Soft Pack

Soft Pack

Overview

Soft Pack refers to a type of shipping box that combines cardboard with protective padding materials to provide lightweight yet cushioned packaging. In the framing and art world, soft packs are often used to ship smaller or less fragile items where full rigid protection may not be necessary, but some level of shock absorption and surface protection is still required.

Applications

• Artwork Shipping: Provides a protective yet economical option for transporting unframed prints, small framed pieces, or supplies.
• Retail Orders: Commonly used by frame shops and galleries when sending matboard samples, smaller supplies, or promotional items to customers.
• Protective Cushioning: Soft packs typically incorporate bubble wrap, foam inserts, or padded liners to reduce the risk of abrasions or corner damage during transit.

Best Practices

• Use soft packs only for items that are not highly fragile or valuable; for delicate artworks or glass, opt for Hard Pack or hybrid solutions.
• Reinforce edges and corners with additional padding for extra protection.
• Seal all seams securely with packing tape to prevent shifting or accidental openings in transit.
• Clearly label the package as "Do Not Bend" if shipping works on paper or prints.

Related Terms

• Hard Pack
• Hybrid Pack
• Water Gilded
• Mounting Board