Reference libraries · Packaging
Packaging Reference Library
Sizes, standards, wall charts and how to identify what’s in front of you, written for packaging counters, buyers and the customers they serve.
149 sheets planned · 34 published · 9 sections. New sheets are added as they’re written.
Written in the open: anyone can suggest an edit on any sheet. Help write or review it →
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- Box Styles and How to Measure a BoxRSC, HSC, FOL, telescope and die-cut styles; inside L x W x D conventionRef PK-0101
- Corrugated Board ConstructionLiners, medium, single/double/triple wallRef PK-0102
- Corrugated Flute Profiles (A, B, C, E, F and Double Wall)Flute sizes, thickness and where each is usedRef PK-0103
- Kraft vs White vs Recycled LinersLiner grades and print surfacesRef PK-0104
- Die-Cut Mailers and Shipping Boxes for E-CommerceRoll-end tuck front and mailer stylesRef PK-0105
- Solid Fiberboard, Chipboard and PaperboardPoints/caliper and uses for folding cartonsRef PK-0106
- Partitions, Pads and Corrugated InsertsDividers, layer pads, die-cut insertsRef PK-0107
- Stretch Film Types (Cast vs Blown)Cast vs blown, hand vs machine, pre-stretchRef PK-0108
- Film Gauge, Mil and MicronConverting film thickness units and true vs equivalent gaugeRef PK-0109
- Pre-Stretched and High-Performance Stretch FilmsNano-layer films and equivalent gauge claimsRef PK-0110
- Poly Bags and TubingLDPE vs LLDPE vs HDPE, mil, reclosable, gussetedRef PK-0112
- Anti-Static and ESD PackagingPink poly, metallized shielding bags, dissipative foamsRef PK-0113
- Carton Sealing Tape TypesAcrylic, hot melt, natural rubber and when each worksRef PK-0114
- Water-Activated (Gummed) TapeReinforced vs non-reinforced and dispensersRef PK-0115
- Specialty Tapes (Filament, Masking, Duct, Printed)Applications and adhesive systemsRef PK-0116
- Strapping Selection: Steel vs Polypropylene vs PolyesterMaterial properties, joints, tools and hazardsRef PK-0117 · Safety-critical
- Cushioning Materials OverviewBubble, foam, air pillows, paper, molded pulpRef PK-0119
- Polyethylene and Polyurethane FoamDensity, cushioning and fabricationRef PK-0120
- Void Fill OptionsLoose fill, paper, air pillows and cost per cubeRef PK-0121
- Protective MailersBubble mailers, padded paper mailers, poly mailersRef PK-0122
- ECT vs Burst Equivalence ChartCommon single-wall grades side by side with the caveatsRef PK-0201
- Flute Profile ChartFlute letters, approximate thickness and usesRef PK-0202
- Film Gauge Conversion ChartGauge, mil, micron and inchRef PK-0203
- Box Style Identification ChartCommon box styles with namesRef PK-0204
- Box Measuring DiagramL x W x D convention and inside dimensionsRef PK-0205
- Tape Selection ChartAdhesive type by temperature, surface and loadRef PK-0206
- Cushioning Selection ChartMaterial by fragility and weight conceptRef PK-0208
- Pallet Patterns ChartColumn vs interlocked stacking and compression effectRef PK-0209
- Box Maker's Certificate DecoderReading the BMC on the bottom flapRef PK-0210
- Recycling and Resin Code ChartResin identification codes 1–7Ref PK-0211
- Packing Station Layout ChartErgonomic packing station guidanceRef PK-0212
- Shipping Label Placement ChartLabel location on cartons and palletsRef PK-0214
- Pallet Wrap Pattern ChartBase wraps, overlap and top sheet conceptRef PK-0215
- ECT vs Mullen Burst: Corrugated Box StrengthWhat each test measures, how box certificates use them, and why they are not interchangeableRef PK-0401
Technical Reference
Packaging product families, constructions and the test methods behind them.
- Box Styles and How to Measure a BoxRSC, HSC, FOL, telescope and die-cut styles; inside L x W x D conventionRef PK-0101
- Corrugated Board ConstructionLiners, medium, single/double/triple wallRef PK-0102
- Corrugated Flute Profiles (A, B, C, E, F and Double Wall)Flute sizes, thickness and where each is usedRef PK-0103
- Kraft vs White vs Recycled LinersLiner grades and print surfacesRef PK-0104
- Die-Cut Mailers and Shipping Boxes for E-CommerceRoll-end tuck front and mailer stylesRef PK-0105
- Solid Fiberboard, Chipboard and PaperboardPoints/caliper and uses for folding cartonsRef PK-0106
- Partitions, Pads and Corrugated InsertsDividers, layer pads, die-cut insertsRef PK-0107
- Stretch Film Types (Cast vs Blown)Cast vs blown, hand vs machine, pre-stretchRef PK-0108
- Film Gauge, Mil and MicronConverting film thickness units and true vs equivalent gaugeRef PK-0109
- Pre-Stretched and High-Performance Stretch FilmsNano-layer films and equivalent gauge claimsRef PK-0110
- Shrink Film (PVC vs Polyolefin vs Polyethylene)Shrink types, heat sources and applicationsComing soon
- Poly Bags and TubingLDPE vs LLDPE vs HDPE, mil, reclosable, gussetedRef PK-0112
- Anti-Static and ESD PackagingPink poly, metallized shielding bags, dissipative foamsRef PK-0113
- Carton Sealing Tape TypesAcrylic, hot melt, natural rubber and when each worksRef PK-0114
- Water-Activated (Gummed) TapeReinforced vs non-reinforced and dispensersRef PK-0115
- Specialty Tapes (Filament, Masking, Duct, Printed)Applications and adhesive systemsRef PK-0116
- Strapping Selection: Steel vs Polypropylene vs PolyesterMaterial properties, joints, tools and hazardsRef PK-0117 · Safety-critical
- Strapping Seals, Buckles and Friction WeldsJoint types and joint efficiency conceptComing soon
- Cushioning Materials OverviewBubble, foam, air pillows, paper, molded pulpRef PK-0119
- Polyethylene and Polyurethane FoamDensity, cushioning and fabricationRef PK-0120
- Void Fill OptionsLoose fill, paper, air pillows and cost per cubeRef PK-0121
- Protective MailersBubble mailers, padded paper mailers, poly mailersRef PK-0122
- Edge Protectors and Corner BoardsL-angles, U-channels, load stabilizationComing soon
- Pallets: Wood, Plastic and PresswoodStringer vs block, common footprints, entry typesComing soon
- ISPM 15 Wood Packaging RequirementsHeat treatment mark and export wood packagingComing soon
- Slip Sheets and Tier SheetsUses and push-pull handlingComing soon
- Dunnage and Load Securement ProductsAir bags, load bars, blocking and bracingComing soon
- Labels and Label StockDirect thermal vs thermal transfer, adhesives, facestocksComing soon
- Shipping Label and Barcode StandardsGS1-128, SSCC, carrier labelsComing soon
- Desiccants and Humidity ControlDesiccant units and sizing method referencesComing soon
- VCI Corrosion-Inhibiting PackagingVapor corrosion inhibitor films, papers and emittersComing soon
- Moisture and Vapor Barrier BagsFoil barrier bags and military specsComing soon
- Food-Contact Packaging BasicsFDA food contact substances and compliance lettersComing soon
- Hazardous Materials Packaging (UN Specification)UN marks, packing groups and combination packagesComing soon
- Lithium Battery Packaging and MarksBattery mark, packing instructions and trainingComing soon
- Dry Ice Shipping PackagingVenting, marking and quantity conceptsComing soon
- Insulated Shippers and Cold ChainEPS, panels, gel packs, phase-changeComing soon
- Hand Tools: Tape Guns, Film Dispensers, Strapping ToolsTool types and safe useComing soon
- Case Erectors, Sealers and Stretch WrappersEquipment families and guardingComing soon
- Industrial Containers: Drums, Pails and IBCsSteel, plastic, fiber; UN rated vs non-ratedComing soon
Wall Charts
Printable packing-station and warehouse charts.
- ECT vs Burst Equivalence ChartCommon single-wall grades side by side with the caveatsRef PK-0201
- Flute Profile ChartFlute letters, approximate thickness and usesRef PK-0202
- Film Gauge Conversion ChartGauge, mil, micron and inchRef PK-0203
- Box Style Identification ChartCommon box styles with namesRef PK-0204
- Box Measuring DiagramL x W x D convention and inside dimensionsRef PK-0205
- Tape Selection ChartAdhesive type by temperature, surface and loadRef PK-0206
- Strapping Material Selection ChartSteel vs PP vs PET by load typeComing soon
- Cushioning Selection ChartMaterial by fragility and weight conceptRef PK-0208
- Pallet Patterns ChartColumn vs interlocked stacking and compression effectRef PK-0209
- Box Maker's Certificate DecoderReading the BMC on the bottom flapRef PK-0210
- Recycling and Resin Code ChartResin identification codes 1–7Ref PK-0211
- Packing Station Layout ChartErgonomic packing station guidanceRef PK-0212
- Hazmat Package Mark ChartUN spec mark, orientation arrows and common marksComing soon
- Shipping Label Placement ChartLabel location on cartons and palletsRef PK-0214
- Pallet Wrap Pattern ChartBase wraps, overlap and top sheet conceptRef PK-0215
Measure & Identify
Measuring boxes, film and materials and identifying unknown packaging.
- How to Measure a Corrugated BoxInside dimensions and order of L, W, DComing soon
- How to Measure Film ThicknessMicrometer and weigh-down methodsComing soon
- How to Identify Flute TypeCounting flutes and measuring caliperComing soon
- How to Read a Box Maker's CertificateECT or burst, size limit and gross weight limitComing soon
- How to Calculate Box Size for a ProductProduct dimensions plus cushioning allowancesComing soon
- Dimensional Weight CalculationCarrier DIM divisors and cube optimizationComing soon
- How to Identify Stretch Film Type and GaugeClarity, cling, core and label cluesComing soon
- How to Measure a Pallet LoadCube, overhang and height limitsComing soon
- Identifying Strapping Material and WidthWidth, thickness and material tellsComing soon
- Identifying Tape Adhesive TypesClarity, odor, unwind noise and temperature behaviorComing soon
- Measuring Poly Bag SizeWidth x length, gusset and lip conventionsComing soon
- Identifying ISPM 15 Marks on PalletsReading the stampComing soon
- Reading UN Packaging MarksThe UN code sequence on hazmat packagingComing soon
- Identifying Plastic Resin TypesResin code and simple field tellsComing soon
- Measuring Core Diameter and Roll SizesFilm, tape and label core sizesComing soon
- Calculating Film Yield and CoverageSquare inches per pound conceptComing soon
- Identifying Foam DensityWeigh-and-measure methodComing soon
Materials & Ratings
Strength ratings, test methods and performance properties.
- ECT vs Mullen Burst: Corrugated Box StrengthWhat each test measures, how box certificates use them, and why they are not interchangeableRef PK-0401
- Box Compression Strength (BCT)Compression testing and stacking strength conceptComing soon
- McKee Formula and Stacking EstimatesEstimating BCT from ECT and caliper, and its limitsComing soon
- Humidity and Time Effects on Box StrengthMoisture, creep and safety factorsComing soon
- Basis Weight and Liner CombinationsLiner and medium weightsComing soon
- Puncture and Pin Adhesion TestsOther corrugated strength testsComing soon
- Stretch Film PropertiesElongation, holding force, puncture, clingComing soon
- Film Tensile, Dart and Tear TestsWhat the common film tests measureComing soon
- Tape Adhesion, Tack and ShearPeel, holding power and tack testsComing soon
- Strapping Break Strength and Joint EfficiencyHow strap ratings are expressed and why joint mattersComing soon
- Cushion CurvesReading dynamic cushioning curvesComing soon
- Product Fragility (G-Factor)Fragility testing conceptComing soon
- Pallet Load Capacity RatingsStatic, dynamic and racked capacitiesComing soon
- Recycled Content and Certification ClaimsRecycled vs recyclable claimsComing soon
- Compostable Packaging CertificationsCompostability standards and labelsComing soon
- Coefficient of Friction for Film and BoardSlip and load stabilityComing soon
- Water Resistance and Wax-Coated BoxesCobb test and wax alternativesComing soon
- Barrier Properties (MVTR, OTR)Moisture and oxygen transmissionComing soon
- Foam Compression Set and RecoveryLong-term cushioning performanceComing soon
- Label Adhesive RatingsApplication temperature and service rangeComing soon
Package Testing & Failure Analysis
Distribution testing and diagnosing damage, collapse and load failures.
- ISTA Test Procedures Overview1-, 2-, 3- and 6-series test proceduresComing soon
- ASTM D4169 Distribution TestingDistribution cycles and assurance levelsComing soon
- Drop TestingFree-fall drop methodsComing soon
- Vibration TestingRandom and sine vibrationComing soon
- Box Crush and Stacking FailuresDiagnosing compression failures in warehousesComing soon
- Pallet Load Shifting and CollapseWrap force, containment and pattern issuesComing soon
- Tape Failures: Flaps Popping and Poor AdhesionDust, recycled board, cold and wrong tapeComing soon
- Stretch Film Breaks and TailsFilm breaks, tails and pre-stretch problemsComing soon
- Strapping Failures and Recoil InjuriesBreaks, joint failures and cutting hazardsComing soon
- Moisture Damage and Corrosion in TransitCondensation and container rainComing soon
- Product Damage Root Cause AnalysisA structured damage investigationComing soon
- Concealed Damage ClaimsDocumentation and carrier claimsComing soon
- Hazmat Package Failures and LeaksClosure instructions and incident reportingComing soon
- Packaging Equipment HazardsPinch points, guarding and lockoutComing soon
- Manual Handling and Heavy Carton ErgonomicsPackage weight and handling injuriesComing soon
Specification & Program Control
Writing and controlling packaging specifications.
- Writing a Corrugated Box SpecificationStyle, dimensions, board grade, print, jointComing soon
- Writing a Stretch Film SpecificationType, gauge, width, core, performanceComing soon
- Packaging Specification Sheets and Revision ControlSpec numbering and change managementComing soon
- Customer Packaging Requirements and Routing GuidesRetailer and OEM packaging manualsComing soon
- Military Packaging and MarkingLevels of protection and markingComing soon
- Export Packaging RequirementsWood packaging, marking and seaworthy packingComing soon
- Packaging Substitution ApprovalWhen a material change needs testingComing soon
- Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) for PackagingState packaging EPR laws conceptComing soon
- Environmental Marketing Claims for PackagingFTC Green Guides basicsComing soon
- Hazmat Packaging Closure InstructionsFollowing the packaging manufacturer's closure instructionsComing soon
- Food Packaging Compliance DocumentationLetters of guaranty and migration testingComing soon
- Right-Sizing and Package Optimization ProgramsCube reduction and material reductionComing soon
Procurement & Cost Reduction
Buying packaging for lower total cost.
- Cost per Package CalculationBox, fill, tape, labor and freight per shipmentComing soon
- Box Size RationalizationReducing the number of stocked box sizesComing soon
- Downgauging Stretch FilmTesting thinner high-performance filmsComing soon
- Stock vs Custom BoxesMOQ, lead time and tooling trade-offsComing soon
- Dimensional Weight Cost ReductionRight-sizing to cut freightComing soon
- Board Grade Optimization (ECT Downgrades)When a lower grade is acceptableComing soon
- Packaging Equipment ROITape machines, wrappers, auto-baggersComing soon
- Paper and Resin Price IndexesHow commodity indexes drive pricingComing soon
- Packaging Supplier QualificationCertificates, test data and capacityComing soon
- Freight-Class and Packaging EffectsHow packaging affects density and classComing soon
Quality, Compliance & Traceability
Lot control, certificates and compliance records for packaging.
- Packaging Lot Numbers and TraceabilityCapturing roll, pallet and lot IDsComing soon
- Certificates of Analysis for Packaging MaterialsWhat COAs and test reports containComing soon
- Incoming Inspection of CorrugatedDimensions, caliper, ECT spot checksComing soon
- Incoming Inspection of Film and TapeGauge, width, core, appearanceComing soon
- Hazmat Training for Packaging DistributorsWho needs training when selling UN packagingComing soon
- Distributor Obligations for UN PackagingPassing on closure instructionsComing soon
- Storage Conditions for Packaging MaterialsHumidity, temperature and shelf life of adhesivesComing soon
- ESD Packaging VerificationTesting and recordsComing soon
- Customer Audits and Packaging DocumentationSpec compliance evidenceComing soon
- Nonconforming Packaging HandlingHold, disposition and supplier corrective actionComing soon
Inventory, VMI & Vending
Stocking and replenishing packaging at customer sites.
- Min/Max for Boxes and FilmsUsage-based min/maxComing soon
- Packaging VMI ProgramsScheduled counts and replenishmentComing soon
- Warehouse Space Planning for CorrugatedFlat-packed cube and pallet planningComing soon
- Kanban for Packaging MaterialsTwo-bin and card systemsComing soon
- Seasonal Peak PlanningHoliday and harvest packaging surgesComing soon
- Consignment Packaging StockOwnership and countingComing soon
- Packing Station Supply ReplenishmentPoint-of-use stockingComing soon
- Usage Reporting and Cost per OrderConsumption KPIsComing soon
- Shelf Life of Tapes, Labels and AdhesivesRotation and storageComing soon
- Equipment Service and Parts StockingWear parts for tapers and wrappersComing soon
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