If you’re new to the world of packaging, it can be intimidating. There’s a ton to learn and it can be tough to figure out exactly what you need. But, that’s why The Packaging Company is here. With just 5 minutes of your time, we’ll show you 5 words worth knowing about packaging. When it comes to buying poly bags and choosing from all their various options, here’s 5 major types you should know about first.

Flat Poly Bags

These are your standard, everyday poly bags that protect against dirt, dust and moisture. Open-ended for easy loading, they’re commonly used to house hardware like nuts and bolts, supplies like pens and rubber bands, even fun stuff like bulk candy and fish from the pet store.

They’re also available in multiple thicknesses so they can accommodate heavy or sharp items. Coloured options let you brand or organize items. And film options like anti-static and VCI (vapor corrosion inhibitor) add extra protection for electronic components and moisture-sensitive items.

There are options for closing flat poly bags, too. Twist ties (and twist tie machines) are a quick and easy way to close poly bags, while impulse sealers use heat to close them permanently.

Gusseted Poly Bags

Gusseted poly bags are ideal for packing bulky or irregular shaped items. Their expandable sides allow for more room than in flat poly bags, and their fitted bottom lets them stand up on their own for easy storage, organizing and display.

They’re often used for large electronic components, individual dress shirts and bulk hardware items. Just like regular poly bags, they come in varying thicknesses, colours and film options. And they can be closed using the same tactics as well.

Reclosable Poly Bags

Reclosable poly bags feature a strong zipper closure that’s easy to open and close as needed. That means there’s no need to use twist ties, bag tape or impulse sealers to close them. They’re commonly used for short-term transportation and storage, or when someone prefers easy access to whatever’s inside them.

They also come in both flat and gusseted styles, along with several film and colour options. They may even feature a white block for writing on, or a hole for hanging them on the wall.

Slider Poly Bags

These guys are a stripped-down, simpler version of reclosable poly bags. Instead of using a teeth-based zipper for closure, they use a sliding tab to open and close the bag with ease. Slider poly bags are often used for storing hygiene products, tools for projects, hardware and other components.

They’re just as good at protecting against dirt and moisture as other poly bags, but they have fewer style options—forgoing gusseting and other film options.

Resealable Poly Bags

Resealable poly bags are yet another useful option in the poly bag category. Instead of using a zipper closure, they feature a flap with a layer of reusable adhesive. Simply remove the protective liner and they can be closed and opened as often as needed—provided you keep the adhesive dirt-free.

Available in both flat and gusseted styles, resealable poly bags are used to protect moisture- and dust-sensitive items. That includes documents, artwork, greeting cards, photographs and pieces of art or history that are kept in climate-controlled archives.

The more you explore the world of packaging, the more involved it seems to get. But, when it comes to buying poly bags, you’re now ready to choose the ones that work best for you. For more words worth knowing, be sure to explore the rest of our Knowledge Center.

Any words worth knowing you’d like us to cover? Don’t hesitate to let us know!