The Evolution and Challenges of Small Weighing Quantitative Packaging Machinery in China

The Evolution and Challenges of Small Weighing Quantitative Packaging Machinery in China

In recent years, small packaging products have taken over the market, accounting for over 60% of total packaging and nearly 100% in supermarkets. However, the accuracy and reliability of quantitative packaging remain concerning. A spot check by the Beijing Municipal Technical Supervision Bureau revealed that only 57% of small packaged commodities met quantitative standards. Products like puffed foods, tea, and detergents frequently fell short of declared weights, indicating both intentional manipulation and limitations in measurement methods.

Domestic Technological Gaps and Market Demands

Despite over a decade of development, small-scale quantitative packaging technology in China is still lagging behind. Most small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) struggle with outdated equipment, insufficient technical expertise, and limited budgets. These limitations result in unstable product quality, low reliability, poor functionality, and long development cycles—hindering their competitiveness in both domestic and global markets.

Meanwhile, countries like Japan, Germany, the United States, and Italy dominate the global packaging machinery market, holding over 75% of the industry share. China, though a major manufacturer, continues to face a significant gap in innovation, quality management, and overall system efficiency.

Status Quo: Volume vs. Weighing Method

Small package weighing generally ranges from a few grams up to five kilograms. In China, machines handling under 500g are widespread. These systems mostly use volume-based methods—such as measuring cups or drums—commonly seen in vertical form-fill-seal machines. Though cost-effective and suitable for low-accuracy needs, these machines can only reach up to ±4% precision and often suffer from clogging, particularly with puffed materials.

In contrast, quantitative packaging systems using the weighing method are gradually gaining traction. With greater accuracy and a broader range, these systems—despite their higher costs—are preferred for heavier packaging. However, challenges remain in achieving both speed and accuracy due to sensor and mechanical response limitations.

Technological Innovation: Linear and Combination Scales

Leading domestic manufacturers like Zhongshan Multiweigh Packaging Machinery Co., Ltd. are bridging this technology gap. Their linear scale series (single, double, four-head models) offer precise weighing for granular materials ranging from 10g to 3200g, achieving speeds of 40–60 packs/min with ±2g accuracy.

Their more advanced combination scale series (8 to 16-head) enables intelligent weighing through microcomputer control, with weighing ranges from 10g to 6500g and speeds of 60–180 packs/min, achieving ±1.5g accuracy. These solutions are well-suited for granular, block, strip, sheet, and irregularly shaped products.

Outlook: Toward Smart, Accurate, and Competitive Machinery

Although volume-based systems still dominate due to affordability and simplicity, weighing-based technologies are catching up rapidly. Vertical form-fill-seal machines remain the mainstream configuration, and packaging materials are mostly limited to single-film, composite film, or aluminum foil.

As China’s demand for small-packaged goods continues to rise and reliance on imported equipment becomes less feasible, domestic innovation is crucial. By embracing automation, intelligent control systems, and sensor advancements, Chinese manufacturers are well-positioned to compete on a global scale and meet the growing demand for accurate, efficient, and high-speed small weighing packaging systems.