Bundling is a process that uses large-scale plastic packaging in logistics. It makes it possible to group batches and facilitate their transport and/or storage. Bundling can be integrated into the production line or carried out later outside the factory.
What is bundling?
Bundling is the doubling-up of the packaging: You pack a first batch of products and, whether for logistics or storage, you need a second package that will combine several batches.
Bundling makes handling easier and provides additional protection for the goods, with a double layer of film. It can be used in many fields: mass distribution, food processing, beverages, pharmaceuticals, and hygiene products, etc.
The process is suitable for all forms of packaging. It can contain individual items packaged in film (milk cartons, soda cans, etc.), cartons containing items that are already under-packaged or in bulk, cardboard trays that sandwich the goods, or plastic, cardboard or wooden crates, whether closed or not.
The advantages of bundling
Bundling uses fairly economical heat-shrink film that can be made from recycled materials. If you use a bundling machine, it is less expensive than a machine that makes solid or corrugated cardboard packages.
The advantage of the transparent shrink film is that it allows you to check the goods and their condition. It is also easy to open.
The film allows you to optimize volumes, because it follows the shape of your goods, unlike crate packaging which takes up more space and in which the goods must be wedged.
How is bundling done?
Bundling is carried out in four phases.
- The batches of products must be grouped and organized to obtain a compact block.
- The single batch is pushed to the wrapping line where it passes under the shrink film curtain.
- The film is unrolled and adjusted around the single batch, before being cut.
- The film is heated to shrink and form a tight, rigid cocoon that holds everything together perfectly.
Is bundling suitable for your products?
Bundling can be adapted to all types of products, regardless of their size and shape, making it extremely versatile. Since fragile goods are already protected by their initial packaging, they are even more protected with the film, which forms an additional protective shell.
The temperature required for bundling is not very high, and, most of all, it doesn’t take long. Even products that are very sensitive to heat are not affected by the packaging, especially since they are already protected by the first layer of their packaging. Even chocolate bars can be bundled!
The size of the packaging can be adapted according to your goods. You can pack batches of any size. Bundling is even more practical as you can position your batches as you wish. Depending on the content, you can make a bundle wider or higher.
You can also bundle heavier or lighter goods. The thickness and layers of film can be varied if your products are particularly heavy and need to be better secured. This allows you to transport them in better conditions.
Finally, you have the choice of bundling with or without a sealing bar. In the first case, the costs are lower, in the second, the machine output is much higher.
