What is "bulk" packaging in the context of something like a QFN package?

[Starlord]

I need to order some programmed chips from Microchip, and while I have specified parts that come in a tray, during checkout they ask if you want them in "bulk" or "tape and reel". In this context, what does "bulk" mean? I've contacted their support for an answer obviously, but they have no mention of this in their FAQ and it seems like it's just supposed to be self-evident.

I mean, with resistors or switches, "bulk" just means they throw them loose in a bag. But surely they would not do that with chips. I'm thinking maybe "bulk" is a catch all for trays or those plastic tubes whatever they're called that through hole ICs come in. But then what if I specify a part on a reel for programming but select "bulk" at checkout? How then would it come packaged?

[mikeselectricstuff]

Yes, they come loose in a bag. I have no clue why Microchip even offer this.

[wraper]

I have no clue why Microchip even offer this.

If you order some small quantity for prototypes, I see no reason why they would need to be repackaged into tape or whatever.

[Starlord]

Yes, they come loose in a bag. I have no clue why Microchip even offer this.

Do you know this from personal experience with them?

I just got a response from Microchip and they claim if I order parts in a tray and select "bulk" they will arrive in the tray.

[Bud]

Yes, they come loose in a bag. I have no clue why Microchip even offer this.

Same does Digikey for Bulk option.

[mikeselectricstuff]

I'm talking about SOT-23s - They have a T suffix for taped parts. Best to explicitly specify - when they go through the programming service they get repackaged, so need to spec packaging there.

You want tape if at all possible - assembly houses will prefer this over trays or tube, and just laugh at you if you send bulk bags...

There have been some silly glitches like they ask you to spec the basic part as 'bulk, but they have no stock showing as bulk but plenty as taped - had to contact them to sort this out to get them to use the stock they had .