VCI Packaging Guide: Rust Protection Bags, Paper & Tubing
VCI (vapor corrosion inhibitor) packaging protects metal parts from rust and tarnish without grease or coatings: the film or paper releases molecules that form an invisible protective layer while the pack stays sealed. Packrift stocks 61 VCI products across bags, gusseted pallet liners, tubing, and paper — shipped from 5 US warehouses.
Pick the VCI format by what you’re protecting
| Format | Options | Best for | Price today |
|---|---|---|---|
| VCI poly bags | 21 | Individual parts, fasteners, machined components | from $62.06 |
| VCI gusseted bags | 5 | Pallet loads, machinery, large assemblies (up to 50x48x80″) | from $335.88 |
| VCI poly tubing | 2 | Coils, rods, and custom-length parts — cut and seal per part | from $72.34 |
| VCI paper rolls & sheets | 29 | Wrapping and interleaving parts, lining bins and crates | from $40.01 |
| VCI sheeting | 2 | Covering racks and layered loads | from $196.59 |
| Silver Saver® bags & paper | 2 | Silverware, jewelry, and plated finishes (tarnish protection) | from $65.51 |
Typical users are machine shops, automotive and equipment suppliers, and anyone storing or exporting metal parts — transit humidity is the classic rust trigger. Standard VCI poly runs 4 mil, so it takes warehouse handling like an ordinary heavy-duty bag. Browse the full VCI packaging collection, or pair with the poly thickness guide if you’re choosing between plain and VCI film.
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Frequently asked questions
What is VCI packaging?
VCI stands for vapor corrosion inhibitor. The film or paper slowly releases molecules that settle on metal surfaces as an invisible, dry protective layer, so parts come out clean and ready to use — no grease or coating to remove. Protection holds while the pack stays sealed.
Does VCI protect aluminum and other non-ferrous metals?
Formulations differ: ferrous (iron and steel) coverage is standard, and multimetal versions extend to aluminum, copper, and brass. Check the metals listed on each product page, and use Silver Saver bags or paper for silver and plated finishes.
How should parts be packed in VCI?
Clean and dry parts, get them into the bag, paper wrap, or tubing quickly, and seal it — VCI works in the enclosed air space. Reseal after inspections. For pallet-scale protection, gusseted VCI bags cover the whole load under one liner.