In today’s global economy, international trade has become a vital part of many businesses. One of the most important aspects of international trade is packaging, which ensures that goods are protected during transportation and storage. Packaging is also important for branding and marketing, as well as for complying with various regulations.

This article will provide an overview of the trade industry, its different products and parts, and the importance of effective packaging. We will also discuss different packaging types and materials used in the trade industry, with a focus on packaging straps and stretch wraps. Additionally, we will explore packaging machinery, such as strapping machines and stretch wrapping machines.

Industry Overview

The trade industry encompasses a wide range of businesses that import and export goods. These businesses may include manufacturers, wholesalers, retailers, and distributors, as well as freight forwarders and logistics providers. The trade industry is a significant contributor to the global economy, with the World Trade Organization estimating that merchandise trade reached $18.89 trillion in 2019.

The trade industry is diverse, with various products and parts that require different types of packaging. Some of the most commonly traded products include consumer goods, such as electronics, clothing, and food, as well as industrial products, such as machinery, raw materials, and chemicals. Each of these products requires specialized packaging to protect it during transportation and storage.

Different Packaging Types in the Industry

Packaging is an essential part of the trade industry, as it protects products from damage and ensures their safe transport. There are several different types of packaging used in the industry, including primary, secondary, and tertiary packaging.

Primary Packaging

Primary packaging refers to the layer of packaging that is in direct contact with the product. It is typically the smallest and most important packaging type, as it directly affects the quality and safety of the product. Primary packaging can be made of a variety of materials, such as plastic, glass, or metal, depending on the product being packaged.

Secondary Packaging

Secondary packaging is the layer that contains the primary packaging. It is usually made of cardboard or shrink wrap and is used to hold the primary packaging together. Secondary packaging helps to protect the product from damage during handling and transportation and can also provide additional branding and marketing opportunities.

Tertiary Packaging

Tertiary packaging is the layer used for shipping and storage. It is typically made from materials such as pallets, containers, or crates. Tertiary packaging is designed to protect the product during long-distance transportation and to facilitate efficient handling and storage.

Packaging Products and Materials Application

Different products in the trade industry require different types of packaging to ensure their safe transport. For instance, electronic products such as computers, phones, and other devices require specific packaging to ensure their safe arrival.

The packaging materials used for electronic products include foam inserts, plastic trays, and other specialized packaging materials. These materials protect the products from shock and vibration during transport, which can damage the product and lead to costly returns and repairs.

In the food industry, packaging is important for maintaining the quality and freshness of the product. Various packaging materials are used in the food industry, including vacuum packaging, modified atmosphere packaging, and other specialized packaging types.

Stretch Film

Stretch film is one of the most commonly used packaging materials in the trade industry. Stretch film, also known as stretch wrap, is a thin plastic film that is stretched and wrapped around a product to secure it to a pallet or other packaging materials. The film is stretched as it is wrapped around the product, providing tension and holding the product in place. Stretch film comes in a variety of thicknesses and widths, and can be used for both primary and secondary packaging.

Stretch film comes in different widths, lengths, and thicknesses, depending on the application. It can be used for both primary and secondary packaging, and is particularly useful for packaging irregularly shaped products.
Stretch film or stretch wrap is a versatile and widely used packaging material in the import and export trade industry. It is an essential component in ensuring the safe and secure transportation of goods across long distances. The stretch film’s ability to provide tension and hold the product in place helps prevent damage during shipping and handling.

One of the primary advantages of stretch film is its ability to conform to the shape of the product being packaged. This feature is particularly useful when packaging irregularly shaped products. Stretch film’s elasticity allows it to stretch and recover, ensuring a tight, secure fit that helps prevent movement and damage during transit.

The thickness of stretch film is an essential consideration when choosing the appropriate film for a particular application. Thicker films are more durable and provide better protection against punctures and tears. However, they may not be suitable for all products, as they may add unnecessary weight and increase shipping costs.

There are several types of stretch film available, including cast stretch film and blown stretch film. Cast stretch film is manufactured using a cast extrusion process, which results in a film that is clear and quiet when unwound. Cast stretch film is ideal for light to medium-duty applications and is often used for wrapping pallets and bundling products.

Blown stretch film, on the other hand, is manufactured using a blown extrusion process, which results in a film that is thicker and more durable than cast stretch film. Blown stretch film is ideal for heavy-duty applications and is often used for packaging sharp or heavy objects.

In addition to the type of stretch film, the application method is also crucial in determining the film’s effectiveness. Automatic stretch wrapping machines are commonly used in high-volume applications, such as manufacturing and distribution centers. These machines can wrap pallets quickly and efficiently, ensuring a consistent wrap every time.

Manual stretch wrapping is often used in low-volume applications, such as small businesses or for shipping products directly from a retail store. Manual stretch wrapping requires less equipment and can be done by hand, making it more cost-effective for small businesses.

In conclusion, stretch film is an essential component of the import and export trade industry. It helps ensure the safe and secure transport of goods and reduces the risk of damage during transit. With its ability to conform to the shape of the product being packaged and its versatility in thickness and application method, stretch film is a reliable and cost-effective solution for businesses of all sizes.

Packaging Straps

Packaging straps are another commonly used packaging material in the trade industry. Straps are used to secure products to pallets or containers, preventing them from shifting or falling during transportation. Straps can be made from a variety of materials, including polypropylene, polyester, and steel. The choice of material depends on the weight and size of the product being shipped, as well as the mode of transportation.

Polypropylene straps are commonly used for light to medium-weight loads and are ideal for securing products to pallets or bundling items together. Polyester straps are used for heavier loads and provide greater strength and durability. Steel straps are used for extremely heavy loads and provide the highest level of security.
In the import and export industry, packaging straps are crucial for ensuring that products arrive at their destination safely and intact. The type of strap used for a particular shipment depends on the size and weight of the product, as well as the mode of transportation. For example, polypropylene straps are ideal for securing lighter products for air or ground transportation, while steel straps are more suitable for securing heavy machinery for ocean transport.

Polypropylene straps are affordable, lightweight, and easy to handle. They are also resistant to water, rust, and corrosion, making them ideal for outdoor use. Polyester straps, on the other hand, are more durable and provide greater resistance to tension and impact. They are also resistant to ultraviolet (UV) light and have a longer lifespan than polypropylene straps.

Steel straps are the strongest and most secure type of packaging strap. They are ideal for securing heavy machinery, metal parts, and other industrial products that require extra protection during transportation. Steel straps come in a variety of widths and thicknesses, and can be coated with different materials to provide additional protection against corrosion and rust.

In addition to the type of strap used, the method of application is also important for ensuring proper packaging. Strapping machines are commonly used in the trade industry to secure products to pallets or containers quickly and efficiently. These machines come in different types, including semi-automatic and fully automatic machines. Semi-automatic machines require an operator to manually feed the strap through the machine and around the product, while fully automatic machines do the job without any human intervention.

When it comes to the import and export industry, packaging straps play a critical role in ensuring the safe and secure transportation of goods. With the right type of strap and proper application, products can be protected from damage, loss, and theft, which can save importers and exporters time and money.
In addition to the type of material, packaging straps come in various widths, thicknesses, and lengths, depending on the product being shipped and the transportation mode. For example, narrow straps may be suitable for smaller products, while wider straps may be required for larger and heavier items.

To apply packaging straps, strapping machines are commonly used in the trade industry. These machines are available in both semi-automatic and fully automatic versions, depending on the size of the operation. Strapping machines can significantly increase the efficiency of the packaging process, as they automate the task of applying straps to products.

When it comes to exporting goods, proper packaging with high-quality materials is crucial to ensure the safety of the products during transportation. International shipping may involve different modes of transportation, including air, sea, or land, and each mode requires specific packaging requirements to ensure the products arrive at their destination in good condition.

Therefore, it is important to consider the destination country’s regulations regarding packaging materials and dimensions, as well as the mode of transportation, when packaging products for export. Using inadequate packaging materials or techniques can lead to damages, delays, and extra costs in the exporting process.

Strapping machines

Strapping machines are used to secure products to pallets or containers using straps. They can be semi-automatic or fully automatic, depending on the size of the operation. Semi-automatic machines require an operator to manually feed the strap into the machine and apply tension. Fully automatic machines, on the other hand, can feed the strap automatically and apply the required tension without operator intervention.
Strapping machines are widely used in the trade industry for both import and export operations. They are particularly useful for securing products with irregular shapes or sizes. Strapping machines can also increase efficiency and productivity by reducing the time and labor required to secure products manually.

There are several types of strapping machines available, including handheld, tabletop, and floor models. Handheld strapping machines are compact and lightweight, making them ideal for small operations or occasional use. Tabletop models are larger and can handle higher volumes of products. Floor models are the largest and most heavy-duty, designed for continuous use in high-volume applications.

In addition to the type of machine, it is also important to consider the type of strapping used. Polypropylene and polyester straps are commonly used for strapping machines, and the choice of material depends on the weight and size of the product being shipped. Steel straps are also an option for heavy-duty applications.

When selecting a strapping machine, it is important to consider factors such as the size of the products being shipped, the volume of products, and the required level of automation. Additionally, proper maintenance and training on the use of the machine are important to ensure optimal performance and safety.
Strapping machines are often used in conjunction with stretch wrapping machines to provide a complete packaging solution for products. In addition, some strapping machines are designed to be portable, allowing for easy movement around a warehouse or shipping facility.

When selecting a strapping machine, it’s important to consider the type of product being packaged, as well as the production volume and required level of automation. Factors such as strap width, tensioning force, and speed should also be taken into account.

Overall, strapping machines provide a fast and efficient way to secure products for transportation and storage. With a variety of options available on the market, businesses can choose the right machine for their specific needs and improve their packaging process.

Stretch wrapping machines

Stretch wrapping machines are used to wrap pallets or large products with stretch film, ensuring that they are securely bound together. They come in different sizes and configurations depending on the application. Semi-automatic machines require an operator to place the product on the turntable and start the machine, while fully automatic machines can wrap the product automatically without operator intervention.
There are different types of stretch wrapping machines available in the market, such as turntable, rotary arm, and robotic machines. Turntable machines are the most common type and are ideal for wrapping uniform loads. Rotary arm machines are suitable for wrapping unstable or lightweight loads, while robotic machines can handle a wide variety of load types and sizes.

Stretch wrapping machines are particularly useful for large-scale operations as they can improve efficiency and reduce labor costs. The machines are available in different models, including low profile, high profile, and mobile models, to suit different workspace requirements. Some machines can even be integrated with other packaging equipment, such as conveyors, to create a fully automated packaging line.

In terms of import and export, stretch wrapping machines and strapping machines are important packaging equipment for the trade industry. The market for these machines is growing, particularly in regions such as Asia-Pacific, where there is a significant increase in industrialization and trade. The demand for these machines is also driven by the need to improve operational efficiency, reduce labor costs, and ensure product safety during transportation.

The global market for stretch wrapping machines and strapping machines is highly competitive, with many players offering a wide range of products.
Additionally, some stretch wrapping machines come with adjustable tension controls, allowing the user to adjust the tension of the film as it is wrapped around the product. This can be useful for products that require a tighter or looser wrap. Some machines also come with pre-stretch features, which stretch the film before it is wrapped around the product, allowing for greater efficiency and cost savings.

Stretch wrapping machines are commonly used in industries such as food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, and construction. They are also used in import and export operations to ensure that products are securely packaged and protected during transportation. These machines have become an essential part of the trade industry, allowing for faster and more efficient packaging of products, while also reducing the risk of damage during transportation.

In terms of import and export, stretch wrapping machines are often used in combination with other packaging materials, such as straps and corrugated boxes, to ensure that products are properly secured and protected during transit. They are also used to comply with various international regulations and standards for packaging and transportation of goods.

Overall, stretch wrapping machines have become an indispensable tool in the trade industry, allowing for faster, more efficient, and safer packaging of products. With advancements in technology, these machines continue to evolve and become even more efficient, providing businesses with a competitive edge in the global marketplace.

In addition to the packaging materials and machinery mentioned above, there are other factors to consider when packaging products for the trade industry. These include the size and weight of the product, the mode of transportation, and the destination. For example, products that are shipped by air may require specialized packaging to withstand the pressure changes and vibrations that occur during flight.

Conclusion

At Behband, we understand the importance of effective packaging in the trade industry. That’s why we offer a wide range of packaging solutions to meet the needs of our customers. Our experienced team of experts and engineers can work with you to design a packaging solution that meets your specific needs, whether you’re shipping small parts or large machinery.

Our sales engineers are available to consult with you and provide you with the best offer for your packaging needs. We pride ourselves on offering the highest quality products at competitive prices, and we stand behind our products with excellent customer service and support.

In conclusion, packaging is an essential component of the trade industry, and effective packaging can make a significant difference in the success of a business. By choosing the right packaging materials and machinery, businesses can protect their products during transportation, attract customers through eye-catching designs and labeling, and increase efficiency and reduce labor costs. At Behband, we are committed to providing our customers with the best packaging solutions and support to help them succeed in the trade industry.