Recycled Plastic Plugs That Hold Rolls Off the Box
Pad core plugs fit into each end of a roll's core and add a flat pad that rests against the inside of the shipping box, so the roll's outer wraps and edges stay off the box floor and sides. We mold them from recycled plastic with pads from 4 to 12 inches and keep all ten sizes in stock.
How Pad Core Plugs Protect Your Rolls
A roll that rests on its own wraps rubs against the carton every time the box moves, and the outer layers and edges pick up scuffs, dirt, and moisture. A pad plug is a core plug with a molded pad wider than the core. The hub presses into the core end and the pad braces against the inside of the box, so the wound material hangs clear of the bottom and sides.
The hub also supports the core end against crushing. Some pad plugs have a slightly smaller hub that lets the roll turn freely, so your customer can dispense straight from the box without unpacking it. We mold our plugs from recycled plastic that can be recycled again at most local recycling centers and holds up to the moisture that weakens wood and fiber plugs.
Pad Core Plug Sizes
Two numbers decide which pad plug you need: your core’s inside diameter (ID) and your roll’s outside diameter. The hub matches the core ID, so a 3-inch core takes a 3-inch hub. Cores often measure a few thousandths over their nominal size, so take the ID with calipers before you order. Our core plug size chart covers measuring in more detail.
The pad needs to be wider than the OD of the roll so the wraps clear the box. We stock pads from 4 to 12 inches on three hub sizes. Load ratings and exact pad, hub, and wall dimensions are available on request.
If your core or roll falls outside these sizes, we can mold a custom pad plug in the size, color, and grade you need, with no order minimum.
Match the grade to how heavy the roll is and how roughly it gets handled.
Standard
Lighter rolls and everyday handling.
Heavy-duty
Thicker walls for heavier rolls or rougher transit.
Crush-resistant and extreme-duty
The heaviest rolls and the highest stacking and impact loads.
Rolls We Protect With Pad Core Plugs
Pad plugs are made for light- to medium-weight rolls shipped one per carton.
Labels and Printed Media
A scuffed or dented label roll can mean a reject. With a pad plug in each end, the printed wraps stay off the carton.
Graphics Film
Graphics film needs clean outer wraps. A pad plug with a smaller hub also lets your customer feed film straight from the carton.
Tape and Adhesive Rolls
Tape edges pick up dirt and dents when they rub against a box, and the pads hold those edges clear.
Paper Rolls
For paper rolls boxed one at a time, the pads keep the roll edges from crushing against the carton walls.
If your rolls ship on a pallet, use single core plugs in a cradle or double core plugs for stacked columns. For heavy or high-value rolls that can't touch anything, look at our roll suspension plugs.
How to Order Pad Core Plugs
Request a Sample-
1
Measure your core and roll
Take the core's inside diameter with calipers, and note the roll's outside diameter and weight.
-
2
Choose your size and grade
Match the core ID to a hub size and pick a pad wider than the roll.
-
3
Test a sample
We send free samples so you can check the fit in your own cores and cartons before placing a full order.
-
4
Place your order
Send the item code and quantity, and we'll confirm pricing and a ship date.
Complete Your Roll Packaging
Pad plugs handle rolls boxed one at a time. For larger rolls that ship on a pallet, CradlePak plastic roll cradles support the outside of the roll so it can’t roll or shift in a container, and single core plugs protect the core ends. If you ship both ways, we can quote plugs and cradles together. To match cradles to your roll’s outside diameter, see our roll cradle size guide.
Other Core Plug Types
The right type depends on how much contact the roll’s outer surface can take, since core plugs, pad plugs, and roll suspension plugs each protect rolls in various ways. All four types are part of our plastic core plug line, molded from recycled plastic.
Single Core Plugs
Cap one end of a core, used in pairs for rolls that ship on their side in a cradle or lie flat.
Explore Single Core Plugs→
Double Core Plugs
Join two rolls core-to-core so they stack vertically on a pallet without leaning.
Explore Double Core Plugs→
Roll Suspension Plugs
Pair with end boards to hold the roll off every surface, for high-value film, foil, and coated stock.
Explore Roll Suspension Plugs→Why Choose Tamarack for Pad Core Plugs
We mold our core plugs at our plant in Yakima, Washington, and sell them with no minimum order. We stock pad plugs from 4 to 12 inches across with 2″, 2.9″, and 3″ hubs, and we mold custom sizes for cores or rolls outside that range. You work directly with our team on sizing, samples, and reorders.
U.S.-based manufacturer
No minimum order quantity
Fast turnaround and flexible production
Personalized service
Request Pad Core Plug Samples
Send us your core ID and your roll’s outside diameter and weight. We’ll match you to a plug and ship samples so you can test them in your own cartons. You can also call us at 509.452.3330.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a pad core plug?
A pad core plug is a core plug with a flat molded pad on its outer face. The hub fits into the roll's core, and the pad rests against the inside of the shipping box, so the roll stays off the box floor and sides.
What size pad plug do I need?
Match the hub to your core's inside diameter, then pick a pad wider than your roll's outside diameter. We stock pads from 4 to 12 inches on 2-inch, 2.9-inch, and 3-inch hubs. If you're between sizes, send us the measurements and we'll confirm the fit.
Can rolls dispense straight from the box?
Yes, with a pad plug that has a slightly smaller hub. The roll turns freely on the plug, so your customer can feed material from the carton without unpacking it.
When should I use a pad plug instead of a standard core plug?
Use a pad plug when the roll ships one per carton and its outer wraps or edges can't take scuffs or dents. A standard core plug works when the roll can rest on its own surface in a cradle or on a pallet.
Are pad core plugs recyclable?
Yes. We mold them from recycled plastic, and they can be recycled again at most local recycling centers.