First-Time Buyer's Guide to Cannabis Packaging Machines

Most people who call us have never bought a packaging machine. They have a table of hand packers, a number they cannot hit, and no time to become an equipment expert. This guide is the short version of what we walk first-time buyers through.

1. Know three numbers before you call

• Units per shift. How many bags, jars or packs you need on your busiest day.
• Package sizes. The smallest and largest bag or jar you run. Bag width decides which machine fits.
• Fill weights or counts. An eighth, a quarter, an ounce, a 10-count.

With those three numbers we can tell you which machine fits in one conversation.

2. Start with the bottleneck

You do not need a full line on day one. Automate the slowest step first. For most flower and edibles brands that is weighing and bagging. Labeling, checkweighing and case packing can be added later, and our machines are built to connect.

3. Machines first-time buyers usually start with

• EcoBagger MINI: a compact pouch bagger. Up to 18 bags a minute, bags 70 to 180 mm wide, runs on single phase power.
• NTEP EliteWeigh: the flower weigher that feeds the bagger. NTEP certified and accurate to 0.02 g.
• EcoVape: for vape cartridges and other small products in small pouches. 35 to 50 bags a minute.
• Container Filling Machine: for jars. Start semi-automatic and add to it as you grow.

If you already know you need more speed, the RotoBagger runs 20 to 30 bags a minute on flower. See RotoBagger vs EcoBagger for the comparison.

4. Check your room

The two things that catch first-time buyers are power and compressed air. Many small buildings have single phase power only, and most shop compressors are too small. Read power and air requirements and check both before you order.

5. Ask your bag supplier one question

No pouch machine opens a zipper. If you use zipper pouches, order them with the zipper pre-opened. This is the most common surprise for new buyers, and it is easy to avoid.

6. Send us your product

We test your product in your packaging before you commit. Flower, gummies and carts all behave differently, and a test shows real speed and accuracy for your product.

7. Plan for lead time

Machines ship 16 to 18 weeks after the order. Use that time to get power, air and the room ready, and to line up bags and labels.

8. Paying for it

Machines are sold, and financing is available through our partner NEC Financial. Price depends on your setup, so we quote after we understand your product and volume.

9. What happens after delivery

• We train your operators.
• You get machine manuals and tutorials.
• We supply parts, service and ongoing advice.

See our process for how a project runs from first call to a running line.

Ready to talk?

Bring your three numbers. We will tell you what fits, what it takes to install, and what to expect. Book a free consultation or call +1 (657) 267-0059.