protect a product until the purchaser can get it home from the store and set up for use. There are many types of cardboard boxes, though most are either folded to a pre-designed shape that interlocks in some manner or folded and taped together. Utility knives or box cutters are often used to cut tape and otherwise open cardboard boxes, though they are also useful for other cutting needs.
Plastic bags are used in packing products for protection. Plastic bags can keep a product dry, free of dust, and safe from damage while in a box. Various items can be placed in plastic bags and placed in the same box, keeping the items organized while conserving space.
One common form of packing tape is a clear plastic tape that fits on a dispenser. The dispenser's serrated edge cuts the tape when it is stretched across a box for convenient sealing of a packed box. Another popular form of packing tape is a threaded paper form that fits in a dispenser with water. That water activates the glue side of the tape as it is dispensed.
Plastic steel strap packing tools crimp a large plastic strap around boxes or pallets to hold everything in place while in the shipping process. These straps are also available in steel with a crimp tool that fastens a metal bracket to the straps to hold them in place. Such straps are sturdy and withstand a lot of pressure without breaking.
Shrink wrap is a plastic wrap that is folded around packages on full pallets for added support during movement. Once the pallet is fully stacked with packages to ship, the shrink wrap is folded around the pallet and all the boxes. This forms a tight plastic barrier around the boxes and pallet holding them in place. Machines are available for shrink wrapping big pallets.
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![Box cutters are common packing tools.]()
By: J and S PhotographyBox cutters are common packing tools. -
![Packing peanuts are common packing items.]()
By: Rob ByronPacking peanuts are common packing items. -
![Cardboard boxes are often used in packaging.]()
By: imstockCardboard boxes are often used in packaging. -
![Some people use newsprint to pack their fragile items.]()
By: caimacanulSome people use newsprint to pack their fragile items. -
![Tape is usually used when finalizing a package for shipment.]()
By: FirstBloodTape is usually used when finalizing a package for shipment. -
![Resealable plastic bags may be used to keep smaller items like jewelry separate and organized.]()
By: koosenResealable plastic bags may be used to keep smaller items like jewelry separate and organized.
Discussion Comments
@ocelot60- I agree, but it is also important to keep in mind that bubble wrap is not always the best material for breakable items. Packing peanuts provide more cushioning, so that is why many people who ship items that may break in transit use them.
@heavanet- You make a very good point. I think that when it comes to pets and kids, using bubble wrap is a much better option than using packing peanuts to ship.
@heavanet- I have both kids and pets, so I appreciate the tip! I bought some packing peanuts to ship some items, so I'm going to pack them in a room that is closed off from the kids and pets. Anyone using them should take this precaution to protect their children and animals from choking on them or eating them.
Packing peanuts are great when it comes to shipping boxes of breakable items. However, if you have pets or children, you have to be careful when using them.
Cats, dogs, and kids are usually very fascinated with packing peanuts, and want to play with them. Quite often, this leads to the packing peanuts being chewed and even swallowed. This could cause a choking hazard, or make a pet or child sick if the packing peanuts are swallowed.
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