How to Spec Dunnage Air Bags for Container Void Fill

Quick answer

Specify dunnage air bags from the void map outward: void dimensions, bag size and ply, target fill pressure, contact surfaces, and whether bags work with straps, slip sheets, or edge board. A bag that “looks full” can still leave a load free to shift.

Map the voids first

Photograph or draw longitudinal and lateral voids, door-end gaps, and tier heights. State whether the load is palletized or floor-loaded and where bags must not press crushable cartons.

Choose bag size and construction

Match bag length/width to the void, and note ply or strength class for the intended pressure. Oversized bags that fold unevenly create point loads; undersized bags leave gaps that reopen in transit.

Set fill pressure and method

Define target pressure or firmness check, inflation tool, and who fills bags—plant, warehouse, or forwarder. Require a hold check after a short dwell so slow leaks are caught before sealing the container.

Protect contact faces

Identify carton print, soft packaging, or product faces that need boards, sleeves, or repositioned bags. Dunnage is a restraint aid, not a substitute for correct pallet pattern.

Validate the full system

Approve a packed container or mock lane with straps, wrap, edge protection, and bag placement photos. Freeze the pack-out sheet before mass shipments.

RFQ

Void map; bag sizes; ply/strength class

Fill pressure method; dwell/leak check

Contact-face protection; pallet or floor-load pattern

Sample bags; pack-out photos; monthly volume

Related PackTrades Knowledge

Dunnage Air Bags Buying Guide, Combining Edge Boards, Slip Sheets, and Dunnage Air Bags, What Fill Pressure Do Dunnage Air Bags Need?, How to Verify Dunnage Air Bag Suppliers in China.