Shrink packaging services are a vital component of modern packaging solutions, offering both aesthetic appeal and product protection. Whether you’re a manufacturer, distributor, or retailer, shrink packaging can significantly elevate your product presentation while safeguarding items from damage during transit and on store shelves.
MSL COPACK + ECOMM has built its reputation on deadline attainment. We specialize in systems driven rapid deployment and tight deadline coordination ensuring accurate inventory management and top quality standards. MSL currently operates in total 5 complete semi-automatic flexible shrink wrap production lines capable of a multitude of shrink film options:
- Single pack retail grade polyolefin (POF) full enclosure packages (45, 60, 75, 100, and 150 guage options)
- Crystal Clear, Semi-Transparent, and Fully Opaque options available for products for multi-packs requiring bar-code / graphic cover up.
- Multi-pack, unsupported 2-3-4 packs / variety pack capabilities
- rint-registered high resolution full print capabilities for multipack kits requiring a new SKU (Stock Keeping Unit)
- Polyethylene (PE, Low Density PE, High Density PE) product bundling ideal for supported jars, bottles, cans, heavier or larger items, multipack beverages, club format multi-packages. Commonly referred to as “Bullseye” packaging due to the distinct open end “grab handle” format.
Call MSL COPACK + ECOMM @ (888) 675-4639 to discuss how we may successfully manage your project.
Shrink Equipment:
The MSL delivery system is viewed as a true strategic advantage and interconnected partnership connecting the chain between our clients and their valued retailers and end user.
Arpac 25TW-28 Integrated heat tunnel tray wrapper / bundler with fully integrated infeed capable of 25 trays per minute. Ideal for a variety of supported tray multi pack bottles, jars, cans, and stacked products.
Kallfass Universa 400 automatic intermittent motion side seal with integrated flighted infeed capable of 60 pps. Ideal for book sets, retail gift boxes, supported multi packs.
Kallfass Universa 500 automatic intermittent motion side seal with integrated flighted infeed capable of 85 pps Ideal for book sets, retail gift boxes, supported multi packs.
Kallfass Universa 500 Servo Jet continuous motion side seal with integrated flighted feed capable. Capable of 65-100 pps. Ideal for unsupported flat surface multi-packs, retail gift boxes, printed material, loose stacked goods.
NEW Addition 2021 Kallfass Univer 500 Servo / 650D tunnel continuous motion side seal with flightless auto infeed and frictionless exit conveyor Capable of 60-85 pps. Ideal for unsupported multi packs, print registered film, cylinder shaped loose bottles, Polyolefin up to 1.5mil, small items.
Universa 500 Servo Applesauce Video 1
Universa 500 Servo Books Video 2
Universa 500 Servo Applesauce printed film Video 3
Decision Points in Shrink Packaging Services
There are several decision points that go into providing superior shrink packaging solutions to meet each customer’s unique needs and requirements. It begins with a thorough understanding of your products and what you want shrink packaging to accomplish. Armed with that knowledge, we then draw upon our expertise to match up your needs with the right shrink film material, determine which equipment to use in production runs, and schedule line runs to meet your desired schedule. MSL has built its reputation from the very beginning on succeeding where others fail. We specialize in rapid deployment and tight deadlines. We also go further than most contract packaging providers in finding ways to ensure each solution is as cost-effective as possible.
Meeting Your Shrink Packaging Objectives
The reason why you want shrink packaging for your products is an important piece in the puzzle of meeting your needs. While a primary reason may be obvious, there are often multiple reasons only identified through a collaborative discussion. Some of the primary reasons why shrink packaging is needed are the following:
Combinations:
Packaging two or more separate products together in a single packaged set.
Cleanliness:
Keeping the product clean throughout shipping and fulfillment, protecting it from dirt and moisture.
Physical Protection:
Using the right material can increase product durability from the external mechanical effects of shipping for distribution and fulfillment, as well as protection against pests.
Tampering Prevention:
End users will have greater peace of mind knowing the product has not been opened before purchase because the shrink packaging acts as an additional seal.
Fulfillment Requirements:
Our equipment and expertise capabilities include Amazon-compliant bagging of liquid products, including creams, gels, and pastes.
After achieving a thorough understanding of your shrink packaging objectives, another critical decision point is making the match between your objectives and the shrink packaging film that will meet them.
Matching Objectives to the Right Shrink Packaging Film
The films used for shrink wrapping products have evolved in recent decades to provide more choices and greater flexibility in meeting your shrink packaging needs. Three broad categories of shrink film in use today include the following:
Polyvinyl Chloride used to be the most common shrink wrap film used around the world but has fallen increasingly out of favor due primarily to health and environmental concerns, as well as its inability to meet the more precise shrink packaging needs to today. Making it releases harmful byproducts, as does heating it up during the shrink wrapping process. It is also classified as a #3 recyclable material, which means it is largely unable to be recycled. After shrinking, PVC becomes brittle, making it unsuitable for bundling multiple products together. Companies committed to achieving greater sustainability and environmental responsibility either don’t use PVC at all or are actively pursuing ways to reduce its use.
Polyethylene has become the bundling film of choice for product combinations due to its availability in a wide range of formats suitable to nearly any shrink packaging objective. Unlike POF or PVC that have a more limited range of gauge thickness (the upper limit of which is typically around 100 gauge), PE offers a gauge range as high as 1,200 for heavier industrial applications.
Polyolefin shrink film is both versatile and durable. It is available in wide range of formats and provides greater clarity and higher gloss for a more aesthetic appearance suitable to “upscale” shrink wrapping needs. It is also FDA-approved as a food-safe material. For these reasons it has become the go-to replacement for PVC film. Its availability in cross-linked film variants to provide high-tensile strength without sacrificing clarity makes it well-suited for high-speed packaging applications. Its puncture resistance and seal strength characteristics are especially good for protecting products with irregular shapes throughout the supply chain lifecycle. On the eco-friendly dimension, POF is made from 100% recyclable materials.
The broad category of shrink film, however, is just the beginning of determining the right material. Within each category of film are a range of specifications to choose from, including the following:
Print Registered: Printing onto shrink film opens up a world of possibilities beyond simply adding barcodes when needed. Our print registered film capabilities can be applied to extending your branding image and marketing efforts in a high-impact visual presentation that leaves an impression on end users.
Gauge: Thickness as measured in increments of one one-thousandth of an inch or MIL.
Tensile Properties: A measurement of how far it can be stretched until it breaks. Elongation is measured as percent, and break point is measured as PSI.
Shrink Temperature: The temperature required for the film to be begin shrinking, which rises with the gauge of the film.
Flammability: A measurement only required if flame-retardant capacity is required.
Anti-Static: In certain applications, anti-static shrink film may be needed.
After the matchmaking process is complete to ensure the best shrink film is used to meet your shrink packaging objectives, we also consider what equipment is right for the best end results in terms of cost-effectiveness and speed.
MSL Production Lines and Equipment Capacity
When contract packaging needs evolve, MSL wastes no time in keeping up with the latest cutting-edge equipment to offer superior solutions for shrink packaging. We have invested in high quality German made Kallfass brand shrink systems to ensure consistency of operation and uniformity of finished goods. Our focus on price conscious quality services require maximum machines uptime with minimal delay on product changeover. This is a critical dimension for MSL and our commitment to meeting stringent deadlines others would consider a challenge to meet.
Current capacity at MSL includes 4 Kallfass Semi Automatic side seal production lines capable of processing up to 50,000 units per shift and One Arpac 25TW bundler 12000 trays per shift. MSL’s recent line expansion and customization is especially well-suited to meeting liquid bagging requirements of companies participating in Amazon’s liquid compliance FBA program.
Frequently Asked Questions - Shrink Packaging Services By MSL Indy
Shrink packaging is a packaging technique that involves wrapping products in a specially formulated plastic film, which is then shrunk tightly around the products using heat. This process creates a snug and protective covering for the items.
Enhanced Presentation: Shrink packaging provides a clear, transparent, and professional look, making products more visually appealing to customers.
Protection: It offers protection against moisture, dust, and tampering, preserving the quality and safety of the products.
Customization: Shrink film can be printed with branding and product information, helping to reinforce your company's identity.
Versatility: It can be used for a wide range of product shapes and sizes.
Cost-Efficiency: Shrink packaging is cost-effective due to its minimal material requirements.
Shrink packaging is versatile and can be used for various products, including food items, electronics, cosmetics, promotional items, and industrial components. Its suitability depends on the specific needs of your product and industry.
Shrink packaging is applied by wrapping the product or group of products in a shrink film and then exposing it to heat. The heat causes the film to shrink and conform tightly to the product's shape, creating a secure package.
Yes, there are various types of shrink films, including polyolefin and PVC films. The choice of film depends on factors such as the type of product being packaged and specific requirements, such as clarity, strength, and environmental considerations.
Yes, shrink packaging is commonly used in the food industry. It helps keep food items fresh, protects them from contamination, and allows for attractive product displays.
The environmental impact of shrink packaging depends on the type of film used. Polyolefin shrink films are often considered more environmentally friendly than PVC films. Additionally, recycling options for shrink film may be available in some regions.
Yes, shrink packaging is versatile and can conform to irregularly shaped products, making it suitable for a wide range of product types.
It's essential to ensure that the shrink film used complies with relevant regulations for food safety, labeling, and any other applicable standards. Additionally, proper equipment and safety measures should be in place when applying heat to the shrink film.
To find a reliable provider, consider factors such as their experience, reputation, equipment capabilities, and the ability to meet your specific packaging needs. Request references, samples, and quotes from multiple providers to make an informed decision.
If you have any more questions or need further information about shrink packaging services, don't hesitate to contact us for assistance.