Vertical vs Horizontal Form Fill Seal Machine: VFFS vs HFFS

Vertical form fill seal (VFFS machines) and horizontal form fill seal (HFFS machines) are two different variations of a form fill seal machine that seal the bag or packaging film in different ways. So, what does a form fill seal machine do? To put it simply, a form fill and seal machine uses a flat roll to form a package, fill it with a product, and then seal it.

It's important to select the right FFS machine because your materials need to be compatible. Its compatibility affects the efficiency of the packaging process and the quality of the final product. Your packaging provider partner can help you select the appropriate packaging formats.

What is a Horizontal Form Fill Seal Machine?

A horizontal form fill seal machine is a packaging machine that forms, fills, and seals flexible pouches or bags horizontally. Horizontal machines require more room than vertical packaging machines. Although they can wrap everything from small objects to bulky items, HFFS are best for single (and solid) goods. The types of items you'll often see packaged in horizontal machines are single serving food items, like bakery products and protein bars, making horizontal seal machines a popular choice in the food industry.

Advantages of Horizontal Packaging Machines

The advantages of horizontal machines are many. Here are some of the key benefits:

• Minimal material waste, which can lead to cost savings
• Cost-effective option for packaging promo items and samples
• Packaging shape and construction can support brand visibility when combined with the right packaging design
• HFFS bags weigh less than other packaging types, which can reduce transport costs
• Available in a range of sizes; can be square and rectangular
• Can be combined with gas flushing to ensure that all oxygen is removed before being sealed
• A HFFS machine is better for heavier products

What is a Vertical Form Fill Seal Machine?

As you probably guessed, a VFFS machine is used in the packaging industry to form, fill, and seal flexible pouches vertically. VFFS machines are suitable for powder, granular, or liquid products that need to be packaged in a stable and leak-proof manner. Though this packaging machine can be used to package some solids, vertical baggers are usually used for liquids and other consistencies that are difficult for HFFS machines to handle. If you're packaging a liquid, VFFS machines are your best bet.

Advantages of Vertical Packaging Machines

Here are some of the key benefits of a vertical form fill seal machine:

• Though the cost can vary depending on machine size and production volume, in general VFFS machines are a more cost-effective packaging solution than HFFS machines
• Due to their compact design, vertical form fill seal machines require less floor space than a horizontal packaging machine, making them a great choice if you have limited space (which many businesses do)
• Ideal for sealed sachets and pouches and packaging items of varying consistencies