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As a plastic-based bulk packaging solution, bulk bags are reusable and recyclable. There are a number of benefits to businesses that reuse their bulk bags, however, it’s vital to be sure that they are still in good working condition. Loading one that is weathered, worn or too old can be highly dangerous to the handlers and logistics teams.

Before reusing a bulk bag, always perform a thorough inspection of the seams, woven fabric, lifting loops and closures. Any signs of damage, strain, loose threads and misshapen panels mean that the bag is unfit for use and must be recycled. Some bulk bag suppliers will accept returns so that they can recondition the bags and resell them at a reduced price.

Custom Bulk Bags is a manufacturer and supplier of high-quality packaging materials in South Africa. Our bulk bags conform to international standards for quality and safety. Each product has a minimum safety factor rating of 5:1 and passes multiple quality controls before being sold to customers.

A stack of flattened bulk bags on a pallet shelf

When to buy used bulk bags

For smaller businesses that might only need a few bulk bags to store a large quantity of material, then sourcing high-quality used bulk bags may be a great solution. Similarly, if your company only needs to move a bulk quantity of something once, such as rubble from your newly constructed office, then preowned bulk bags will work.

Used bulk bags are cheaper to buy, as long as they are still in usable condition. Even companies that use bulk bags regularly can benefit from reusing the bags that they’ve already purchased. A well-made bulk bag can be used four or five times before needing to be recycled.

Benefits of second-hand bulk bags

1. Cost savings – As with any reusable item, the cost savings benefits are probably the most important to a business. Using your bulk bags multiple times will have a positive impact on your bottom line. If you’ve ordered a large amount of bags, you wouldn’t want to use them just once. Consider looking for reconditioned bulk bags from a reputable supplier as these will be more affordable and reliable.

Reconditioned bags are closely inspected for loose threads, damaged fabric and worn loops – all of which will be replaced by the supplier before being resold. This means that the quality of the reused bags will be better than those you buy from another company. A good supplier will recycle any used bags that do not pass the inspection.

2. Environmentally friendly – Many businesses have environmental goals that they work towards. Metting these goals can unlock further benefits, such as additional funding, consideration for larger tenders and international certifications. Buying used bulk bags helps to keep plastic waste out of landfills and the environment.

Once the bags have passed their usable life cycle, you can always send them to a recycling facility to be processed. A good bulk bag supplier will buy some recycled plastic and re-extrude it into the thin tapes that make up the fabric of the bags. 

3. Efficiency – Bulk bags are highly durable and can withstand quite a lot of wear and tear. Ordering new bags is a brilliant way to get the exact attachments, extras and custom printing that you need, but sourcing used bags will save you time – especially if done through your supplier. The lead times may be reduced dramatically if your supplier has used bags in stock that meet your specifications. 

These three benefits of used bulk bags make them a worthy consideration for any business. Even if you buy a brand new batch of bags, be sure to reuse them if you can. Remember, always perform a detailed inspection before making use of them. Recycle those that are too damaged and keep your employees safe. For more information about our bulk bags, please contact us today.

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Custom Bulk Bags is a leading South African manufacturer of woven polypropylene bags for various industries, such as mining, chemicals and food. We are able to produce over 3.5-million bulk bags per year, keeping our customers in stock at all times. Our bags adhere to the highest levels of quality as a result of our stringent in-house testing and quality control programmes.

Custom Bulk Bags holds ISO 9001 certification and we currently have a number of UN-certified designs. We are a Level 2 B-BBEE manufacturer and supplier and fall under the ownership structure of Deneb Investments Limited. For more information on our products, contact sales@custombulkbags.co.za. Follow us on Facebook for our latest news and industry insights.