Clamshell packaging secures various types of product(s) between two hinged sheets of thermoformed plastic. The plastic clamshell functions by enclosing the product on both sides and the plastic flanges (edges) can be heat sealed together.
Clamshells may be custom molded by a professional packaging company to follow the contours of an item, or serve as a clear plastic container for holding a number of small loose pieces together.
The Benefits of Using Clamshell Packaging
There are several benefits to choosing clamshell packaging to store and display your products:
- Tri-fold or footed clamshells offer maximum versatility in merchandising. These packages can hang from a hook, stand alone on a shelf, or sit upright within a display or club store pallet.
- A printed insert card sells the product with compelling graphics and product information while the clear plastic provides excellent visibility. When sealed on all edges clamshell packages are especially tamper and theft-resistant.
- Clamshells are recloseable and reusable if left unsealed.
- Clamshell packaging is especially effective for heavy products, or items like electronics that are a target for theft.
The Difference Between Stock & Custom Clamshell Packaging
Stock clamshells are pre-designed, standardized packaging solutions that are readily available for purchase. They come in various sizes and shapes, but since they are mass-produced, they may not perfectly fit your specific product. However, they are cost-effective, have shorter lead times, and are ideal for products that can fit within the standard dimensions.
Custom clamshells, on the other hand, are made specifically according to your product’s dimensions and requirements. These are designed to provide a perfect fit, enhancing product presentation and protection. While they offer more flexibility in design, customization, and branding, they generally come with higher costs and longer lead times due to the design and production process involved.
Below is a breakdown of Andex’s stock and custom clamshells:
Our Custom Clamshell Products
| Classic Stock Clamshells: Recloseable and reusable clear PVC containers. Come in many standard sizes to closely fit your product. Sealable for theft and tamper resistance. In-stock or produced to order, without the cost of tooling. Designed to hang from a peg. Footed stock clamshells, with proper weight distribution, may be displayed freestanding on a counter. Insert cards printed to match for a guaranteed fit. “Box” shaped protection to maximize product display. |
| Stock Platform Clamshells: Recloseable and reusable clear RPET containers. Comes in 20 standard sizes to closely fit your product. Sealable for theft and tamper resistance. In-stock or produced to order, without the cost of tooling. Designed to hang from a peg. Insert cards printed to match for a guaranteed fit. Matching insert card size offers greater graphic display. |
| Custom Clamshells: Custom-molded hinged packages that follow the unique contours of your product. Formed using a mold specially tooled for a one-of-a-kind fit. Can incorporate special solutions such as stability for heavy products, tri-fold or footed packages, club packs, or multiple contoured cavities. Designs may include recycled materials. Custom insert cards printed to match for a guaranteed fit. |
What Types of Products Can Be Packaged in Clamshells?
Clamshell packaging is used in a variety of markets and product categories, including:
- Club Stores and Major Retail Chains
- Home Improvement, Hardware, Tools
- Beauty and Cosmetics
- Household Goods
- Electronics
- Office and Craft Supplies
- Toys and Games
- Sports and Recreation Equipment
- Automotive
Combo-Pac: Custom Insert Cards for Less!
The Andex Combo-Pac program offers you the same high-quality insert cards you get with a custom order, but lowers the cost of production to make your packaging dollar go further.
How Does the Andex Combo-Pac Program Work?
- Customize your clamshell package with 4-color printing on the front, 14 pt or 20 pt card thicknesses, different corner shapes, simple contours, or internal cuts.
- Then select from one of our specified Combo-Pac quantities—small to large quantities are available.
- Schedule your order to be printed on one of our convenient Combo-Pac production dates. Your package components will be designed, manufactured, and shipped quickly to arrive right on time.
What’s the Advantage of our Clamshell Packaging?
Lower costs! You’ll eliminate printing plate, cutting die and set-up charges as well as the fees for full production tooling. Get a customized package to fit your product at a very affordable price. Andex is a convenient source for both thermoformed clamshells and printed insert cards, but does not seal products within the finished package. Ask your Andex account rep about the many options available for sealing clamshells.
Clamshells are sealed using a plastic to plastic heat sealing method to fuse the flanges (edges) of the package together. Andex can provide this simple JAWS hand held direct heat sealer for excellent tamper resistance and theft protection.
Which Clamshell Option is Right For You?
| Clamshell | Custom Clamshell & Card | DESIGN-PAC | STOCK PLATFORM | CLASSIC STOCK |
| Tooling Costs | $$ | $ | none | none |
| Material Thickness | 10-40 mil | 20 mil | 20 mil | 17.5 mil |
| Round, Square or Rectangular Cavity | X | X | ||
| Contoured (shaped to product) | X | X | ||
| Quantity | Based on Size | Based on Size | As little as one case | As little as one case |
| Multiple Cavities | X | X | ||
| Package Must Stand | X | Depending on weight distribution of product | ||
| Try-Me Features | X | |||
| Unique Package Shape | X | |||
| Material Options | PVCs, PETs, Colors | RPET | RPET | PVC |
| Cavity on Front and Back | X | X | ||
| Printed Insert Cards | Custom Insert Card | Combo-Pac Insert Card | ||
| 4-color front, Black Back | X | X | ||
| PMS (Pantone Matching System) & Special Match Custom Colors | X | Added Cost | ||
| Colored Back | X | |||
| Metallic Inks | X | Added Cost | ||
| Foil Stamping | X | X | ||
| Card Thickness | 12 to 26 pt | 14 or 20 pt | ||
| Square or Round Corners | X | X | ||
| Unique Die cuts & Shapes | X | Ask Sales Rep |
Contact Us for Clamshell Packaging Services!
Get a quote from our knowledgeable team today! No matter if you’re looking for a custom clamshell and card, DESIGN-PAC, or Classic Stock packaging solution, the Andex team can walk you through the benefits and process with you.
Contact us via phone at 800-338-9882, by email at sales@andex.net, or on our contact page here. We’re looking forward to working with you!