Frequently Asked Questions

At Southern Packaging, we know you may have questions about our FIBC bulk bag products, shipping options, and Un regulations. Below, you'll find answers to the most common inquiries. If you need more information or have a specific question, feel free to contact us directly!

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Shipping & Delivery

What shipping methods are available?

Less-Than-Truckload, Full-Truckload, Air Freight, Sea Container

Can I get a shipping estimate?

Freight and transit time estimates are available before shipping.

What are your shipping policies?

Prepay and Add or Customer Pickup options available. Dock hours: 7am to 4pm CST, no appointment required.

Which areas do you ship to?

We ship to all 50 states, Canada, and Mexico. Export customers arrange their own freight.

How are shipping charges calculated?

We compare quotes from major US carriers and pass on the best rate to our customers.

How long will my order take?

Stock orders can ship the same day. Custom orders have a lead time of 1 to 20 weeks, depending on the item.

Can I track my order?

Yes, we provide freight tracking details after dispatch.

Can Southern Packaging Ship Products Same Day?

Yes, for orders placed before 11am, in-stock items can ship same-day.

What is your return policy?

All sales are final unless the product is defective.

What are your typical lead times for stock vs. custom packaging?

Lead times depend on the product type. Stock items can ship same-day. Custom packaging lead times range from 2 weeks to 5 months. 

Is there a minimum order quantity, and do you offer volume discounts?

Minimum order quantity (MOQ) on all stock items is 1 complete pallet. The number of pieces per pallet can vary greatly based on product type. Yes we offer volume discounts. Factors including order volume and order frequency are taken into account when pricing. 

Can I split shipping across multiple delivery locations?

We can ship pallet quantities to any location in the country. 

What shipping methods do you use and do you offer rush or expedited shipping?

Our primary shipping method is over-the-road freight. LTL and FTL options are available. Customers are also welcome to arrange their own freight from our warehouse. 

How do freight and handling surcharges affect final pricing?

We can prepay freight and add to final invoice, ship collect, or you can send in your own carrier.

What payment methods and terms do you accept?

Credit card, ACH, check. Credit cards are subject to a 3% fee. No fee for ACH. Credit terms are available with credit approval. 

Are prices guaranteed, and what could cause them to change?

Prices are generally firm for 30 days. However, due to current international trade policy uncertainty, prices are subject to change at the time of importation and delivery. 

What is your return or refund policy if products are damaged or defective on arrival?

All sales are final. Please see our Terms & Conditions for more details. 

Bulk Bag Information

Are FIBC Bags Eco-Friendly?

Yes, FIBC bags are made from recyclable polypropylene plastic.

How many FIBC Bags does Southern Packaging have in stock?

Approximately 750,000

What industries utilize poly bags?

Food, chemicals, building products, feed, agriculture, plastics, metals, pharmaceuticals, and more.

What is coating or laminate on a bulk bag?

A polypropylene film laminated to woven polypropylene fabric.

How much product can a bulk bag hold?

Between 500 lbs and 5,000 lbs.

Are bulk bags recyclable?

Yes, they are made from recyclable polypropylene.

Can FIBCs be reused?

Yes, multi-trip FIBCs can be reused up to 20 times, but most are for single-use.

What are bulk bags best for?

Dry, flowable products.

How are bulk bags better than paper bags, fiber drums, or other common containers?

They are generally more economical per pound of packaged material.

What information is needed to size a bulk bag?

Bulk density, desired weight, volume, height restrictions, pallet size, and transport method.

How do you measure a bulk bag?

Length x Width x Height

How do I choose the best bag for my specifications?

What are FIBC Bulk Bags used for?

Moving large volumes of dry, flowable materials.

How much weight can FIBC Bulk Bags hold?

Up to 5,000 lbs, with most stock bags rated for 4,000 lbs.

Are FIBC Bulk Bags suitable for food-grade applications?

Yes, they are FDA-approved for food contact.

Can FIBC Bulk Bags be customized?

Yes, they can be fully customized.

Do you offer white-labeled packaging or branded labels?

Please contact us for details on this service.

What are some FIBCs types?

Food grade, Type A, Type B, Conductive (Type C), Anti-Static (Type D), Ventilated, UN Certified, Multi-Trip, Lined, and more.

Are FIBC bags waterproof?

With a poly liner, they can be waterproof. Coated bags are water-resistant.

UN Markings & Regulations

What are the UN markings for a flexible IBC?

UN markings indicate construction, packing group rating, year, country of manufacture, Safe Working Load, and Safety Factor.

Are flexible IBC containers durable?

Yes, they are durable when used properly. Damage may occur if misused or subjected to friction, cuts, or punctures.

Customization & Samples

Do you provide free samples or prototyping before placing a full order?

We do not guarantee free samples for all customers, however, we make every effort to accommodate sampling needs at a minimal cost. Custom samples are subject to fee and shipping costs. 

Do you review or help prepare custom artwork or packaging specifications?

Yes we can make specification recommendations for all product types. We are able to assist customers with preparing customer-supplied artwork on die lines. We do not create customer artwork from scratch though.

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