Edge protectors, also known as corner protectors or angle boards, are protective components used in packaging and shipping to safeguard the edges and corners of cartons, pallets, or stacked goods. They serve several important functions during transportation, storage, and handling.
Purpose and Benefits
1. Prevent Damage from Strapping
-
When cartons or pallets are secured with straps (plastic or metal), the tension from the straps can dig into the edges of the packaging, potentially crushing or tearing the material.
-
Edge protectors act as a barrier, distributing the pressure and preventing direct contact between the strap and the product.
2. Enhance Structural Stability
-
Placing edge protectors on the vertical corners of palletized loads helps reinforce the shape and structure of the stacked goods.
-
This improves the load’s resistance to compression and prevents tipping or collapsing during transport.
3. Protection from Handling
-
During loading, unloading, and moving goods with forklifts or other equipment, edges are vulnerable to bumps, abrasions, and impacts.
-
Edge protectors help absorb such impacts, reducing the risk of product damage.
4. Improved Stackability
-
With uniform, reinforced edges, cartons and pallets can be stacked more securely and evenly, maximizing storage space and reducing the risk of shifting.
Materials Used
Cardboard (Paperboard or Fiberboard):
-
Lightweight, recyclable, and cost-effective.
-
Often used for lighter loads or products that don’t require moisture resistance.
Plastic (Polypropylene or Polyethylene):
-
Durable, water-resistant, and reusable.
-
Ideal for heavier or moisture-sensitive loads.
Some edge protectors also feature custom coatings for added water resistance or printed branding for enhanced product presentation.
Applications
-
Logistics and warehousing
-
E-commerce and retail packaging
-
Industrial manufacturing
-
Food and beverage transport
-
Electronics and appliance shipping