When faced with a wide array of knives and cutters, it can be challenging to determine the most suitable cutting tool for your task. Utility or Safety knives are incredibly versatile tools, especially in warehouse, packaging, or garage environments. From opening cartons, to trimming upholstery, these knives serve many different purposes. Explore the various types of utility knives and their applications to find the perfect fit for your needs.

Utility knives offer a variety of ergonomic designs. These knives can be utilized for a range of tasks, including:

• Opening cartons
• Cutting stretch film
• Cutting tape
• Cutting twine
• Cutting cords/straps
• Trimming
• And much more

Keypak provides a selection of utility knives with varying blade sizes and handle styles, such as:

• Standard: Easy-to-use design with a metal sleeve holding the razor blade, extendable and retractable with a simple sliding mechanism.
• Extended Depth: Features a ratcheting lock system for high-leverage cutting.
• Regular-Foam Grip: Ideal for cutting thick materials, equipped with a durable ABS handle.
• Heavy Duty: Designed for high-leverage cutting and long-term comfort grip.
• Retractable: Blade retracts via a spring-activated mechanism when lifted from the cutting surface, with a stainless-steel return spring maintaining blade tension.
• Safety: Equipped with a blade guard retraction button to prevent injuries.

When selecting the right blade for your knife, it’s important to consider the material you will be cutting, and the level of precision needed. Different blade sizes and types are designed for specific tasks, so choosing the correct one will ensure optimal performance and longevity of your knife.

In the world of blades, sharpness is key. A well-maintained blade not only enhances cutting efficiency but also improves safety. Regular sharpening and proper storage can extend the life of your blade and maintain its sharp edge. Remember to handle blades with care and always follow safety guidelines when using cutting tools.

Whether you’re a professional chef, DIY enthusiast, warehouse worker or hobbyist, having the right blade for your cutter is essential for achieving clean and precise cuts. Keypak’s range of high-quality blades offers durability and precision, making them a reliable choice for various cutting needs. Explore Keypak’s blades and elevate your cutting experience with the perfect match for your knife.

Should you have further questions on utility knives or blades, please contact our product specialists at sales@keypak.ca

Strapping is the method of securing items by bundling them together using a strap, a technique widely employed across various industries, especially in the shipping of large items. This practice ensures that the shipment remains intact during transportation. Strapping can be applied manually, or with the aid of tools like a strapping dispenser or a strapping machine. When selecting the appropriate strapping material, it’s crucial to consider the intended use and the weight of the shipment. The heavier the load, the stronger the strapping required. Keep reading to explore the different types of strapping and their advantages.

Polyester Strapping (PET)

Keypak offers green and black PET strapping, known for its superior elongation compared to steel strapping. This strapping material is resistant to water, rust, splitting, and scratching. Additionally, it is non-toxic, dust-repellent, and provides UV protection. PET strapping has lower accident risks when compared to steel strapping.

Paper Strapping

Paper strapping offers an eco-friendly alternative to poly strapping, being fully recyclable and compatible with various types of loads. Additionally, it can be used with traditional semi-automatic strapping machines, featuring a smooth finish, and utilizing buckles for securing pallets when required.

Polypropylene Hand Strapping

Polypropylene hand strapping can be applied manually or with battery-operated hand tensioning tools. This type of strapping is ideal for light-duty palletizing, unitizing, bundling, and carton-closing tasks. It is simple to use and apply, and its lightweight design enables safe and effortless handling.

Polypropylene Machine Strapping

Similar to polypropylene hand strapping, this machine strapping is an excellent option for light-duty palletizing, bundling, carton-closing, and unitizing tasks. It is user-friendly, safe, and convenient to handle. Applying machine strapping requires an automatic or an arch machine. Our machine strapping is compatible with most semi-automatic and standalone arch machines.

Cord Strapping

This alternative to steel strapping is an exceptional choice for its cost-effectiveness, safety, and durability. It is lightweight, making it easy to transport, and less than half the weight of steel strapping. Additionally, it is weather-resistant and non-corrosive, ensuring high durability. The woven material is gentle on shipment surfaces, preventing any damage or scratches. For light-duty tasks, cord strapping can be hand-tied, while for heavier applications, it can be used with buckles and tools.

Steel Strapping

This heavy-duty strapping is ideal for securing heavy shipments that need more protection than poly strapping offers. It is available in black with a waxed finish for enhanced tension. For even greater tension, Hi-tensile steel strapping is recommended, especially for very heavy loads and safety purposes. This type of strapping ensures that loads remain secure during abrupt stops, making it a great choice for railroad shipments.

Explore our diverse range of strapping options and tools by visiting the strapping category on our website. For any inquiries, reach out to our sales department at sales@keypak.ca.

Hop aboard as we take you on a wild ride through the Keypak Culture! We’re not just any company; we’re a big, happy team that treats everyone with the utmost respect and integrity. We know that a little positivity goes a long way, and that’s why we’re dedicated to not only providing top-notch service to our customers but also to taking care of our employees’ needs. We’re all about keeping our peeps motivated and feeling great, even when the going gets tough. Balancing a 9-5 job with KPIs can be a little rough, so we make sure to carve out plenty of time for fun and relaxation. At Keypak, we work hard, but we also know how to play even harder!

At Keypak, we love to celebrate all the little joys in life, especially with our amazing employees! We go all out with special appreciation lunches, exciting national food and spirit days, and fun-filled events. Our team has a serious sweet tooth, so we always make sure to mark our calendar with the most delicious national food days. Who can resist a freshly baked cupcake, a fluffy donut, or a creamy slice of cheesecake?! But don’t worry, we don’t let our love for treats compromise our health. Our kitchen is always stocked with nutritious snacks and fresh fruit to keep us fueled and feeling great. We even have a foosball and ping pong table set up for our crew to work on their hand-eye skills. Plus, it’s the perfect way to burn off all those tempting treats! Keypak is all about sweet (and healthy) fun!

At Keypak, we’re not just about business, throwing the best bashes and serving up mouth-watering eats. We’re also passionate about making the world a better place. That’s why we’re proud to be part of the #KeypakSupportSquad! We love shining a light on important issues, like Breast Cancer Awareness in October, and rolling up our sleeves to help out on National Food Bank Day. Keypak donated over 50lbs of non-perishable food items to the foodbank and crushed 55+ kilometers in honor of National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, this year! Our commitment to spreading kindness and contributing to noteworthy causes remains unwavering. Keypak supports organizations such as the National Food Bank, Mission Services, Rapid Relief Team and the Canadian Cancer Society.

Keypak has everything you need for a fulfilling work experience, whether you’re looking for a spacious office, a healthy work-life balance, or a vibrant company culture. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to work with us! Reach out to hr@keypak.ca to check out our current openings.

Firstly, introducing the all-new manual wrapper, The Marathon. The only non-electrical robot in the world, capable of pallet wrapping with LLDPE pre-stretch film. It’s the most ergonomic solution for the user. Not only is it safe and secure, but it also helps the user to achieve a better working environment. It works by the action of the operator!  The Marathon replaces manual wrapping-all at an affordable price.

Some main key features of the Marathon include:

• The film carriage is manually moved up and down to suit the required wrap
• Parking brake
• Easy reel(film) change and adjustable service height
• Mechanical brake manually adjustable

Next, Keypak introduces the all-new wrapping robot with patented ARYA Technology, the Neos model, which boasts a groundbreaking innovation in the world of semi-automatic stretch wrappers. The Neos model is the only robot that can be equipped with ARYA, a new patented technology that makes the wrapping process fully automatic, eliminating the need for operator intervention in hooking the film to the pallet. The Neos model’s fully automatic cycle is achieved without using compressed air or mechanical options susceptible to wear and tear.

This model features eye-catching lines that break away from the traditional design of wrapping robots. It inherits all the expertise of Atlanta Stretch and includes the possibility to choose between PRS and PS carriages.

The Neos model is equipped with a dual-motor PS pre-stretching carriage that guarantees the lowest film consumption and highest functional reliability in the wrapping machine market. Furthermore, it has an increased battery capacity of 120A, and a new operator interface with a 7-inch touch screen panel that can be programmed quickly and easily. LEDs indicate the machine’s current status.

With its PS carriage and ARYA system, Neos is a ground-breaking robot that the market has been eagerly waiting for!

Some main key features of the NEOS include:

• Manual machine movement: Steering arm for moving the robot manually inside the workplace
• Fork slots on both sides of the wrapper for easy transport
• Polycarbonate, impact proof, safety bumper
• Maintenance-free, sealed batteries – no transport restrictions and possibility to recharge the robot in working area
• Operational Panel: easy-to-use, multifunctional programmable control panel
• Automatic film cutting device at the end of the cycle
• Easy reel(film) change, adjustable service height

Keypak offers both of the following carriages:

PRS (Power Roller Stretch): Motorized pre-stretch system with 3 drive rollers electronically controlled with interchangeable ratios: 150-200-250%. This is a semi-automatic machine and requires the user to hook the film to the pallet at the beginning of the wrapping cycle.

PS (Power Stretch): Motorized pre-stretch system with 3 drive rollers and 2 motors adjustable between 120 to 350% from control panel. This is a fully automatic machine that applies the film automatically with the ARYA system.

• Optional features include:- Geo Magnetic Compass (GMC)-allowing the starting and stopping position to be the same when wrapping distinctive pallets and many more!

If you are interested in further information on these new Robo Wrappers, or in any of our new products, please email us at sales@keypak.ca and we will be more than happy to connect you with a sales representative in your area.

To obtain operational efficiency, it is mandatory for businesses to safeguard their workforce. Read on to discover safety must-haves for warehouse environments.

Anti-fatigue Mats

Anti-fatigue mats are recommended in a warehouse workspace to promote employee wellness, morale, and productivity. These mats are known to reduce spinal compression and increase circulation. Keypak’s tough and durable mats are designed to guarantee reduction of back, leg, foot, and ankle fatigue.

Available in various sizes. Shop Now!

Floor Marking Tape

To maintain safe distance from stored equipment and hazardous zones, marking tape is a necessary reminder for warehouse workers.  It is known as a safety-enhancing tool which is also versatile.  Our floor marking tape can adhere to rough and tough surfaces, and can also be removed promptly and effortlessly.  Floor marking tape is available in bright and identifiable colours.  To align and dispense the tape easily, you can also check out our floor marking tape dispenser!

High-Vis Safety Wear

Marking and identifying hazardous zones are important, but workplace safety extends beyond this procedure. It is required and, in most cases, a legal requirement to have your workforce clearly visible and guarded from injuries by representation of proper, high-visibility apparel while being present on the worksite.  Keypak carries a variety of safety gear which is suitable for your company’s workforce. Check out our safety vests, traffic harnesses, and face and eye protection! More PPE is available on our health and safety webpage.

Traffic Visibility Mirrors

With workers walking from place to place, and heavy machines and forklifts being present in the traffic lanes, the warehouse floor can be a very busy place.  While your workforce may have the proper training and be aware of the procedures of warehouse safety, it is beneficial to have proper safety equipment present as well. Traffic visibility mirrors are one of the top safety products that mitigate risk of on-site accidents.  These can assist workers to see around blind corners.  Keypak carries a 360° full dome mirror with an open top. This mirror does not only prevent accidents due to blind corners, but also, increases surveillance in the warehouse.

Contact us to get a quote, today!

If you have any questions on any warehouse safety essentials, contact us at sales@keypak.ca to connect with a sales representative in your area!

Choose Safety, Choose Keypak.

If you are considering using a mailer to deliver your goods safely, you have many options to choose from. Choices include standard flat, bubble, poly, eco-friendly mailers, and more. When choosing the best mailer for your application, take into consideration your protection needs, budget, and how the mailer will be sent.

Advantages of shipping mailers

• Mailers do not require any void fill
• Mailers use less material than corrugated boxes, making them a sustainable choice for senders
• Most mailers are self-sealing which saves time for senders to use extra materials such as tapes and adhesives
• Mailers can be stored flat so they don’t take up too much storage
• Shipping/postage costs are cheaper for a mailer than for corrugated cartons

Uses for mailers

• Small hardware and parts
• School/office supplies
• Books/catalogs
• Clothing/apparel
• Small gifts
• Documents
• Much more

Keypak offers the following types of Mailers

• Kraft bubble mailers- Ideal for e-commerce businesses. These are lightweight so you can save on postage. Usually, the most inexpensive option
• Poly bubble mailers- lightweight, water-resistant- great for clothing/apparel, shoes, electronics, soft goods
• Metallic thermal bubble mailers- ideal for short term thermal shipping protection for perishable food items, pharmaceuticals, and other temperature-sensitive shipments
• Stay flat mailers- made from cardstock, kraft paper or thick white paper. These are ideal for shipping paper documents, thin booklets, and folders. They are a cost-effective solution for avoiding damage to your documents.
• Curby Mailers (eco-friendly)- recyclable, easily disposed with all your other recyclable materials. Ideal if you are wanting to reduce environmental footprint.

Cost savings with mailers

• Mailers cut shipping costs directly – you can save as much as 50% on shipping/mailing costs
• Mailers are less material than boxes, making them a cost-effective alternative
• Mailers are known to increase packaging line production and efficiency
• Most mailers are self-sealing, making it easier to save on extra special tools or materials required

To maximize your cost savings, ensure to use the correct type and size of the mailer for your items.  As discussed, mailers are economical and do not take up too much storage, so you can easily keep multiple mailer options in stock. It is recommended to have your packing station contain a variety of sizes you may need.

Note, cheaper is not always better. Cheap mailers may be made of lower-grade materials which may tear, rip or puncture easily and cause damage to your goods. The most important thing to keep in mind is which mailer will provide the best protection for your item while in transit.

If you are still unsure which mailers would suit your packaging needs, reach out to us at sales@keypak.ca

When it comes to packaging and transporting fragile and delicate items from point A to point B, bubble rolls are considered an essential resource. Although many people assume that there are no certain methods needed when packaging your products, there are specific procedures which should be followed to ensure the protection of valuable goods during transit. These procedures include the correct use of bubble rolls  to ensure smooth transportation.

There are three essential requirements when packaging your products using bubble:

Requirement #1

All fragile and delicate items must be wrapped up in bubble before they are packaged and shipped.  You will need to place your item right on to the bubble roll sheet and cut it so there is enough to cover the item entirely. You can never have too much bubble packaging around your product. The most effective and easiest way to package using bubble, is by using a bubble roll dispenser or stand.  Bubble rolls have two different sides. One side is completely flat, while the other most known side has the tiny bubbles. The bubbles side is what cushions the product while the flat surface faces outward. You can hold the bubble packaging together with tape to ensure it stays in place while in transit.

Requirement #2

While in transit, you want to ensure the bubble wrapped item is secure to avoid breakage.  To avoid movement of the product, you will need to cushion the “white space” in the box. You can assess how much space you need to fill after you have placed the wrapped product in a box. Once you have an idea where the empty space is,  you can use bubble to fill it up, or alternatively, consider using air pillows.

Requirement #3

Bubble rolls have multiple uses apart from being just a packaging resource. If you have some bubble roll left over from your packaging task, you may want to consider it using it for the following:

• Insulation: Bubble is a natural insulator. The air inside the bubbles creates a barrier that keeps warm air trapped. You can insulate your windows!
• Gardening: Protect newly planted seeds and delicate plants on cold days
• Matting: Bubble can also be used as cushioned matting. If you are kneeling during gardening, or working on a task at work or home, cut a sheet of bubble roll and place it under your knees as a mat.
• Many other awesome uses!

If you want to learn more about bubble rolls and how you can improve your packaging operations, get in touch with our knowledgeable packaging experts at sales@keypak.ca

Stretch wrap and shrink wrap are the top two packaging solutions that most businesses rely on when it comes to keeping palletized goods secure while in transit, retail, and storage. Both terms, shrink wrap and stretch wrap, are used interchangeably causing it to be tough to differentiate as both stretch film and shrink film appear alike. Let’s discover the differences between the two, and which is best suited for your business.

Stretch Film/Wrap

This type of film is used to secure packaged goods on a skid. As you wrap this around a pallet, tension is applied, allowing the film itself to stretch/extend over 200%. The constructive force (tension) is what holds the shipment in place. This film is generally made from polyethylene.

Discover the different kinds of stretch film we offer.

1. Hand stretch film 

Hand stretch film is used to secure loads by a manual procedure. The film rolls are usually shorter and lighter in weight than any other stretch film. These hand rolls are usually between 1,000 and 2,000 feet long, with the most

common roll length being 1,500 feet. This film typically ranges between a 30-130-gauge thickness, most popular being the standard 80Ga. The 80-gauge film usually has a 75%-150% stretch rate depending on the manufacturer. Hand stretch film is popular among low-volume packaging operations.

2. Machine Stretch Film

This film is designed to be utilized with a stretch wrap machine. Machine stretch film is typically used in environments that have high-volume packaging operations. Next, we will learn about the different types of machine stretch film:

Pre-stretched film 

This film has been pre-stretched during the manufacturing process. Meaning, it has been stretched closely to its breaking point, approximately 90%, and then rolled onto cores. Because of this process, these films have thinner gauges than your usual stretch film. Pre-stretched film is known for good shrinkage, self-adhesion, thick texture, high transparency, and a high puncture resistance.  Some advantages of using this type of stretch film are that there is less waste disposal, less transportation energy consumption, and less exhaust emissions.

Cast stretch film  

This film is created through a cast extrusion process. This is when heated resins are fed through multiple cooled rollers which then solidify the stretch film. This process is cost-effective and is less expensive than the blown film process. This film is known as a general-purpose wrap and can be used various environments for a wide range of tasks.

Blown stretch film 

Like the cast film, this type of film uses its own process called the blown extrusion process. Heated resins are blown into a bubble which is then converted into a sheet. The sheet is then rolled and put on a core.  This film is a bit more expensive than the cast film, but is much stronger, has a greater puncture resistance, and has more stretch. Therefore, you can get more with less which means there is not a significant difference in cost savings either way.

Read on to discover about shrink film.

Shrink Film/Wrap

Shrink film is generally used to wrap the product itself rather than the cased goods on a pallet. This film is used on products like fresh produce, electronics, frozen food, and other goods. When heat is applied to this film, the plastic shrinks tightly around the product within to fit appropriately. The heat is applied with either an electric or gas heat gun or, a conveyer heat tunnel.

Continue to discover the types of shrink film.

1. Polyolefin Shrink Film

With 80% shrinking properties and better transparency, polyolefin shrink film remains odourless when heated or cooled. This film is best used to wrap food products like cauliflower, cabbage, meat, bakery items and frozen pizza. It can also be used for non-food products such as beverage bottles, candles, cosmetics and much more. Polyolefin film is also printable.

2. Polyethylene Shrink Film

Polyethylene offers less transparency and lower clarity than other films but carries thicker characteristics, making it more durable. This film tightens itself around a product using cool air during the last stage of the packaging process. Polyethylene film can reach a thickness of up to 1200 gauges. This type of film is generally used for applications like wrapping boats, multi-pack beverages, and other heavy items.

If you are still unsure of what film is best for wrapping your products, reach out to our sales team and we’ll have one of our wrapping gurus stop by!

sales@keypak.ca

The main priority when packaging products is to ensure they are protected. Void fill is a protective packaging material which is used to cushion or pad your product so that it does not shift in transit. This is also known as a “filler”, and is purposed to fill the empty spaces in your packaging boxes.

The 2022 Buying Green report found that consumers are 57% less likely to buy products in packaging they consider harmful to the environment, proving sustainable packaging is of high importance to many consumers. Read on and explore your options for eco-friendly void fill, so you can make the switch from foam or plastic, to sustainable alternatives!

Biodegradable Peanuts

One of the most well-known void fill option is packaging peanuts. Little peanut-shaped foam pellets are used as a filler, in bulk, to prevent movement in packages. However, as eco-friendly alternatives increase in popularity, there are now biodegradable peanuts available. These are not only cost-competitve, but also protect and cushion with the same quality as regular polystyrene peanuts. You are saving money, and the planet, all while protecting your product!

Bio-Film and Paper Pillows

AirWave® bio-film and PaperWave paper pillows are excellent alternatives for your void fill needs. Paper pillows are made from 80% recycled paper, making them biodegradable and fully waste paper compliant. These simply disolve with paper waste and/or biowaste. This product also carries the RESY symbol (DIN 6120) which allows for easy-sorting as paper waste in waste paper systems. In addition, bio-film pillows are made from potato starch and maize starch, making them composed of renewable raw resources which are fully compostable and 100% biodegradable. When discarded of, bio-film takes three months to break down; used bio-film can also be composted in your home!

Both paper, and bio-film pillows, require AirWave® machines. Please visit www.keypak.ca for more info

Green Line Paper

This void fill option is made from 100% recycled paper and is compatible with Fillpak and Trident fanfold converters. Green Line paper is a fantastic shock absorber, and protects fragile items from the adverse conditions which can arise in the shipping process. This voidfill paper is FSC®-certified, curbside recyclable, renewable, and biodegradable. Going Green Line is an economical and easy-to-use void fill solution, which scores cost-savings!

If you are unable to determine the best choice of void-fill material for your needs, contact us and we’ll send a packaging expert your way to assist you better!

sales@keypak.ca

Thermal Transfer Vs Direct Thermal Labels

Proper and effective labelling is a mandatory requirement in most supply chain processes.  There are many different types of labels used for different applications, and determining which type suits your needs best, can be challenging. Read on to learn about the difference between thermal transfer labels and direct thermal labels, so you can ensure you’re choosing the most suitable type for your application.

Thermal Transfer (TT) Labels

How do they work?

Thermal Transfer labels require heat to produce an image. A thermal ribbon is placed onto the label at the printhead,  which then acts as a buffer between the printhead section, and the material of the label.  The printhead area then heats up and begins transferring the ink that’s on the ribbon, onto the label.

What are they used for?

Printing using the thermal transfer method produces high-quality images and dark text for clarity. This process is best known for its quick speed, user-friendliness, and overall effectiveness.  TT labels are best for long-life applications. They are scratch resistant, rub resistant, and can last up to two years. TT labels are more durable than direct thermal labels, and can adapt to exposure from sunlight, heat, and chemicals, much better than other labels.

TT labels are your go-to if you are looking to print healthcare industry labels, such as laboratory labels, or inventory identification labels. TT labels are also used for industrial, chemical, and warehouse labelling.

Direct Thermal (DT) Labels

How do they work?

Direct Thermal labels are made from heat-sensitive paper that has ink embedded within the material. These do not require a ribbon, ink, or toner. DT labels produce desired text or image by a process where the synthetic base of the paper meets the hot temperature of the printhead, and then changes its colour before cooling down.

What are they used for?

DT labels are most suited for short to medium life applications. These work well in a low-heat and high-moisture environments, which means they’re great for packages in the frozen/chilled food sectors. DT labels are simple to use, cost effective, and have a high productivity rate as there are no ribbon changes. DT labels are suitable for most common requirements.

DT labels are great for shipping, warehouse, and dispatch labels. They are also a perfect solution for inserts, tags, cards, and retail price labelling.

Fun fact: To check if it’s a thermal transfer or direct thermal label, take the label and scratch it quickly and hardly with your fingernail. If a dark mark appears, it is a direct thermal label, and if no dark mark appears, that means it’s a thermal transfer label!

Keypak offers labels, ribbons, along with data servers and printers, for all your essential packaging label requirements.

Check out our options here!

Not sure what you’re looking for? Have one of our reps stop by to assist you better!

sales@keypak.ca

1.866.566.2457