Is Packaging Foam a Good Insulator?

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When it comes to shipping your goods, you want good packaging, too. After all, a package only retains its worth if it stays undamaged and in an ideal condition upon arrival. If you have products that are temperature-sensitive or electronic, protection takes on an extra level of challenge.

This brings us back to foam: is packaging foam a good insulator? And if so, which type of foam is best? 

Is Packaging Foam a Good Insulator?

Yes. Packaging foam is a good insulator. In fact, it’s arguably one of the best insulating materials. Some people like foam so much for its insulating properties that they use it to insulate their homes. 

However, there are certain types of packaging foam that have even better insulating properties than others. So, without further ado, here are the various foam types we offer at Foam Industries that act as great insulators:

  • Polyethylene (PE) Foam
  • Polyurethane (PU) Foam
  • Cross-Linked Polyethylene (XLPE) Foam
  • Expanded Polyethylene (EPE)
  • Expanded Polypropylene (EPP)
  • Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) (AKA Styrofoam)
  • Extruded Polystyrene Insulation (XPS)

What Foam Is the Best Insulator for Packaging?

If you’re looking for the best foam insulator, look no further than Foam Industries.

Our expanded polystyrene foam is often the number one choice for insulative packaging because it’s incredibly lightweight—which helps when shipping heavier items. On top of that, it’s highly insulated, and it protects whatever object is nestled within it.

Why is Polystyrene Packaging Foam a Good Insulator?

Polystyrene packaging foam is the best option for insulative solutions. It’s a powerful insulator for two main reasons:

  1. Polystyrene has high thermal resistance (it stubbornly refuses to heat or cool)
  2. Polystyrene foam has tons of air bubbles—air is a terrible thermal conductor

If you need to ship temperature-sensitive items like food deliveries and other products or need weather protection and waterproofing, polystyrene is a great choice. To get your hands on some to protect your shipments, contact us today.

Where to Buy Insulated Foam Packaging

Foam Industries sells made-to-order foam for any of your packaging needs. Whatever your product is, we create custom foam packaging to ensure it stays in place and doesn’t arrive at its destination damaged due to transport. If you’d like to start an order, contact us today. Otherwise, check out our other blogs to answer any lingering questions you may have.

Related Content: Is Packaging Foam Safe for Electronics?

However, packaging foam comes in many varieties, so it’s important to choose the right packaging foam for any electronic product or part.

Find Your Best Option with a Foam Packaging Expert

As a leader in the packaging industry, Foam Industries has set the bar with an unwavering commitment to quality, exceptional client service, and constant innovation. Through our extensive inventory of endlessly customizable products, we ensure you find exactly what you’re looking for. Do you want to find foam packaging for your business? Click below to contact us today to get started.

Contact a Packaging Expert 


Foam Industries is a custom protective packaging company specializing in foam – with additional wood and plastic fabrication services. Our custom foam fabrication services are ideal for any type of packaging, display, or support service needed – from design to finished product.

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