A connecting device for connecting runs of communication material having a predetermined length and coupling elements at both ends is provided. The connecting device includes a first end, an opposing second end, and a separating element. The first end couples to a coupling element of a first run of communication material and the second end couples to a coupling element of a second run of communication material. The first run and second run of communication material is separated in response to activation of the separating element. Also provided is a bulk cable packaging system that includes a plurality of runs of communication material, each run having a predetermined length and coupling elements at both ends and a plurality of connecting devices. The runs of communication material are coupled together with the connecting devices is operatively coupled to a reel. The reel is then operatively coupled within a container.