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A distributor’s decision guide to Wave-CoreTM: Standard vs. Flex vs. Ultra

A distributor’s decision guide to Wave-CoreTM: Standard vs. Flex vs. Ultra

How can distributors effectively integrate Wave-Core™ into their inventory? 

As a distributor, you're always seeking the right inflow and outflow of stock. Too much inventory drives up costs. Too little, and your customers are left waiting.

The key to success? Minimizing costly inventory risks like stockouts and slow-moving products.

That’s why at Liberty Plastics, we work closely with distributors to ensure they have the right Wave-Core™ products in the right quantities for their customers.

This guide breaks down the three Wave-Core™ products — Standard, Flex and Ultra — so you can choose the best fit for your inventory strategy.
 

Decision-making guide: When to choose standard, flex or ultra

Wave-Core™ Standard – Best for stocking high-demand products

What is it? Wave-Core Standard is everyday-use triple-layer HDPE corrugated plastic for general applications.

Who should choose it? Distributors needing consistent, high-volume inventory that serves a wide range of industries.

How Wave-Core Standard fits into your inventory strategy:

  • Ideal for bulk stocking to ensure continuous availability
  • Cost-effective for high-volume purchases
  • Lightweight sheets for easy storage and handling
Use cases for Wave-Core Standard: 
 

Wave-Core™ Flex – A unique solution for bulk materials 

What is it? Wave-Core Flex is a rugged yet flexible double-layer HDPE corrugated plastic.

Who should choose it? Distributors serving customers with specialized or custom orders.

How Wave-Core Standard fits into your inventory strategy:

  • Solves packaging challenges for bulk or irregularly shaped materials
  • A differentiator for distributors offering flexible packaging solutions
  • Can be marketed as a value-added option for industries needing adaptability
Use cases for Wave-Core Standard: 
  • Protective covering for pipes 
  • Protective wrap for high-value film, fiber and other roll shipments 
  • Dunnage for food and produce 

Wave-Core™ Ultra – Best for high-durability markets

What is it?  Wave-Core Ultra is a rigid, triple-layered HDPE corrugated plastic engineered for extreme durability.

Who should choose it?  Distributors working with industries that demand high-impact resistance

How Wave-Core Standard fits into your inventory strategy:

  • Ideal for repeat customers needing ultra-durable materials
  • Creates premium pricing opportunities for specialized industries
  • Helps customers reduce long-term costs with stronger materials upfront
Use cases for Wave-Core Standard: 

Bulk stocking vs. on-demand ordering Wave-Core: Which is best?  

Once you’ve identified how the three Wave-Core™ products might fit in with your business, the next step is determining your inventory management strategy. By knowing what to stock and what to order on demand, you’ll be more efficient, make better use of storage space and keeps customers satisfied..

When bulk stocking Wave-Core makes sense

  • Predictable, recurring orders that see steady demand 
  • Lower cost per unit with bulk orders for competitive pricing 
  • Shorter lead times where fast fulfillment is an expectation
  • High-demand products that serve broad industries 
Typical use case: A distributor stocks bins and boxes constructed from Wave-Core Standard in bulk because it’s a versatile staple for materials handling, serving customers who need fresh supplies quickly.

When on-demand ordering of Wave-Core makes sense
  • Specialized or customized products for niche applications
  • Infrequent or fluctuating demand 
  • Space constraints and the need to maximize square footage for high-volume products 
  • Cash flow management and the need to avoid tying up capital for slow-moving inventory 
Typical use: A packaging distributor keeps a limited stock of Wave-Core Flex on hand for reusable protective spool wraps, ordering replacements for repeat customers as needed.

How Liberty Plastics supports your supply chain

At Liberty Plastics, we help distributors find the right balance — ensuring you have enough inventory on hand to meet demand while responding to just-in-time needs.

Flexible stocking options: We’ll build a production schedule that works in line with your demand cycles, helping you avoid overstocking costs while keeping high-demand products readily available.

Reliable, predictable supply: Our U.S.-based manufacturing facility is equipped to produce high quality HDPE plastic, on time, every time, so you can fulfill orders without disruption.

Expert inventory support: Need help forecasting demand or optimizing stock levels? Our specialists work directly with you to improve order flow and reduce risk.

Next steps – Finding the right fit for your business

Unlock resources: Consult our Wave-Core Wave-Core™ comparison table for technical specs.

Find your fit: Learn about how Wave-Core is used in a variety of industries, with plenty of case studies. 

Contact an expert: Get guidance and solutions from the Liberty Plastics team. Complete our form and someone will get back to you quickly. 

Request a sample: We’ll send you a FREE sample pack so you can compare Standard, Flex and Ultra firsthand.