--- title: How to Choose Foam Packaging (Custom Cut for Products) description: Learn more about the four basic types of packaging foam and see which one could be right for your needs. image: https://blog.m-line.com/hubfs/blog-foam-packaging.jpg --- [Upload a File](https://upload.m-line.com/) [Request a Quote](https://m-line.com/get-a-quote/) [Customer Login](https://b2b.m-line.com/) [1-800-659-8559](tel:1-800-659-8559) [Request a Quote](https://blog.m-line.com/get-a-quote/) [1-800-659-8559](tel:1-800-659-8559) [![m-line logo](https://m-line.com/wp-content/themes/mline/library/images/logo.png) ![m-line logo](https://m-line.com/wp-content/themes/mline/library/images/logo.png)](https://m-line.com) Menu - [PRODUCTS](https://m-line.com/custom-packaging-solutions/) - - [![box-icon](https://m-line.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/box-icon.png) ![box-icon](https://m-line.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/box-icon.png) Boxes and Inserts](https://m-line.com/custom-packaging-solutions/boxes-inserts/) - [Boxes & Inserts](https://m-line.com/custom-packaging-solutions/boxes-inserts/) Protect and ship your products with cardboard corrugated, chipboard, and SBS cartons, or plastic corrugated boxes and cartons. 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Learn more by watching our video or reading on.  ## 4 Types of Foam Packaging to Protect Products in Transit 1. Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) - This type of foam is fairly rigid, and is mainly used for blocking and bracing. It can also be molded. It’s the least expensive foam option, especially when molded in high quantities, although the molds themselves can be expensive. EPS is brittle and prone to cracking. 2. Polyethylene (PE) - PE is fabricated from foam planks, usually either 1, 2 or 3 inches in thickness. It’s a common choice for cushioning and vibration dampening. It’s also available in a variety of colors. The price is usually slightly higher than EPS. 3. Polyurethane (PU) - Polyurethane has a sponge-like feel, making it excellent for vibration dampening. It comes in a variety of colors as well as different densities. PU also has a slight sparkle, which varies depending on the grade. It’s commonly used as a case insert. 4. Crosslinked Polyethylene (XLPE) - Crosslinked polyethylene is the Cadillac of packaging foam. Its smooth feel and density make it perfect for protecting highly-polished surfaces or Class-A surface protection. It’s available in various colors and is great for waterjet cutting, as it doesn’t absorb water. It’s also the most expensive foam option.  Packaging foam is a great option to pair with a [custom box](https://blog.m-line.com/a-guide-to-choosing-sustainable-packaging-that-actually-works) for a perfect product fit.  ## Which Foam is Right For My Product? The right foam for your product will depend on a variety of factors. As you evaluate different options, you’ll need to consider the following: - **Is the final appearance of my product important?** Class-A surfaces and other products need to look their best when they arrive and might need a foam with superior protection. - **How heavy is my product?** A very heavy product might not be suited for foam like expanded polystyrene, which could crack easily.  - **How large is my product?** Similarly, consider whether your product ships by itself in a large box or with multiples.  - **What is my budget?** XLPE foam is top-notch, but it’s expensive. Do you really need it, or would a cheaper option work?  - **Should the foam be reusable?** Durable types of foam can be used over and over again. Other types are best for a single use.  - **How will my product ship?** Is it being transported via truck, parcel service, air, boat or drone?  - **How shock-resistant is my product?** Is it sensitive to vibration and movement? How fragile is it? - **What should the unboxing experience be like?** What do you want your customer (or the end-user) to see when they open the box?  - **How important is sustainability?** Are you considering a disposable product, or one that is recyclable or reusable?  Use these questions to help you get started, and contact [a packaging expert](https://m-line.com/about-us/) to ensure you get the best packaging for your needs. ## Get the Foam Comparison & Pricing Chart Download our [free foam comparison guide](https://resources.m-line.com/guide-to-packaging-foam) to see a handy chart comparing each type of foam side-by-side. You’ll also get sample prices per piece to help you start an estimate today! [Download the Guide](https://resources.m-line.com/guide-to-packaging-foam) [Foam Packaging](https://blog.m-line.com/tag/foam-packaging) ## Read On ### [Foam Packaging Fabrication for Products (Custom Cut) Foam can be a great cost-effective protective solution for your product. And there are a variety of...](https://blog.m-line.com/five-common-ways-foam-packaging-is-made-which-is-right-for-you) ### [Custom Box for Packaging Products Sometimes, the best packaging solution requires a custom-designed box. Unusual product dimensions,...](https://blog.m-line.com/custom-box) ### [Protect Products with Custom-Cut Foam Inserts for Packaging When it comes to shipping, storing, or showcasing your product, protection is critical. At M-Line,...](https://blog.m-line.com/custom-cut-foam-inserts-packaging) ## WHAT KIND OF PACKAGING DO YOU NEED? TAKE THE QUIZ TO GET A CUSTOMIZED RECOMMENDATION. ## [TAKE QUIZ](https://b2b.m-line.com/responsive/packagingapp3.asp) ![M-Line](https://blog.m-line.com/hs-fs/hubfs/raw_assets/public/MLine_June2020/images/mline-logo-white.png?width=200&name=mline-logo-white.png "M-Line") M-Line, Inc. 2906 Nationwide Pkwy Brunswick, OH 44212 [1-800-659-8559](tel:18006598559) - [Custom Packaging Solutions](https://m-line.com/custom-packaging-solutions/) - [Boxes and Inserts](https://m-line.com/custom-packaging-solutions/boxes-inserts/) - [Wood Crates and Pallets](https://m-line.com/custom-packaging-solutions/wood-crates-and-pallets/) - [Plastic Cases and Reusables](https://m-line.com/custom-packaging-solutions/plastic-cases-reusables/) - [Foam Packaging and Inserts](https://m-line.com/custom-packaging-solutions/foam-packaging-and-inserts/) - [Plastic Bags and Film](https://m-line.com/custom-packaging-solutions/plastic-bags-and-film/) - [Custom-Printed Packaging](https://m-line.com/custom-packaging-solutions/custom-printed-packaging/) - [Packaging Supplies](https://m-line.com/custom-packaging-solutions/packaging-supplies/) Search the Website [![Packaging Distributors of America](https://blog.m-line.com/hs-fs/hubfs/raw_assets/public/MLine_June2020/images/pda-logo-white.png?width=200&name=pda-logo-white.png "Packaging Distributors of America")](https://www.pdachain.com/) Copyright © 2025 M-Line Inc. | [Privacy Policy](https://m-line.com/privacy-policy/) [![linkedin icon](https://blog.m-line.com/hs-fs/hubfs/raw_assets/public/MLine_June2020/images/linkedin-icon.png?width=200&name=linkedin-icon.png "linkedin icon")](https://www.linkedin.com/company/m-line-inc-)