Shielding Bags vs Metallised Bubble Bags: Specify the Protection, Then the Evidence

Separate ESD risks from mechanical risks. Record whether the item is exposed, when it leaves the electrostatic protected area (EPA), where it is unpacked and whether it has sharp or compression-sensitive features. A broad “anti-static” label does not settle every requirement.

EOS/ESD Association guidance distinguishes charging behaviour, resistance and discharge shielding and discusses use inside and outside an EPA. Let the customer’s ESD control plan define the package requirements.

Check	Shielding-bag proposal	Metallised bubble-bag proposal
Main question	Does the finished bag meet the agreed ESD shielding requirement?	Does the laminate and bubble construction suit the application?
Mechanical protection	Film alone may need cushioning or puncture protection	Bubbles still need load and corner checks
Material name	Does not replace a shielding result	Metallisation alone does not prove ESD shielding
Acceptance	Method, edition, sample and closure state	Materials, dimensions, seams and required property tests

For shielding requirements, discuss a shielding bag or shielding-film bubble bag. For general cushioning, compare a bubble bag. A product name starts the discussion; it does not finalise the specification.

Ask the supplier to connect the report sample to the quoted construction: layers, thickness, bag form, closure, batch and conditioning. If a report covers a flat sheet and the delivery is a bag with seams and an opening, ask the test provider what the conclusion actually covers.

A resistance result does not replace shielding evidence; bubble thickness does not establish transport protection. This guide gives no universal pass value. Agree the edition, customer requirements and sample state before testing.

1. Supply item photos, maximum dimensions, weight, exposed surfaces and sharp features.
2. Identify storage, transfer, packing and unpacking steps inside and outside the EPA.
3. List resistance, shielding, cushioning, cleanliness and closure requirements separately; flag unknowns.
4. Agree the edition, test method, sample quantity and finished state covered by the report.
5. Retain the approved sample, artwork, batch and acceptance record; review material or closure changes.

Continue with the ESD packaging selection guide or send the information through the RFQ form. Confirm pricing, minimum order and delivery against the agreed proposal.