Quick answer: Order a shielding bag from its usable space and agreed closed configuration, not just an outside width and length. Include the component carrier, seams and closure allowance in the drawing, then confirm that supporting performance data applies to the selected bag and closure.
Measure the item in its shipping arrangement
Record the component or assembly with its tray, reel, protective fixture or other approved carrier. Identify the largest packed dimensions and any rigid edges that can contact the bag. A bare component measurement is not enough when the carrier occupies most of the package.
Explain how the item will enter the bag and how it will be removed. Request a marked drawing that separates outside bag dimensions, internal usable dimensions and closure allowance. Agree the units and tolerances so both sides can check the same features.
Describe the actual closure
State whether the request concerns an open-top format for an agreed sealing process, a zipper format or another proposed arrangement. Confirm availability for the order. Leave sufficient space to perform the closure without forcing the packed item into the sealing area.
Do not infer electrical protection from the appearance of a zipper or from the word resealable. Ask how the supplied performance evidence relates to the bag’s finished construction and evaluated closed condition. A different closure should be reviewed instead of assumed equivalent.
Connect the brief to the handling environment
The EOS/ESD Association’s packaging guidance distinguishes requirements inside an electrostatic protected area from the additional discharge-shielding requirement outside it. Ask the responsible ESD team to define the handling environment and necessary packaging properties.
Use that requirement in the quotation, drawing and sample review. Avoid substituting a bag described only as anti-static when the application calls for shielding. Neither metallic appearance nor a broad ESD label confirms the ordered construction’s performance.
Trial loading, closure and labeling
Use the actual carrier and a representative sample bag. Check insertion clearance, contact with corners, ability to close and legibility of warning or identification labels. Record whether the label location remains visible after the bag is packed.
These handling observations support fit approval; they do not replace electrical testing. Keep the fit record and the performance evidence as separate parts of the approved specification. If a process involves repeated opening, ask the responsible team to define an appropriate evaluation rather than assuming unlimited reuse.
Send a dimensioned request for quotation
- Packed item and carrier reference, dimensions and weight.
- Handling inside or outside the defined EPA.
- Bag construction and required electrical properties.
- Usable width and length, outside size, seam and closure allowances.
- Closure process, drawing, tolerances and label positions.
- Evidence requirements for the selected finished configuration.
- Quantity, delivery destination and sample approval steps.
Ask for a quotation tied to the drawing revision and sample reference. If the supplier suggests a standard size, verify its usable space and closure with the packed item before accepting it as a substitute.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I select a bag using the component dimensions alone?
Include the actual tray, reel, fixture or approved carrier. Confirm usable internal space and closure allowance with a representative packed sample.
Does a resealable closure guarantee shielding?
No. Request evidence for the selected bag construction and evaluated closed configuration.
Is a fit check an ESD performance test?
No. It confirms physical handling and dimensions. Electrical properties require their own applicable evidence and acceptance criteria.
Related Products and Guides
Read next: Anti-Static Bags vs Static Shielding Bags: How to Choose.
Read next: Moisture Barrier Bags vs Shielding Bags: What to Specify.
Read next: Dry-Packing Enquiry Checklist: Barrier Bags, Desiccant and Humidity Indicators.
Discuss Your Packaging Specification
Sources
Published by New Solution. This guide supports preparation of a purchasing brief. Product claims and suitability are confirmed against the selected order specification and supporting documents.