What Is Void Fill? - UK Packaging

Blog What Is Void Fill?

Void fill refers to materials used to fill empty spaces (or “voids”) within a package, ensuring that the products inside remain stable, secure, and protected during transit and storage.

Its primary purpose is to prevent products from shifting, rattling, or getting damaged by external forces while being transported.

Without proper void fill, products – especially fragile or delicate items – can be subjected to movement inside the box, increasing the risk of damage.

By using void fill, you can effectively safeguard your goods and ensure they arrive at their destination in the same condition as they left!

Common Types of Void Fill Materials

There are several types of void fill materials available, each offering different levels of protection and varying in cost and environmental impact. Here are some of the most popular options:

Air Pillows:

Air pillows are small, inflatable cushions that fill empty spaces in packaging. They are lightweight, easy to use, and can be quickly inflated using automated systems. Air pillows provide excellent protection for items that need to be cushioned from impact.

Bubble Wrap:

A tried-and-tested favourite in the packaging world, bubble wrap consists of flexible plastic with air pockets that cushion fragile items. Its effectiveness in absorbing shock and preventing damage makes it a popular choice for protecting delicate products like glassware or electronics.

Packing Peanuts (Loose Fill):

Packing peanuts are lightweight foam-based chips used to fill gaps inside a box. They conform to the shape of the item and offer cushioning against impacts. While effective, they can be difficult to recycle and are less environmentally friendly compared to other options.

Paper-based Fill:

For businesses looking for an eco-friendly solution, paper-based void fill is a great choice.

Shredded or crumpled paper is used to fill voids in packaging, offering adequate protection while being fully biodegradable and recyclable. Paper-based materials are increasingly popular as companies aim to reduce their environmental impact.

If you’re looking for sustainable and effective void fill solutions, UK Packaging’s Void Fill Paper Machines offers excellent protection at a lower cost than most competitors on the market!

Foam-in-Place:

Foam-in-place systems spray a special foam into the empty spaces within a box, where it expands to form a custom protective barrier around the product.

This solution provides a perfect fit for each item, ensuring top-notch protection. Foam-in-place is especially beneficial for irregularly shaped or delicate items.

Why is Void Fill Important?

Void fill plays a crucial role in ensuring the safe delivery of goods. Here are some key reasons why void fill is so important in packaging:

Protection

The primary function of void fill is to prevent products from moving inside their packaging. This reduces the risk of damage caused by impact, vibration, or shifting. For fragile or valuable items, such as electronics, glassware, or ceramics, void fill is indispensable.

Cost Efficiency

By using the right void fill material, businesses can reduce the likelihood of damaged goods and costly returns. Proper void fill also helps optimise packaging space, which can lead to savings on shipping costs.

Sustainability

With growing environmental concerns, sustainability in packaging has become a priority for many businesses. Eco-friendly void fill options, such as paper-based materials, can help reduce the environmental footprint of your packaging, as paper-based materials are biodegradable, meaning they can decompose naturally, returning to the earth without long-term harm.

How to Choose the Right Void Fill Material

Choosing the right void fill material depends on several factors. Here’s what to consider when making your decision:

Product Type

Consider the fragility and size of the item you’re packaging. Delicate products, such as electronics or glass, will need more protective materials like bubble wrap or foam-in-place solutions. Sturdier items may only require a lighter option, like air pillows or paper fill.

Cost

Cost can vary greatly depending on the material. For example, air pillows and bubble wrap can be more affordable in large quantities, while foam-in-place solutions tend to be pricier. It’s important to weigh the cost of materials against the level of protection required for your products.

Key Benefits of Paper-based Void Fill Solutions

As more companies seek environmentally friendly packaging solutions, paper-based void fill is becoming a popular choice.

Here are some key benefits:

Benefit	Description
Sustainability	Biodegradable: Decomposes naturally without harming the environment. Recyclable: Can be easily recycled into new paper products, reducing waste. Eco-friendly: A more sustainable alternative to plastic void fills, minimising environmental impact.
Cost-Effectiveness	Affordable: Often less expensive than other void fill materials, especially when purchased in bulk. Economical: Provides a budget-friendly option for protecting products during shipping and handling.
Versatility	Adaptable: Easily conforms to different box sizes and shapes, providing effective protection for various product types. Flexible: Can be used for a wide range of products, from delicate items to larger, heavier goods.

Choosing the right void fill isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach. Depending on your business and the products you handle, your packaging needs may vary. For instance, custom packaging solutions like foam-in-place or paper-based systems can provide an excellent fit for specific items.

Additionally, using automated void fill machinery can streamline your packaging process, reduce manual labour, and increase overall efficiency.

UK Packaging offers a range of void fill systems to meet your specific requirements and help optimise your packaging workflow.