Picking the right packers and shims is crucial to getting it right the first time. Whether you’re levelling steel beams, adjusting precast panels or installing heavy machinery, the right combination of plastic or metal shims will keep everything secure, aligned and compliant.

In this guide, we’ll show you how to choose the best shim type, material and size for your job, so you can avoid rework and meet spec on site.

Need a quick recommendation? Call us on 02 4646 1166 before you order.

What Are Packers and Shims Used For?

Packers and shims are small but vital components used to fill gaps, level surfaces, align elements and distribute loads across structural and non-structural installations. They’re everywhere, from steel and concrete construction to window installations and flooring prep.

Depending on the job, you might use:

- Plastic shim packers for moisture resistance and ease of handling
- Steel packing shims for strength under load
- Brass shim sheets or copper shims for conductivity or specialist applications
- Custom shims for non-standard gaps or bespoke adjustments

What to Consider When Choosing Packers and Shims

Material

The first decision is what material suits your job:

- Plastic shims: Lightweight, rot-proof and easy to stack. Great for general construction, facade works and areas exposed to moisture.
- Metal packers and shims: Stainless steel, brass, copper and mild steel. For heavy loads, machinery alignment and precise adjustments.
- Pre-cut shims: Supplied in shim kits, save time on site and ensure consistency when packing or aligning.

Load-Bearing Requirements

For structural works or any load-critical application, steel shim stock or a stainless steel shim kit will outperform plastic or timber options. Use slotted shims for positioning around bolts or anchor points where lateral movement isn’t acceptable.

Environmental Conditions

Working in wet areas, outdoors or coastal environments? Go for:

- Plastic shim packs in UV-stable materials
- Stainless steel shims for corrosion resistance

Avoid timber shims in these conditions, they absorb moisture and can deteriorate quickly.

Precision and Flexibility

Need to dial in perfect levels or work around existing fasteners? Look for:

- Shim kits with multiple thicknesses
- Slotted shim kits for bolts and anchors
- Custom shim manufacturing where exact tolerances are needed

Installation Ease

Plastic packers are often colour-coded by size, pre-cut and ready to go. Ideal for fast-paced jobs. Steel packing shims take more effort but offer unmatched strength and durability.

Step-by-Step: How to Choose the Right Shim

Assess your project – Think load, environment and alignment needs. Are you lifting, levelling, spacing or adjusting?
Match the material – Use metal packers and shims for strength or plastic shims for fast, moisture-resistant installs.
Measure your gaps – Have multiple shim thicknesses on hand to avoid delays on site.
Consider kit options – A metal shim kit or plastic shim pack keeps everything in reach and saves time.
Buy from a trusted source – At PP Shim, we supply precision shims, custom options and off-the-shelf kits for jobs across Australia. Our team can guide you to the right product, fast.

Need Help Choosing the Right Shim?

With years of onsite experience and a full range of steel packing shims, plastic shim kits and precision-engineered custom options, PP Shim supports builders, engineers and project managers across Australia.

We offer fast, nationwide delivery and stock metal packers and shims, site-ready plastic packers for commercial and industrial construction. Contact us online for advice, specs, or to place an order.

Metal Packers and Shims FAQs

What’s the Difference Between a Packer and a Shim?

They’re often used interchangeably, but typically, packers are pre-sized spacers and shims offer finer adjustments, and can be stacked or cut to size.

Do I Need Metal or Plastic Shims?

If your application involves heavy loads or outdoor exposure, metal shims (stainless steel or brass) are usually the better choice. For fast, low-load installs, plastic shim packs are perfect.