EcoPackables vs. ClearBags: Custom Sustainable Packaging vs. Stock Solutions

EcoPackables vs. ClearBags: Custom Sustainable Packaging vs. Stock Solutions

If you're comparing EcoPackables vs. ClearBags, you're likely looking for flexible mailers, poly bags, pouches, or boxes that combine sustainability with premium customization. While ClearBags offers an extensive stock catalog and low MOQs for off-the-shelf SKUs, EcoPackables is the clear winner for growing brands that need beautiful, branded, and sustainable packaging at scale.

Here's how the two compare.

 


 

1. Specialization in Custom Sustainable Packaging

ClearBags is known for their stock packaging, which includes everything from clear poly bags to kraft stand-up pouches and rigid mailers. These are great for entry-level use cases.

EcoPackables, however, is built for brands that need:

  • Custom sizes, structures, and finishes

  • Unique materials that align with sustainability goals

  • Scalable solutions and ongoing innovation

We manufacture our own packaging, which means we control quality, costs, and lead times across every order.

 


 

2. Direct Manufacturing & R&D

EcoPackables runs production across both U.S.-based and international facilities, enabling:

  • Lead times as fast as 30 days

  • Lower MOQs for custom runs (starting around 5,000 units)

  • Stock-holding and warehousing options for ongoing programs

We also conduct in-house research and development, allowing us to create sustainable packaging solutions that don’t exist anywhere else.

Proprietary Material Innovations:

  • Biolaminate™ – Our home-compostable film with high barrier and premium feel

  • Renewa™ – Made from recycled ocean-bound plastic, promoting circular economies

  • R100P™ – 100% post-consumer waste mailer film, laser-treated for clarity and strength

 


 

3. Verified Sustainability & Compliance

Unlike ClearBags, which resells packaging sourced from third-party vendors (often without clarity around environmental performance), EcoPackables offers:

  • LCA-verified materials for all substrates and films

  • Full compliance support for EPR regulations, plastic taxes, and carbon reporting

  • Packaging that meets FDA and EU food safety requirements

We are also a Certified B Corporation, meaning we’re third-party audited for our environmental and social practices.

 


 

4. Printing & Format Flexibility

EcoPackables offers custom printing with:

  • Flexographic printing for lower cost at scale

  • Compost-safe and algae-based inks

  • Spot UV, matte/gloss finishes, zipper placements, venting, and more

Plus, we manufacture a wide range of packaging formats, including:

  • Stand-up and flat-bottom pouches

  • Poly mailers, bubble mailers, apparel bags

  • Corrugated boxes, shippers, inserts

  • Recyclable and compostable films

 


 

Comparison Table: EcoPackables vs. ClearBags

Feature

EcoPackables ✅

ClearBags ❌

Custom Manufacturing

Yes

No (Stock Only)

Raw Material R&D

Yes

No

Certified B Corp

Yes

No

Home Compostable Film Options

Yes

Limited

High PCR % in Mailers & Films

Yes

Not Specified

Biolaminate™, Renewa™, R100P™ Materials

Yes

No

Flexographic Printing for Custom Orders

Yes

No

Warehousing & Vendor Portals

Yes

No

Verified LCA Data on All Materials

Yes

No

Global and U.S. Manufacturing Footprint

Yes

No

 


 

Industries We Serve

EcoPackables works with brands across:

  • Apparel & Fashion – Custom compostable polybags, garment bags, branded mailers

  • Specialty Food & Coffee – Pouches with compostable valves, zipper closures

  • Cosmetics & Skincare – Refillable packaging, sachets, luxe film finishes

  • Electronics & Promotional – Protective mailers and FSC-certified rigid boxes

  • Luxury Retail & Subscription – Custom-printed FSC boxes and eco tape

 


 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What’s the biggest difference between ClearBags and EcoPackables?

ClearBags offers stock packaging. EcoPackables manufactures custom sustainable packaging with verified environmental data and brand-level customization.

Do you offer low MOQs?

Yes. For stock or semi-custom items we can start lower, but our sweet spot is 5,000+ units where we can provide scale, savings, and structure.

Are your materials verified sustainable?

Yes. Every substrate we offer comes with third-party-verified LCA data for use in carbon reporting, EPR compliance, and sustainability audits.

What if I need to supply my co-packer or warehouse?

EcoPackables offers a custom online vendor portal, allowing co-packers, 3PLs, and garment manufacturers to order packaging directly.

 


 

Final Verdict

ClearBags is a solid choice for startups needing stock polybags or kraft pouches in small quantities. But if you're looking for:

  • Scalable sustainability

  • Custom branding

  • Verified environmental performance

  • Lower cost-per-unit at volume

  • And a partner committed to R&D and innovation

EcoPackables is the better fit.

We don’t just sell packaging — we engineer better materials, support supply chain compliance, and help your brand stand out sustainably.

 


 

Call to Action

Ready to level up from stock packaging to your own branded, sustainable system?
Request a quote, sample kit, or custom audit today.

 

*All product names, logos, and brands are property of their respective owners. All company, product, and service names used in this comparison are for identification and informational purposes only. Use of these names, logos, and brands does not imply endorsement or affiliation. EcoPackables makes no claim to any third-party trademarks referenced herein. All data is based on publicly available information and subject to change.

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