What is honeycomb paper

What Honeycomb Paper Is

Honeycomb paper is a packaging material made from kraft paper that is die cut into a pattern and then stretched to form regular hexagonal cells. The resulting three-dimensional structure provides strength and cushioning while using minimal material. It is produced using a honeycomb paper making machine or a honeycomb paper forming machine, and can be cut from a roll to sheet using a honeycomb paper cushion making machine.

How It Is Produced

A reel of kraft paper is unwound and passed through a cutting mould that creates the honeycomb pattern. The web is then stretched to open the cuts into hexagonal cells. The process is continuous and can be automated with an automatic meter counter that stops the machine when the roll reaches the set length. The finished roll can be used directly or further processed into sheets or custom shapes.

Material and Construction

Honeycomb paper is made from kraft paper and water-based glue. It is typically coated with a PE film to provide humidity resistance, which helps maintain structural integrity under varying environmental conditions. The material is lightweight yet strong, with high resistance to vertical compression.

Why Packers Use It Instead of Bubble Film

Honeycomb paper is recyclable and can be disposed of in the same stream as cardboard, which is important where plastic film is restricted or rejected by end customers. It provides effective shock absorption and holds items securely in place, reducing the risk of movement, damage or scratching during transit.

Where It Is Used

Honeycomb paper is used in both inner and outer packaging for products ranging from small electronics like cell phones to large industrial components such as automotive parts and generators. It is also used as a cushioning liner, core sleeve, pallet shield, or in display racks and shoe boxes.

Choosing Between a Machine and a Dispenser

A packer handling a few hundred parcels per day may use finished rolls on a bench dispenser. A converter or high-volume packer is better served by making honeycomb paper in-house from kraft reels, as the cost of raw kraft paper is lower than purchasing finished rolls. This allows for on-demand production and lower material costs.