What is Poly Tubing Used For?
Poly tubing is a versatile packaging solution ideal for items that vary in length. Cut the tubing to your desired size and heat-seal one or both ends to create custom protective packaging. Common applications include:
- Food Packaging: Produce, baked goods, candy, dried foods (FDA-approved)
- Hardware & Parts: Fasteners, fittings, long items like rods or pipes
- E-commerce Fulfillment: Protective inner packaging for shipping
- Retail Display: Hang-sell packaging for tools, toys, and accessories
- Industrial Use: Dust and moisture protection for components
How to Use Poly Tubing
- Measure: Determine the length needed for your product plus 2-4 inches for sealing
- Cut: Use scissors or a blade to cut the tubing from the roll
- Insert Product: Slide your item into the tubing
- Seal: Heat-seal with an impulse sealer, or use staples/tape for temporary closures
- Label (Optional): Apply printed labels or use pre-printed tubing
Poly Tubing Thickness Guide
| Thickness |
Best For |
Strength |
| 1.25 mil |
Lightweight items, inner packaging |
Light Duty |
| 1.5 mil |
Food products, general use |
Light-Medium |
| 2 mil |
Most common - parts, hardware, produce |
Medium Duty |
| 3 mil |
Heavier items, sharp edges |
Heavy Duty |
| 4 mil |
Industrial parts, maximum protection |
Extra Heavy |
| 6 mil |
Construction materials, sharp/heavy items |
Maximum Strength |
Is Poly Tubing Food Safe?
Yes. All of our low density poly tubing is manufactured from 100% virgin polyethylene resin and meets FDA requirements for direct food contact under 21 CFR 177.1520. This makes it safe for packaging:
- Fresh produce (fruits, vegetables)
- Baked goods and bread
- Dry foods (nuts, grains, pasta)
- Frozen items
- Candy and confections
Note: Poly tubing is not suitable for high-temperature cooking or microwaving.
Poly Tubing vs. Poly Bags: Which Should I Use?
Both poly tubing and poly bags are made from the same LDPE material, but serve different purposes:
- Use Poly Tubing When: Product lengths vary, you need custom sizing, packaging long/odd-shaped items, or want to minimize SKU inventory (one roll = multiple sizes)
- Use Poly Bags When: You package standard-sized items repeatedly, need faster packaging (pre-made), or want resealable closures (zip-lock bags)
Tubing offers more flexibility and cost savings for businesses with diverse product dimensions.
Technical Specifications
- Material: 100% virgin low density polyethylene (LDPE)
- Clarity: Crystal clear for product visibility
- Surface Treatment: One side treated to accept printing inks
- Roll Dimensions: 12" diameter, 3" core (fits standard tubing dispensers)
- Temperature Range: -40°F to 180°F
- Compliance: FDA 21 CFR 177.1520, RoHS, Prop 65 compliant
- Recyclability: Resin code #4 (LDPE) - recyclable where facilities accept plastic film
Ordering & Shipping
Wholesale Pricing: Save 30-40% compared to retail packaging suppliers. Volume discounts available - call for quote.
Free Shipping: Orders over $150 ship free via UPS Ground (contiguous US)
Same-Day Fulfillment: In-stock orders placed by 2PM EST ship same day
Custom Printing Available: Add your logo or branding - contact us for custom print quotes
Related Products
Questions? We're Here to Help
Not sure which thickness or width you need? Our packaging experts are available Monday-Friday, 8AM-5PM EST.
Call: 1-800-867-7476
Email: [email protected]
Live Chat: Available during business hours
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