Pink (dissipative) vs black (conductive) — when each
Pink anti-static bubble wrap is dissipative polyethylene with a topical or compounded anti-static additive. Surface resistivity 10⁹–10¹¹ Ω/sq. Use for general electronics, IC reels, small PCBs, and anywhere you need void-fill that won't generate static against the part.
Black conductive bubble wrap uses carbon loading. Surface resistivity 10⁴–10⁶ Ω/sq. Use as a wrap layer over highly sensitive parts (CPUs, sensors) where you want both faster dissipation and an opaque visual indicator that the operator picked the right material.
Bubble size: 3/16" vs 1/2"
3/16" (small bubble) gives a smooth wrap around boards and trays without leaving large impressions; the right default for PCB sub-assemblies.
1/2" (large bubble) absorbs drop shocks better and is the right choice for finished modules in outer cartons.
Mixing: many buyers run 3/16" inner-wrap + 1/2" outer void-fill on the same shipment.
Bulk pricing brackets (FOB Los Angeles)
Single roll (175' × 12") retail is $25-40.
10-roll case drops to $15-22 per roll.
Pallet quantity (60-90 rolls) typically lands at $9-14 per roll depending on bubble size and additive class.
Below that, the only way to get cheaper is a tooled custom width — not usually worth it under 10 pallets per year.
PO checklist — what to write
(1) Class (dissipative pink / conductive black); (2) Surface resistivity range; (3) Bubble height (3/16", 1/4", 1/2"); (4) Roll length and width; (5) Cores (typical 3" ID).
(6) Slit-to-width tolerance; (7) Permanent vs topical anti-static (permanent will not wash off / decay over 6 months); (8) IPC or ESD compliance reference if your incoming QA requires it.