Innovations:: Packaging

The Challenge

Chemical companies, plastics manufacturers, produce growers, food processors and other industries often store and ship their products in corrugated bulk shipping containers, which can hold in excess of 1,500 lbs. in each container. These containers are subject to changing humidity levels while in transit and storage. Changing humidity conditions and the moisture and water they cause weaken the sidewalls of standard corrugated bulk boxes, creating bulge that reduces the stack-ability and degrades box appearance.

The IP Innovation
International Paper developed a specially engineered barrier board, which significantly reduces moisture-related bulge. The board is placed between the two outer linerboard layers of IP’s unique Moisture Vapor Protection (MVP) bulk boxes. This exclusive barrier also allows the use of linerboard in the MVP bulk boxes which requires less fiber yet provides greater stacking strength.

The new MVP containers experience less bulge than standard bulk packaging. They are also more resistant to moisture from wet pallets and less hazardous in four-high stacking, while maintaining their integrity longer on warehouse shelves. MVP also protects the contents from condensation inside sea containers and enhances package appearance. And as an added bonus - The new bulk box is 100% recyclable. This is a significant consideration and advantage in enabling box customers to find economically and environmentally attractive recycling options.