BOPP (Biaxially Oriented Polypropylene) bags have become a staple in the packaging industry, known for their high tensile strength, clarity, and excellent printability. Whether you’re in food processing, agriculture, retail, or manufacturing, choosing the right BOPP bags is crucial to protecting your product and your brand. However, many businesses make critical mistakes during the ordering process that can result in delays, quality issues, or even financial losses.
Let’s walk through the 10 most common mistakes to avoid when ordering BOPP bags—and how you can make the right choice for your packaging needs.
1. Not Understanding Your Product Requirements
Before placing an order, it’s vital to analyze what you’re packaging. Is your product dry, oily, granular, or powdery? Does it require moisture resistance, UV protection, or breathability?
Why It Matters
The features of your product determine the type of BOPP bag you need. A lack of understanding can result in using the wrong material or design, which can compromise shelf life or product integrity.
2. Choosing the Wrong Bag Size or Dimensions
One size doesn’t fit all. Ordering bags that are too big or too small for your product can lead to inefficiencies in packaging, increased shipping costs, and poor aesthetics.
How to Avoid It
Measure your product’s volume and consider your filling method. Always consult your supplier for size recommendations based on your application and packaging machinery.
3. Ignoring the Micron/GSM Requirement
The thickness of BOPP film, often measured in microns or GSM (grams per square meter), affects durability and strength. Choosing a film that’s too thin can result in tearing, while overly thick bags can be unnecessarily costly.
Pro Tip
Discuss with your supplier the optimal thickness based on your product weight and handling conditions.
4. Overlooking Print Quality and Design Approval
Your packaging is often the first interaction a customer has with your brand. Ignoring the importance of print quality or skipping design proof approval can result in poor branding or even incorrect labeling.
What You Should Do
Request digital proofs or printed mockups. Always review and approve final artwork before production to avoid printing errors or misalignment.
5. Not Considering Barrier Requirements
Some products need additional protection from moisture, oxygen, or UV light. Failing to add the right lamination or barrier layer can reduce product shelf life and customer satisfaction.
Industry Tip
For food and chemical packaging, multi-layer laminates with BOPP are often recommended to provide maximum protection.
6. Ordering Without Sampling
Jumping straight into bulk orders without testing sample bags can lead to major losses if the bags don’t perform well in real-world conditions.
Why Sampling Helps
Ordering a small quantity of samples lets you check print clarity, strength, fit, and overall performance before committing to a full production run.
7. Choosing Price Over Quality
Going with the cheapest supplier might save you money upfront, but low-cost bags can compromise durability, appearance, and consistency.
Long-Term View
Always weigh price against quality, service, delivery timelines, and reputation. A reliable supplier with consistent quality can save you more in the long run.
8. Not Checking Local or Export Compliance Standards
Different markets may have specific regulations for packaging materials, especially in food, pharmaceuticals, and agriculture.
Example
Exporting products to Canada or Europe? You may need bags that meet food-grade or environmental compliance standards. Always check with your supplier or regulatory body.
9. Skipping Communication With the Manufacturer
Lack of clear communication can result in missed specifications, wrong delivery addresses, or misunderstood timelines.
Communication Tips
Send written specifications, confirm timelines, and ask for order updates. Establish a single point of contact for clarity.
10. Failing to Plan for Lead Time
Many BOPP bag orders require customization, which adds production and shipping time. Waiting until the last minute to place your order can lead to delays in your supply chain.
What to Do Instead
Always factor in lead time. Place your orders at least a few weeks in advance, especially for printed or laminated bags.
Read Also : Why Are BOPP Bags The Top Choice Of Industrialists
Final Thoughts: Smart Ordering Starts With Smart Decisions
BOPP bags offer a reliable and cost-effective packaging solution, but ordering BOPP bags without careful consideration can lead to unnecessary delays, added expenses, and compromised product quality. Avoiding common pitfalls when ordering BOPP bags helps ensure better protection, consistent branding, and smoother business operations.
Taking time to assess your needs, communicate with suppliers, and verify quality will not only result in better packaging but will also improve your overall customer experience.