VFFS vs. HFFS: What’s the Difference and Which One Do You Need?


When it comes to food packaging, efficiency and precision are everything. Whether you're scaling up your operations or replacing outdated machinery, choosing the right form-fill-seal system can make all the difference. Two of the most common options are Vertical Form Fill Seal and Horizontal Form Fill Seal machines.


But what’s the difference and how do you know which one is right for your product?


What Is VFFS?

Vertical Form Fill Seal (VFFS) machines form, fill, and seal bags in a vertical direction. The process starts with a roll of film that’s shaped into a bag, filled from the top with product, and then sealed and cut.


Best for:

  • Powders (e.g., coffee, flour)
  • Granular products (e.g., rice, sugar)
  • Small solid items (e.g., nuts, snacks, frozen vegetables)


Key benefits:

  • Compact, space-saving design
  • High-speed production for lightweight items
  • Efficient use of packaging materials


What Is HFFS?

Horizontal Form Fill Seal (HFFS) machines operate on a horizontal axis. Film is drawn flat, the product is placed in a formed pouch or tray, and the package is sealed and cut horizontally.


Best for:

  • Solid or fragile items (e.g., candy bars, baked goods, cheese blocks)
  • Products that are difficult to drop vertically
  • Custom or shaped packaging (e.g., flow wraps, trays)


Key benefits:

  • Gentle product handling
  • More flexibility in package design
  • Ideal for rigid or irregular-shaped products


Which Machine Is Right for You?

Here are a few key questions to ask:


What is your product’s shape and texture?

  • If it’s powdery or granular, VFFS is likely the better choice.
  • If it’s fragile or needs to lay flat, HFFS is your go-to.


What packaging format do you prefer?

  • VFFS machines typically create stand-up pouches or pillow packs.
  • HFFS machines are ideal for flow-wrap styles or multi-compartment trays.


How much space do you have on your factory floor?

  • VFFS machines tend to take up less space vertically.


How Steep Hill Can Help

At Steep Hill, we specialize in helping food businesses find the right equipment for their specific production needs. Whether you're packaging granola, frozen dumplings, or ready-to-eat meals, we offer reliable, high-quality VFFS and HFFS machinery that’s built for performance.


Not sure which system suits your product line? Our team is here to help.


Contact us to explore our available equipment:


Canada - (604) 425-2002


United States - (405) 310-7562