Custom dunnage inserts
If you transport or handle high volumes of delicate parts that require protection from damage, including to decorative surfaces, foam dunnage is essential.
Foam dunnage can take a number of forms. Usually, however, it describes foam inserts used to prevent the movement and damage of components during handling in manufacturing operations. They are often designed for use within an outer tote bin, tray, or box.
At GWP Protective, we have been supplying plastic foam dunnage for over 30 years. Our designers and foam experts work closely with your business to improve the performance of manual or automated handling in your manufacturing environment, or in returnable supply chain packaging.
Our foam dunnage options
Benefits of custom foam dunnage
By sourcing your custom foam dunnage from GWP, you benefit from:
What our customers say...
GWP Protective got us out of a bind a couple of years ago when a previous supplier was letting us down and have been providing excellent quality products to us ever since. They are always more than happy to assist with design recommendations, their prices have always been very competitive and lead times are very short.
Harry Pankhurst | Systems Engineer | NSSLGlobal Ltd
Excellent service from quoting through to production. Happy to work to timelines outside of the norm and offer solutions we may have not considered.
Andy Ball | Managing Director | JE Group
GWP were very creative with regards to ideas for the foam inserts, whilst not dismissing our original thoughts. GWP were quick, responsive, patient, eager to help and incredibly tolerant of gaps in our knowledge. I would absolutely recommend GWP to other companies looking for a similar service.
Jane Gossling | Creative Director | 270 Vision
FAQs
What does the term dunnage mean?
The dictionary definition of dunnage (and original use of the word) is “material used to keep a cargo in position in a ship’s hold”. However, the term has been adapted to cover packaging or container inserts which keep the contents of said packaging in position during handling or transportation. As such, custom dunnage inserts include a range of foam products, dividers, inserts and even vacuum-formed trays.
What is foam dunnage made from?
Converters manufacturer Plastic foam dunnage from Plastazote® polyethylene foam. This foam provides excellent durability at a low cost, is easily machined, and offers high levels of protection and cushioning. All of this means it is suitable for a range of packaging applications.
How does foam dunnage protect parts during handling or shipping?
Foam dunnage can protect parts, components or products in several ways. Firstly, it prevents items from colliding during transport, potentially causing damage to each other. Secondly, they cushion their contents if the outer tote container is dropped or knocked. And finally, the foam’s softness can also help prevent surface scratches and blemishes, which can result in parts being rejected or returned.
Are there any other types of dunnage?
There are typically four types of dunnage. These are fabric dunnage, plastic dunnage, cardboard dunnage, and foam. Other dunnage options available from GWP include vac-formed trays, die-cut inserts and fixed or adjustable divider sets. This latter option is typically manufactured from Correx® (or sometimes cardboard) but is also available in specialist materials such as cloth or foam laminated bubble board.
Does foam dunnage fit specific containers?
It is possible to manufacture foam dunnage to virtually any size, shape, or configuration. This size flexibility allows you to manufacture to fit your business’s existing totes and to be tailored to meet the requirements of specific parts, components, or products. You can also source both the outer container and foam dunnage together from GWP, guaranteeing a precise fit and compatibility.
Guides, articles and further reading:
Why work with GWP Protective?
At GWP Protective, we can provide your business with specific products and a level of service that simply aren’t available from most other foam suppliers.
For starters, by working closely with the other divisions of our business and the wider Macfarlane Group, you can source both your containers, totes and trays alongside your chosen foam dunnage. Whilst this may sound insignificant, it not only reduces your costs (and admin), but also vastly improves the compatibility between them.
A less tangible benefit – but crucial nonetheless – is the expertise across different disciplines. Whilst most foam converters can produce foam dunnage products, they may not have the knowledge of the processes and requirements for handling parts and components within a production or assembly line, or when used in a larger supply chain. We do.
As such, your business can lean on our knowledge, benefiting from free, impartial advice alongside no-obligation quotes.
The bottom line? By sourcing your foam dunnage and handling containers from us, you can be certain you get the most suitable option for your specific application, as well as the most cost-effective.
Disclaimer: Application images on this page may have been enhanced or created specifically to illustrate a products features and/or potential uses. Please see our content policy for further details.
Quotes, technical info and advice
Speak with our UK-based case and foam experts
The information on this page has been collated, checked and approved by several of our case and foam experts:
