Roll Stock Film Packaging for Cannabis: A Simple Guide
Roll stock film is a great way to package cannabis products. It’s a long roll of flexible film that packaging machines use to make bags or pouches. This method is fast, affordable and keeps your products fresh. No matter if you’re packaging cannabis flowers, edibles, or concentrates, roll stock film provides exceptional flexibility and efficiency.
In this guide, we will explain everything about roll stock film packaging for cannabis. We will cover material selection and how to evaluate suppliers. This will help you choose the best roll stock film for cannabis.
Table of Contents
What is Roll Stock Film Packaging
Rollstock is flexible packaging material supplied in rolls. It’s used with form-fill-seal machines (HFFS/VFFS) to create airtight bags for food, liquids, medical supplies, and other products. Roll stock film packaging starts as rolls of film. Machines shape the film into bags, fil them, then seal and cut them for shipping.
Why Choose Roll Stock Film for Cannabis?
Roll stock film is perfect for cannabis packaging because it combines efficiency, protection, and customization. Here’s why it’s a top choice:
- Cost-Effective/ Save Money: Making large amounts with roll stock lowers costs for each unit. This is great for popular cannabis products.
- Superior Barrier Properties/ Keep Products Fresh: Protects against moisture, oxygen, and light, extending shelf life.
- Customizable: Available in various materials, sizes, and printing options to match your brand’s needs.
- Automation-Friendly/ Work Fast: Fits high-speed machines for quick packaging.
How to Pick the Right Roll Stock Film
Selecting the right roll stock film for your cannabis products has several key steps:
- Choose the Material
Cannabis needs strong, safe packaging. Common options include:
- Plastic Films (PET, PP, PE): Lightweight and moisture-resistant, good for moisture protection.
- Foil Laminates (e.g., PET/Aluminum Foil): Provides the best protection, blocking both light and air (oxygen).
- Eco-Friendly Films: Recyclable or biodegradable options for sustainable packaging.
- Calculate the Thickness
The film’s thickness impacts how long it lasts and how well it works with machines. Using the wrong thickness can cause sealing issues or machine jams. Most packaging machines handle films ranging from 0.0127 mm to 0.635 mm. For cannabis ( it can vary depending on the machine’s design):
- Thicker films (0.025 mm or more): Provide better protection for heavy or sharp products like pre-rolls.
- Thinner films (0.0127–0.02 mm): Good for lightweight edibles or concentrates.
- Choose the Right Width and Length
Measure your product and machine specifications to find the right roll dimensions. For example:
- Width: Add 1–2 inches to the product width for sealing margins.
- Length: Calculate based on the number of units per roll to minimize waste.
- Consider the Sealing Method
Ensure your film is compatible with your machine’s sealing method. Cannabis packaging often uses:
- Heat Sealing: Common for most films; ensures airtight seals.
- Ultrasonic Sealing: Better for thicker or multi-layer films.
Types of Roll Stock Film for Cannabis
Different cannabis products require different packaging styles. Here are the most common types:
- Pillow Bags: Simple, cost-effective, great for bulk cannabis flowers.
- Stand-Up Pouches: Great for store displays – works well for edibles and branded packaging products.
- Vacuum Bags: Keep flower fresh longer.
- Child-Resistant Pouches: Required safety regulations in many regions.
- Find a Reliable Supplier
A good supplier ensures high-quality film and timely delivery. Look for:
- Industry Experience: Choose suppliers who know cannabis packaging rules in cannabis industry.
- Quality Checks: Follows FDA or ISO standards.
- Custom Options: Able to tailor films to your needs.
- Conclusion
Roll stock film packaging is a smart choice for cannabis packaging. It’s affordable, protects your product, and you can customize your brand. By selecting the right material, thickness, and supplier, you can ensure your products stay fresh and compliant.
Ready to upgrade your cannabis packaging? Contact us today for a free consultation and samples!