Wholesale
10 Questions to Ask a Compostable Packaging Supplier
May 30, 2025 · 5 min read

Not every distributor selling "eco" packaging actually knows the supply chain behind it. Ask these ten questions before you place your first order.
- Is every product BPI certified, and can you send me the current certificate?
- Is the entire catalog PFAS free, or only select SKUs?
- Where is each product manufactured, and can you name the mill or plant?
- What ASTM standard applies to each item: D6400, D6868, or both?
- Do you have a Certificate of Analysis on total fluorine?
- What is your normal lead time at case, pallet, and truckload volumes?
- How do you handle freight surcharges, fuel adjustments, and pallet fees?
- Do you offer a sample program before I commit to a purchase order?
- Are private label print options available, and at what minimum quantity?
- What is your process if a product fails to perform in service?
A supplier that answers all ten quickly and in writing is worth building a long term relationship with. A supplier that hedges on any of them is not ready to be your wholesale partner. Lotus Group buyers can request answers to all ten in a single email, and we typically reply within one business day.
Keep reading

What Does ASTM D6400 Actually Mean for Compostable Packaging?
If a product is labeled compostable, ASTM D6400 is usually the reason. Here is what the standard tests, why BPI certification matters, and how to spot greenwashing.

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