When selecting an automatic packaging solution, two of the most widely used options are the Vertical Form Fill Seal (VFFS) packaging machine and the Horizontal Packing Machine (HFFS). Both systems automate the forming, filling, and sealing of bags, but they differ significantly in design, application, and performance.
In this guide, we will compare the VFFS and horizontal packing machines in key areas to help you determine the right fit for your production needs.
1. Basic Structure and Operation
VFFS (Vertical Form Fill Seal) Machine
This machine operates in a vertical orientation, forming bags from a roll of film. The product is dropped into the bag from above, making it ideal for free-flowing materials.
Horizontal Packing Machine (HFFS)
This machine works horizontally, pulling film across a forming box, inserting the product, and sealing the package. Products are placed into the packaging from the side or inline, typically on a conveyor.
2. Product Suitability
VFFS Packaging Machines are ideal for:
- Granules (rice, sugar, seeds)
- Powders (milk powder, spices)
- Liquids and pastes (sauces, detergents – with special filling units)
- Snacks and lightweight items
Horizontal Packing Machines are best for:
- Regular-shaped solid items (biscuits, energy bars, instant noodles)
- Trays, pouches, or flow-wrapped items
- Products that require careful orientation
If your products are free-flowing or need to be packaged in high volume vertically, VFFS machines are more suitable. If precise orientation or gentle handling is essential, horizontal machines are recommended.
3. Packaging Speed and Efficiency
VFFS machines are generally faster for bulk, lightweight, or granular items. A standard VFFS system can reach up to 60–120 bags per minute, depending on the product and configuration.
Horizontal packing machines typically operate at similar or even higher speeds for individual items, especially when integrated with product feeders and flow-wrapping systems.
However, the choice depends on your product type and bag style rather than just speed.
4. Bag Styles and Presentation
VFFS Machines Support:
- Pillow bags
- Gusseted bags
- Quad-seal bags
- Stick packs
- Flat-bottom pouches (with additional accessories)
Horizontal Machines Support:
- Flow wrap (pillow-type horizontal bags)
- 3-side seal pouches
- 4-side seal pouches
- Trays or card-wrapped packs
If your focus is on retail display and attractive flow-wrap styles, horizontal machines have an edge. For space-saving vertical bags used in bulk packaging, VFFS is more efficient.
5. Floor Space and Layout
VFFS machines are compact and vertically designed, making them suitable for limited floor space or integrated vertical workflows.
Horizontal packing machines require more horizontal layout space due to the inline movement of products and film.
If your facility has height flexibility but limited ground area, a vertical form fill seal packaging machine is a more compact solution.
6. Flexibility and Changeover
VFFS machines often support multiple bag lengths and widths with quick changeovers, especially in intermittent-motion models with servo systems.
Horizontal machines also offer flexibility but may require more adjustments for products of varying size and shape.
DBAO Packaging Machinery offers customizable options on both vertical and horizontal systems for clients with mixed product requirements.
7. Cost Consideration
VFFS machines generally have a lower entry cost and lower film consumption compared to horizontal systems, especially for basic pouch types.
Horizontal machines often involve higher initial investment, but may offer long-term ROI for high-speed retail packaging.
It’s important to weigh upfront costs against the long-term packaging volume, film usage, and labor savings.
VFFS Packaging Machine vs Horizontal Packing Machine: Comparison Table
| Feature | VFFS Packaging Machine | Horizontal Packing Machine |
|---|---|---|
| Machine Orientation | Vertical (product drops down into the bag) | Horizontal (product enters from the side or inline) |
| Best for Product Types | Granules, powders, liquids, small solid items | Regular-shaped solid items (cookies, bars, trays, etc.) |
| Common Industries | Food, chemical, agriculture, pharma | Snack foods, bakery, cosmetics, consumer electronics |
| Typical Bag Styles | Pillow bag, gusseted bag, quad-seal, stick pack, flat-bottom pouch | Flow wrap, 3-side seal, 4-side seal, trays |
| Packaging Speed | High speed for free-flowing or bulk products | High speed for individual solid products |
| Footprint / Space Required | Compact; vertical layout saves floor space | Requires longer horizontal space |
| Film Usage | Efficient film consumption | Slightly higher film usage per unit |
| Changeover Time | Fast (especially with servo models) | Moderate (depends on product and packaging size) |
| Packaging Appearance | Upright pouches, commonly for bulk or industrial use | Retail-friendly presentation, ideal for shelves |
| Investment Cost | Lower to medium, depending on options | Medium to high, especially for flow-wrap models |
| Ease of Integration | Easily integrates with vertical fillers, weighers, coding, etc. | Integrates well with conveyors, feeders, coding, and cartoners |
Conclusion: Which One Is Right for You?
Choosing between a VFFS packaging machine and a horizontal packing machine depends on your product characteristics, production environment, target packaging style, and automation needs.
Choose a VFFS machine if you:
- Package powders, granules, or liquids
- Need compact, vertical packaging formats
- Require higher throughput with lower material usage
- Have limited floor space
Choose a horizontal packing machine if you:
- Package uniform solid items or trays
- Require retail-friendly pillow packs or flow wrap styles
- Need precise product orientation
- Have high-speed flow wrapping needs
Work with DBAO Packaging Machinery
At DBAO Packaging Machinery, we help businesses select and customize the right packaging equipment based on specific application needs. Whether you require a high-speed vertical form fill seal system or a horizontal packing machine for flow wrap packaging, our experienced engineers will support you from consultation to delivery and after-sales service.
To discuss your project or request a quotation, please contact:
Email: steven@dbaopack.com
