High Impact Polystyrene (HIPS)

High Impact Polystyrene (HIPS) is a budget-friendly thermoformable sheet used heavily for thermoformed packaging, vacuum-formed point of sale, refrigerator linings, model making and signage. It is one of the easiest plastics to vacuum form, cuts cleanly with a knife or laser, and accepts paint, ink and screen-printing without surface treatment. HIPS is the workhorse sheet for high-volume disposable and short-life applications.

Sizes and formats we stock

HIPS sheet is stocked in 0.5mm, 0.75mm, 1mm, 1.5mm, 2mm, 3mm, 4mm, 5mm and 6mm in standard 2440 x 1220mm and 3050 x 2030mm sheets. White is the workhorse colour but black and a range of standard colours are stocked for vacuum forming and POS work.

Colours and grades

Smooth-finish white HIPS is the standard for printed signage and POS. Textured HIPS (haircell, embossed) is stocked for vacuum forming and high-grip surfaces. Black HIPS is the second most common grade. HIPS is naturally opaque, so it is not used for any application that requires light transmission.

HIPS compared to ABS

HIPS is cheaper than ABS, easier to vacuum form at low temperatures and lighter weight. ABS is tougher, more chemical resistant, and holds detail better in deep-draw thermoforming. For high-volume disposable thermoforming (food trays, packaging blisters, retail signage), HIPS is the right pick. For long-life parts that need to take real knocks (automotive trim, machine housings), ABS is the better choice.

Why P&M Plastics for HIPS work

We supply HIPS sheet cut to size for sign makers, packaging fabricators and shop fitters across the Gold Coast and Brisbane. Our CNC routers handle HIPS without melting (it cuts cleanly at moderate feed rates) and we hold the white and black workhorse grades in volume. For thermoforming runs we can also supply pre-cut blanks ready for the moulder.