Shippers Supply blog

Extended Producer Responsibility

Larry Seth — Sat, 28 Feb 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) is one of the most important sustainability developments shaping the packaging industry today. At its core, EPR is about minimizing the environmental impact of a broad range of materials and products by shifting responsibility upstream—from taxpayers and municipalities to the companies that produce and profit from those materials.

There will be challenges with the implementation of EPR. Yet when viewed strategically, it becomes a structured way to improve recycling systems, modernize infrastructure, and build more sustainable packaging programs that benefit businesses, communities, and the environment.

What Is the Goal of EPR — and How Will It Be Achieved

In Europe and then in the United States, early EPR programs focused on products that posed environmental or safety risks if improperly disposed of, including:

Paint
Batteries
Electronics (e-waste)
Tires
Mercury-containing thermostats

These items were prioritized because they are difficult or costly to manage in traditional municipal waste systems and often contain hazardous components. By requiring producers to fund collection and recycling programs, governments aimed to reduce improper disposal, prevent environmental contamination, and improve material recovery.

Over time, policymakers expanded the EPR framework beyond niche or hazardous products to broader material streams — most notably packaging and paper products. Packaging represents a much larger volume of material in the waste stream, and shifting responsibility upstream creates financial incentives for companies to design products and packaging that are easier to reuse, recycle, or compost.

EPR laws generally achieve their goals through several mechanisms:

Producer-funded systems – Companies pay fees or finance programs that support collection, recycling, and recovery infrastructure.
Performance targets – Laws often establish recycling, reuse, or reduction goals over time.
Eco-modulated fees – Materials that are harder to recycle or more environmentally harmful cost more, while more sustainable designs cost less.
Infrastructure investment – Funds are directed into improving recycling facilities, access, education, and labeling standardization.
Design incentives – Because producers bear financial responsibility, packaging and product design decisions begin to factor in end-of-life management costs.

In this way, EPR functions as both a funding mechanism and a market signal. It does not simply regulate disposal — it encourages better design, improved systems, and long-term material circularity.

Where It All Started

Europe pioneered EPR decades ago. Beginning in the 1990s, the European Union introduced the Packaging and Packaging Waste Directive, requiring producers to finance collection and recycling programs.

More recently, the EU adopted the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR), which strengthens recyclability standards, harmonizes requirements across member states, and introduces eco-modulated fee structures. You can learn more about PPWR here.

Europe’s model demonstrates that EPR can drive measurable increases in recycling rates and stimulate innovation in packaging design.

What the United States Is Doing with EPR

Maine and Oregon: The Pioneers of Packaging EPR in the U.S.

Two states — Maine and Oregon — are recognized as the first to adopt Extended Producer Responsibility laws for packaging in the United States, setting the stage for the wave of legislation that followed.

In July 2021, Maine became the first state in the nation to pass an EPR law specifically addressing packaging and paper waste, signing Legislative Document 1541 into law. Rulemaking concluded in late 2024, and the stewardship organization is expected to begin operations in 2027.

Shortly after Maine, Oregon became the second state to adopt a packaging EPR law. In August 2021, Governor Kate Brown signed the Plastic Pollution and Recycling Modernization Act (SB 582), which took effect on January 1, 2022. The program officially went live in 2025.

Together, Maine and Oregon’s EPR programs have served as real-world pilots for how packaging stewardship can function in the U.S., giving other states examples to reference or refine as they develop their own laws.

As of February 2026, the following states have passed packaging-specific EPR laws:

Maine
Oregon
California
Colorado
Minnesota
Maryland
Washington

Each state’s program varies slightly in structure and timeline, but the overall direction is consistent: producers must report packaging data and financially support recycling and waste reduction systems.

What Does EPR Mean for Packaging?

Extended Producer Responsibility is changing how companies think about packaging—not just from a sustainability standpoint, but from an operational, financial, and strategic one as well.

Under EPR laws, packaging decisions now carry even more cost and compliance implications. Materials, formats, and weights that were once selected primarily for protection, efficiency, or unit cost will increasingly be evaluated through an additional lens: how easily that packaging can be reused, recycled, or composted—and how much it costs to manage at end of life.

Let’s dive deeper into some of the impacts EPR laws will have on businesses.

Packaging Decisions Move Earlier in Product Development

One of the most significant shifts under EPR is when packaging decisions are made.

Historically, packaging was often finalized late in the product development process—after product design, sourcing, and production were already set. Under EPR, that approach becomes riskier. Packaging choices made at the end of the process can lock companies into higher fees, compliance challenges, or redesign work.

As a result, businesses will need to consider packaging much earlier—alongside product design, manufacturing processes, automation requirements, and distribution strategies. Bringing packaging into these early conversations helps ensure that protection, efficiency, compliance, and sustainability goals are aligned from the start.

Custom Solutions Will Often Be the Best Path Forward

EPR also exposes the limits of one-size-fits-all packaging.

While off-the-shelf solutions may work in some cases, many businesses will find that custom or right-sized packaging solutions offer the best balance of performance, cost control, and compliance.

Custom designs can:

Reduce unnecessary material and weight
Improve recyclability or reuse outcomes
Support automation and productivity goals
Lower long-term EPR fee exposure

Rather than assuming a single material or standard format will “check the box,” EPR encourages packaging strategies that are intentionally designed around the product, the supply chain, and the end-of-life pathway.

New Responsibilities for Producers

For many companies, EPR introduces responsibilities that didn’t previously exist, including:

Detailed data reporting on packaging materials, weights, and volumes sold into specific states
Registration and participation in Producer Responsibility Organizations (PROs)
Fee obligations tied to material type, weight, and recyclability
Ongoing compliance management as rules evolve over time

These requirements can apply even to companies headquartered outside of EPR states if they ship products into those markets.

Increased Cost Visibility—and Opportunity

One of the most immediate impacts of EPR is cost visibility. Packaging materials that are difficult to recycle, contain mixed materials, or lack established end-of-life pathways are more likely to carry higher fees.

This creates pressure to reduce complexity—but it also creates opportunity. When packaging is evaluated earlier and designed intentionally, companies can often reduce total material usage, improve operational efficiency, and avoid costly redesigns later.

More Than a Material Change

One of the biggest misconceptions around EPR is that switching materials alone will solve compliance challenges.In reality, EPR requires companies to tell a complete packaging story—how materials are selected, how they move through the supply chain, and how they are managed after use.

Companies that take a proactive, systems-based approach will be better positioned to manage compliance, control costs, and support sustainability goals without disrupting operations.

B2B vs. B2C: The Critical Question — Who Is the “Producer”?

One of the most important — and often misunderstood — elements of Extended Producer Responsibility laws is how each state defines the term“producer.”

Under packaging EPR programs, the producer is the entity legally responsible for:

Registering with the state-approved Producer Responsibility Organization (PRO)
Reporting packaging data
Paying EPR fees

Importantly, “producer” does not simply mean the company that physically manufactures the packaging. It is a legal definition, and it can vary from state to state.

In many cases, the producer is the brand owner — the company whose name appears on the product sold into the state. But most laws use a hierarchy to assign responsibility if the brand owner does not meet certain criteria. Responsibility may shift to:

The importer
The distributor
The retailer

This is where real-world examples help clarify the impact. Ecoenclose.com provides the example below to help us understand.

Paper grocery bags in Oregon vs. Colorado:

Oregon: the packaging supplier/manufacturer is typically the obligated producer for paper grocery bags.
Colorado: the retailer using the bags is typically the obligated producer.

The same packaging item can trigger different responsible parties depending on jurisdiction.

Most state programs tend to follow two guiding principles when determining responsibility:

Whose brand is on the product?
Who selected or supplied the packaging used to deliver it to the end user?

Because definitions vary, companies operating across multiple states cannot assume responsibility falls on the same party everywhere. That uncertainty is where the next layer of complexity begins. It’s important to consult your legal team and your PRO when determining the producer.

Unique EPR Challenges for B2B and B2C Businesses

Once producer responsibility is established, the practical challenges begin — and they differ significantly between B2C and B2B companies.

For B2C Businesses: Visibility and Consumer-Facing Pressure

For many B2C companies, producer responsibility is relatively straightforward. The brand owner selling directly to consumers is typically responsible for compliance.

However, B2C businesses face their own set of pressures:

Packaging must align with curbside recycling systems and state-defined recyclability standards
Eco-modulated fees can increase costs for hard-to-recycle materials
Labeling and consumer education requirements may apply

Because B2C packaging enters the household waste stream, it is more clearly in scope under most EPR laws. The challenge is often less about determining responsibility and more about redesigning packaging to reduce fees and meet recyclability targets without sacrificing product protection or shelf appeal.

For B2B Businesses: Complexity and Documentation

B2B companies often face a different set of challenges.

First, scope can be less clear. Industrial packaging, secondary packaging, transport materials, and bulk formats may fall into gray areas depending on how a state defines covered materials. Even when packaging performs well in reuse or closed-loop systems, companies will likely still need to document and report it unless explicitly excluded.

Second, supply chains are typically more complex. Packaging may pass between multiple entities before reaching a final user — or it may never enter a traditional consumer waste stream at all. This makes:

Data collection more complicated
Responsibility attribution less obvious
Reporting more resource-intensive

Third, many B2B systems already rely on reuse models — pallets, totes, returnable containers — but EPR programs generally require those systems to be validated and documented. Reuse does not automatically equal exemption.

Shared Pressure: Earlier and Smarter Packaging Decisions

While the details differ, both B2B and B2C businesses face a common shift: packaging decisions can no longer be made late in the process.

Material choice, weight, and format now influence not only performance and cost, but also compliance exposure and long-term fee structures. Companies that wait until the end of product development to consider packaging may find themselves facing higher costs or redesign work later.

For B2C companies, this means aligning packaging with consumer recycling systems earlier in development.

For B2B companies, it means designing solutions that balance protection, automation compatibility, operational efficiency, and documented end-of-life pathways.

Key Takeaways

EPR is a long-term shift, not a short-term trend. While implementation will vary by state and continue to evolve, the direction is clear: producers will play a larger role in managing the environmental impact of the materials they put into the market.
Packaging EPR builds on earlier EPR programs. Laws that began with products like paint, batteries, electronics, tires, and mercury-containing thermostats have now expanded to packaging because of its volume and system-wide impact.
Maine and Oregon set the precedent in the U.S. Their early adoption of packaging EPR has provided real-world models that other states are now building from, accelerating adoption across the country.
Packaging decisions now carry financial and compliance implications. Material choice, weight, structure, and recyclability increasingly influence EPR fees and reporting requirements.
Packaging needs to be considered earlier in product development. Waiting until the end of the process increases the risk of higher fees, redesigns, or compliance challenges. Early alignment helps avoid tradeoffs later.
One-size-fits-all packaging won’t work under EPR. Custom, right-sized solutions often deliver the best balance of protection, efficiency, automation compatibility, and long-term compliance.
EPR is more than a material swap. Success depends on telling a complete packaging story—how materials are designed, used, recovered, and supported by real systems.
Preparation creates opportunity. Companies that take a proactive, systems-based approach can reduce risk, control costs, and turn EPR into a strategic advantage.
“Producer” is a legal definition — and it varies by state. The company responsible for EPR reporting and fees is not always the one manufacturing the packaging. Understanding how each state defines producer responsibility is essential, especially for businesses operating across multiple markets.
B2B and B2C businesses will face different EPR challenges. Consumer brands may deal with clearer scope and public visibility, while B2B companies often navigate greater definitional complexity, supply chain documentation, and reuse validation requirements.

Take Control of Your Packaging

Larry Seth — Tue, 30 Dec 2025 21:30:00 GMT

For many companies, packaging is treated as an afterthought. But the truth is, packaging affects nearly every part of your business: your customer’s first impression, your production line speed, your labor costs, your freight spend, and even your brand perception. Smart packaging isn’t just a matter of materials. It’s a lever for cost control, efficiency, and brand value.

Getting ahead of your packaging process doesn’t require a full operational overhaul. It just means thinking holistically. When you involve the right partner early—especially one that brings custom design expertise and access to proven materials and equipment—you unlock smarter packaging strategies that enhance performance, improve the customer experience, and deliver measurable savings.

Why Early Involvement Pays Off

When packaging is considered at the product planning or operational design stage, it opens up opportunities to:

Optimize dimensions for freight efficiency
Reduce material waste and damage risk
Improve unboxing and user experience
Align packaging with your brand identity
Speed up pack-out with better ergonomics
Create tailored solutions for unusual or high-value products

Even small design changes like customizing inserts, switching foam layouts, or right-sizing corrugated can translate to faster packing, fewer returns, and reduced total cost of ownership. Starting with a custom solution avoids retrofitting later and allows you to engineer every step of the process for efficiency.

Design + Equipment = Efficiency That Scales

Once the packaging design is dialed in, fulfillment execution becomes the next lever for savings. That’s where automation and layout planning can have an outsized impact.

Packaging equipment like stretch wrappers, case sealers, and labelers can:

Cut labor hours significantly
Free up valuable floor space
Standardize consistency and reduce errors
Enable higher throughput with less physical strain

But the real value comes when these tools are aligned with your custom packaging design. A partner with engineering, equipment, and inventory capabilities can build packaging and workflows that fit together seamlessly without relying on guesswork or off-the-shelf compromises.

A Full-Process Partner Makes It Easy

Working with a single-source packaging partner brings everything together. From structural engineering and material selection to automation recommendations and restock support, you benefit from cohesive planning and execution that works the way your business runs.

Whether you’re launching a new product or optimizing a mature line, your packaging partner should help you:

Identify hidden costs in labor, space, freight, and damages
Design custom packaging that solves real-world protection and workflow issues
Implement packaging equipment that amplifies labor and cost savings
Deliver repeatable, scalable solutions that match your operations

How do I take control of packaging without starting over?

Start with a packaging assessment. Look for hidden costs in labor, floor space, damage rates, or oversized packaging.
Evaluate where customization creates leverage. The right structural design can improve every downstream step.
Explore packaging automation—even midstream. You don’t need to start from scratch to justify new equipment.
Choose a partner that brings it all together. Custom packaging, materials sourcing, and equipment planning should all align for maximum return.

Take control now. Smarter packaging is more than a box—it’s a better business strategy.

ROI Right Sized Packaging

Larry Seth — Thu, 18 Dec 2025 01:30:00 GMT

Right-sized packaging is the practice of designing cartons or containers to match as closely as possible to the dimensions of a product while also providing the necessary protection during handling and transit. This balance of dimensional efficiency and protective performance helps reduce costs, minimize waste, and improve supply chain efficiency.

When right-sizing is not applied, the excess space in packaging leads to higher freight charges, unnecessary material consumption, and increased environmental impact. Over-packaging also results in wasted void fill, inefficient use of warehouse space, and reduced load density in shipping.

Unnecessary Volume = Unnecessary Cost & Environmental Impact

A 2024 study in Circular Economy found that packaging material waste from e-commerce and delivery services is significantly driven by oversized cartons. This excess volume impacts both operational budgets and environmental performance by increasing the material that must be produced, transported, and disposed of.

The cost implications are twofold. First, freight costs rise when dimensional-weight pricing is applied to packages with excess air, as carriers charge for the greater of actual or volumetric weight. Second, material costs escalate when larger cartons require more corrugated board and void fill. These factors can also raise warehouse storage costs, reduce handling efficiency, and increase procurement spend.

Environmentally, oversizing consumes additional raw fiber and energy, while extra void fill—often plastics or foams—adds to landfill or recycling burdens. Larger packages also lower truckload efficiency, requiring more trips, burning more fuel, and increasing greenhouse gas emissions. In aggregate, this inefficiency amplifies a company’s carbon footprint and undermines sustainability goals.

Why Right-Sized Packaging Matters

Freight Savings: Reducing unused volume in cartons lowers volumetric shipping charges, often leading to double-digit percentage reductions in freight costs.
Material Efficiency: Smaller cartons require less corrugate and less void fill, reducing both purchase and storage costs for materials.
Product Protection: Right-sized packaging limits product movement inside the box, lowering damage rates and reducing returns.
Operational Gains: Automated right-sizing systems can produce cartons matched to order requirements, improving throughput and reducing packing labor.
Sustainability: Smaller packages improve truckload utilization, reducing the number of shipments and associated greenhouse gas emissions.

How do I reduce waste and cost through right-sized packaging?

Here are a few key takeaways for packaging and operations teams:

Measure before you change
Conduct a packaging audit to determine current cube utilization, material use, freight costs, and damage rates.
Design for both fit and protection
The goal is not the smallest possible box, but the smallest box that still provides the required protection.
Test for performance
Validate right-sized designs under real shipping conditions to confirm they meet handling and durability requirements.
Evaluate automation options
In high-volume or high-variability operations, automated right-sizing systems can improve consistency and speed.
Track and refine
Monitor material usage, freight costs, and waste volumes to verify ROI and guide future adjustments.

Sustainable packaging focuses on the full lifecycle, choosing materials and designs that fit the product. Real impact comes from smart optimization and clear guidance on reuse and recycling.

Sustainability Is More Than Surface Deep

Larry Seth — Thu, 04 Dec 2025 12:30:00 GMT

When people think of sustainable packaging, they often picture paper-based boxes and compostable fillers. But true sustainability goes far beyond material type. It's about total lifecycle impact and how packaging is sourced, used, and reused. Thoughtful packaging design can reduce environmental impact—without compromising performance, durability, or cost. 

According to a 2025 McKinsey study, companies looking to build market share should focus on four areas: understanding the granularity of consumer behavior, engaging the full packaging value chain, designing packaging to meet the full set of consumer needs and preferences, and prioritizing consumer education. In other words, sustainability isn't just about “green” materials. It’s about designing with purpose across the full system.

The most environmentally responsible packaging solution isn’t always the one with the greenest appearance. It’s the one that best aligns with your product, your process, and your long-term goals. And that means balancing durability, protection, waste reduction, and cost, all while supporting your customers’ expectations and your company’s values.

The Materials Conversation Isn't One-Sided

Fiber-based materials like corrugated and molded pulp are excellent for recyclability and short-term use. When properly designed, they offer strong protection while minimizing environmental footprint.

But in many industrial, OEM, or closed-loop environments, durability equals sustainability. That’s where plastic still plays a critical role.

Reusable crates, plastic inserts, and long-lasting totes, when used in returnable or multi-trip systems, often generate significantly lower total waste and better cost efficiency than single-use alternatives. Longevity matters when measuring impact.

The key is designing with intent. When materials are chosen based on use case, not just perception, both sustainability and performance improve.

Optimization Often Outperforms Substitution

The best sustainability wins don’t always come from switching materials. Often, they come from using less material overall, or from designing smarter systems that reduce filler, eliminate void space, or increase pack density.

Well-optimized packaging that arrives undamaged, reduces dimensional weight, and supports reuse is far more sustainable than a recyclable box that fails in transit. This kind of optimization also supports the full packaging value chain McKinsey identifies as critical to success.

That’s why sustainability should start at the design phase, not as a check-the-box step at the end.

How do I make my packaging more sustainable without sacrificing performance?

Start with your customer. Understand what they value—recyclability, reusability, perceived quality—and design to meet those expectations.
Engage your packaging partner early. Design decisions made up front have the biggest impact on material efficiency, protection, and customer experience.
Choose materials by use case. Don’t rely on perception alone—durable, reusable solutions often win on both cost and environmental impact.
Educate your buyers. Clear messaging about how to reuse, recycle, or dispose of your packaging helps close the loop and builds trust with sustainability-minded customers.

Sustainability isn’t about appearances—it’s about performance, design integrity, and creating a smarter packaging program that works for your product, your brand, and the planet.

How Packaging Shapes Perception (and Profits)

Larry Seth — Wed, 19 Nov 2025 02:30:00 GMT

Most people understand that good packaging can make or break your products—literally. But what’s often overlooked is how much packaging influences something far more powerful: perception of your product. In today’s market, packaging isn’t just a protective layer. It’s a silent ambassador for your brand, shaping customer experience from the moment they see the outside of the box. The texture, weight, fit, and appearance of packaging all combine to create an emotional impression that directly affects how your product—and company—is perceived.

Unboxing = Judgment

In a 2019 study conducted by Pregis in collaboration with the University of Wisconsin, researchers explored the correlation between packaging and perceived product quality. The results were eye-opening: parcel packaging influenced the consumer’s perception of product value by 45%. Even more surprising? That dramatic difference in perceived value came with only a minimal increase in actual packaging cost. In one test, a package upgrade of less than 9% in cost yielded a staggering 7921% ROI in perceived value. That kind of return doesn't come from adding features to your product—it comes from elevating the experience of receiving it.

Why Packaging Perception Matters

First Impressions Stick: In e-commerce especially, the unboxing experience is the first physical touchpoint with your brand. It sets expectations for product quality, service reliability, and attention to detail.

Psychological Anchoring: A premium-feeling package “primes” the brain to expect a premium product. Even before the product is revealed, the brain is assigning value based on weight, material, and design.

Retention and Referrals: A positive unboxing experience doesn’t just improve satisfaction—it drives word-of-mouth. Well-packaged products are more likely to be shared on social media and recommended to others.

Sustainability Perception Is Value Perception

Sustainability is no longer a fringe concern. Consumers are increasingly judging brands based on the environmental impact of their packaging. According to a 2022 study by McKinsey, more than 60% of U.S. consumers consider sustainable packaging an important purchasing factor. That means your packaging decisions not only impact your carbon footprint—they impact your conversion rate.

Using recyclable materials, optimizing for dimensional efficiency, and communicating sustainability efforts through branding or QR codes can improve both your environmental impact and your customer perception.

How do I improve the customer experience through packaging?

Here are a few key takeaways for product and packaging teams:

Don’t default to the cheapest option: Low-cost packaging may save money upfront but can cost you far more in perceived quality and brand damage.
Involve packaging engineers early: Collaborate with a packaging partner from the outset.The right combination of protective performance, costefficiency, and customer appeal is rarely found through trial-and-error at the end of a project.
Treat packaging as part of your product: Customers don’t separate the product from its packaging—and neither should you. Consider packaging as part of your brand experience, just like design or customer support.
Balance protection, appearance, and sustainability: The most effective packaging protects the product and elevates its perceived value—all while meeting your company’s environmental standards.
Use packaging as a competitive advantage: Whether it’s through enhanced customer experience, premium perception, or sustainable differentiation, strategic packaging can be one of the most cost-effective ways to stand out in a crowded market.

Product Damage Is the Most Expensive Problem

Larry Seth — Fri, 07 Nov 2025 22:30:00 GMT

In an era where speed, consistency, and presentation matter more than ever, one damaged shipment can ripple far beyond a single return. For manufacturers—especially in the food & beverage and eCommerce space—shipping damage doesn’t just mean wasted product. It jeopardizes business relationships, erodes brand reputation, and impacts long-term profitability.

The True Cost of Product Damage

Product damage is more than an operational issue—it’s a silent profit drain that affects every link in your supply chain. Even a simple return carries significant costs when you consider the time spent picking, packing, and shipping the order, the freight charges in both directions, the labor required to process the return, and the materials used for packaging and handling. And when the shipment is damaged or defective, those costs climb even higher—especially when you factor in lost confidence from your retail and distribution partners.

According to Flock Freight, freight damage and loss are the leading causes of waste in food and beverage supply chains. Of 200 food & beverage shippers surveyed, nearly half reported fully wasted shipments due to damage or loss, and 100% reported partially wasted shipments.

That waste adds up to an average of 2.4 million pounds of food wasted per shipper each year. The financial loss is huge—but so is the brand impact. When damaged goods arrive at a grocery store or distribution center, your customer sees more than a broken shipment—they see unreliability. That can mean chargebacks, strained relationships, and lost shelf space.

To a retailer or distributor, a damaged shipment isn't just a logistical inconvenience—it's a signal about how much you value quality and partnership. They rely on your consistency to keep their own shelves stocked and customers satisfied.

Research from BakeryAndSnacks.com in 2010 found that 72% of consumers viewed retailers with damaged frozen-food packaging as offering lower-value products, and 25% of even the most brand-loyal shoppers questioned the brand’s quality when packaging was damaged. Product damage doesn't just impact the consumer, though. If your shipments routinely arrive dented, leaking, or compromised, your partners are the first to notice—and they may quietly start sourcing elsewhere.

And expectations are only getting higher with younger generations. In a 2022 Anyline study, just 57% of Silent Generation respondents said a poor delivery experience would make them reconsider shopping with a brand again. But that number jumps to 72% for Baby Boomers, 76% for Gen X, 81% for Millennials, and a striking 86% for Gen Z.

And Gen Z’s influence is only accelerating. According to McKinsey & Company in October of 2025, Gen Z is “established, fast growing, and fast changing.” Their average age today is 22, ranging from 15 to 29 years old. Since last year alone, there’s been a 45% increase in Gen Zers who are married, a 23% increase in those with children—and 19% are already in decision-making roles at work. This generation is rapidly gaining spending power and influence across industries, including B2B purchasing.

That means the customers driving today’s growth—both consumers and the buyers serving them—are also the least tolerant of packaging or delivery issues. In an industry where reputation moves fast, a single damaged pallet can impact thousands of future transactions. Packaging that arrives intact and professional doesn’t just protect your product. It protects your position in a changing marketplace.

Your Packaging is Your Handshake

Packaging is more than a container—it's your handshake with every buyer. When your products arrive clean, intact, and protected, it sends a clear message: you take pride in what you make and respect the people you do business with.

But if a shipment arrives crushed, torn, or leaking, the opposite is true. It tells your buyer your product wasn’t protected, and by extension, that your operation isn’t dependable. Every unbroken box, on the other hand, reinforces trust and strengthens your brand reputation before your product ever hits the shelf.

Common Causes of Product Damage in Transit

Product damage happens for a few predictable reasons, and most of them are preventable:

Oversized boxes with too much empty space
Weak pallet wrapping or load securement
Inconsistent or rushed manual packing
Poor packaging material or structure
Insufficient cushioning or void fill
Environmental factors such as heat and humidity
No transit testing
Poor unit load design

Each small weakness compounds across thousands of shipments, but with smarter design and the right equipment, they can be eliminated.

Packaging Design and Testing: Your First Line of Defense

Preventing damage starts before your product ever leaves the dock. Testing packaging under real-world transit conditions reveals weak points before they cause returns or chargebacks. Right-sized packaging minimizes movement and reduces empty space, lowering both damage rates and freight costs. The right materials matter, too. Strong corrugated options, foam-in-place systems, or molded inserts all provide protection tailored to your product's needs.

The Role of Automation in Preventing Damage

Automation isn't just about speed—it's about consistency and precision. Both directly reduce damage rates.

Automated case sealers, void-fill systems, and stretch wrappers ensure every shipment is sealed and protected the same way, every time.

At Shippers Supply Inc., we provide end-to-end packaging solutions to protect your products and strengthen your brand. From custom packaging design and material selection to automation systems, we help manufacturers and distributors create consistent, damage-resistant shipments. Our experts design and support solutions that fit your operation, reduce damage, and improve efficiency—whether your needs are hands-on, automated, or a combination of both.

Protect More Than Your Product

When you reduce damage, you’re not just saving product—you’re protecting your reputation with the buyers who keep your business growing.

Each intact delivery tells your partners they can rely on you. Each unbroken pallet reinforces trust in your brand.

Investing in better packaging and automation pays off in fewer claims, lower waste, and stronger customer relationships—whether your customers are retailers, distributors, or end consumers.

Because protecting your product means protecting your brand.

Your Strategic Packaging Partner

Larry Seth — Wed, 08 Oct 2025 19:00:00 GMT

Nearly a Century in Business

In today’s business landscape, packaging is no longer just about getting products from point A to point B. It’s about operational efficiency, brand perception, customer satisfaction, and staying ahead of ever-changing supply chain demands. At SSI, we understand that packaging is a critical part of your business strategy and your reputation, not just a cost of doing business. That’s why more companies are turning to us as their strategic packaging partner—because we focus on packaging solutions that drive efficiency, quality, and customer satisfaction.

Since 1928, SSI has partnered with organizations across various industries, including manufacturing, food and beverage, e-commerce, health and medical, distribution, and more. We’ve seen firsthand the challenges businesses face: keeping costs down, preventing product damage, and exceeding customer expectations. Our team brings deep knowledge of packaging automation and materials, as well as industry trends and best practices, to every conversation. We don’t just sell packaging—we help you solve problems unique to your industry.

Our experts stay current on the latest innovations, from advanced marking and coding systems to tamper-evident closures and automated production lines. We’re always ready to offer practical advice and recommendations that make a measurable difference—helping you protect your products, optimize your processes, and build a more resilient supply chain.

Driving Efficiency Through Automation

One of the most powerful ways SSI helps companies lower costs and boost efficiency is through automation. From automated case sealers and stretch wrappers to inline printing and labeling systems, we design automation solutions tailored to your operation. These systems not only reduce manual-handling efforts and speed up production but also improve consistency and quality—helping your team focus on higher-value tasks while ensuring every package meets your standards.

Comprehensive Solutions and World-Class Service

Most suppliers can ship your boxes, tape, or bubble wrap. At SSI, we go further by offering a true one-stop shop for all your packaging needs. We take a holistic approach, working with you to design and implement packaging systems that cut costs, reduce damage, and support your long-term growth, while also supplying the everyday packaging items you need to run your business.

We believe that successful partnerships start with listening. When you work with SSI, you’ll find a team that’s committed to understanding your goals, workflows, and pain points before making recommendations. We know every business is unique, so we don’t offer cookie-cutter solutions or push what’s easiest for us. Instead, our specialists take the time to learn about your products, your market, and your team so we can tailor a strategy that fits your operation. Check Out Our Packaging Assessments to Learn More

When you call SSI, you will be connected with a dedicated team member that takes pride in getting the job done right. Since 2020, customer feedback has shown that 95% of the time, we earn a 'great' rating. We pride ourselves on being accessible, responsive, and ready to help—whether you need a quick quote, have a technical question, or have a hot order that needs to be rushed. SSI is always just a call or email away, ready to find a solution.

Check out what our customers say about SSI and our team:

Measurable Results and Success Stories

At SSI, we pride ourselves on delivering results you can see—and measure. Our clients routinely report reduced material costs, fewer damages and returns, faster and more efficient packing lines, and higher customer satisfaction scores. Whether you’re aiming to reduce shipping expenses, improve packaging efficiency, or improve your customer’s experience, we have the expertise and track record to help you achieve your goals.

Don’t just take our word for it. Check out some of our customer success stories:

Customer Success: Inkjet Automation for Efficiency

Customer Success: Portable Stretch Wrapper Automation for Retail Efficiency

Customer Success: Designed Packaging for Audio Equipment

Customer Success: Automation for Retail Display Graphics

Reliable Supply and Fast Delivery

We know that downtime isn’t an option. Delays in packaging supply can lead to missed shipments, unhappy customers, and lost revenue. That’s why SSI backs up our expertise with robust inventory management and fast, reliable delivery—keeping your operation running smoothly, even during peak seasons or supply chain disruptions. And for even greater peace of mind, we offer stocking agreements and a Proactive Inventory Management Program tailored specifically to you to ensure you always have what you need, when you need it.

Certified to ISO 9001:2015

At Shippers Supply, we believe that the right partner provides trust, consistency, and peace of mind. That’s why we’re proud to be certified to ISO 9001:2015, a mark of quality that sets us apart as your strategic packaging partner. Here’s what being certified to ISO 9001:2015 does for you:

Consistent Quality: Our processes are built on internationally recognized standards. Every order you place, from packaging materials to automation equipment, meets strict quality benchmarks—ensuring reliability every time.
Continuous Improvement: ISO certification requires ongoing evaluation and improvement. We’re dedicated to making our products, services, and support better year after year.
Risk Reduction: Our robust quality management system minimizes errors, delays, and defects, helping you avoid disruptions and costly mistakes in your own supply chain.
Confidence in Compliance: Our ISO certification is your assurance that we’re committed to regulatory compliance and traceability.

Sustainability and Innovation at the Forefront

Sustainability is more important than ever. SSI helps you meet your green goals with recyclable, compostable, and right-sized packaging options that reduce waste and support your environmental initiatives. We bring you the latest in sustainable materials and help you find solutions that balance protection, cost, and your customers’ values.

Partner With SSI—Your Strategic Packaging Partner

Choosing a packaging partner is about more than price—it’s about trust, expertise, and a level of support that grows with your business. At SSI, we’re committed to helping you solve packaging challenges, stay within budget, and deliver the best possible experience for your customers, every shipment, every time.

Unlock Efficiency & Savings with a Packaging Assessment | SSI

Larry Seth — Tue, 23 Sep 2025 00:00:00 GMT

In today’s fast-paced business world, packaging is more than just a box or a bag—it’s a crucial part of your supply chain, your brand identity, and your bottom line. Whether you’re in manufacturing, food and beverage, e-commerce, or distribution, the way you package, label, and ship your products has a direct impact on cost, efficiency, compliance, and customer satisfaction. With rising costs, evolving industry trends, and new packaging compliance requirements, it’s more important than ever to make sure your packaging is working for you—not against you. That’s where a professional packaging assessment from SSI comes in.

Our focus is on efficiency, brand image, and savings—not selling more materials. We recommend what’s best for your products, workflow, and goals.

What Is a Packaging Assessment?

A packaging assessment is a comprehensive, hands-on review of your current packaging solutions, materials, systems, and workflows. At SSI, our experts go beyond a surface look—we analyze every aspect of your process, from packaging materials, labels, and tags to automation and inventory management. We identify inefficiencies and hidden costs, then recommend targeted strategies to boost your operation’s performance.

Why Is a Packaging Assessment So Valuable?

Cut Hidden Costs
A packaging assessment helps uncover where you may be overspending—whether it’s excess space in your cartons, more cushioning material than necessary, or opportunities to introduce automation that streamline labor and material costs. Many companies use one-size-fits-all packaging or rely on excessive void fill and cushioning consumables “just to be safe.” This often leads to wasted money, higher shipping costs, and unnecessary material use.
Reduce Product Damage and Returns
Improper packaging is one of the leading causes of product damage, returns, and negative reviews. With a packaging assessment, SSI helps you select the right container, cushioning, and packaging method to keep your products safe from the warehouse to the customer’s door. The result? Fewer damages, happier customers, and a stronger brand image.
Improve Warehouse and Packing Line Efficiency
Are your packing lines or warehouse aisles clogged with too many boxes, mailing tubes, or rarely used pallet covers? Do your employees waste time searching for the right box or tape? Maybe you are experiencing bottle necks at the end of your packing line because your team can’t stretch wrap fast enough to keep up with demand. Our experts analyze your processes and recommend systems that automate repetitive tasks and/or organize your packaging space, creating an environment where your employees can succeed.

In one case study, SSI evaluated 7 assembly lines at a food and beverage manufacturer where one employee per line printed labels and another attached those labels to cartons. They were printing and attaching 7,000 labels per line per day. Our specialists recommended printing directly on the corrugate inline with ink-jet printers. After implementation, each line could be efficiently managed by a single operator, resulting in $300,000 in savings. They also saved $50,000 in materials, causing them to see an ROI within 6 months. Check out more of our case studies.

What Does a Packaging Assessment Cover?

Packaging Materials and Consumables
To ensure quality and efficiency, all components—stretch wrap, tape, poly bags, shrink sleeves, chipboard products, and more—are evaluated.
Packaging Systems and Automation
We assess any automated equipment you use, such as case erectors, case sealers, automated stretch wrappers, and other automated packaging equipment. Our team identifies opportunities that could save you time, reduce costs, and improve consistency.
Operational Workflows and Inventory Management
Our experts evaluate your inventory management and packing line layout, helping you simplify proactive inventory management and reduce downtime.

SSI's 3-Step Packaging Assessment Process

Step 1: Pre-Assessment Review

We start by learning about your business, your products, and your goals. What are your pain points? Are damages, waste, or slow packing lines costing you money? What are your compliance and sustainability targets?

Step 2: Onsite Walkthrough

An SSI specialist will visit your facility to observe your packing line, warehouse, and shipping processes. We’ll review how you store your packaging supplies and how your packing line is laid out. We talk to your team to understand workflow, challenges, and opportunities.

Step 3: Actionable Recommendations

You’ll receive a detailed, customized action plan. This includes:

Recommendations for right-sized packaging and reducing void fill
Suggestions for packaging materials that cut costs and improve protection
Steps to optimize your inventory management and packing line automation
An implementation roadmap and ongoing support from the SSI team

Frequently Asked Questions

Will a packaging assessment disrupt my operation?

Not at all. SSI works around your schedule, and our assessments are designed to be unobtrusive and value-driven.

How quickly will I see results?

Most clients see measurable improvements—such as cost savings, fewer damages, or faster packing—within months, and sometimes weeks of implementing our recommendations.

Will you recommend switching all my packaging?

Our focus is on efficiency, brand image, and savings—not just selling more materials. We recommend what’s best for your products, workflow, and goals.

What about sustainability?

SSI offers a wide range of sustainable materials, including recyclable, compostable, and eco-friendly packaging options that support your brand’s green initiatives.

Can you help automate my packaging line?

Yes! We specialize in case erectors, case sealers, automated stretch wrappers, Continuous Inkjet Printers and other equipment to boost your operational efficiency.

How do I get started?

Contact SSI for a free packaging assessment. Our team will guide you through every step—from review to implementation.

The Bottom Line

A professional packaging assessment is a low-risk, high-reward investment in your business’s future. With SSI’s help, you can reduce costs, cut waste, boost sustainability, and deliver a better experience for your team and your customers. Whether you need right-sized packaging, custom branding, traceability, or automation, SSI is your partner for smarter packaging.

Ready to unlock hidden value in your packaging process?
Contact SSI today for a packaging assessment or explore our full range of solutions on the Shippers Supply website.

The Packaging Papers: Stretch Wrappers

Larry Seth — Wed, 27 Aug 2025 23:00:00 GMT

In the fast-paced world of manufacturing, distribution, and logistics, securing palletized loads is a daily necessity. For many businesses, manual pallet wrapping is the default—but is it really the best choice? As companies look for ways to cut costs, improve efficiency, and deliver a better customer experience, investing in a stretch wrapper is rapidly becoming the smart, strategic choice for end-of-the-line automation. In fact, operations wrapping as few as 10 pallets a day can benefit from investing in a stretch wrapper.

If you’re on the fence about making the leap to automated packaging, this in-depth guide will walk you through:

What stretch wrap and stretch wrappers are
How manual wrapping may be hindering your operation
The impact of wrapping manually vs. Wrapping with a stretch wrapper
What to consider when picking out a stretch wrapper

What Is Stretch Wrap?

Stretch wrap is a highly elastic plastic film, usually made of polyethylene (LLDPE). It is designed to stretch as it’s applied, then tighten again over time, firmly binding products together on a pallet. The film’s cling and tension hold everything in place, preventing shifting, collapse, and exposure to dust and moisture.

What Is a Stretch Wrapper?

A stretch wrapper is a machine that's designed to wrap plastic stretch film tightly and evenly around a palletized load. The film’s elasticity allows it to cling to itself, holding products together and stabilizing them during storage and transit. Stretch wrappers come in a variety of types, from manual turntable models to fully automated rotary arm systems, making them suitable for businesses of all sizes and shipping volumes.

The Hidden Costs of Manual Pallet Wrapping

Before diving into the benefits of stretch wrappers, let’s take a closer look at the challenges of manual wrapping:

Increased Product Damage and Returns
When wrapping by hand, it’s difficult to maintain the same tension throughout each layer of film. This leads to loose, uneven wraps, gaps, and missed spots, resulting in products falling, getting crushed, or being exposed to dust and moisture.
Labor Intensity and Safety Risks
Manual wrapping is repetitive and physically demanding. Employees must walk around pallets, bend, twist, and pull heavy rolls of film. This can lead to fatigue, repetitive strain injuries, and higher rates of workplace accidents.
Higher Material Waste and Costs
It’s common for employees to use more film than necessary “just to be safe.” Over-wrapping increases material costs and generates unnecessary waste, impacting your sustainability efforts and your bottom line.
Slower Throughput
Manual wrapping slows operations, and during peak shipping periods, it can create bottlenecks at the end-of-the-line—delaying order fulfillment and impacting customer satisfaction.

The Benefits of Investing in a Stretch Wrapper

Now let’s explore how a stretch wrapper can transform your packaging process and deliver measurable value across your business:

Reduce Product Damage with Consistent, Secure Loads
A stretch wrapper applies film with perfectly even tension, creating a uniform, tight wrap around every pallet. Applying even tension is important because, like we learned earlier, stretch wrap will stretch and then tighten again. Put the wrap on too loosely, and your shipment may fall apart in transit. Put the wrap on too tightly, and your cartons may get damaged from the wrap tightening back up. Even tension reduces the risk of shifting, tipping, or damage during transit and storage. Stretch wrappers also deliver a clean, uniform look to every load, projecting quality and reliability to your customers.
Task Reallocation and Increased Productivity
By implementing end-of-the-line automation, you will free up time for your employees to focus on what they do best —solving problems, driving improvements, and keeping your operation moving forward. Then, when your business experiences its next growth spurt, you will have the necessary equipment in place to help you scale.
Improved Workplace Safety and Employee Satisfaction
By eliminating the need for repetitive bending, stretching, and lifting, stretch wrappers create a safer, more ergonomic workplace. This reduces the risk of injuries and helps your team feel better at the end of every shift. In most cases, the cost of a new stretch wrapper offsets the cost of the prevented workers’ compensation that would be paid in the event of an injury. Plus, happier, healthier employees are more engaged, more productive, and more likely to stay with your company.
Reduced Film Usage and Lower Material Costs
Stretch wrappers use pre-stretch technology to maximize the coverage of every roll of film. This means you use just enough material to secure the load—no more, no less. Our clients routinely see lower material costs, improved throughput, and higher customer satisfaction after implementing stretch wrapping automation. For one customer in particular, we were able to save them $60 per pallet.
Scalability for Growth
As your business grows and shipping volumes increase, a stretch wrapper keeps up with the pace. Automated systems can handle hundreds of pallets per day, eliminating bottlenecks at the end of your line and ensuring you can meet customer demand—now and in the future.
Professional Appearance and Brand Consistency
A well-wrapped pallet looks clean, uniform, and professional. This projects quality to your customers and logistics partners, setting your brand apart and reducing the risk of complaints or negative reviews.

How to Choose the Right Stretch Wrapper

With so many models on the market, it’s important to match the equipment to your specific needs—otherwise you risk slowdowns, bottlenecks, or wasted resources. Here are the key factors to think about before you buy.

The SSI Advantage: Expertise, Support, and Results

At SSI, we don’t just sell machines—we become your partner in packaging success. Our team will:

Assess your current palletizing and wrapping process
Recommend the best stretch wrapper for your products, volume, and space
Install and train your staff for safe, efficient operation
Provide ongoing support, maintenance, and upgrades as your needs evolve

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a stretch wrapper worth the investment for my business size?

Even small to mid-sized businesses can benefit from the labor, material, and damage savings that stretch wrappers provide. The ROI often becomes clear within months.

Will a stretch wrapper work with my existing pallets and workflow?

SSI offers a wide range of models and can help you find the perfect fit for your operation, whether you handle standard pallets or irregular loads.

How much maintenance does a stretch wrapper require?

Modern stretch wrappers are built for durability and easy upkeep. With regular cleaning and occasional parts replacement, most machines will deliver years of trouble-free service. Check out our maintenance plans.

Can I use the same stretch wrapper for different products or load sizes?

Yes! Many stretch wrappers have adjustable settings to accommodate varying pallet sizes, shapes, and weights. Depending on your needs, SSI can recommend machines with programmable controls or quick-change features.

How do I know which stretch film to use with my wrapper?

SSI’s packaging experts will help you select the right film gauge, width, and type for your products and shipping conditions—ensuring maximum protection and cost savings.

Is training available for operating a stretch wrapper?

Absolutely. SSI provides hands-on training for your team during installation, as well as ongoing support, troubleshooting, and refresher sessions as needed.

What is the expected ROI from switching to automated stretch wrapping?

Most businesses see a return on investment within the first year, thanks to reduced film usage, fewer damaged shipments, and increased throughput. Some see a return within months!

Whether you’re considering automation or an upgrade, you don’t have to navigate changes alone. SSI is ready to help you transform your palletizing process

Investing in a stretch wrapper is about more than speeding up one task—it’s about protecting your products, supporting your team, and positioning your business for growth. With SSI’s expertise and support, you’ll be ready to meet today’s demands and tomorrow’s opportunities.

Continuous Inkjet Printers (CIJ): Best Coding & Marking Solution for Packaging

Larry Seth — Wed, 27 Aug 2025 21:00:00 GMT

In today’s landscape, CIJ printers stand out as one of the most flexible, high-impact marking and coding solutions for products and product packaging. Whether you need to print bar code labels, lot numbers, or expiration/manufacturing dates, the right CIJ printer can transform your packaging line and unlock new levels of productivity. Let’s explore how continuous inkjet printers are revolutionizing product coding and marking, what the best practices are for CIJ printing, and why working with an expert partner sets you up for success.

Examples of Operations That Can Benefit from a CIJ Printer

You’re a food producer and you need to meet fast and efficient operational demands, while also complying with the most stringent legislation.
Current printers have difficulty printing on concave/convex surfaces.
You manufacture extrusion parts, and your current printers are slowing down production.
Labels are manually placed on products or packaging.
Your current printers are constantly clogging, requiring production to stop and clean the printheads.
Food particles in the air are clogging the current printer’s printheads.
The metal parts you produce vary in size, causing inconsistencies in the print quality of your codes.
The environment is too humid for your printers or ink to work properly.
Codes or marks need to be switched frequently.

What is Coding and Marking?

Before we discuss why CIJ printers are the best choice for coding and marking, let’s learn what coding and marking are. Coding and marking are the processes of applying variable data to products, such as bar codes or best-by dates.

Coding refers to printing characters, symbols, or numbers onto a product or its packaging. Codes are generally used to identify a product throughout the supply chain, enabling businesses to manage inventory and/or ensure product quality.

Marking is when a business applies information that uniquely identifies a specific product, like the product name or serial number, directly onto the surface of the product. Industries like electronics or aerospace use this type of identification to provide traceability or product identification.

Various types of code and marks:

Best before dates
Manufacturing dates
Batch numbers
LOT numbers
EAN codes
GS1 data matrix codes

Barcodes
Signs & texts
2D codes
QR codes
Data matrix codes
Your company logo

What Are Continuous Inkjet Printers?

Continuous inkjet printers are devices that are used to apply coding and marking to products and product packaging. The printers are constantly circulating a continuous stream of ink through the print head, even when the device is not printing. Non-stop ink circulation prevents the ink from drying out and clogging the print head.

The ink itself is electrostatically charged. When printing, the droplets are deflected by electrostatic plates onto the product as it passes, determining the shape of the code or mark.

At their core, inkjet printers are devices that use controlled droplets of ink to create text, images, numbers, and symbols directly on a wide variety of products and packaging materials. Unlike traditional labels or pre-printed cartons, inkjet printers can apply variable data on demand, right on your production line.

Inkjet printers are compatible with a wide range of substrates, including poly bags, shrink film, glass, metal, cardboard, and food-safe packaging. They’re ideal for printing on carton sealing tape, shrink sleeves, multi-depth boxes, and even complex shapes and bottle surfaces.

Why Continuous Inkjet Printers Are a Game-Changer

Flexibility for Any Application
Need to print a LOT number on a can of cut-up tomatoes, then batch codes on a poly bag, and then expiration dates on food-safe packaging? Inkjet printers deliver the flexibility to mark nearly any packaging material, shape, or size. You can handle short runs or coding that changes frequently without expensive plates or delays.
Productive and Efficient
LEIBINGER printers are maintenance-free for 5 years. That means you eliminate regular care measures, like cleaning the printheads before each use, and unplanned downtime, saving you time on frequent setup and maintenance.
High-Quality, Professional Appearance
Modern continuous inkjet printers deliver crisp, high-resolution codes and labels, even at high speeds. For example, the LEIBINGER JET Rapid can print at speeds as high as 1,000 m/min, ensuring that you get the highest quality without losing efficiency.
Cost-Effective and Sustainable
By printing only what you need, when you need it, you reduce material waste and eliminate the costs of storing pre-printed materials. Additionally, while other brands are making you replace your ink cartridges with 10% of the ink still in the cartridge, LEIBINGER printers use every last drop. Less ink, less solvent, and fewer cartridges going into the garbage.
Seamless Integration with Packaging Automation
Inkjet printers are designed to work with automated packaging equipment—including case sealers, case erectors, stretch wrappers, and conveyors. SSI’s team ensures your printers fit seamlessly into your packaging systems for maximum efficiency.
Dust and Moisture Proof
LEIBINGER continuous inkjet printers do not require downtime for cleaning in environments that have high levels of dust or moisture. Their Sealtronic® technology has a closed-loop function that prevents exposure to air. That means your ink won’t dry up and your printhead won’t get clogged. You can apply LOT numbers to flour bags where there are flour particles in the air or print manufacturer dates on beverage bottles in an extremely humid environment with zero downtime.
Meets Stringent Legislative Requirements
In highly-regulated industries, like meat, fish, seafood, and poultry, producers must meet operational demands of fast, efficient production, while also complying with the most stringent food legislation. LEIBINGER printers are sleek and have a full stainless-steel cabinet that complies with legislation and provides for a healthy and safe supply chain.

How CIJ Printing Supports Traceability

Traceability is the ability to follow a product from its origin to the end user—and it’s essential for recalls, inventory control, and customer trust. Date and lot coding printers are the backbone of this process, marking every unit with unique, scannable data.

Best Practices for CIJ Marking and Coding

Work with Trusted Experts: SSI’s team has deep knowledge of industry trends, automation, and packaging compliance. We help you choose the right printer, ink, and workflow for your needs.
Integrate with Your Packing Line: SSI ensures seamless integration with case erectors, case sealers, and stretch wrappers.
Test for Durability: Make sure your codes survive cold chain logistics, moisture, and handling. There’s an ink for every application, and we can help you find the perfect fit.
Train Your Team: We provide hands-on training so your staff can operate inkjet systems with confidence.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can inkjet printers handle multiple languages and markets?

Yes! Modern systems print in any language or character set, supporting global distribution.

Will inkjet printing slow down my packaging line?

No—In fact, you should see improvements in efficiency. Our printers are designed for fast, reliable performance and easy integration with automated packaging equipment.

Can I use inkjet printers for sustainable packaging?

Absolutely! Our inks and systems are compatible with recyclable, compostable, and eco-friendly packaging materials.

If my production line is working more quickly, then does that mean our printers will require more maintenance?

No! Our Leibinger CIJ printers use Sealtronic® technology, providing for maintenance-free printing for 5 years.

How many lines can you print?

We offer a wide range of printers, including models for 1-8 lines of code

How often do the printers need maintenance?

Leibinger printers only need maintenance every 5 years.

How far can the printer throw ink?

These printers can throw around ½” away from the substrate for non-contact coding.

Max Print Height?

The max print height is 0.67”.

Lifespan of a printer?

A well-maintained printer can last 8-10 years even in harsh environments.

Will it print on ____ substrate?

We have the capability to print on a majority of substrates. Sample testing is available.

The SSI Difference: Expertise, Solutions, and Support

At SSI, we’re more than a supplier—we’re your strategic packaging partner. Our team provides:

Full assessment of your coding and marking needs
Printer selection, installation, and support
Custom solutions for labels and tags, bar code labels, and traceability
Integration with case erectors, case sealers, stretch wrappers, and material handling experts
Ongoing training, supplies, and support for long-term success

SSI helps you mark every product with confidence, protect your brand, and deliver a better customer experience.

The Bottom Line

Inkjet printers are among the most versatile, valuable tools in modern packaging. They help you cut costs, boost efficiency, and elevate your brand. With SSI’s expertise, you’ll have the right tools, the right support, and the confidence to grow your business in any market. Ready to see what inkjet coding and marking can do for your operation? Contact SSI today for a packaging assessment.