Why should you avoid SKF bearings packed in plastic bags?
You can sometimes see SKF branded bearings on the market presented in plastic bags without being in their original packaging.
This practice, adopted by some retailers, involves the repackaging of bearings outside of SKF's manufacturing channels and quality assurance system. When SKF marked bearings are repackaged in this way, the process can introduce uncertainties and compromises, both in terms of product authenticity and overall performance.
The original packaging of SKF bearings is designed to protect the bearings during transport and storage. It is designed to protect bearings against damage (contamination, environmental exposure and corrosion, etc.). Removing the bearings from their original packaging and placing them in plastic bags significantly increases the risk of damage and may compromise the characteristics of the bearings. Plastic bags offer very limited protection and can leave the bearings exposed to various factors (moisture, dust, improper handling), factors that can drastically decrease the performance and life of the bearings.
It is essential to emphasize that SKF does not guarantee the originality and authenticity of bearings delivered in plastic bags. By opting for SKF bearings in plastic bags, you risk compromising the performance and reliability of your machines!
SKF recommendation
Our recommendation would be to return bearings that come in plastic bags to the supplier and request products packed in their original packaging, which are in accordance with SKF standards. SKF standard packaging is not just about design. The main aim is to ensure that the product reaches you in the same quality and condition as it left the SKF factory, ready for use. SKF standard packaging includes an inner plastic film and an outer carton, while offering several advantages for maintaining product integrity:
- Safe and personalized packaging
- Designed from durable materials to withstand shocks and hold contents during transport
- Large labels for easy reading
- Bar codes displayed on the surface of the packaging to simplify identification
SKF standard packaging not only provides protection against wear and shock during transport, but also incorporates an identification code (DMC) (Data Matrix Code) to protect against counterfeit products. SKF is committed to reducing the risks associated with counterfeit items, which can jeopardize the safety of end users and the company's reputation. As part of our efforts, we have implemented an integrated identification system in all our packaging.
If you believe that the products you received are counterfeit, we encourage you to use the SKF Authenticate app. This easy-to-use app allows you to take photos of suspect products, which can then be sent directly to SKF for authenticity verification. Download the app for free from the App Store or Google Play to ensure that the products you receive are genuine.
SKF recommends purchasing bearings exclusively through the network of authorized distributors to ensure the authenticity of our products and to avoid counterfeit items!
