Making the Leap to Automated Packaging: 5 Factors for Choosing a VFFS or Premade Pouch Machine for Your Coffee Roastery 

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Kristi Anderson-Runge

In the dynamic world of coffee roasting, where precision, flavor, and presentation matter, every decision can have a profound impact on the success of a roastery. As the demand for quality coffee surges, the choice of commercial coffee packaging equipment becomes crucial. And as a result, coffee roasters are increasingly considering the switch to automatic coffee packaging machines to streamline their operations, increase shelf life, and promote consistency in their branded packaging. 

We&#;ve written about factors to consider when selecting a manual or automatic packaging machine, so if you decide to take that leap, your next decision will involve exactly what kind of coffee packaging automation is best for you. There are a number of automated packaging options to choose from, but this article focuses on the two most popular options:

the Vertical Form Fill Seal (VFFS) machine and the Premade Pouch machine.

Let&#;s consider five factors to aid in your decision-making: 

1. Speed and efficiency

2. Product line variety

3. Sanitary considerations

4. Aesthetic appeal

5. Sustainable packaging

Speed and Efficiency

When considering the speed and efficiency of Premade Pouch machines and VFFS machines, it's important to match your roastery's production volume, capacity for skilled labor, and budget with the capabilities of each machine type. 

While Premade Pouch machines offer flexibility and cost-effectiveness for smaller operations, VFFS machines excel in high-speed, large-volume production environments.

Premade Pouch machines are relatively quick to set up and switch between different bag sizes, making them ideal for small to medium production runs with frequent product changes. These machines can handle various bag styles, including stand-up pouches, flat pouches, and more, providing flexibility in packaging options to cater to consumer preferences.

However, Premade Pouch machines may have limitations in terms of speed, especially for high-volume production. They can also be more labor-intensive, as operators need to load bags onto the machine and perform quality checks, potentially increasing labor costs.

VFFS machines are known for their high-speed capabilities, making them ideal for large-scale roasteries with significant production volumes that demand rapid packaging. They&#;re also masters of efficiency when it comes to continuous and large production runs, minimizing downtime between batches and maximizing output.

On the other hand, VFFS machines require a more complex initial setup, including film roll loading, forming tubes, and aligning sealing jaws, which might demand skilled operators. You also have to consider changeover challenges: Switching between different bag sizes and styles can be time-consuming and complex, potentially causing production interruptions during frequent product changes.

Variety in Product Line

The variety in your coffee product line plays a significant role in determining whether to opt for a Premade Pouch machine or a VFFS machine for packaging. Here's how this might impact your decision:

Premade Pouch Machines

1. Flexibility in Bag Styles:

   As we&#;ve already noted, Premade Pouch machines are versatile and can accommodate different bag types and sizes.

2. Quick Changeovers:

   These machines allow for relatively quick and easy changeovers between different bag sizes and styles. This is beneficial if your product line frequently introduces new variations or limited-time offerings.

3. Small to Medium Batches:

   If your product line features a range of small to medium-sized batches, Premade Pouch machines can efficiently handle the diversity in packaging requirements without excessive downtime.

VFFS Machines

1. High-Speed Performance:

   VFFS machines are designed for high-speed packaging, making them suitable for coffee product lines with large-volume items that require quick and efficient packaging.

2. Consistent Quality:

   Automated sealing and cutting in VFFS machines ensure uniform packaging quality, which is crucial if your product line needs a standardized presentation across various packaging sizes.

3. Efficiency in Large Runs:

   If your coffee product line consists primarily of popular, high-demand items, a VFFS machine can handle continuous large production runs with minimal interruptions. 

Sanitary Considerations

Both Premade Pouch machines and VFFS machines offer sanitary benefits, but there are differences to consider.

Premade Pouch machines often feature stainless steel construction, which is easy to clean and sanitize, reducing the risk of contamination and rust. The flat, horizontal orientation of Premade Pouch infeed can aid in preventing dust or debris accumulation, ensuring a clean filling process. Additionally, Premade Pouch machines may have fewer exposed moving parts, minimizing potential contact points for contaminants.

VFFS machines also frequently come with stainless steel construction, and their vertical design can contribute to maintaining a cleaner environment by allowing gravity to assist with preventing debris buildup. However, the vertical movement and complex mechanisms involved in the VFFS process may require more meticulous cleaning to prevent residue accumulation.

Aesthetic Appeal

 

Both Premade Pouch machines and VFFS machines contribute to the aesthetic appeal of your packaging, but they do so in different ways.

Premade Pouches can have a sleek, modern, or even artisanal look that resonates well with contemporary consumers. They also allow for ample space to display vibrant labels and branding, creating eye-catching packaging that stands out on the shelves and aligns with your branding.

VFFS machines, on the other hand, typically produce vertically oriented bags. While they may not offer as much surface area for label display as Premade Pouches, their compact design can create a minimalist and sleek appearance. While this can be appealing to certain demographics, others might associate it with a lack of visual excitement or vibrancy that they expect from more elaborate packaging formats. 

An expert weighs in:

"Choosing an automated packaging machine isn't just about convenience; it's about crafting an aesthetic experience. We&#;re finding that there is increasing demand for the premium quality of premade pouches, as it resonates with customers who appreciate authentic and artisanal designs evocative of their coffee-drinking experience,&#; said Jacob Resnick of Viking Masek. &#;That said, if you demand high-production throughput and only have one or two product lines, VFFS machines can produce sleek, minimalist bag designs that will impress your customers &#; and for less per bag (or impression) than premade pouches." 

Sustainable Packaging

Both Premade Pouch machines and VFFS machines offer unique advantages when it comes to sustainable, eco-responsible packaging. 

Premade Pouch Machines:

• Use pre-formed pouches, often designed to minimize material waste.

• Use pouches often made from recyclable materials, such as paper, kraft paper, or biodegradable plastics, reducing their impact on the environment.

• The process of using premade pouches in these machines can be energy-efficient, as it requires less heat and energy compared to forming and sealing pouches on-site.

• Printing directly on premade pouches can reduce the need for additional labels or coatings, minimizing the use of inks and chemicals.

  If you want to learn more, please visit our website VFFS Vertical bagging machine.

VFFS Machines:

• Can create pouches with custom sizes, reducing excess material usage and ensuring a snug fit for the product. This customization minimizes waste.

• Can use recyclable plastics or compostable films, aligning with eco-friendly practices. (Film manufacturers are working hard to constantly improve eco-friendly film options that don&#;t impede packaging quality.)

• Enable on-demand packaging, reducing the need to transport premade pouches, which can decrease carbon emissions associated with transportation.

• Often include printing capabilities, allowing roasteries to print labels and graphics directly on the packaging. This minimizes the need for additional labels and their associated waste.

SUSTAINABILITY SIDE-NOTE: Regardless of the machine type you select, roasteries can contribute to sustainability by selecting recyclable, biodegradable, or compostable materials for their packaging. Additionally, by optimizing the sizing of pouches and minimizing excess material, coffee roasteries can reduce their environmental footprint and promote responsible packaging practices.

So, How Do You Choose A Premade Pouch or VFFS Packaging Machine?

We've given you a lot to consider and only focused on five key factors. This &#;at a glance&#; scorecard should help you quickly size up the qualities of each option &#; offering a quicker reveal of the choice that might be the best fit for you.

Just check off the considerations that mean the most for your coffee roastery and then tally them up at the end to get a sense of which option might be more viable for your roastery operations.

Coffee Equipment Pros Can Help

The decision to switch to automated packaging is a significant step for any coffee roastery. Both VFFS and Premade Pouch machines offer unique advantages, with VFFS machines excelling in practicality, speed, and cost-effectiveness (over time) and Premade Pouch machines showcasing more aesthetic packaging options and suitable for smaller production runs.

Coffee Equipment Pros can help you carefully assess your roastery's needs, budget, and long-term goals so that you can choose the packaging solution that aligns with your brand's vision and aspirations &#; ensuring that your coffee products stand out on shelves and delight consumers worldwide.

And it might just be that this isn&#;t an either-or decision. Some roasteries find a need for a Premade Pouch machine for their smaller, more specialized product lines and a VFFS machine to handle higher output for one or two higher-demand product lines.

Our partnership with Viking Masek means we can connect you with multiple packaging options like their 4SC-235 Rotary Premade Pouch Machine, 8S-235 Rotary Premade Pouch Machine, M250 Vertical Form Fill Seal (VFFS) Machine, and ST800 Multilane Stickpack Machine.

Plus, Viking Masek has just introduced the VFFS Velocity, billed as the fastest VFFS machine in the world, with its 300 bag-per-minute capability.

And at the time of this writing, we also have a Used Elite 8S-235 Single Lane Premade Pouch Machine available to ship to you immediately. 

For more information and details, call us @ 855.585. or call/text Rick direct @ 949.289..

Remember, we&#;re here to find the right commercial coffee equipment for you &#; quickly and affordably. 
Because Roasters Need To Roast&#;.

Related Products:

POUCH FILL & SEAL PACKAGING MACHINE - VIKING MASEK 8S-235 - - USED
VIKING MASEK 4SC-235 ROTARY PREMADE POUCH PACKAGING MACHINE (25 CPM)
VIKING MASEK 8S-235 ROTARY PREMADE POUCH PACKAGING MACHINE (60 CPM)
VIKING MASEK M250 VFFS VERTICAL FORM FILL SEAL (100 BPM)
VIKING MASEK ST800 MULTILANE STICKPACK MACHINE (80 CPM)
VIKING MASEK VFFS VELOCITY CONTINUOUS BAG MAKING MACHINE (300BPM)

When you plan to buy a bag fill machine, think about a few key things. Look for ones that swap parts fast with no extra tools. This saves time and cuts downtime when changing pack sizes.

Pick machines needing less fixed work, thus running smoothly over time. The whole packing step should be easy and straight up, making it simple for anyone using it. Modern machines do the packing job on their own and keep your goods in check with smart checks and feeds.

A good machine makes work quick but also easy to handle.

Machine Speed and Capacity

When you're looking to buy a vertical form fill seal (VFFS) machine, think about speed and capacity. You want one that works fast but also suits your product size needs well. Go for machines designed for easy changes between sizes without needing tools or much downtime.

This saves valuable production time. Look at how often it needs fixing or adjusting too. Less maintenance means smoother running of your packaging line, which is a big plus for any growing business.

Also, consider if the machine can easily adapt to pack your best-selling item efficiently since focusing on what you produce most offers better returns and less waste. Finally, understanding the cost, not just buying it but also using it over time, against its performance and simplicity in operation will guide you toward an ideal choice that matches both quality outcomes and ease of use.

Ease of Operation

When you pick a machine, think about how easy it is to use. Some have simple control sets that might not do as much or be as quick. Look at the screen, too. They come in plain or color and various sizes.

To keep film tight without stretching, consider whether there's a smart system controlling film release based on tension. This means less trouble with belts slipping off. Check out options for opening sealed bags easily or letting air out of filled ones without letting more air in. These details matter for quality and shelf life.

Lastly, remember that some machines are made especially for cleaning needs depending on where you plan to use them or if your product goes into another bag inside the main one. Choose wisely to keep things running smoothly.

Sealing Efficiency and Quality

When you buy a bagging machine, think about sealing. It's key to keeping your product safe and looking good. Premade Pouch machines switch fast between sizes, which is great for small runs with frequent changes. They fit many styles but can be slow and need more hands to help.

VFFS machines work fast, which is perfect for big jobs that need quick packing without stopping much. But setting them up takes time and skill.

Your product range matters, too, when choosing the right machine option. Both types keep things clean but differ slightly in style and how they present bags on shelves. Remember that quality pouches make customers happy with eco-friendly options; less waste means better earth care. Choose wisely based on the speed needed, job size, variety of products offered by the company, and green packaging practices.

Bag Size Flexibility

When you pick a bagging machine, think about the kind of bags you'll use. A machine for premade pouches suits when there's no need to form bags from scratch. It loads bags ready-made and seals them once filled.

For more variety in bag size straight from a roll, look at vertical or horizontal options that cut and seal film into your desired shape. Consider product type and volume, too. It affects which machine matches best, and weighing both cost implications and space needs helps you decide effectively. Those forming bags offer savings despite initial tweaks leading to some waste. Research well on what each model can do, especially around minimums/maximums in sizes they handle plus operational speeds relevant to your demands - a key step toward making an informed purchase without regrets later.

Durability and Maintenance Needs

When you choose a vertical form fill and seal bagging machine, think about how long it will last and what upkeep it needs. A good machine handles many materials, but remember, more speed might mean more repairs. Look for one that's simple to fix with parts easy to find.

This keeps your line moving without big pauses. Also, check if the maker offers training; skilled workers keep things running well with less downtime. In short, balance fast packing speeds with ease of maintenance to ensure smooth operations without cutting into profits too much.

Integration with Existing Systems

When choosing a vertical form fill and seal bagging machine, consider how it fits with your current setup. You want a system that easily connects to what you have. This means looking for machines that can talk to other equipment you use without big changes or extra costs.

Some machines come ready to link up with various types of software and hardware, making them more adaptable. Check if the new machine will need special tools or programs to integrate fully into your process line. Remember, seamless integration can save time and money in the long run by reducing downtime during setup and operation phases.

Cost-Effectiveness Analysis

When looking into buying a Vertical Form Fill and Seal (VFFS) bagging machine, you must weigh its cost against the benefits. Cost-effectiveness analysis lets you see if this machine fits your budget while meeting production needs. This means checking how much money it saves over time versus initial spending.

Think about material usage efficiency; does it waste less than others? Also, energy consumption should be considered compared to savings in labor costs or increased output rate. In short, calculate long-term gains, like reduced waste and lower utility bills, against purchase price and maintenance expenses to decide if it&#;s worth investing in for your business operations.

When you're in the market for a Vertical Form Fill and Seal bagging machine, think about its speed, size options, and how it handles materials. Choose one that fits your products well. Also, ease of use matters a lot; it should be user-friendly.

Durability ensures the machine lasts long without big fixes, which are often needed. Lastly, support from the seller is key for any help you might need later on. Picking with these points in mind will guide you in finding a great fit for your needs at Technopack.

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