Pregis Pad-Kraft mailer line receives FSC certification; adds new design elements

The company is the only U.S. padded mailer manufacturer to have qualified for FSC certification (License Code No. FSC-C100177).

Pregis Corp. upgraded its production line at its Glens Falls, NY plant in order to produce the FSC certified Pad-Kraft® padded mailers.

Pad-Kraft® padded mailers are made from three layers of 100% recycled paper. The outer layer is post-industrial recycled golden kraft and the inner layer is FSC-certified natural kraft. The middle layer (padding) is post consumer recycled macerated newspaper.

The mailers are being rolled out to a broad variety of applications and/or fulfillment house needs ranging from books, videos, CDs, industrial components, cosmetics, consumer electronics, replacement parts, hardware, nutraceuticals, specialty food items, catalogs, binders, toys, clothing, housewares, novelty items etc.

There are two parts to the FSC system. The Forest Management certification ensures that the forest is managed to high standards covering social, environmental and economic issues. The Chain of Custody certification traces the wood from those forests through all stages of processing and distribution. By definition, mix certified products include a combination of FSC-certified virgin fiber and controlled wood and/or recycled fiber from non-controversial sources.


“Providing Pregis customers with products that meet tough FSC certification criteria is just one way our products help them achieve their environmental objectives,” said Dan Ashley, director of national accounts, Pregis.

In addition to the FSC certification, a key design element has been engineered into the Pad-Kraft® mailers to minimize the chance that the macerated (shredded) paper padding doesn't inadvertently spill out of the bag when it's opened.

“Unlike other mailers which have the tear strip running the length of the bag, we've placed our tear-strip on the flap itself. That eliminates the chance of tearing into the macerate and creating a mess,” explains Ashley.

Pad-Kraft® mailers feature improved seam strength and increased puncture and moisture resistance. Additional recycled macerated paper glued between the inner and outer sturdy kraft layers increases padding consistency and reduces material shift during shipping. Fold-over top and bottom construction adds edge protection.

“With companies pushing for sound environmental alternatives, it was the appropriate time to make an investment in equipment that could provide a performance-oriented all paper mailer alternative,” Ashley says.

Each of the nine sizes in the stock line comes in two versions—self-adhesive flap with a tear strip and tube-style closure with serrated lip options that facilitate fulfillment house usage. Sizes ranges from 5- x 10-inches to 14.5- x 20-inches.