Commercial egg operations must be precise with their packaging systems in order to keep the product safe, reduce costs, and comply with regulations. Having an understanding of the various egg packing types is especially important for wholesale buyers, distributors and producers that run large-scale operations.
Egg Packaging Types To Know for Commercial Operations
Commercial egg operations primarily use four basic packing methods to meet different operational requirements:
- Loose eggs: Eggs in flats but not packaged individually
- Cartoned eggs: Retail-type eggs organized into their own individual cartons
- Open Skid: Eggs stored loose and bulked into pallets
- In Cases: Boxed eggs used for wholesale shipping and distribution
Case Packing (Half vs Full) for Wholesale Distribution
Boxed egg systems offer the highest level of protection when transporting eggs long-distance or storing longer-term.
Loose Eggs in Flats
Loose egg packaging represents the most storage-optimized method of egg packing for large volumes. There are two flat structures which are primarily used in the commercial markets:
4×5 FLATS
- Best Use: If storage density is most important to the operation.
- Capacity: 20 eggs per flat (1.66 dozen)
| In Half Case: | In Full Case and Open Skid: |
| 5 flats / stack = 100 eggs ÷ 12 = 8.33 dozen | 10 flats per case = 200 eggs ÷ 12 = 16.66 dozen |
5×6 FLATS
- Capacity: 30 eggs per flat (2.5 dozen)
- Best Use: Better for high-volume operations (Reduced handling frequency)
| In Half Case: | In Full Case and Open Skid: |
| 6 flats per case 30 x 6 = 180 eggs ÷ 12 = 15 dozen | 12 flats per case 30 x 12= 360 eggs ÷ 12 = 30 dozen |
Cartons & Sleeves Egg Packing
Carton-based egg packing types increase protection and are ready for the consumer while providing portion control and inventory tracking.
Half Case Carton Options
| Carton Size | Cartons per Half Case | Dozen per Carton | Total Dozen per Half Case |
| 12 ct. | 15 | 1 dz | 15 |
| 12 ct. (J) | 12 | 1 dz | 12 |
| 18 ct. | 10 | 1.5 dz | 15 |
Full Case Carton Options
| Carton Size | Cartons per Half Case | Dozen per Carton | Total Dozen per Half Case |
| 12 ct. | 30 | 1 dz | 30 |
| 12 ct. (J) | 24 | 1 dz | 24 |
| 18 ct. | 20 | 1.5 dz | 30 |
| 30 ct. | 10 | 2.5 dz | 25 |
Open Skid & Bulk Egg Packing
Open skid systems maximize storage in high-volume packing where the goal is fast throughput. The open skid systems use standard pallet sizes with modified egg flats designed for:
- Mechanical handling compatibility
- Temperature control optimization
- Reduced labor requirements
- Enhanced traceability systems
Conclusion
The choice of the best egg packing types involves consideration of operational requirements (packing systems, routine, and space), the cost of packing, and market expectations.
For operations that are looking for cost savings, loose egg systems using 5×6 flats will be the most efficient handling and storage combination. Cartonned egg systems are the best option for packers that need customer-ready packaging. Bulk skid systems are the most efficient for wholesale operations that are handling large volumes of eggs.
Talk to experienced wholesale egg packaging suppliers who will understand the commercial packaging mathematics of your operations and products, and provide customized solutions based on your operational or market needs.
Where can I source wholesale eggs?
Eggs Unlimited is one of the leading global suppliers of powdered eggs and conventional eggs. We have the experience and market knowledge to help save our customers time and money. We work with some of the largest egg producers, retailers, distributors, foodservice organizations, QSRs, and processors in the US and around the world. They trust us to provide competitive prices and take care of logistics from pickup to delivery.
We act as an extension of our customers’ procurement or sales teams, creating value, providing solutions, and delivering on time and in full. The company is built on family values, and we strive to work harder than anyone in the industry to service the needs of our customers.
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