Dunnage Airbags and Inflator Tools for Cargo Protection

Dunnage airbags, also called shipping airbags, are inflatable cushions placed between cargo loads to secure and stabilize shipments. They prevent shifting, absorb vibrations, and reduce the risk of costly product damage during transport.

Dunnage airbags work by filling empty spaces between pallets or units inside trailers, containers, or railcars. Once inflated, they brace against the cargo walls to lock loads in place. This reduces shifting on rough roads, sharp turns or during sudden stops. By absorbing vibration and impact, airbags help preserve product integrity, minimize insurance claims and lower shipping costs. Millwood’s dunnage airbags are engineered to provide consistent, reliable load securement for industries ranging from food and beverage to heavy manufacturing.

Millwood provides kraft paper, polywoven and vinyl dunnage airbags. Each style meets different shipping environments, load weights and budget considerations, giving shippers flexible solutions tailored to their cargo protection needs.

Kraft paper airbags are cost-effective, strong and ideal for light to medium-duty shipments. Polywoven airbags, made of woven polypropylene, deliver enhanced durability and moisture resistance—perfect for international and intermodal transport. Vinyl airbags, the most durable option, handle the heaviest loads and harsh conditions. Millwood offers these variations in multiple sizes, along with expert consultation to match the right airbag to your application. This ensures optimal safety, compliance with transportation standards and maximum value across diverse industries.

Yes. Depending on their material and application, many dunnage airbags can be reused multiple times, making them both cost-effective and environmentally sustainable for repeat shipments.

Reusability depends on the airbag type, inflation system and shipping conditions. Kraft airbags are generally single-use, while polywoven and vinyl options can often be reused up to four times in light over-the-road shipments. Proper handling and careful deflation extend their lifespan, lowering per-trip costs. Reusable airbags reduce waste and support corporate sustainability initiatives. Millwood’s specialists guide customers on best practices for reuse, ensuring that airbags maintain structural integrity while continuing to provide reliable load protection.

Airbags are rated by load capacity: Level 1 (up to 45,000 lbs), Level 2 (up to 75,000 lbs), Level 3 (75,000–160,000 lbs) and Level 4 (160,000–205,000 lbs). Choosing the correct level ensures safety and compliance.

Selecting the right airbag depends on your cargo’s total weight, mode of transportation and regulatory requirements. For lighter loads, Level 1 or 2 airbags often suffice, while heavy industrial or export shipments may demand Level 3 or 4. Misuse of airbag levels can compromise load security or create safety risks. Millwood’s load securement experts analyze your shipping environment and recommend the correct level and airbag type. This ensures compliance with standards like AAR (Association of American Railroads) while safeguarding cargo integrity across domestic and global supply chains.

Millwood supplies a full range of inflator tools, from manual to pneumatic systems. Each tool is engineered for efficient, secure inflation that maximizes airbag performance and cargo safety.

The right inflator tool depends on airbag type and operational needs. Fast-fill inflators are ideal for high-volume shipping environments, while manual hand tools suit smaller operations. Many pneumatic systems offer quick-connect fittings and controlled airflow for precision inflation. Using the correct inflator ensures proper pressure, extending airbag life and preventing under- or over-inflation issues. Millwood provides training and support so teams can quickly and safely inflate airbags, reducing loading times while improving cargo securement.

Millwood combines decades of packaging expertise with a full portfolio of dunnage airbags, inflator tools and load securement strategies. We deliver tailored solutions that reduce shipping damage and improve supply chain efficiency.

Beyond supplying dunnage airbags, Millwood acts as a consultative partner. Our specialists assess shipping environments, cargo types and weight requirements to recommend the right product mix. We provide kraft, polywoven and vinyl airbags in multiple levels, along with inflation systems and best-practice training. With nationwide support, sustainability-focused solutions and proven results across industries, Millwood helps businesses cut damage claims, save costs and ship with confidence. Choosing Millwood ensures your supply chain is backed by reliable expertise and innovative protective packaging.