Void fill in India: kraft paper vs bubble vs nothing
The cheapest void fill in India is usually a smaller box — use kraft paper to brace light gaps, bubble wrap for abrasion-prone surfaces, and shredded paper for gift presentation; never buy a huge carton and “fill the rest” if a snug stock size exists.
Updated 11 Sept 2026 · PackWorks By Velun, Karnal
Hierarchy that saves money
1) Downsize the carton. 2) Orient the product so it cannot gather speed inside. 3) Add the lightest fill that stops movement. 4) Only then step up ply. Most claim photos show a half-empty box, not a missing bubble wrap brand.
Pick a fill with intent
Match the failure mode. Rattle and corner hits need bracing. Cosmetics scuffing need surface protection. Hampers need presentation.
| Fill | Best for | Watch-outs |
|---|---|---|
| Nothing (snug fit) | Apparel accessories, books, fitted electronics shells | Only if nothing can move |
| Kraft / tissue paper | Light bracing, eco look, low weight | Not enough for glass on long lanes |
| Bubble wrap | Bottles, frames, coated finishes | Adds volume — resize box after wrapping |
| Shredded paper | Gifts, colour mailers, hampers | Messy for high-speed pack benches |
| Corrugated pad / sheet | Heavy bases, layering, DIY dividers | Cut to size; see sheets guide |
Monsoon and weight
Paper fills soak if the carton floods — combine with a poly overbag on wet lanes. Bubble does not add stacking strength. Neither fill fixes a wet 3-ply under a pallet; that is a ply and handling problem.
Cost the fill
Weigh ten packed orders. If fill pushes you across a courier slab, try one stock size down with less air. PackWorks stocks shredded colours for gifting and corrugated sheets for pads — add them on the same GST invoice as the carton.