Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Flexible Packaging & Plastic Bag Manufacturing FAQs

Proficient Packaging manufactures custom flexible plastic packaging, including printed LDPE bags, zipper bags, BOPP reels, retail garment bags, food packaging, and specialised pouches. Our products are supplied to businesses across South Africa and Africa in industries such as food manufacturing, retail, medical, agriculture, cash security and industrial packaging.

Below are answers to common questions about our plastic packaging products, printing services, lead times, sustainability options, and ordering process.

If you need additional information, please contact our team.

Why choose Proficient Packaging as your packaging supplier?

Proficient Packaging provides custom flexible packaging solutions tailored to the needs of manufacturers, suppliers, retailers, and distributors. With modern production capabilities, high-quality printing, and strict quality standards, we supply reliable packaging solutions to businesses across South Africa and the African continent.

What industries use flexible plastic packaging?

Flexible plastic packaging is widely used across industries including food manufacturing, retail packaging, agriculture, personal care, pharmaceuticals, and industrial distribution. Custom printed packaging are used to promote branding, ensure product protection, and assist with efficient storage and safe transport.

Products & Materials

Proficient Packaging manufactures a wide range of flexible plastic packaging products for businesses across multiple industries. The following questions cover the types of materials, bag styles, and packaging options we produce, including custom specifications and sustainable materials.

What types of bags and films do you manufacture?

We manufacture a wide range of flexible plastic packaging solutions, including clear and printed LDPE bags, zipper bags, retail clothing bags, food-grade packaging, printed reels and specialised pouches. Our products are used across industries such as food manufacturing, retail packaging, pharmaceutical, agriculture, and industrial packaging.

Can you produce custom sizes, thicknesses, or prints?

Yes. We specialise in custom packaging solutions and can manufacture products according to your specifications, custom bag dimensions, micron/thickness, material type, specialized closure options, and printed branding.

Are your products food safe?

Yes. Our food-contact packaging complies with relevant local and international safety standards to ensure it is suitable and safe for use with food products.

Do you offer sustainable or recyclable packaging options?

Yes. We offer packaging products containing recycled content. These solutions can help businesses meet sustainability goals and environmental compliance requirements.

Do you offer both recycled and virgin material options?

Yes. Depending on the application and performance requirements, we can produce packaging using certified virgin polymer or recycled content.

Printing & Design

Printing plays an important role in packaging for branding, product information, and retail presentation. Below are answers to common questions about our printing capabilities, artwork requirements, and how we support customers with packaging design.

What printing options do you offer?

We offer flexographic printing in multiple colours, allowing for high-quality branding and product information to be printed directly onto bags and reels.

Do you offer artwork support or design services?

Yes. Our team can assist with reviewing, optimising, or creating artwork to ensure it prints correctly and achieves the desired visual impact.

What file format should artwork be supplied in?

For best printing results, artwork is typically supplied in vector formats such as AI or PDF. If needed, our team can assist with preparing artwork files.

Can we see samples before ordering?

Yes. We can provide similar product samples or full-size artwork proofs so you can review and approve the design before production begins.

What is the minimum order quantity for printed products?

Minimum order quantities vary depending on factors such as the type of product, film thickness, dimensions, and printing requirements. Our team can provide guidance based on your specific needs.

Orders & Delivery

Ordering custom packaging often involves questions about lead times, delivery locations, and how the process works. The following FAQs explain how to place an order and how we manage production and delivery for customers across South Africa and beyond.

How do we place an order?

Orders can be placed by contacting our team via email. We will provide a quotation, confirm specifications, and advise on production lead times before proceeding with the order.

Do you deliver nationwide?

Yes. We deliver throughout South Africa and into other parts of Africa. Depending on order size, we can arrange courier delivery or bulk transport solutions.

Can you manage recurring orders?

Yes. We can schedule production runs and delivery for recurring orders to ensure a consistent supply of packaging for your business.

What is the typical delivery time?

Production lead times depend on the product type, order size, and printing requirements. Standard orders are usually completed within approximately 4 weeks, although this may vary during peak periods such as November and December.

Do you supply customers outside South Africa?

Yes. In addition to nationwide delivery, we can also supply customers across Africa and arrange logistics where required.

Pricing & Payments

Because most packaging is manufactured to customer specifications, pricing can vary depending on several factors. These questions explain how quotes are calculated, what affects pricing, and the payment terms available.

How is pricing calculated?

Pricing is based on several factors, including product size, material type, thickness, printing requirements, and order quantity. Because most packaging is custom manufactured, quotations are prepared based on your exact specifications.

Do you offer discounts for bulk orders?

Yes. Volume-based pricing is available, and larger orders may benefit from reduced per-unit costs.

Are there additional charges for artwork or design services?

Basic artwork checks are provided at no cost. Full design services may incur additional charges, which will always be confirmed in advance. Printing plates are outsourced and quoted separately.

What are your payment terms?

Standard payment terms are 30 days from invoice date, subject to credit approval. For cash-on-delivery orders, a 50% deposit is required upfront, with the remaining balance payable before dispatch.

Quality & Compliance

Maintaining consistent quality and meeting industry regulations is essential in packaging manufacturing. The following questions explain our quality control processes and how we ensure compliance with relevant safety and environmental standards.

How do you ensure product quality?

We follow strict quality control procedures and operate in accordance with FSSC22000 standards. Each order undergoes inspection and sample checks to ensure consistency and product integrity.

Can you provide compliance certificates?

Yes. Certificates related to food contact safety, recyclability, and other regulatory requirements can be provided upon request.

How do you comply with EPR regulations?

Proficient Packaging is registered with POLYCO and complies with the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) regulations.

Technical Support

Packaging performance depends on factors such as storage conditions and selecting the correct material thickness. These FAQs provide helpful guidance on handling packaging products and choosing the right specifications for your application.

How should I store packaging bags or films?

Packaging products should be stored in a cool, dry environment away from direct sunlight and excessive heat. Proper storage helps maintain the strength and performance of the material.

How do I choose the right thickness (micron) for my packaging?

The correct thickness depends on the intended use, product weight, and required durability. Our team can recommend the most suitable micron thickness based on your application.

Need a quote for custom packaging?

If you require custom plastic bags, printed packaging, or flexible packaging solutions, our team can assist with specifications, pricing, and lead times.